Fabricator - Welder

Certificate
Fabricator - Welder

Program Overview

Information session: Join us on April 27, 2023, to learn more about the industry, programs and career. Learn more and register to attend on the Careers in Welding page.

Metal fabricator-welders are in high demand—in the oil patch, mining, manufacturing and construction. It’s a trade that requires a high level of skill and a comprehensive knowledge of industrial welding and joining processes. The payoff is high wages and good career mobility.

It's a great way to jump into the workforce … in either the welding or steel fabrication trade.

Fabricator-Welder is a one-year, dual certificate program offered at Regina and Saskatoon campuses. You’ll learn from experienced instructors how to interpret drawings and use different welding processes and metal forming machinery. Working in Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s well-equipped shops, you’ll be trained in:

  • benchwork and trade safety
  • communications, trade math and print reading
  • layout, template development and fitting
  • gas metal arc and gas tungsten arc welding
  • oxy-fuel processes and plasma arc cutting
  • rigging and electric overhead crane operation
  • shielded metal arc welding
  • shop management

You’ll also fabricate several projects, complete your Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) welder qualification tests and participate in a one-week work experience.

Apprenticeship Credit

With this Saskatchewan Polytechnic credential, you may be eligible for credit towards apprenticeship training. To learn more, contact the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission (SATCC).

Trade to Degree

The Bachelor of Applied Management (BAMgt) degree provides journeypersons the unique opportunity to leverage existing education and experience into a bachelor's degree with two years of additional study. Part-time and remote options are available.

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

As a graduate of the Fabricator-Welder program, you can work in the custom fabrication, construction, mass production, maintenance, petroleum, mining, forestry and railway industries. You can work in either welding or steel fabrication. Steel fabricators work in steel fabrication plants and heavy machinery manufacturing companies.

Welders work for companies that manufacture structural steel plate work, boilers, heavy machinery and other metal products, and for welding contractors and welding shops. Once you gain experience and skills, you can also contract yourself out or start your own business.

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s): September
Length: 34 weeks

Locations

  • Regina
  • Saskatoon

Admissions

Admission Requirements

 

*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted

  • Math 20

Alternative Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through an alternative admission assessment. Applicants are automatically considered for alternative admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met.



ACCUPLACER©

Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Alternative Admission using Accuplacer.

  • 250 Arithmetic
  • 243 Reading

Post-secondary

Some programs allow applicants to meet the admission grade level requirement using 15 approved post-secondary credits. Review additional information.

If the program applied to has specific course requirements, they may be met through alternative post-secondary courses. Review already approved courses that may be used for admission purposes for your programs.

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake. 

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year. 

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.

Tuition and Fees

Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as approximate cost for books and supplies. Visit the Tuition and Fees web page for a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program.

 

2022/23 Academic Year

$10,000

International Students

View tuition rates for international students.

Courses

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Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
BESK 101
Hand and Power Tools
3
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You will use hand and power tools to layout, shape and finish metals.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
COMM 127
Fundamental Communication Skills
2
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You will use fundamental employability skills related to obtaining and keeping a job. You will apply skills to work effectively with others and produce job-related documents. You will identify employability and practical skills to prepare effective job search materials and discuss the effect of attitudes and behaviours on a successful job search.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): COMM 106, COMM 127A, COMM 187, COMM 191, COMM 193, JOBS 190, PROF 100, TCOM 102, TCOM 105, TCOM 120, TCOM 140
Potential Learning Method(s): Independent Study, Lecture/Theory, Online, Online - Individual, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning, Work Based Delivery
COMP 172
Introduction to Microsoft Word and Excel
1
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You will learn the purpose and uses of a word processor and electronic spreadsheet. You will develop the basic skills of creating, editing and formatting documents and spreadsheets.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Equivalent Course(s): COAP 120, COAP 172, COAP 381, COMP 120
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning
EQPT 116
Layout and Template Development
2
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You will develop skills in layout and template development. You will learn how to use geometric construction to layout two-dimensional patterns.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Corequisites(s): EQPT 117
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
EQPT 117
Layout and Fitting
2
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You will transfer templates developed in previous courses to various materials and perform large scale layouts using industry related techniques to determine accuracy.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Corequisites(s): EQPT 116
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
EQPT 118
Metal Working Equipment
4
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You will use stationary metal working and fabrication equipment to cut, bend and form metal.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
INDG 100
Introduction to Indigenous Studies
1
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You will receive an introduction to the Indigenous cultural groups within Saskatchewan. You will learn about the colonization of Indigenous peoples by the Canadian state. Your studies will help you discuss current issues and explore possible solutions.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
JOBS 101
Shop Management
2
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You will study quality assurance, lean manufacturing, and job planning. You will study the concepts and benefits of quality assurance, quality control and lean manufacturing. The steps of the planning process will be identified while developing a job plan. You will be introduced to the elements of efficient shop management in today’s competitive market.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
MATH 136
Trade Mathematics
3
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You will study basic mathematical concepts including whole numbers, decimals, fractions, percent, ratio proportion, squares and roots. You will also study the International System of Units in calculations such as finding length, capacity, mass, area and volume.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
METL 107
Metallurgy and Material Designations
2
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You will study the types, operation and control of cranes, Occupational Health and Safety aspects, load estimation, and site evaluation. You will study the capacity of cranes, as well as rigging, signaling, and maintaining the crane and logbooks.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
PRNT 106
Hand Drafting
1
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You will apply the skills learned in drawing interpretation to sketch oblique, isometric, and orthographic drawings of three-dimensional objects.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Independent Study, Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
PRNT 107
Drawing Interpretation and Welding Symbols
2
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In this course you will be introduced to various technical drawings that are used in the construction and manufacturing industries. You will study the proper terminology and components of drawings. In this course students will be introduced to common structural, piping, vessel drawings and terminology. You will be introduced to weld joint design and welding symbol.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Independent Study, Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
PRNT 108
Introduction to Computer Aided Design
2
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In this course you will be introduced to computer aided drawing methods used in the fabrication and welding industries. You will use computer assisted drawing software to draw parts and develop both two-and three-dimensional parts and assemblies.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): PRNT 106(concurrent), PRNT 107(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
PROJ 123
Fab, Form and Fit Projects
2
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You will take previously learned skills including the use of hand and powered equipment to fabricate various projects.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): EQPT 118(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
PROJ 124
Tank and Vessel Project
2
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You will study and apply basic vessel drawing terminology. Students will fabricate a vessel using basic layout methods.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): PROJ 123(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
PROJ 125
Final Fabrication Project
2
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Using shop power equipment and welding techniques you will fabricate parts that will be assembled and welded to produce your final project.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): PROJ 124(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
RIGG 105
Rigging and Crane Operation
2
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You will study the types, operation and control of cranes, Occupational Health and Safety aspects, load estimation, and site evaluation. You will study the capacity of cranes, as well as rigging, signaling and maintaining the crane and log books.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
SFTY 133
Trade Safety
3
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You will be introduced to safety regulations and legislations. Students will learn to work safely with scaffolds, walkways, and ladders. Students will learn about confined space procedures, lockout, tagout and fall protection. Students will also be introduced to WHMIS and the globally harmonized system.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
WLDR 142
Shielded Metal Arc Welding Theory
1
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You will be introduced to the safe operation and maintenance of shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) equipment and accessories. You will examine the proper classification and application of SMAW electrodes.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Equivalent Course(s): WLDR 124
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
WLDR 143
Shielded Metal Arc Welding Shop 1
4
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You will develop skills in welding steel in flat and horizontal positions. You will perform surface buildup and weld bead placement.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Equivalent Course(s): WLDR 125
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online, Prior Learning
WLDR 144
Oxy-Fuel Processes Theory
1
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You will develop the knowledge required to select, set up, operate and maintain oxy-fuel welding (OFW) equipment.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
WLDR 145
Oxy-Fuel Processes Shop
2
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You will set up and use oxy-fuel equipment to weld, braze and solder.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online, Prior Learning
WLDR 146
Oxy-Fuel and Thermal Cutting
3
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You will use freehand and guided methods for cutting mild steel. You will perform straight cuts, bevel cuts and pierce holes in the plate. You will use a guide to do straight cuts, bevel cuts and cut circles from plate. You will perform plasma arc cutting and gouging. Air carbon arc gouging will be performed.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): WELD 104
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
WLDR 147
Wire Feed Welding Process Theory
1
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You will develop the knowledge required to safely select, setup and maintain power supply components, electrodes, flux, and shielding gases.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
WLDR 149
Canadian Welding Bureau W47.1 Welder Qualification
3
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You will complete the Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) welder qualification W47.1 assessments using the shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW) and flux-cored arc welding (FCAW) processes for the flat groove-fillet (1GF) assessment.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
WLDR 150
Introduction to Gas Tungsten Arc Welding
2
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You will use the gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) process on carbon steel, stainless steel and aluminum material.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
WLDR 163
Shielded Metal Arc Welding Shop 2
4
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You will perform welds in flat, vertical, and overhead positions using F3 and F4 electrodes. You will be introduced to open root welding.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): WLDR 143(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): WLDR 126
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online, Prior Learning
WLDR 164
Wire Feed Welding Processes Shop 1
4
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In this course you will be introduced to solid wire welding procedures such as weld sequencing, metal transfer types, weld positions and advanced waveforms on lite gauge materials. You will perform multiple pass welds using pulsed wave forms.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online, Prior Learning
WLDR 165
Wire Feed Welding Processes Shop 2
4
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You will develop your abilities with solid wire GMAW in the horizontal and overhead positions. You will be introduced to flux cored, metal cored and aluminum wire feed welding processes. You will perform open root welds with solid wire in the flat and vertical positions.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): WLDR 148(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online, Prior Learning
WORK 119
Work Experience
0
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You will spend one week in industry to demonstrate trade and essential workplace skills. Industrial placements provide the learner with on-the-job training and access to potential employment.
Credit Units: 0
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Online, Prior Learning, Work Experience - Group
Total semester credits: 67

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