Welder Upgrading
Welding involves the use of manual or semi-automatic welding equipment to fuse metal pieces together. Welders use flame-cutting, brazing and soldering equipment, melting and fusing pieces to be joined to form a permanent bond. They also use metal shaping machines such as brakes, shears and other metal straightening and bending machines.
Two separate Welder program pathways are available to students: an Apprenticeship model comprising Levels 1-to-3, with an optional Multi-Process Alloy Welding (MPAW) endorsement, and the non-apprentice model, comprising of a Foundation program followed by "Welder B and A".
Students without an employer sponsor may register in the Welder Foundation (formerly Level C) program. If they are unable to secure a sponsor they can continue upgrading in the non-apprentice pathway, Welder Level B, then Welder Level A.
Welding Level B: This program develops more advanced welding skills and related theory than were taught in the Welder Foundation program: pipe welding, gas tungsten arc welding, etc., providing graduates with a broader base of skills and more employment opportunities.
Welding Level A: This program teaches more advanced welding skills and related theory than were taught in the Welder Foundation and B Level program: pipe welding with stainless steel electrodes, low-allow steel electrodes, more advanced blueprint reading, and welding metallurgy.
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These specialty programs in Welding Upgrading are offered at British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT).
Welding Level B and Welding Level A, are offered on a continuous intake basis where spaces will be filled as they become available.
Welding Level B: The 16 week course is followed by a job experience component, which then qualifies the candidate for B Level Certification.
Welding Level A: . The 8 week course is followed by a 40 week welding practicum/job experience component, which then qualifies the candidate for A Level Certification.