Welding and Fabrication Technician WFT1

Holland Code: R (Realistic)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

Arts & Literacy Secondary school courses in Technological Communications are of benefit.

Math and Science Grade 12 Secondary school math. Students lacking in math skills may apply but upgrading skills may be a requirement.

Technology Basic computer skills are an asset, Microsoft Office, Email, and Internet skills.

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• Tact and Diplomacy - The ability to earn the trust and co-operation of managers, unions, and employees
• The ability to communicate by writing and in person - The ability to work as a team
• Have good problem-solving skills and the ability to be analytical
• Have integrity and good judgement / Good organizational and management skills
• Strong work and quality ethic - Physical fitness and the ability to work in demanding surroundings

Useful background experience for this program would be

Experience in a Secondary school technology program as well as past work experience in trade related employment such as agriculture, automotive and metal working.

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of the program may find employment in

Fabricating businesses, as steel erectors, automotive assembly and parts suppliers, heavy equipment manufacturers. Students may branch off to become pressure welders, pipe fitters, steam fitters, and custom fabricators.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Welders find themselves in a host of different environments depending on their interests and preferences
• Manufacturing often is done indoors in small to very large facilities
• Construction and Maintenance welders often work outdoors
• Welders work in mines underground at ocean depths and far above in high rise buildings and bridges
• The trade offers different paths in physical demands as well, automation has opened up the abilities of many to enter the welding trade but there are jobs that require considerable strength and fitness.
• Welders are often tasked with a wide variety of tasks that include the tacking and assembly of smaller parts, sub assembly sections of large weldments
• May be mentored by an experienced journeyman to learn specific tasks like fitting parts, final finishing, pre-heating joints
• Learning to read blueprints and quality documents

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

• Canadian Welding Bureau: (Website)
• Apprenticeship Ontario/ Red Seal Trades (Website)

The National Occupation Classification (NOC) system is used by the Canadian government to provide detailed information on careers. Click on the links below to learn more about careers associated with this Fanshawe College program. Please note: These codes are listed here for information purposes only. Fanshawe College does not guarantee graduates careers in these fields.

Last Modified: June 1, 2022