Metalworkers can expand their skills, thanks to a new metal fabrication program starting this fall in Campbell River.
“We’re so excited to bring the updated program back to Campbell River,” said Chris Udy, director of trades and technical programs at NIC. “When speaking with our industry leaders locally and provincially they have been clear in stating that there is a need for the current and future workforce to have enhanced metal fabrication skills. This program is designed to allow our students to fill that skills gap.”
Metal fabricators build, assemble and repair products made of steel or other metals in manufacturing and construction industries. NIC’s new 23-week program covers the Industry Training Authority requirements for technical training credit for Level 1 and provides 450 hours of work-based credit toward a student’s apprenticeship hours.
In addition to the revamped curriculum, the program admission requirements have changed, so students no longer need welding training as a prerequisite, noted Udy.
“We heard from both students and industry it created a barrier for those interested in starting metalwork,” he said. “This new program will allow students to start from the beginning and gain those foundational skills, while also providing skill enhancement to those who already have metalworking experience.”
The foundation program is being led by Red Seal welder and metal fabricator Karl Plautz, who joined NIC this term and is currently teaching Welding Foundation Harmonized certificate at the Campbell River campus.
“Metal fabrication and welding really go hand-in-hand,” said Plautz. “Metal fabrication is an in-demand trade on its own, but adding it to your welding skills opens up more opportunities. It gives you critical skills that employers are looking for.”
Plautz taught both welding and metal fabrication at the College of New Caledonia before joining NIC. He also worked in the mining, pulp and paper and oil extraction industries.
Applications are open now for the fall intake.
To learn more, or to apply, visit www.nic.bc.ca/trades.