Skills, Education and Experience
Skills
- good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
- good analytical ability
- high level of design sense
- solid understanding of computerized machinery
- ability to follow instructions precisely
- strong technical and artistic interests
- comfortable with heights
Education and Experience
- Completion of secondary school is usually required.
- Certification is available in BC but not required
Qualifications
This is not a regulated profession in BC
Trade certification is not mandatory in B.C., but it will likely increase your job opportunities. Two separate pathways to certification are available: an Apprenticeship model comprising Levels 1-to-3, and the non-apprentice programs of Welder B and A. Each level requires a mix of documented training and work experience.
Individuals who have extensive experience working as a welder may also challenge the certification. This involves completing the Welder Challenge Application and submitting it to Industry Training Authority BC (ITA). Challenge applications are assessed for proof of workplace hours and scope of experience prior to acceptance into the Challenge Pathway.
Individuals completing the apprenticeship program are qualified to take the Interprovincial Red Seal exam (the final exam for this trade). If successfully passed, you receive the Red Seal endorsement, which allows you to work as a welder anywhere in Canada. An optional Multi-Process Alloy Welding (MPAW) endorsement is also available.
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