This program gives you the practical skills and technical knowledge needed to work in industrial welding and metal fabrication. You will spend time in the welding bays of the Tamarack Building, learning how to read blueprints, select materials, and operate equipment for structural steel, pipefitting, and custom fabrication. You will also study the science behind metals and learn how to inspect welds for safety and quality.
Career outcomes
- Welding inspector
- Structural steel welder
- Pipefitter
- Fabrication technician
- Quality control inspector
Admission requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes).
- Grade 12 English (C or U), minimum 60%.
- International applicants must provide proof of English proficiency through an accepted test or equivalent coursework.
Tuition
Domestic tuition for the Ontario College Diploma is $3,940 per year for the 2026–27 academic year. Ancillary fees are $1,125 per year.
Courses
- COMM 1920 Professional Writing and Style
- COMM 2930 Visual Communication and Design
- ELTR 2180 Welding Safety Protocols
- GNED 1760 Business Ethics and Professional Conduct
- GNED 2330 Project Management Fundamentals
- MILL 1190 Welding Processes and Safety
- MILL 2300 Structural Steel Welding
- MILL 2360 Non-Destructive Testing
- MILL 2620 Pipefitting and Fabrication
- WELD 1210 Shielded Metal Arc Welding
- WELD 1330 Gas Metal Arc Welding
- WELD 1820 Welding Metallurgy Basics
- WELD 2490 Welding Inspection Methods
What you will learn
Welding and fabrication are core trades in manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure projects. In this program, you will move from basic techniques to advanced applications across different metals and joining processes. You will learn to interpret engineering drawings, calculate material requirements, and follow strict safety protocols. The curriculum covers shielded metal arc welding, gas metal arc welding, and welding metallurgy. You will also gain experience in structural steel welding, pipefitting, and non-destructive testing methods used to verify weld integrity.
How the program runs
The program is delivered full-time at the Benchlands Campus. Classes and shop sessions are held in the Tamarack Building, where the welding bays and fabrication workshops are located. You will attend courses in the Fall and Winter terms over two years, completing four terms in total. The schedule includes a mix of classroom instruction, hands-on lab work, and practical assessments. You will also complete courses in professional writing, visual communication, business ethics, and project management to prepare you for the workplace.
Admission
To apply, you need an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or you must qualify as a mature student (19 or older by the start of classes). You must have completed Grade 12 English (C or U) with a minimum grade of 60%. If you are an international applicant, you must provide proof of English proficiency through an accepted test or equivalent coursework. You can apply through the provincial college application service for domestic full-time applicants, or directly through the polytechnic's international application form.
Tuition and fees
Domestic tuition for the Ontario College Diploma is $3,940 per year for the 2026–27 academic year. Ancillary fees, which cover student services, facilities, and materials, are $1,125 per year. International tuition is $17,600 per year. Parking permits are $210 per term. You must pay outstanding balances before the term start date to access course materials and shop access.
After you graduate
Graduates of this program are prepared to enter the workforce as welding and fabrication technicians. Employers in manufacturing, construction, pipeline, and heavy equipment sectors value the combination of hands-on shop skills and technical theory you will gain. The program also meets the in-school training requirements for apprenticeship levels, allowing you to continue toward your journeyperson designation if you choose. Many graduates go on to work as welding inspectors, quality control technicians, or fabrication supervisors.
How to apply
Applications for the September intake are open now. Domestic full-time applicants should apply through the provincial college application service. International applicants should use the polytechnic's own application form. You can upload your transcripts and supporting documents through the myWrenford portal once your application is started. For questions about admission requirements or the application process, contact the Admissions office.