COURSE CURRICULUM

The Mechanical Technician – Welding Fitter program at Northern College is a comprehensive three-semester diploma designed to equip students with essential skills in welding, fabrication, technical drawing, and precision measurement. In the first semester, students engage in general education electives, foundational communication courses, health and safety training, and mathematics focused on trade-related problems. They learn to read and interpret welding technical drawings, understand welding theory, and develop practical welding skills through hands-on courses introducing various welding processes such as SMAW, GMAW, and FCAW. The second semester builds on these fundamentals with applied communication, Indigenous culture and awareness, and advanced mathematics tailored to welding applications. Students further develop their drafting skills using AutoCAD, study welding codes and standards, and deepen their understanding of welding theory including brazing and non-destructive testing methods. Practical skills are advanced through extensive hands-on welding experiences across multiple positions and processes, alongside learning cutting equipment setup and operation. The final semester focuses on advanced mathematics and precision measurements, CNC programming for automated welding and cutting equipment, and advanced welding techniques including pipe welding and walk-the-cup TIG welding. Students also refine their technical drawing skills with a focus on layout, material estimation, and project completion using AutoCAD, culminating in a practical welding manufacturing project. Throughout the program, students gain proficiency in safety protocols, quality control, and inspection techniques such as visual and magnetic particle testing, preparing them for skilled roles in the welding and fabrication industry.