Welding & Fabrication
After developing an interest in metalwork throughout his years at school, Sam Townshend decided to pursue a career in metal, starting with studying the Certificate in Engineering (Fabrication) at CPIT.
Welders are required to make, join and repair the metal parts for a massive range of machinery, equipment and structures.
Fabricators are involved in the creation and repair of either light (water tanks, ducting, metal chains) or heavy metals (i.e. building structures, ships' hulls, bridges).
The best start for a career in welding or fabrication trades is the pre trade programme. On completion of the pre trade programme, you can move into employment as an apprentice and work towards a higher trade certificate to become a fully qualified tradesperson.
The Welding & Fabrication programmes are designed so that students can choose to complete both programmes in one year.
CPIT's programmes of study in Welding and Fabrication are:
- Certificate in Engineering (Fabrication)
This programme will develop the skills and knowledge you need to begin a career in the Engineering Fabrication industry. The qualification can also help you apply for an apprenticeship contract in this trade. You will complete unit standards related to: engineering drawings and sketches; constructing engineering plane geometric shapes; engineering machining; and metal forming, welding and joining techniques
Why should I do my welding & fabrication trade training at CPIT?
- Gain two qualifications in one year - CPIT's Welding and Fabrication programmes have been designed so that students can chose to complete both programmes in one year
- Purpose built facilities - our specialised workshops and machine shops have been custom built for delivering welding & fabrication programmes
- Hands on learning - all students have the opportunity to be involved with practical projects and industry work experience
- You'll get the skills that are in demand - TII works closely with the trades industry to ensure all training is current and relevant
Download an application form for the Engineering Trades programmes at CPIT.
What are my career options upon completing a Welding or Fabrication programme at CPIT?
On completion of a pre trade programme you will be in a good position to apply for paid employment as an apprentice in the engineering industry.
As a fabricator you likely to specialise in either:
- Light metal fabrication - including ducts, water tanks, metal chairs, aircraft parts
- Heavy metal fabrication - including building structures, ships hulls, bridges
As a welder you are likely to find employment in one of the following types of organisations:
- Architectural
- Agricultural
- Marine
- Transport
- Structural
- Heavy automotive
- General engineering
Visit the KiwiCareers web site for more information on working conditions, pay and future prospects for:
- Welders
- Fabrication Engineers (Heavy)
- Fabrication Engineers (Light)
What will I study?
Students in the Certificate in Engineering (Welding and Structural Steel) will gain the fundamental skills required to gain employment as a welder. These include skills in:
- Interpreting drawings
- Making calculations
- Industry safety
- Thermal cutting
- Arc welding
- MIG welding
Students in the Certificate in Engineering (Fabrication) will learn to:
- Read engineering drawings
- Use geometric development methods
- Use a range of welding and joining techniques
- Use a range of metal forming techniques
Where will I study?
Welding & fabrication programmes are delivered in the new purpose built Engineering Technology Centre at the CPIT Sullivan Avenue Campus in Opawa, Christchurch. In addition to specialised workshops and machine rooms, students have access to other campus facilities including:
- computer suites
- library
- cafeteria
Want to find out more?
For further information, make an online enquiry or contact us.