Skip to main contentSkip to main navigationSkip to footer content

Pre-employment Welder

Welder

Contact Us

Katelyn Vallee
Trades Enrolment Specialist
 780 871 5451
 780 808 5766
Ask me your questions

Apply

Schedule time with Katelyn
LocationVermilion
CredentialCertificate
Program Length16 weeks
Delivery MethodFace-to-face

In 16-weeks, you’ll have the job-ready skills to launch your welding career through our pre-employment welding program.

You’ll learn the same material as a first-year welder apprentice in our Trades Centre classrooms and labs:

  • welding theory and technology
  • principles and practices of gas metal arc welding, flux core arc welding, metalcore arc welding and submerged arc welding
  • proper equipment set-up
  • trades mathematics
  • safety training

You're eligible to write the first period technical exam after your classroom instruction at Lakeland.

Then apply your skills and build industry connections during a 120-hour practicum placement.

Requirements

High school coursework with a minimum of:

  • 50% in English 10-2
  • 50% in Math 10-3

OR A pass mark in all five Canadian General Educational Development (GED) or Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) tests.

2. Proof of  English language proficiency

Notes:

There are no additional program requirements.

As you prepare for your start date, review this important information.

Enrolment is the final step after you've been accepted, paid your tuition deposit, and the timetable has been set.

  • You will be automatically enrolled in your courses.
  • You can expect to be enrolled approximately 1 month before the program start date.
  • Once you've been enrolled, your schedule will be available in My Lakeland.

If you completed relevant courses at another post-secondary institution, you may be eligible for transfer credit. Apply for transfer credit at least 2 months before classes start by completing the transfer credit form.

Review all of the other ways Lakeland does prior learning assessments.

When you complete the program requirements, you will be awarded a Certificate of Achievement.

More program details

2025-26 tuition and fees

Year Tuition and program fees Estimated books, supplies and field trips Mandatory fees
1 $6,631.40 $650 $617
Remember that studying includes other expenses than tuition and fees - you should also be budgeting for your accommodation and living expenses. Alberta student loan guidelines recommends $1,153/month.


Our tuition and fees page has details about academic, application and mandatory fees and their cost breakdown per term.

You can view your supply list as well.

Your weekly class schedule can be found on your My Lakeland student portal when available. This is usually one month prior to the program start date.

Important dates found below include your tuition due date, your program registration/start date, events and holidays.

Dates are subject to change. We recommend you check here regularly for any updates.

Aug 11 — Fees due
Aug 25 — Registration day/classes begin
Aug 29 — Last day to withdraw from college with 50% refund
Sept 30 — National Truth & Reconciliation Day, college closed
Oct 13 — Thanksgiving, college closed
Nov 11 — Remembrance Day, college closed
Nov 14 — AIT Challenge Exam
Nov 18 — Last day of classes
Nov 19 - Dec 12 — Practicum

Please view the specific supplies and textbooks required for trades pre-employment programs.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Jennifer Germann, Business Industry Development Coordinator

Continue your learning

You are eligible to write the Alberta Apprenticeship first year welding exam if you have:

  • a minimum 65% standing in program requirements
  • a 90% or better attendance record

Complete your apprenticeship

You need to take 2 more technical training periods (classroom instruction) and the required on-the-job hours to become a journeyperson welder. All your technical training can be taken at Lakeland College.

Add to your skill set

Lakeland College continuing education offers specialized welding courses.

For more information, call Eileen Arthur at 1 800 661 6490 ext.8567 or direct in Vermilion at 780 853 8567, or e-mail her at eileen.arthur@lakelandc.ab.ca 

Red and Blue seal

As a journeyperson you are also eligible to work toward red and blue seals.

Sparks fly as a welder works in the shop
Hands on learning at its finest, that's what you'll get during your training with Lakeland. Then, put your new skills to work during your time with top-notch employers.


Learning in action

Electrician student working on a breaker board
Visiting campus is the best way to see all that we offer. The next best option is our virtual tours, you can explore the trades centre, the Vermilion quad and even our rec centre.


Explore our campus

Two students inspecting an automotive part
Employers value experience. Match that with the expertise gained in the classroom and in our trades centre? Hear from out alumni how its worked out for them.


Jobs and careers

Related programs

Student practicing welding

Welder