Yes! Many welders specialize in areas like TIG welding, underwater welding, or exotic metalwork.
Welder Apprenticeship Program
Launch your welding career with Keyano College’s Welder Apprenticeship Program. Over three years, you’ll gain hands-on training and technical expertise in electric arc, gas, and resistance welding. Learn to read blueprints, calculate materials, and safely weld a variety of metals for real-world construction and fabrication projects.
This program prepares you for a wide range of career paths - from pipeline construction to structural steel assembly - while guiding you toward Red Seal certification and journeyperson status.
What is an Apprenticeship?
The Welder Apprenticeship consists of three 12-month periods.
Each year includes:
- At least 1,560 hours of work experience per year
- 8 weeks of classroom instruction
You’ll apply your skills in real work environments while receiving expert technical instruction. Apprentices can challenge the Interprovincial Red Seal Exam in the final period. Successful candidates receive their Journeyperson Certificate and a Diploma recognized across Canada.
Program Details
- Credential: Journeyperson Certificate + Advanced Diploma
- Length: 3 years (3 periods of 12 months)
- Delivery: In-person (8 weeks of technical training per year)
- Next Intake: Ongoing
- Location: Clearwater Campus
Includes:
- 8 weeks of classroom instruction per period
- Minimum 1,560 hours of on-the-job training per year
- Preparation for Red Seal and Interprovincial Certification
What You’ll Learn
As a graduate of the Welder – Apprenticeship program, you will be able to:
- Fuse metals using a variety of welding techniques (arc, gas, resistance)
- Read and interpret welding blueprints and layout designs
- Operate specialized welding equipment
- Identify and correct welding defects
- Work safely and efficiently in construction and manufacturing environments
Career Opportunities
With this skill set as a welder, you’ll be ready for employment in diverse industries, including:
- Pipeline and industrial construction
- Structural steel or vessel assembly
- Steel fabrication shops
- Heavy equipment repair
- Commercial welding and contracting
With experience, welders may advance to roles such as:
- Welding supervisor
- Quality inspector
- Independent contractor or business owner
Hear From Our Students
The instructors are very helpful, and the education system is similar to back home, making it an easy transition.
– Benjamin Fonkou
I love the mix of diversity at the College and how the cultures come together as a family.
– Sapna Sharma
What I like most about studying here is how my instructors are always there to help.
– Chioma Igbokei
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I specialize in a certain type of welding?
Can I start the program without an employer?
You can begin the classroom portion without an employer. However, to log apprenticeship hours, you must secure a sponsor/employer.
What is the difference between an apprentice and a journeyperson?
An apprentice is in training, gaining supervised on-the-job and classroom experience. A journeyperson is fully certified and can work independently.
What certification will I earn after completing the apprenticeship?
You will earn a Journeyperson Certificate and Advanced Diploma, and may qualify for the Red Seal, allowing you to work anywhere in Canada.
Is this program recognized in other provinces?
Yes. Alberta’s apprenticeship credentials are recognized across Canada. Contact Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) for transfer eligibility.
Yes. Apprentices earn a percentage of the journeyperson wage, which increases as they advance.
You’ll need CSA-approved steel-toe boots, safety gear, and basic hand tools. A complete list is provided upon registration.
Admission Requirements
To register for the Electrician Apprenticeship, you must:
You may begin first-period classroom instruction without an employer. However, you must secure one to complete on-the-job training.
Minimum requirements:
- English 10-2
- Math 10-3
- Pass the Canadian General Educational Development (GED) or Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) tests
OR - Pass an Entrance Exam
Recommended Pathway:
Alberta High School Diploma with:
- English 30-2
- Math 30-3
- One of Physics 20, Chemistry 20, or Science 20
- Related Career and Technology Studies (CTS) courses
For more details, view Alberta Apprenticeship Entrance Requirements.
Tuition and Fees
| Item | Domestic Students (8-week term) |
International Students |
| Full-Time Tuition | $1,064.00 | Not currently offered |
| Students' Association Fee | $57.52 | – |
| SA Building Fee | $8.96 | - |
| Campus Recreation Fee | $32.50 | – |
| Technology Fee | $105.00 | – |
| Materials Fee | $91.00 | – |
| Total per Intake | $1,366.72 |
Refund Policy
- $250 admission deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable.
- If an apprentice withdraws 10 business days before the first day of class, a 50% refund of tuition (minus the $250 admission deposit) is available.
- If the college cancels a program, a full refund will be granted.
- See the Keyano College Credit Calendar for full details.
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Explore other programs that share similar career paths, skill sets, or industry connections. Whether you're looking for a next step, a laddering opportunity, or an alternate focus, these programs can help you reach your goals.
Start Building Your Future in the Trades.
Register on My Trade Secrets OR
Submit an Apprenticeship Industry Training Enrollment Form in person or by email to:
Keyano College, Office of the Registrar
8115 Franklin Avenue Fort McMurray, AB T9H 2H7
Phone: 780-791-4801 or 1-800-251-1408 ext. 4801
Fax: 780-791-4952
Email: registrar@keyano.ca