Welder

A Welder permanently joins pieces of metal or manufactured parts using metal filler and heat and/or pressure, builds structures, repairs broken or cracked parts according to specifications and carries out special processes, such as welding studs. Specifically, a Welder:

lays out, cuts and forms metals to specifications
fits sub-assemblies and assemblies together and prepares assemblies for welding
uses three major types of welding: arc, gas and resistance
uses various welding and cutting processes to join structural steel and cut metal in vessels, piping and other components
fabricates parts, tools, machines and equipment
joins parts being manufactured, builds and repairs damaged or worn parts
controls for quality before, during and after welding

Apprenticeship program

The Welder (456A) apprenticeship program consists of on-the-job and in-school training. The program typically takes three years to complete and consists of:

5,280 hours of on-the-job training/work experience
720 hours of in-school training

On-the-job training

A Welder apprenticeship involves practical training provided on-the-job by a skilled worker or trainer. The skills or competencies to be developed through this training include:

using and maintaining tools and equipment
using and maintaining material handling and safety equipment
maintaining welding equipment and supplies
preparing work site
laying out, cutting and forming metals to specification

In-school training

A Welder apprenticeship includes three levels of theoretical training delivered in a classroom, which includes subjects such as:

applied safety procedures
reading of blueprints and welding symbols
material and process quality
welding theory
shielded metal arc welding