FULL-TIME | WINNIPEG LOCATIONS WELDF-CT Welding

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Overview

  • 1 year certificate
  • Course based registration
  • Notre Dame Campus, Winnipeg
  • Work placement
  • Due to high demand, this funded program is open to Manitoba residents only. Applications received from non-Manitoba residents for this program will be cancelled and the application fee will not be refunded. 
  • International applicants please visit Academic Program, Dates and Fees for a listing of programs for international students, current availability and online application instructions.

Description

This program develops the skills and knowledge you need to safely and effectively perform the oxyacetylene, arc, tungsten inert gas (TIG), and metal inert gas (MIG) welding processes and related operations.

You will spend the majority of class time on practical shop work, with your remaining time spent on instruction in welding, mathematics, science, industrial communications, and blueprint reading.

Theory tests in each welding component and grading of practical work assignments to government and industry standards.

Upon graduation you will receive a certificate from Red River College.

Students will be tested for Canadian Welding Bureau certification in SMAW and GMAW for an additional fee, and on passing will receive a student ticket from Canadian Welding Bureau.

Prior to starting the program, you will be invited to participate in a math and reading skills diagnostic testing session that will advise you of your program readiness.

This is a not an apprenticeship program, but may provide credit transfer opportunities towards apprenticeship. The Government of Manitoba, Entrepreneurship, Training and Trade offers apprenticeship training that combines on-the-job practical skills development with levels of technical training. If you are interested in applying to an apprenticeship program, please visit https://www.gov.mb.ca/wd/apprenticeship.

Admission Requirements

Your Academic History
If your academic history includes any of the following, please visit My Education for important information: post-secondary studies at an institution other than Red River College Polytechnic; Modified (M), English as an Additional Language (E), or GED high school courses; or home schooling; international secondary (high school) studies.
The college requires transcripts verifying your complete academic history including any public or private high school, college, university, or technical institute you have attended.

DOCUMENT SUBMISSION

Upload Through Your Future Student Account

  • Scan your document(s) and save the file. Ensure you keep your original documents as the College may request to see them at any time.
  • Go to apply.rrc.ca and log in.
  • Click on your application, then Supplemental Items & Documents.

If you do not have a Future Student Account or require assistance, please contact our Student Service Centre at 204-632-2327.

Internationally Educated Applicants - visit www.rrc.ca/credentials for credential assessment information.

Submission of required documentation indicating proof of completion of admission requirements is due within 15 days of applying unless otherwise noted in the program's admission requirements.

However, if you apply within 6 weeks of the program start date, admission requirements are due within 5 days of applying.

Regular Admission Requirements

  1. Grade 12
    • Submit proof of graduation from or enrolment in Grade 12, including one credit in each of the following:
      • Grade 12 English (40S)
      • Grade 12 Math (40S)
      • Grade 10 Science (20F)
    • If you provide proof of enrolment, your official final grades indicating successful completion must be submitted by July 15 for fall enrolment or by the deadline specified in your admission letter
    • If you are required to complete an English language assessment, do not submit your transcripts until requested to do so.  See English Language Requirements (ELRs) for more information.
      and
  2. English Language Requirements (ELRs)
    • Answer this question to determine if you meet this program’s ELRs:
      Have I successfully completed 3 years of full-time high school (secondary) education in Canada, the United States, or an ELR exempt country where English was the language of instruction?
      • If YES, you meet English language requirements.  Apply and then submit your transcripts* for review
        or
      • If NO, submit proof of meeting an ELRs option.  If you choose the English language assessment option, review this program's approved assessments and required levels.
        or 
      • If you completed all of your education in Canada, the United States, or an ELR exempt country in English but you did not graduate high school, submit your transcripts* for review. 

    Mature Student Admission Requirements
    If you are 19 years of age or older and have been out of high school for a minimum of one year at time of application, and you do not meet the regular admission requirements, you may apply under the Mature Student admission requirements.

    1. Academic Requirement
      • High school graduation is not required, but you must have successfully completed or be enrolled in:
        • One credit in each of the following:
          • Grade 11 English (30S)
          • Grade 10 Applied Math or Pre-Calculus Math (20S), or Grade 11 Consumer Math (30S)
          • Grade 10 Science (20F)
            or
        • RRC's Academic Foundations program
      • If you provide proof of enrolment at time of application, your official final grades indicating successful completion must be submitted by July 15 for fall enrolment or by the deadline specified in your admission letter
      • If you are required to complete an English language assessment, do not submit your transcripts until requested to do so.  See English Language Requirements (ELRs) for more information.
        and
    2. Meet Regular Admission Requirement 2

    English Language Assessments

    English Language AssessmentMinimum Required Levels
    L - Listening, S - Speaking, R - Reading, W - WritingLSRW
    AEPUCE (Academic English Program of University and College Entrance )
    Requirement: Submission of a parchment (certificate) indicating successful completion of the AEPUCE program, including language levels achieved if available.
    8786
    CAEL and CAEL Online (Canadian Academic English Language)
    60506050
    CLB (LINC) (Canadian Language Benchmark - Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada)
    Canadian Citizens: LINC programs are not available.
    8786
    Duolingo (Duolingo English Test)

    * MINIMUM OVERAL SCORE OF 115 REQUIRED.

    There are no minimum required levels for L,S,R,W.

    Only Duolingo English Test scores that have been verified through the Duolingo English Test Portal will be accepted.

    0*0*0*0*
    IELTS - Academic (International English Language Testing System)
    Please Note: 3 year expiry date for Nursing Program Applicants
    6.56.06.55.5
    PTE - Academic Online Assessment (Pearson Test of English)
    58505842
    Password Skills (An in person English Language Assessment hosted by RRC Polytech)
    This in-person, computer-based test is composed of four test modules: reading, writing, listening and speaking. The test takes 3 hours and 5 minutes to complete and is conducted in two parts. The first part assesses reading, listening, and writing, and the second part assesses speaking in a separate room. Password Skills is hosted by the RRC Polytech Testing and Assessment Centre: E440, Manitou a bi Bii Daziigae building, on the fourth floor. If you wish to do Password Skills remotely (not in-person), Password Skills Plus can be taken online. RRC Polytech does not offer Password Skills Plus, but we do accept the results for entry into program.
    6.56.06.55.5
    Password Skills Plus (Password Skills Plus is an online assessment that can be taken instead of Password Skills. )
    6.56.06.55.5
    TOEFL-iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet Based Test)
    To meet the needs of students who are unable to take the TOEFL iBT® test at a test center due to public health concerns, ETS is temporarily offering the TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition test in selected areas.
    20181918

    Who Should Enrol?

    You should be in good physical health with good eyesight for depth perception and colour recognition. You will need steady nerves and hands, good concentration and patience, mechanical aptitude, and manual dexterity. 

    You should have no respiratory difficulties, and no physical restrictions that would prevent you from lifting 50 pounds on a regular basis and 100 pounds occasionally. Since work is often outdoors, you should be prepared to face some unpleasant weather conditions.

    Locations, Dates and Fees

    Next Estimated Term 1 Start Date (subject to change)

    Location Start Date Apply Link
    Notre Dame Campus Aug 31, 2026 Apply Now

    Costs (estimates only; subject to change)

    Program/Student Fees
    Year 1
    $6,362.00
    Books and Supplies
    Year 1
    $650.00
    Other Fees
    Year 1
    $650.001
    Program/Student Fees (International)
    Year 1
    $19,147.00
    1Students must supply their own CSA certified 6” leather steel toe boots and leather welding jacket as part of the personal protective equipment required for the welding shops. The approximate cost ranges from $150 to $300 depending on the brand and supplier. Students also require a 5” angle grinder with a wire wheel for this program. The approximate cost may vary from $75 to $140, depending on the quality of the tools. Students can be tested for the Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) certification in SMAW and GMAW for an additional fee of $256.

    Students may apply for financial assistance through the Manitoba Student Aid program. For general information on applying please call 204-945-6321 or 1-800-204-1685, or visit their website at www.manitobastudentaid.ca, which also includes an online application. For detailed information, please visit one of the RRC Polytech Student Service Centres or call 204-632-2327. Applicants requiring financial assistance should complete their student loan applications well in advance of the class start date.

    Program Outline

    Oxyacetylene welding and cutting is the first welding component studied. This is followed by the arc welding component. The last eight weeks are divided among metal inert gas (MIG) and tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding components and specialty welding applications. MIG is used in shipbuilding and machinery, and TIG is used in the pipeline and brewery industries and in the demanding area of aircraft maintenance.

    You will perform calculations, interpret blueprints and sketches, layout work, cut to layouts, assemble and weld in all positions as required in the completion of work assignments. The identification, application, care, and use of welding equipment, hand and power tools, layout tools, and general shop equipment will be demonstrated continuously. Safety to self and equipment will be stressed.

    Regular and prompt attendance, interest, and proper work habits are essential to your success. Theory tests in each welding component and grading of practical work assignments to government and industrial standards will constitute approximately 80 percent of the program grading. A final comprehensive theory examination will account for the remaining 20 percent.

    Courses and Descriptions

    (Click the course name to view the description of the course)
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
    In addition to Transfer of Credit from a recognized post secondary institution, other RPL processes are available for RPL courses. Click here for more information. For courses with no RPL, please check www.rrc.ca/rpl for additional contact information.
    COMM-1173Communication StrategiesRPL
    More Information

    Everyone communicates, but are they doing it well? Communicative competence takes practice and self-awareness. In this foundational course, students will learn through discovery and project-based activities to practice approaching situations critically and collaboratively. By developing their communication skills, students will improve their interpersonal ability, intercultural competence, and digital fluency to prepare for success in the workplace and beyond. The strategies students will gain in this course will be useful throughout their program and in their chosen industry. 

    MANU-1053Interpreting Engineering Drawings
    More Information

    In this course, students will be provided with an understanding of trade-related print reading skills and will learn to correctly calculate and interpret information from production drawings. Conventional drafting and sketching techniques, object representation, and symbol applications as they relate to the interpretation and understanding of working drawings and specifications will be covered.

    MANU-1066Introduction to Non-Destructive Testing
    More Information

    Non-destructive testing (NDT) involves a number of inspection techniques designed to detect discontinuities or defects, such as cracks, in different types of materials. NDT is used in many fields including the aircraft industry, pipelines, manufacturing, automotive servicing, and many others. The NDT course is designed to familiarize students with different NDT methods.

    Prerequisites:
    MATH-1082Mathematics for Manufacturing
    More Information

    Algebra, geometry, and trigonometry will be introduced to prepare students to solve mathematical problems at a technician level. Students will learn and employ mathematical strategies such as models, geometric representations, formulas, algebraic equations, and mathematical reasoning.

    SAFE-1028WHMIS
    More Information

    The Workplace Hazardous Materials System (WHMIS) is a system for ensuring that important information about hazardous products is communicated where products are used, stored and handled. This course provides Information necessary to understand and interpret information about hazardous products, including pictograms (symbols), labels and Safety Data Sheets.

    SCIE-1046Science for Manufacturing
    More Information

    Students will learn the basic science of pure metal alloys and heat treatment methods and their effect on metals. In addition, students will learn physical science principals including force, stress, horsepower, and efficiency.

    SEMR-9209General Safety Training
    More Information

    This General Safety Training (GST) teaches basic general safety content to arm students with the core information necessary for them to protect themselves in workplaces on all descriptions. Although some examples may consider Manitoba legislation, this course has been developed by occupational safety and health professionals using generic information that is not provincially specific.

    SEMR-9480AC-129 Accreditation Level 1
    More Information

    When a student successfully completes the Welding Pre-Employment program and meets the requirements outlined by Apprenticeship Manitoba, they can apply to receive credit towards the Level 1 Welding Apprenticeship. More information about this process can be received from instructors and Apprenticeship Manitoba.

    WELD-1100Introduction Gas Metal Arc Welding
    More Information

    This course will cover how to safely set up and operate a Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) Machine and it’s principles. They will be able to describe and differentiate welding consumables according to the American Welding Society (AWS) classification system. Students will be proficient in using a variety of welding consumables and will be able to weld multiple positions, preparing them to weld various joints such as Lap, Tee and Corner. This course builds on the skills learned in Oxy Fuel Welding and Cutting. 

    Prerequisites:
    WELD-1101Introduction Shielded Metal Arc Welding
    More Information

    In this course, students will learn to safely set up and operate a Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) Machine and it’s principles. They will also be able to describe and differentiate welding electrodes according to the American Welding Society (AWS) classification system. Students will be proficient in using a variety of welding rods and will be able to weld multiple positions, preparing them to weld various joints, such as Lap, Tee, Corner. This course builds on the skills learned in Oxy Fuel Welding and Cutting. 

    Prerequisites:
    WELD-1102Safety, Hand and Power Tools
    More Information

    This course equips students with safety theory in performing welding and cutting operations. Students will learn the appropriate selection, use, and care of personal safety equipment, in addition to proper procedures and safe practices to follow during welding. Students will learn about the potential hazards associated with welding—welding fumes and toxins generated from metals, electrodes and fluxes, arc burn, and eye flash—and how to prevent them. In addition, students will learn about working in confined spaces and about rigging and hoisting procedures (i.e., setting up, using, dismantling, and maintenance). Students will also learn the correct use, maintenance, safe operation of hand tools, fasteners, and power metalworking equipment used in welding. 

    WELD-1103Oxy Fuel Welding and Cutting
    More Information

    In this course, students will learn the principles of oxy-fuel welding, cutting, and brazing. Students will identify and set up oxy-fuel equipment, reproduce welding, brazing, and cutting coupons, and perform oxy-fuel cutting. This course builds on the skills learned in Safety, Hand and Power Tools. 

    WELD-2100Advanced Gas Metal Arc Welding
    More Information

    This course will build upon the knowledge received in the Introduction Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) course. Students will be provided with direct experience in performing Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) test in flat and horizontal position using solid filler wire, and metal cored filler wire. Upon completing the course work, students will have the opportunity to test for a CWB ticket with an independent inspector. 

    Prerequisites:
    WELD-2101Advanced Shielded Metal Arc Welding
    More Information

    This course will build upon the knowledge received in Introduction Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) and introduce students to performing Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) tests in all positions (Flat, Horizontal, Vertical and Overhead). Upon completing the course work, students will have the opportunity to test for the CWB all position ticket. 

    Prerequisites:
    WELD-2103Introduction Gas Tungsten Metal Arc Welding
    More Information

    This course will introduce and equip students with basic theoretical knowledge of Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW). Students will learn different machine types and related equipment, as well as the gases used in GTAW, and how to identify electrodes. They will also learn how GTAW is used with different metals. Students will learn how to weld various joints (tee, lap, corner, and butt joints) in flat, horizontal, and vertical positions with applicable electrodes on mild steel. 

    Prerequisites:
    WELD-2104Introduction to Fabrication Processes
    More Information

    This course will introduce students to basic metal fabrication procedures. They will perform layout applications, set up and operate appropriate equipment and tools to fabricate and assemble a series of projects. These projects are designed to allow students to practice safety and work independently while integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skills.

    Prerequisites:
    WELD-3103Advanced Gas Tungsten Metal Arc Welding
    More Information

    This course will build upon the knowledge learned in the Introduction to Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW). In this “hands-on” course, students will learn how to weld various joints (tee, lap, corner and butt joints) in flat, horizontal and vertical positions with applicable electrodes on stainless steel and aluminum. 

    Prerequisites:
    WRKE-1026Work to Learn as a Welder
    More Information

    This course will help students make the transition from school to work through collaborative partnerships between the business community and Red River College, plus promote work-integrated learning opportunities.  With the guidance of an industrial partner, students will learn about the business, production, fabrication, and quality assurance in the welding industry.  Students will also explore the purpose of a part, the design process, the decisions used to make the part, the part drawings, and finally, students will fabricate the part. 

    WRKE-4002Work Experience
    More Information

    This course will provide students with “hands-on” welding work experience in an industry environment and equip them with the requisite experience, knowledge, and appreciation of the elements that factor into being a responsible worker. Each student will observe and participate in work practices under the direction of shop supervision. A report on the student’s attendance, ability, general attitude and employment potential will be provided by the workplace supervisor upon completion of the assignment. The student will receive credit for this work experience. 

    Prerequisites:

    Computer/Laptop Requirements

    Online learning is a critical component of course delivery in all Red River College Polytechnic programs. To ensure each student has the tools they need to achieve their academic goals, all Red River College Polytechnic students require, at minimum:

    1.  Off-campus access to a current computer with a webcam

    2.  A high speed internet connection

    • Recommended minimum speed: 10 mbps for download, 3 mbps for upload
    • Slower internet connection speeds may result in audio and video issues. Please keep in mind that if others in your home are using the same internet connection at the same time as you are, you may also experience audio and video issues.
    • Please refer to https://www.rrc.ca/future-students/computer-requirements/ for further information on Computer Requirements for Students.

    Please note that any anticipated costs are not included in Books and Supplies estimates.

    Objectives/Learning Outcomes

    After successfully completing the program, you will be able to:

    • Demonstrate safe workplace practices by identifying potential hazards by:
      • Describing WHMIS and reading Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
      • Identifying personal protective gear for task
      • Describing and identifying crane hand signals
      • Practicing safe material handling by using rigging and hoisting equipment properly and safely
      • Performing safe and efficient confined space entries in the workplace
    • Fabricate and assemble a given project according to specifications and specified tolerances using trade-related equipment by:
      • Describing safety precautions when using trade-related hand and power tools and equipment
      • Selecting appropriate trade-related equipment for the job
      • Safely operating trade-related equipment to complete specified welding processes efficiently and correctly
      • Employing math concepts to measure thickness and layout materials to complete task
    • Read and work with a variety of shop drawings by:
      • Producing drawings using freehand sketching techniques
      • Following shop drawings to complete welding jobs
      • Describing and identifying conventional weld symbols
      • Recognizing and interpreting weld symbols
      • Creating bills of materials
    • Perform oxyacetylene welding and cutting operations following safe work practices by:
      • Practicing personal and shop safety
      • Performing set-up, adjustment of flame and gas pressure,  and shut-down procedures for oxyacetylene welding and cutting equipment
      • Performing math applications and applying knowledge of science of physical materials to complete task
      • Operating gas welding and cutting equipment to produce part to specifications
      • Manipulating torch at proper angle according to the four basic joints in flat position
    • Perform Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) on tee, lap, corner, and butt joints to trade specifications in the flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions by:
      • Following shop safety, personal protective equipment requirements for the task, and arc welding safety practices
      • Identifying and selecting the appropriate electrode, polarity, amperage setting, and electrode manipulation for a specific application
      • Setting up and shutting down SMAW equipment
      • Safely completing welding operations to specifications and within specified tolerances
    • Perform Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) on tee, lap, corner, and butt joints in flat and horizontal positions with applicable filler rod on mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum by:
      • Employing safe work practices
      • Safely set up and shut down GTAW machines
      • Selecting appropriate filler rod, polarity, frequency, tungsten, gas and gas flow for different types of materials
      • Demonstrating proper work and travel angle, arc length, and stickout (electrode extension)
      • Safely operating GTAW machines to complete welding operations according to specified weld criteria
    • Perform Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) on tee, lap, corner, and butt joints in flat, horizontal, and vertical (up and down) positions using various filler wires on mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum by:
      • Describing and employing safe work practices
      • Practicing safe set-up and shut-down techniques
      • Selecting correct gases, voltage, filler wire size and wire feed speed
      • Demonstrating proper work and travel angle, travel speed and stickout for welding with and without pulse GMAW machine
      • Operating GMAW machines safely to weld to specifications and within specified tolerances
      • Maintaining equipment as needed
    • Fabricate and assemble various metal components using various hand and power tools by:
      • Following safe work procedures and practice
      • Maintaining a clean work site
      • Selecting appropriate materials
      • Implementing layout procedures and cutting pieces to size and/or shape
      • Selecting appropriate facility and equipment to assemble project
      • Assembling project to specifications
    • Communicate effectively with co-workers, supervisors and clients while displaying good problem-solving abilities, behaviors and attitudes by:
      • Working independently and demonstrating shop etiquette
      • Managing information and time effectively
      • Maintaining good attendance, punctuality, good work ethics, and responsibilities
      • Demonstrating self-initiated learning

    Transfer Credit Opportunities

    After working four and a half years or 8100 hours in industry as a welder, you can challenge the Industrial Welder Interprovincial examination through Apprenticeship Manitoba. Upon completion you will receive an inter-provincial (Red Seal) certificate.

    For more information about the apprenticeship program, contact:

    Apprenticeship Manitoba
    Manitoba Entrepreneurship, Training and Trade
    1010 - 401 York Avenue
    Winnipeg MB R3C 0P8
    Phone 204-945-3337
    Fax 204-948-2346
    Toll-Free: 1-877-978-7233 (1-877-97-TRADE)
    Email: apprenticeship@gov.mb.ca

    https://www.gov.mb.ca/wd/apprenticeship/discover/mbtrades/welder.html

    Recognition of Prior Learning

    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process which documents and compares an individual's prior learning gained from prior education, work and life experiences and personal study to the learning outcomes in College courses/programs. For more information, please visit www.rrc.ca/rpl.

    Other Information

    Workers Compensation Board regulations stipulate that steel-toed footwear must be worn in industrial workplaces. You are required to provide and wear appropriate safety footwear in welding and machine shops, both in the College and during industry work placements.

    Graduation Requirements

    For students registered in the Welding Certificate program, with a 2021-2022 Catalogue year, the requirements to graduate are as follows:

    • A minimum grade of C in each of the Core/Compulsory courses in the program content
    • A minimum program GPA of 2.00

    In order to receive Accreditation in Level 1 Apprenticeship, the requirements are as follows:

    • A minimum grade of C in each of the Core/Compulsory courses in the program content
    • A minimum program GPA of 3.00

    Employment Potential

    Some graduates have found employment in aircraft maintenance, farm equipment manufacturing, heavy-equipment repairs, and highway construction. Other graduates are employed in northern mines and hydroelectric power plants.
    Academic Advising Service
    Our academic advising service can provide information about our full-time programs, explain program admission requirements, and help you select the right program to meet your career and academic goals. We can also connect you with helpful people, resources, and supports.
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    Red River College Polytechnic endeavours to provide the most current version of all program and course information on this website. Please be advised that classes may be scheduled between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. The College reserves the right to modify or cancel any course, program, process, or procedure without notice or prejudice. Fees may change without notice.