Metal Fabricator Foundation at British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-15

Program overview

Program Overview

The Metal Fabricator Foundation program at BCIT is designed to kickstart your career in metal fabrication. This program equips students with essential skills in selecting, laying out, shearing, cutting, punching, drilling, forming, fitting, and welding steel plates and structural shapes. Graduates will be prepared to work in various industries, including forest, mining, construction, transportation, and agriculture. The program is delivered in person, ensuring hands-on experience and practical learning. With intakes available in September and March, as well as special intakes for high school cohorts in February, this program offers flexible entry points for aspiring metal fabricators.

Program Structure

The Metal Fabricator Foundation program spans a total of 23 weeks of full-time study, comprising a total of 46 credits. The program is structured to provide a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills through hands-on shop practice. Key details include:

Program Length: 23 weeks
Credits: 46 credits
Delivery Mode: In-person
Location: Burnaby Campus
Intakes: General admission in September and March, with special intakes for high school cohorts in February

Students will engage in various practical projects that prepare them for real-world applications in metal fabrication. The program emphasizes safety and proper techniques, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future careers.

Featured Experiences

The Metal Fabricator Foundation program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and skill development:

Hands-on shop practice to develop competency in basic steel fabrication methods.
Exposure to real-world projects, including the fabrication of structures like bridges and heavy equipment.
Opportunities to work with industry-standard tools and equipment.
Potential pathway to the Marine Fitter Apprenticeship for those interested in marine and shipbuilding.
Access to industry contacts for networking and job placement after graduation.

Career Options

Graduates of the Metal Fabricator Foundation program can pursue various career paths in Canada, including:

Metal Fabricator: Work on the fabrication of metal structures and components for various industries.
Welder: Specialize in joining metal parts using various welding techniques.
Marine Fitter: Focus on the assembly and repair of ships and marine equipment.
Structural Steel Worker: Engage in the construction and installation of steel frameworks for buildings and bridges.
Metal Shop Technician: Oversee operations in a metal fabrication shop, ensuring quality and safety standards are met.

These roles provide a solid foundation for a rewarding career in the metal fabrication industry, with opportunities for advancement and specialization.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) official website

Last updated on 2025-07-15

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Metal Fabricator Foundation program, applicants must meet the following entrance requirements:

English Language Proficiency: One of the following:
- Category 3 – English Studies 12 (50%) or equivalent
- BCIT English Trades Entry Assessment
Math: One of the following:
- Foundations of Math and Pre-Calculus 10 (50%)
- Workplace Math 10 (50%)
- Other acceptable BC and Yukon courses
- BCIT Math Trades Entry Assessment

International applicants are welcome to apply for this program. However, please note that international students are not eligible to continue to an apprenticeship training program. A study permit is not required for programs with a duration of 6 months or less. Students may complete the program with a valid status in Canada for the duration of the program.

It is important to mention that transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For any clarification and support regarding the admission process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

To apply for the Metal Fabricator Foundation program, which is a Certificate level program, you must demonstrate proficiency in English. The following English Language Proficiency assessments are accepted:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - Overall score 6.0, no band less than 5.0
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) Test - 60 overall band score with no component below 50
Duolingo English Test - 105 overall, no integrated subscore less than 80
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) - Overall score 52, no skill score less than 50
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT) - Overall score 82, no section score less than 19

Test results must be dated no more than two years before the start date of the program you’re applying to. Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!