Posted on January 27, 2016 by Institute of Technical Trades
Currently, labor market statistics indicate that about 15% of the Canadian workforce is nearing retirement age. One thing for sure, the baby-boomer generation is either retiring or getting ready to retire. At the same time, there are already shortages of skilled labor in a great many industries. In fact, some industry sectors are in dire need of skilled trades right now. In response, and in order to meet future labor demands, the Institute of Technical Trades runs welding classes in Markham. These are extensive training programs specifically designed to fill the need for skilled welders with competently trained graduates.
Programs are devised for novice welders and for established welders. These programs are ideal for those who are entering the welding world, or for those who wish to upgrade skills. Programming is in-depth - with comprehensive training in welding; instruction in blueprint theory; and additional teaching of basic blueprint reading. Programs are designed to qualify welders for jobs that are in high demand, but in very short supply. And jobs may well be in pipeline assembly, construction, boat building, or manufacturing. But whichever the industry, I.T.T. graduates are ready to work on day one.
The primary aim of training is to graduate skilled welders who are highly competent. Based on industry standards, the curriculum includes theory work, skills development, and practical welding. Welding classes incorporate a total of 15 (fifteen) welding processes. The learning environment is very proactive, with instruction that is disciplined and systematic. I.T.T. staff comprises the best, with instructors who have years of relevant expertise and experience. Once training has been successfully completed, graduating welders are poised for immediate work. They are highly skilled, confident, and competent.
I.T.T. is more than just a training facility – it’s about ensuring high quality education with a serious student commitment to that education. Certification and licensing are also central to the training, with oversight by two of the nationally recognized bodies - Canadian Welding Bureau and Technical Standards and Safety Authority. As for prospective students, the programs are wide-ranging – right from the “entry” level starting point to the more advanced levels (for more established welders). I.T.T. is also as an official Test Centre, under the supervision of the CWB and the
TSSA.
Welding classes are flexible, with programming that’s designed to meet individual student need. Whether it’s a new student, a continuing education student, or an advanced student, flexibility is key. And regardless of the training, the overriding objective is the same: to provide state-of-the-art technologies and leading edge instruction. The school is well established, and has been educating for more than 4 decades. The school is recognized as among the nation’s leaders. In the business community, I.T.T. is acknowledged for quality excellence. Graduating students are highly regarded for their skills training.
In Markham, welding classes are designed to provide prospective students with programs based on a commitment from the Institute of Technical Trades:
- Identifying a student’s particular needs and training to meet the needs
- Inspiring a student’s career ambitions and providing necessary support
- Motivating each student to become a “ground-breaker” in their career
- Ensuring staff support for all student welders, no matter the skill level
- Making certain that a student’s career aspirations can become reality
A wide range of welding programs to choose from
General Welding Techniques
This is a Certificate Program, and an excellent opportunity for welders looking to upgrade individual skills, and who want to further advance their skill set with the newer technologies. Testing is part of the program (for students enrolled in this program).
The Welder Fitter Program
This is a Diploma Program for the students who have long-term career ambitions in the field of structural welding or in pipe welding. Like other I.T.T. programs, appropriate testing is available at the Testing Centre (through CWB and/or TSSA).
The Welding Technology Program
This program is designed for welding students looking for the most advanced training at the highest level. These students would have long-term career ambitions, and would be interested in well-paid positions and job advancement.
The Welding Master Program
This is a program especially for experienced welders seeking to upgrade skill sets. This program includes the required testing through the CWB and/or TSSA. This program integrates 160 training hours in total.
Option A – an option that can be fulfilled in seven weeks, with 160 hours of training in total. Option A includes extensive instruction in blueprint reading; MIG welding; and oxy-acetylene.
Option B - a Certificate Program, 16 weeks long, with 380 hours of training in total. TSSA/CWB testing is central to the program, in addition to student guidance and career coaching.
I.T.T. provides Certified Testing
Throughout Canada, the Canadian Welding Bureau certifies structural welders. The Institute of Technical Trades is a recognized Testing Centre, and offers the required testing for all enrolled students. Test days are timetabled every 2 weeks, and advanced booking is required.
Those welders looking to renew an active license would be required to present an expired license. This is compulsory for validation. Testing results are generally valid for 2 years (includes testing from TSSA and/or CWB. Testing is offered Monday to Friday, and advanced booking is required. Testing applicants must comply with all of the testing criteria when applying for the testing.
Around the world, opportunities for skilled welders are growing. Indeed, in some industries the demand that is growing for skilled trades is already exceeding supply. And for the most part, industries are looking to employ welders who are highly educated and highly trained. These welders can look forward to productive employment, high paying positions, and great opportunities for advancement.
For novice welders who are seeking their initial training, or for experienced welders who want to seriously upgrade their skill level, industry demand for skilled trades could mean very good job prospects. As for the high quality training offered by the Institute of Technical Trades, every welder can rely on the highest level of education, all within a teaching environment that is hard to match anywhere in the country.
