Metal Fabricator (Fitter)

Metal Fabricator 

(Fitter)

Manufacturing Aerospace Construction Forestry Mining Maritime Oil and Gas
Red Seal
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to study engineering drawings and blueprints
  • How to determine the type of metal required for the job
  • How to construct patterns and templates as guides for layouts
  • How to assemble and fit together metal using tack welding, bolting and riveting
  • How to set up and operate heavy-duty and computer numerical control (CNC) metalworking machines 

Metal Fabricators are precise, mathematical and hands-on builders who design, create and put together the intricate metal pieces that make up the many products we use every day—from machines to ships.

As a Metal Fabricator, you’ll build, assemble and repair products made of steel or other metals for use in manufacturing and construction industries.  

You’ll draw from your natural skills as a builder, working with your hands to create anything from a container ship to a swivilling chair. You deal with intricate pieces of metal that come together to create something that works as it was intended.

20.00
3.00
Training Hours
4800
False

For more information on the Marine Fitter Endorsement please refer to the Marine Fitter - Endorsement Program page.

 

Technical Training

The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province. 

Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page. 

 

 

 

 

Program and Exam Updates

None

  • March 2024: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2021 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2012 NOA and 2021 RSOS can be found here.

Challenge the Certification Exam

If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program. 

If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level. 

Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.

  • Problem solving and math
  • Drawing and specification interpretation
  • Trade tools and equipment use
  • Burning and welding
  • Fabricating and metallurgy techniques 
Certification challenge only trade
1

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment 

Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator
Construction Maritime Oil and Gas Forestry Mining Transportation & TransitAttentiveCalmConfidentCoordinatedDecisive
  • How to run bulldozers, backhoes, loaders and graders
  • How to run dredging and pile-driving equipment
  • How to operate heavy paving equipment for building roads
  • How to assess safety for yourself and site workers
  • How to do pre-operational checks and clean, lubricate and refill equipment 

Heavy Equipment Operators are coordinated and decisive experts, whose focus on safety make them a perfect fit to operate the essential machines that move earth and  excavate resources.  

As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you’re a careful and confident professional who is completely at home operating a wide range of machines including bulldozers, backhoes, loaders, excavators—and more.  

On any day, you could also be excavating rock and ore at a mine, running dredging equipment to deepen waterways, or clearing brush and stumps for roads or new construction.  

4.00
1.00
Training Hours
0
True

Note: Training Provider designation applications are not accepted at this time. For questions or support, please contact designation@skilledtradesbc.ca.

 

Completion Declaration Forms

Technical Training

The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province. 

Program Information

Road Builder & Heavy Construction Foundation Information

The Road Builder and Heavy Construction Foundation program is intended to serve as a pre-employment program for individuals who wish to enter the road building and heavy construction industry.

Exam Information

Find exam-related information and resources below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page. 

Certificate of Qualification Exam

Foundation Program Road Builder & Heavy Equipment Exam

Program and Exam Updates

  • Please note that the Forestry equipment endorsements (Feller/Buncher, Wheel Skidder, Track Skidder, Dangle Head Processor, Grapple Yarder & Log Loader) are unavailable pending further consultation. 

  • OPSN Archives

Challenge the Certification Exam

If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program. 

If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level. 

Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.

  • Coordination and monitoring
  • Essential heavy equipment knowledge
  • Job control and engineering basics
  • Environmental awareness, protection and enhancement
  • Operation of haul trucks, loaders, dozers, excavators, graders and other equipment 
Certification challenge only trade
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Steamfitter/Pipefitter

Steamfitter/

Pipefitter

Construction Forestry Maritime Mining Oil and Gas
Red Seal
Skilled Trades Certification
AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to cut openings for pipes in walls, floors and ceilings
  • How to select the type and size of pipe required for different types of content
  • How to measure, cut, bend, weld, braze, cement, solder and thread pipes
  • How to test existing piping systems for leaks
  • How to clean and maintain pipe units and fittings 

Steamfitter/Pipefitters are logical, hands-on tradespeople who enjoy shaping pipes and installing them for use in a range of systems—from high-pressure water to fuels, cooling solutions and more.

As a Steamfitter/Pipefitter, you’ll need to use your math skills and agility to figure out how to design, assemble, install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair complex pipe systems.  

You’ll need to be comfortable working independently as you analyze each situation. You’ll also need to be creative with how you design your systems and master heating and bending pipes at very high temperatures.

30.00
4.00
Training Hours
6300
False

Technical Training

The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province. 

Harmonized Program Information and Resources

In effect starting April 2019, as per Transition Plan. Please be aware that changes have been made to the Gasfitter - Class B program, view OPSN 2018 002.1 for details. 

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page. 

 

 

  • Exam Breakdown
  • Code Book required: Gas Code CSA B149.1-15 or CSA B149.1-20

 

  • Exam Breakdown
  • Code Book required: Gas Code CSA B149.1-15 or CSA B149.1-20

 

Program and Exam Updates

Steamfitter/Pipefitter is a Skilled Trades Certification trade, also known as a compulsory trade, in British Columbia. This means that to work in this trade, you must be registered as an apprentice, be a certified journeyperson, or have applied as a Trade Qualifier or Uncertified Experienced Worker.

Harmonization Progress

  • Level 1 - Harmonized*

  • Level 2 - Harmonized*

  • Level 3 - Harmonized*

  • Level 4 - Harmonized*

*Harmonized = Program stream with re-aligned content beginning in April 2019
**Current = Program stream for apprentices who've completed level 1 training before April 2019

If you are unclear as to what program you are registered in, or unclear as to which program you should be following, please contact us. 

  • March 2025: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to the 2022 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2015 NOA and the 2022 RSOS can be found here.

  • May 2022: OPSN 2022 010 (Harmonized Level 3 SLE Launch)

  • February 2022: OPSN 2022 002 (Harmonized Level 2 SLE Launch)

  • October 2019: OPSN 2019 016 (Harmonized Level 1 SLE Launch)

  • October 2018: Program Update (RSOS 2015)

Challenge the Certification Exam

If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program. 

If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level. 

Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.

  • Critical thinking
  • Layout and fabrication
  • Piping component assembly
  • Water supply management
  • Hydronic, natural gas and propane system installation 
Certification challenge only trade
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Electrician, Industrial

Industrial Electrician

 

Construction Maritime Mining Forestry Transportation & Transit
Red Seal
Skilled Trades Certification
AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to read and interpret drawings, blueprints and electrical code specifications
  • How to install electrical components
  • How to replace or repair electrical components
  • How to keep maintenance records
  • How to test electrical equipment for current, voltage and resistance 

Industrial Electricians work behind-the-scenes to ensure the safe and efficient operation of a wide range of sites—from mines to shipyards and factories.  

As an Industrial Electrician, you’ll inspect, test and repair industrial equipment and electrical systems.

You’ll be inspecting, installing, maintaining and repairing high-voltage industrial equipment and electrical controls at shipyards, factories, and other industrial sites. You’ll have an analytical skillset and good dexterity to ensure you can safely work in a physical and alert way. 

40.00
4.00
Training Hours
6000
True

Technical Training

The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province. 

Harmonized Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page. 

 

 

 

 

Logbook, Sign-off Form, and Evidence Guides

 

Program and Exam Updates

Industrial Electrician is a Skilled Trades Certification trade, also known as a compulsory trade, in British Columbia. This means that to work in this trade, you must be registered as an apprentice, be a certified journeyperson, or have applied as a Trade Qualifier or Uncertified Experienced Worker.

For more information on the Marine Endorsement please refer to the Marine Electrician - Endorsement Program page.

  • December 2019: OPSN 2019 019 (HL1 and HL2 SLE launch)

  • February 2025: OPSN 2025 001 (Electrician CEC Announcement)

  • June 2023: OPSN 2023 007 (HL3 SLE Launch)

  • October 2023: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2021 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2016 RSOS and 2021 RSOS can be found here.

  • March 2025: OPSN 2025 003 (Electrician CEC IPSE Announcement)

Challenge the Certification Exam

If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program. 

If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level. 

Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.

  • Critical thinking
  • Troubleshooting
  • Judgement and decision-making
  • Quality control analysis
  • Installation and maintenance 
Certification challenge only trade
1

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Electrician, Construction

Construction 

Electrician

tradeworker
Construction Manufacturing Forestry Mining Maritime
Red Seal
Skilled Trades Certification
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to interpret drawings, circuit diagrams and electrical code specifications
  • How to pull wire through walls and floors
  • How to splice, join and connect wires to fixtures
  • How to install and repair electrical equipment
  • How to test and repair faults in electrical systems  

Construction Electricians are tradespeople who keep the lights on. They put their minds and bodies to work, inspecting, testing, installing and replacing the electrical systems that run our world. 

As a Construction Electrician, you’ll know exactly how to deal with complex electrical systems in a wide range of settings.  

Your daily tasks will test your coordination and math skills, as you install, commission, test, maintain and service operating electrical systems and equipment.

You’re calm dealing with powerful systems and take pride in the sense of responsibility your work provides.

40.00
4.00
Training Hours
6000
True

Technical Training

The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province. 

Harmonized Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page. 

 

 

 

 

Program and Exam Updates

Construction Electrician is a Skilled Trades Certification trade, also known as a compulsory trade, in British Columbia. This means that to work in this trade, you must be registered as an apprentice, be a certified journeyperson, or have applied as a Trade Qualifier or Uncertified Experienced Worker.

For more information on the Marine Endorsement please refer to the Marine Electrician - Endorsement Program page.

  • December 2019: OPSN 2019 019 (HL1 and HL2 SLE launch)

  • June 2023: OPSN 2023 007 (HL3 SLE Launch)

  • January 2024: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2021 Red Seal Occupational Standard (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between 2015 NOA and 2021 RSOS can be found here.)

  • February 2025: OPSN 2025 001 (Electrician CEC Announcement)

  • March 2025: OPSN 2025 003 (Electrician CEC IPSE Announcement)

Challenge the Certification Exam

If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program. 

If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level. 

Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.

  • Critical thinking
  • Troubleshooting
  • Judgement and decision-making
  • Quality control analysis
  • Installation and maintenance 
Certification challenge only trade
1

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Carpenter

Carpenter

carpenter working in shop
Construction Oil and Gas Maritime Manufacturing Forestry Mining Transportation & Transit
Red Seal
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to read blueprints and follow building codes
  • How to use construction hand and power tools
  • How to measure, cut, shape, assemble and join materials on site
  • How to build foundations, install floors, sub-flooring, walls and roofs
  • How to install doors, stairs, moulding and hardware 

Carpenters build the world around us, from our homes, city centres, and more. They are collaborative and enjoy physical and precise work—as well as the reward of seeing their projects materialize. 

As a Carpenter, you’ll work on a wide range of projects, from furnishings to skyscrapers, mastering numerous materials. While you’re a builder, you’ll take satisfaction in the challenging physical and mathematical nature of the work.  

You can work for construction companies, in maintenance departments, or for yourself, often working as part of a team of trade professionals on the job site.  

28.00
4.00
Training Hours
6360
True

Technical Training

The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province. 

Harmonized (2024) Program Information and Resources

In effect starting April 1, 2024

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page. 

 

 

 

 

Program and Exam Updates

  • July 2025: OPSN 2025 012 (Carpenter Level 1, 2 and 3 SLE Launch)

  • February 2024: Carpenter Standardized Level Exams on-hold pending alignment to the 2024 Carpenter Program Outline and 2024 British Columbia Building Code. The level challenge process and trade challenge pathway are not impacted. Please see this Program Update for details.

  • November 2022: For more information regarding transition, please see the Program Update

  • March 2023: OPSN-2022-015.1 (Revised Implementation Date)

  • November 2022: Program Update (Competency Migration Chart)

  • August 2022: OPSN 2022-015 (Updated Program Profile and Program Outline)

  • March 2022: All Current (pre-harmonized) levels have been phased out. Apprentices who have completed Current Level 2 (CL2) or Current Level 3 (CL3) and are interested in registering for Harmonized Level 3 (HL3) or Harmonized Level 4 (HL4) of training are asked to contact their Apprenticeship Advisor before registering to discuss potential gaps in their training. Please see the Transition Update or the Transition Plan for details. 

  • OPSN Archives

  • July 2025: OPSN 2025 012 (Carpenter Level 1, 2 and 3 SLE Launch)

  • February 2024: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2022 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2013 NOA and 2022 RSOS can be found here. 

Challenge the Certification Exam

If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program. 

If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level. 

Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.

  • Critical thinking and coordination
  • Hand and power tool operation
  • Construction site layout
  • Formwork and framing
  • Finishing materials  
Certification challenge only trade
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Boom Truck Operator (Stiff Boom Unlimited Tonnage)

Boom Truck Operator 

(Stiff Boom Unlimited Tonnage)

Construction Mining Transportation & Transit MaritimeAttentiveCalmConfidentCoordinatedDecisive
  • How to conduct crane operations within safety guidelines
  • How to employ proper rigging and lifting techniques
  • How to calculate lifting methods
  • How to transport and deliver a boom truck
  • How to plan a site 

Boom Truck Operators (Stiff Boom Unlimited Tonnage) move and lift the essential items and resources needed to build and repair a wide range of structures. They’re confident drivers and safety experts. 

 

As a Boom Truck Operator (Stiff Boom Unlimited Tonnage) you’ll use your coordination skills to lift and hoist items. You’ll operate a complex piece of machinery, well-suited to placing loads on a smaller worksite, either on the ground or your truck deck. Every job requires your careful approach. You’ll demonstrate mental stamina—thriving when faced with complex tasks that demand great concentration.

9.00
2.00
Training Hours
400
False

BC Crane Safety registration is required for all crane operators in British Columbia. Crane Operator certification in British Columbia is mandatory by virtue of the provincial Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (WorkSafeBC). BC Crane Safety Registration forms are available on the BC Crane Safety website.

 

Technical Training

The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province. 

Program Information

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page. 

 

 

To book a practical assessment, please contact Fulford Certification.

Program and Exam Updates

None

Challenge the Certification Exam

If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program. 

If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level. 

Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.

  • Workplace safety
  • Excellent driving skills
  • Hand-eye coordination
  • Boom truck operations
  • Rigging and lifting skills 
Certification challenge only trade
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Boom Truck Operator: (Folding Boom Unlimited Tonnage)

Boom Truck Operator

(Folding Boom Unlimited Tonnage) 

 

Construction Maritime Mining Transportation & TransitAttentiveCalmConfidentCoordinatedDecisive
  • How to conduct crane operations within safety guidelines
  • How to employ proper rigging and lifting techniques
  • How to calculate lifting methods
  • How to transport and deliver a boom truck
  • How to plan a site 

Boom Truck Operators (Folding Boom Unlimited Tonnage) move and lift the essential items and resources needed to build and repair a wide range of structures. They’re confident drivers and safety experts. 

As a Boom Truck Operator (Folding Boom Unlimited Tonnage) you’ll use your coordination skills to lift and hoist items. You’ll operate a complex piece of machinery, well-suited to placing loads on a smaller worksite, either on the ground or your truck deck. Every job requires your careful approach. You’ll demonstrate mental stamina—thriving when faced with complex tasks that demand great concentration.

7.00
2.00
Training Hours
400
False

BC Crane Safety registration is required for all crane operators in British Columbia. Crane Operator certification in British Columbia is mandatory by virtue of the provincial Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (WorkSafeBC). BC Crane Safety Registration forms are available on the BC Crane Safety website.

 

Technical Training

The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province. 

Program Information

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page. 

 

 

To book a practical assessment, please contact Fulford Certification.

Program and Exam Updates

None

Challenge the Certification Exam

If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program. 

If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level. 

Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.

  • Workplace safety
  • Excellent driving skills
  • Hand-eye coordination 
  • Boom truck operations
  • Rigging and lifting skills 
Certification challenge only trade
1

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Truck and Transport Mechanic

Truck and Transport 

Mechanic

truck and transport mechanic
Transportation & Transit Manufacturing Mining
Red Seal
AnalyticalCoordinatedResourceful
  • How to inspect, diagnose and service highway buses and trucks
  • How to repair vehicle systems related to fuel, brakes, steering and suspension, transmission, emission control and exhaust, and cooling and climate control
  • How to use computerized diagnostic equipment to test vehicle performance
  • How to perform preventative maintenance, including oil changes and tune-ups 

Truck and Transport Mechanics are systematic fixers who keep the many commercial transport trucks we see on our highways running safely and smoothly.  

As a Truck and Transport Mechanic, you’ll be immersed in your work—testing, fixing and maintaining highway trucks and buses.  

You’ll diagnose large vehicles to identify issues and flag areas for repair. You’ll work either indoors in a busy shop or outdoors in a range of environments. It's a career with time-sensitive work, as you ensure the safe operation of these vehicles. 

28.00
4.00
Training Hours
6330
True

Technical Training

The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province. 

Harmonized (2024) Program Information and Resources

In effect starting April 1, 2024

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page. 

 

 

 

Active as of January 1, 2026

Program and Exam Updates

  • January 2026: OPSN 2025 023 (IP Exams aligned to the 2022 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between 2015 NOA and the 2022 RSOS can be found here.

  • April 2025: OPSN 2025 005 (Launch of HMT Common Core Level 2 and Level 3 SLEs)

  • March 2024: OPSN 2024 006 (HMT Common Core Level 1 SLE Launch) 

  • November 2022: Updated Interprovincial Red Seal exams will be implemented on November 18, 2022. The exams are aligned to the 2015 National Occupational Analysis. For more details please see the program update.

Challenge the Certification Exam

If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program. 

If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level. 

Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.

  • Troubleshooting and monitoring
  • Cutting and welding equipment use
  • Hydraulic, power and air brakes servicing
  • Frames, steering and suspension diagnostics
  • Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning repair 
Certification challenge only trade
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Welder

Welder

tradeworker
Construction Maritime Mining Forestry Manufacturing
Red Seal
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to perform basic trade-related mathematical calculations
  • How to use automatic and semi-automatic cutting machines
  • How to read and interpret welding drawings
  • How to perform welding inspections and testing procedures
  • How to perform a range of welding techniques 

Welders are precise and physical individuals who enjoy the challenge of working with intense focus and hot temperatures. They are the masters of metal, fusing metals into all positions.

As a Welder, you’ll get to meld, attach and affix pieces of metal together with precision, watching objects come to life in your hands.  

You’ll learn how to use a variety of manual and computerized equipment. As you progress, your opportunities will open up pathways to become an expert in areas such as pressure welding, custom fabrication—and more.  

26.00
3.00
Training Hours
4620
True

Certified welders may apply to Technical Safety BC for their pressure welder certificate of qualification, provided they meet eligibility criteria and pass the standardized certification exam. Once certified as pressure welders, individuals must complete additional performance qualification test(s) in accordance with any registered welding procedure specification in order to perform pressure welding in BC.

Optional Endorsement

The Welder Endorsement - Multi-Process Alloy Welding enables a welder to weld specialized alloys, by any manual welding process, in any position, and such other work as is usually done by a Red Seal Certified Welder.

To register for this program you must hold either a Welder – Certificate of Qualification with Interprovincial Red Seal Endorsement OR a Welder B – Certificate of Qualification with Interprovincial Red Seal Endorsement.

Learn more about the MPAW Endorsement.

Technical Training

The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province. 

Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page. 

 

 

 

Active as of February 23, 2026

Active until February 22, 2026

Program and Exam Updates

Program Updates

Exam Updates

  • February 2026: OPSN 2026 002 (IP Exams aligned to the 2023 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between 2014 NOA and the 2023 RSOS can be found here.

Challenge the Certification Exam

If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program. 

If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level. 

Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.

Welder Practical Examination for Trade Qualifiers

The Welder Challenge Pathway requires written and practical examinations to achieve Welder certification in British Columbia. Trade qualifiers challenging the Welder certification must successfully pass the written examination (Welder Interprovincial Red Seal) with a score of 70% or higher before applying to complete the practical examination.

  • Precision
  • Coordination
  • Basic drafting
  • Basic metallurgy
  • Specialized tools and equipment 
Certification challenge only trade
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