The Industrial Mechanic/ Machinist Foundation program combines classroom-based theory with hands on practical training in a shop setting. Skills learned in the program will provide students with skills to seek an apprenticeship in the Industrial Mechanic (millwright) or Machinist trade. Topics include: safety related functions, tools and equipment, routine trade activities, measuring and layout of work pieces, select materials, cutting and welding, refurbish components, drilling machines, power saws, lathes, milling machines, rigging hoisting/lifting and moving, and communication and mentoring techniques.
Overview
Do you have an interest in understanding how industrial machinery works? Become an Industrial Mechanic with this foundation program. The Industrial Mechanic (Millwright)/Machinist Foundation program prepares you for two different trades:
- Industrial Mechanic (Millwright)
- Machinist
As a millwright or a machinist, you will maintain, install, and repair stationary industrial equipment in factories, mills, mines, production plants, and recreational facilities. You will be skilled in utilizing lathes, milling machines, grinders, and other equipment to machine parts to accurate dimensions. As a millwright or mechanist, you will work in close association with instrument mechanics, pipefitters, welders, electricians, and heavy equipment mechanics. Upon successful completion of the foundation program, students will receive a certificate.
Careers
Millwrights and machinists play an essential role in many industries. They are responsible for keeping stationary industrial machinery and mechanical equipment in good repair. Industries in which industrial mechanics and machinists are critical include:
- Manufacturing & Packaging (everything from vehicles to plastics to food)
- Natural Resources (oil & gas, mines, pulp, plywood, sawmills, etc.)
- Recreation (ski hills, amusement parks)
- Transportation (airports, terminals)
Millwrights and machinists might work indoors in a shop or plant, outdoors where equipment is being used, or a combination of both.
What you will learn
In this hands-on program you will spend approximately 50% of your time in the classroom and 50% in the shop. You will have many opportunities to learn practical skills. Topics covered include:
- Safe work practices
- Lubrication systems and components
- Anchoring, leveling and grouting
- Coupling and shaft alignment
- Mechanical drawings and specifications
- Layout and fabrication
- Welding
- Rigging, hoisting and lifting
- Hydraulic systems
- Pump maintenance and operation
Become an Apprentice
This foundation program will provide entry level practical skills and academic knowledge to prepare you to begin the apprenticeship pathway as either a millwright or machinist. You do not need an employer sponsor to participate. In fact, one of the main reasons to complete a foundation program is to gain experience and familiarity with the trade, giving you a competitive advantage to finding an employer to hire you as their apprentice.
Upon successful completion of the foundation program, you will receive credit with SkilledTradesBC for Level 1 technical training in both Industrial Mechanic (Millwright) and Machinist. Once you are officially registered as an apprentice with SkilledTradesBC, you will then be able to complete the work based training hours (on the job training) and higher levels of apprenticeship training for your chosen trade.
Apprenticeship programs provide a unique approach to post-secondary education, combining classroom based learning (known as technical training) with on the job training. This enables you to “earn while you learn,” significantly reducing the need for student debt and building your career NOW, instead of waiting until you’ve completed your education.
Governing bodies
High School Students
You can begin this program while you're still in high school!
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Entry Requirements
The admission requirements mentioned below are the minimum requirements.
- English Language Arts 10 (Minimum "C") or equivalent.
- Foundations of Mathematics and Pre-Calculus 10 (Minimum "C"), Workplace Mathematics 11 (Minimum "C") or equivalent.
Need help meeting these requirements? Check out our Academic Upgrading options.
CTC Option
High school students may be eligible to take this program. See your school counsellor for details.
Limited admission
If there is room in the program, you will be accepted once you have met all the admission requirements. This is called “first qualified, first accepted”. If you qualify after the program is full, you will be put on a wait list.
Invest in your future
The estimated cost for this program is $3,000.
- Tuition: $1,900
- Student fees: $658
- Medical/Dental Fee (Fall semester only): $260
- Tool Deposit: $200 (Refundable)
These costs are an estimate and do not include books. Costs may change without notice. Student fees vary by campus. Check the fee schedule for more details.
Books for this program can be purchased from the bookstore.
Locations & Dates
CNC programs have varying lengths and start dates to meet your needs, and are offered across multiple campuses where possible. Don’t see the campus you’re looking for? Check back with us soon as this page is updated throughout the school year.
Ranked among the trades with the most expected job openings in B.C., 2024–2034 (BC Labour Market Data 2024).