New Zealand Certificate in Engineering Fabrication (Trade) (Level 4) - Managed Apprenticeships

Program Overview

The UCOL New Zealand Certificate in Engineering Fabrication (Trade) (Level 4) - Managed Apprenticeships is a four-year part-time apprenticeship program that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience. The program equips participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in various engineering fabrication roles, including welding, fabrication, and heavy fabrication.

Program Outline

Degree Overview

Overview:

The UCOL New Zealand Certificate in Engineering Fabrication (Trade) (Level 4) - Managed Apprenticeships is a four-year part-time apprenticeship program designed for individuals already employed in the welding and fabrication industry. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, allowing participants to earn while they learn. The program is designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in various engineering fabrication roles.

Objectives:

The program aims to:

• Provide participants with the skills and knowledge to perform welding and fabrication tasks safely and effectively.
• Equip participants with the ability to interpret drawings and specifications and select appropriate materials and equipment.
• Foster communication and teamwork skills.

Outline

Year One:

• Engineering Principles 1 (10 credits): Introduces fundamental engineering principles.
• Applied Engineering Principles 1 (10 credits): Applies introductory-level engineering principles to practical situations.
• Welding and Fabrication 1 (10 credits): Provides foundational knowledge and skills for welding and fabrication tasks.
• Fabrication Processes 1A (10 credits): Covers introductory-level forming and shaping techniques.
• Fabrication Processes 1B (10 credits): Focuses on introductory-level fabrication processes, tools, equipment, and maintenance.
• Strand Based Project and/or Task 1 (15 credits): Develops skills in performing introductory welding and fabrication operations under limited supervision.

Year Two:

• Welding and Fabrication Health and Safety (10 credits): Emphasizes safety practices in the workplace.
• Fabrication Principles 2A (15 credits): Enhances problem-solving skills and introduces fabrication drawing and pattern creation.
• Fabrication Processes 2 (15 credits): Explores a wider range of fabrication principles and processes.
• Welding and Thermal Cutting 2 (10 credits): Refines welding and thermal cutting skills with a focus on distortion control and quality assurance.
• Strand Based Project and/or Task 2 (15 credits): Develops skills in performing intermediate welding and fabrication tasks under minimal supervision.

Year Three:

• Fabrication Principles 3 (20 credits): Enhances skills in interpreting and solving complex fabrication problems and creating drawings and patterns for the industry.
• Fabrication Processes 3 (20 credits): Focuses on complex forming and shaping techniques and processes.
• Strand Based Project and/or Task 3 (15 credits) (100 practicum hours): Applies proficient operational processes and principles to complete strand-based tasks.
• Strand Based Positional Welding (15 credits) OR Heavy Fabrication Project (15 credits) OR Light Fabrication Project (15 credits): Students choose one of these options to specialize in a specific area of fabrication.

Year Four:

• Fabrication Principles 4A (25 credits): Develops advanced problem-solving skills in fabrication.
• Welding Fabrication Principles 4B (15 credits): Deepens understanding of efficient manufacturing principles and processes in the industry with a focus on sustainability.
• Strand Based Positional Welding (15 credits) OR Heavy Fabrication Project (15 credits) OR Light Fabrication Project (15 credits): Students continue to specialize in their chosen area of fabrication.
• Strand Based Project and/or Task 4 (15 credits) OR Pressure Vessels and Pipework Project (15 credits) OR Engineering Fabrication Technology (15 credits) OR Fabrication Finishing Techniques Project (15 credits) OR Site Installation (15 credits): Students choose one of these options to further refine their skills and knowledge in a specific area of interest.

Assessment

Assessment methods vary depending on the specific module but may include:

• Assignments and projects: Assessing knowledge application and problem-solving skills.
• Practical demonstrations: Evaluating practical skills and techniques.
• Examinations: Assessing theoretical understanding.
• Workplace assessments: Observing performance and application of skills in the workplace.

Teaching

Teaching methods:

• Lectures: Providing theoretical knowledge and introducing key concepts.
• Tutorials: Facilitating active learning and clarifying complex topics.
• Practical demonstrations: Showcasing techniques and skills.
• Workplace visits: Observing real-world applications of engineering fabrication.
• Online learning: Providing flexibility and access to resources.

Faculty:

The program is taught by experienced and qualified lecturers who are experts in their respective fields.

Careers

Career opportunities:

• Engineering fabrication tradesperson
• Welder
• Fabricator
• Heavy fabrication - Process plant fabricator, fabricator for pressure equipment, heavy transport equipment, or machinery
• Light fabrication - Sheet metal worker, process plant fabricator
• Steel construction - Structural steelworker for buildings, bridges, and cranes
• Opportunity to work independently or within a team