Local Welding Program Helps Students Earn Certifications and Land Apprenticeships
Eighteen students from Bruce, Grey, and Huron counties have completed a four-week welding program in Saugeen Shores, earning 51 certifications and securing apprenticeships.
This fall, new welders are entering the skilled trades pipeline thanks to a four-week welding program hosted this summer at the Nuclear Innovation Institute’s (NII) Advance Technology Campus that helped local students turn curiosity into career potential without having to leave the region.
A group of 18 students from Bruce, Grey, and Huron counties spent part of their summer learning the fundamentals of welding through a four-week program hosted at the Nuclear Innovation Institute’s Advance Technology Campus.
The training, delivered in partnership with the Saugeen Sparks Training Centre and the Provincial Building and Construction Trades Council of Ontario’s Tomorrow’s Trades initiative, gave participants hands-on experience and the chance to earn Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) certifications.
By the end of the program, all students had passed their tests, collecting a total of 51 certificates between them. Each participant achieved at least two CWB fillet welding certifications in flat and horizontal positions.
Some graduates quickly translated those skills into career opportunities: two accepted apprenticeships with the Boilermakers Local 128 before the program wrapped up, while four others began employment pathways with another union.
Participants said the program gave them both skills and confidence. Delilah, a student new to welding, said she was surprised by her success. “I went in with very little welding skill. I didn’t think I would pass, but I did. I got two CWB tickets and am really proud of myself.”
Another graduate, Natu, who first tried welding through Saugeen Sparks’ night school programs, built on those skills this summer. Born in Eritrea, he came to Canada after travelling through six countries.
“All the opportunities I’ve had have been way beyond what I expected,” he said. “The fact that I could train right here makes it all feel real. I’m ready to keep working and build something for myself.”
Program organizers say the training is designed to open doors for young people and strengthen the local workforce. The Advance Technology Campus, based in Saugeen Shores, continues to offer skills development programs close to home for residents interested in the trades.