Interested in obtaining training and employment in the welding field? This pre-employment program is recommended to those with a burning desire to get into a welding career, having little or no previous exposure. Additionally, it provides 12 weeks of theory and practical in the classroom and shop.
You will also have the opportunity to attain safety training certification in
- TDG, WHMIS, H2S Alive, Confined Space, Aerial Platform, Fall Protection and more – based on individual needs for employability enhancement.
Career Potential
Upon successful completion of the Portage College program, students will be given the opportunity to challenge the First Period Apprenticeship Welder exam. In passing the Provincial Apprenticeship exam, you will have the opportunity to work in industry as an apprentice welder, welder’s helper, as well as other related jobs in the welding industry.
Credential
Certificate
Admission Requirements
- English Language Arts 10-2
- Math 10-3
Students who do not meet admission requirements can contact student services regarding opportunities for placement testing. Students will need to submit an application to the program to start the process.
Additionally, students who plan on furthering their apprenticeship training will need to be registered apprentices with Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT).
Use this chart to check Provincial high school equivalencies accepted at Portage College. Note: This is just a guide.
Transferability
N/A
Program Start/End Dates
January 4, 2027 – March 26, 2027
Location:
Lac La Biche Campus
Delivery
In-Person Learning
Domestic Student Fees
Application Fee $53.50
Tuition Deposit – $100 (non-refundable)
Winter Term
Fee payment deadline: December 15, 2026
| Tuition | $3,205.11 |
| Student Association | $116.70 |
| Technology Fee | $82.71 |
| Recreation Fee | $54.57 |
| Document Fee | $60.00 |
| Total | $3,519.09 |
Visit Portage Bookstore for textbooks and supplies
Fee Explanations
Students’ Association Fees
These fees are authorized by student referendum and the Board of Governors. They are collected by the College on behalf of the Students’ Association in accordance with the Post Secondary Learning Act.
Health & Dental Fees
You may opt-out of the Dental and Health Insurance plan if you provide proof of comparable coverage for an extended health and/or dental care benefits plan.
Any questions regarding SA Fees including the Health and Dental Insurance fees should be directed to the SA Office 780-623-5609.
Athletics & Recreation Fees
These fees are collected to provide recreation and leisure opportunities that promote students’ physical, social, and emotional well-being, whether online or through in person facilities. Check out your +region in the link, to see what is offered at your campus or online.
Technology Fee
This is a mandatory fee assessed to students enrolling in any credit course (except for apprenticeship programs) at Portage College. The fee supports the on-going maintenance and upgrades to administrative systems that support the entire College infrastructure.
As such, it is considered a “mandatory non-instructional fee” and, therefore, is subject to Alberta Advanced Education Public Post-Secondary Institutions’ Tuition Fees Regulations. Visa students are charged the same rate as Canadian residents for this fee.
Document Fee
The Document Fee will include official transcripts, unofficial transcripts, certificates, diplomas, Confirmation of Enrollments, ID cards, all documents/letters from the Registrar’s office, etc.