People seeking challenging employment which demands a high degree of accuracy and efficiency can consider the Gas Technician 2, Welder-Fitter Techniques, or Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Techniques programs offered by Durham College. Classes are held at the Skills Training Centre in Whitby and space is available for students to begin in September.
According to the college's most recent figures, about 85 per cent of graduates from these programs secure employment in six months or less after graduation.
"Over the past three years, the employment in our HVAC, Welder-Fitter and Gas Technician programs has risen by a substantial 15 per cent," says Bev Balenko, vice-president, business & skills development at Durham College.
Canada is experiencing one of its greatest shortages of skilled trades people. According to a recent report by The Conference Board of Canada, an increasing demand for skilled trades will continue into the next millennium. As a result, students graduating with these skills over the next few years or so will be entering one of the hottest labour markets ever. This shortage of skilled trades people is also being felt in many other countries around the world, notes Ms. Balenko.
The three-semester, 48-week Gas Technician 2 is an advanced-level program aimed at students who want to pursue specialized training. Areas of study include natural gas, propane, installation practices and code requirements. Upon completion, students are eligible to receive Level 2 certification.
The two-semester HVAC program provides students with a wide range of experience and hands-on training in the pipe trade field. The program enables students to attain knowledge and skills in many different areas including gas and oil heating, sheet metal layout and fabrication, welding, and blueprint reading.
Students who enrol in the two-semester Welder-Fitter Techniques program are required to complete a number of subjects including gas metal art welding, welding metallurgy, welding blueprint reading, and occupational safety. Program graduates typically begin their careers in positions such as welder-fitter apprentices, production welders, welder fabricators or fitter plateworker apprentices.
Bursaries and scholarships are available for some programs.
General entrance requirements are an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or mature student status, plus grade 12 English and grade 12 Math. Students who hold a Gas Technician 3 certificate may only have to complete the second and third semesters of the program.
For more information or to apply, please contact Maureen Gilchrist at the Skills Training Centre, at (905) 721-3350.
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