In the Mechanical Techniques program, you will learn how to operate basic machining, welding and design tools through hands‑on labs and projects so you can explore trade skills and find what fits you best.
CIP Code:47.0303
PGWP Eligible
This program meets the criteria to be Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligible as defined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Note: PGWP eligibility does not guarantee approval. IRCC assesses all applications individually.
Confederation College’s Mechanical Techniques certificate program offers a hands-on exploration of various trades, allowing you to discover your aptitude and passion for different skilled trades. It’s the perfect program if you love the idea of learning a trade, but aren’t sure which profession is right for you. This Ontario College Certificate program combines in-class learning with practical demonstrations and hands-on instruction, empowering you to build, design, and create assigned projects right from the first semester. With a focus on mechanical practices, machine shops, welding practices, engineering graphics, and industrial design, you will quickly identify your preferred area of skilled trades.
Top Highlights
Seamless Transition: Courses align with the first year of the Mechanical Engineering Technician program, enabling a smooth transfer to Year 2 of that program upon completion of this certificate.
Multi-Skills Emphasis: The program emphasizes multi-skills learning, meeting the demands of employers seeking versatile professionals.
Practical Learning: A blend of classroom instruction and hands-on learning enhances your skills and prepares you for real-world applications.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Mechanically Inclined: Naturally inclined towards working with your hands and machinery.
Problem Solver: Possess strong analytical skills to troubleshoot and solve mechanical challenges.
Team Player: Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Physically Fit: Capable of handling demanding tasks and working in physically active environments.
Detail-Oriented: Appreciate the importance of precision in mechanical practices and projects.
Get detailed information about program requirements, courses, and student resources.
The Mechanical Techniques program gave me the skills and training I needed to enter the skilled trades. It directly led to my position at Fairbarn’s Machine Shop.
RP
Rami Pinta
Graduate of 2010 – C.N.C Operator and Machining, Welding – Fabrication Layout, Fairbarn’s Machine Shop
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or equivalent) with courses from the College (C), University (U), University/College (U/C), or Open (O) preparation levels with Grade 12 English (C/U) Level.
or successful completion of the Mature Student Assessment.
or successful completion of the Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) or General Education Development Test (GED), prior to May 2024.
A high school/senior secondary diploma with a grade 12 math credit Original transcripts as well as a notarized, translated copy must be provided where applicable
Applicants who do not possess the Math requirement might consider our Pre-Technology-Trades program, which will provide the necessary preparation to enter a technology program.
Tuition & Fees
Fees for Domestic StudentsProgram Code: 0394
Year 1
Total: $5,125.00
Fee Breakdown
Academic Fees
Total Tuition Fees:$2,740.00
College Service Fee:$863.00
Health Fee:$305.00
Bus Fee:$332.00
$4,240.00
Program Fees
Tools:$100.00
Boots / Uniform:$100.00
Exam Fees, Certifications, Licenses, Apprentice or Business Registration:$85.00
Books & Supplies:$600.00
$885.00
Fees for International StudentsProgram Code: 0394
Year 1
Total: $19,471.25
Fee Breakdown
Academic Fees
Total Tuition Fees:$15,614.00
College Service Fee:$863.00
Health Fee:$652.25
Bus Fee:$332.00
$17,461.25
Program Fees
Tools:$100.00
Boots / Uniform:$100.00
Exam Fees, Certifications, Licenses, Apprentice or Business Registration:$85.00
Books & Supplies:$600.00
$885.00
Ancillary Fees
Municipal Levy:$75.00
Student Fees:$300.00
Recovery Fee:$750.00
$1,125.00
Note
Please note that fees are estimated and are subject to change.
Fees shown on this page are for full-time students attending the main Thunder Bay campus for Fall 2026.
Costing for Regional Campuses & Distance Education Students:
If this program is available at Regional Campuses, or to Distance Education students, see the following links for costing information.
This course is designed to provide students with basic fundamentals of drafting and related numerical applications, line work, scales, orthographic projections, dimensioning, blueprint reading, drawing interpretation, using both hand and CAD techniques.
The student will demonstrate safe and proper use of hand and power tools such as drill presses and grinding machines. The learner will be exposed to safe hoisting and rigging, layout methods, fasteners, the evolution of tools (with an emphasis to Northern Ontario) and rope use and care. Trade calculations and relevant shop projects will be included.
Students are introduced to safe soldering methods and welding procedures. Oxyacetylene, manual arc welding and electrode selections are covered. Types and applications of structural steels, pipes, tubing, weld layouts, and fastening techniques used in flat and horizontal welding for both manual arc welding and gas metal arc welding are discussed and practiced.
In this course, students will be introduced to academic writing styles with a thematic focus on current issues. This course will help students to express themselves clearly and correctly in written form. Students will critically analyse assigned readings and express their thoughts. The course will also focus on the development of an academic paper utilizing the APA style of documentation.
In this course, engineering technology students will be introduced to Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word. Students will develop skills in creating polished, professional documents, format data, process numbers with formulas, or present data to find patterns of any other information that can be laid out in a grid. The course also familiarizes students with the college's data systems, including email, Blackboard, and the Local Area Network (LAN), using Windows 11 as the operating environment.
In this introductory course, students will gain proficiency in fundamental mathematical concepts and apply problem-solving skills required in technology programs. Course content includes fractions review, algebra fundamentals, unit conversions, algebraic operations & equations, proportion & variation, factoring, algebraic fractions, functions & graphs, systems of linear equations, geometry, trigonometry, and vectors.
This course is designed to supply theory and background to the Machine Shop 1 practical course. Students will learn trade calculations, theory, safety, and operation. Using measuring tools, layout tools, drill press’, bandsaws, and metal lathes will be covered.
In this course machine shop safety and procedures will be applied. Students will learn to take precise measurements with the appropriate equipment, apply trade calculations, use layout tools and techniques while learning the use of the drill press, bandsaws, and lathe.
This course is designed to develop an understanding of fundamental concepts and applications in basic mechanics. After successful completion of this course, the student will be able to perform unit conversions and solve problems involving motion, forces, work, and energy. Vectors will be introduced at a conceptual level.
This subject allows the student to understand basic installation blueprints for machinery layout, leveling and coupling alignment. Students will be able to apply mathematical concepts relative to layout methods, identify couplings, shafts and keys, and examine the various types of fasteners, various types of bearings, lubrication and seals.
The goal of this course is to teach students how to use CAD, specifically SolidWorks to build parametric models of parts and assemblies. Production drawings and drawing standards will be introduced.
The student is introduced to safe welding procedures in manual arc welding methods, application and selection of electrodes for position welding, identification of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, steel numbering system, types and uses of sheet and structural steels, uses of various fastening methods used in steel and sheet metal fabrication, techniques in vertical position. Students will also be introduced to gas metal arc welding procedures in a fabrication set-up.
This course is a continuation of MX110 and is designed to develop a further understanding of concepts and applications in basic mechanics. After successful completion of this course, the student will be able to solve problems involving vectors using right-angle trigonometry, momentum, concurrent and parallel forces, torque, rotational motion, and simple machines.
This course is designed to introduce and develop basic knowledge of Electrical Theory and safe practices. It presents an overview of electrical instruments, devices, principles, operation, theory, and controls used in industry.
This course is designed to supply theory and background to the Machine Shop 2 practical course. Students will learn threading, milling, dividing and indexing, and grinding theory. They will gain materials knowledge, calibrations, and an introduction to sampling and quality assurance.
In this course machine shop safety and procedures will be applied. Students will learn to cut threads, how to use the milling machine, dividing and indexing, and grinding.
In this course, students will continue to review and sharpen their proficiency in mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills necessary in technology programs. Course content includes radian applications, complex numbers, sine & cosine graphs, trigonometric identities & equations, factoring & algebraic fractions, quadratic equations, exponents, operations & equations with radicals, systems of equations, and logarithms.
This course will provide students with an introduction to the history of colonization of Indigenous communities in Canada. Contemporary Indigenous community issues within Northwestern Ontario (NWO) and Canada will be examined. Students will explore the unique socio-political relationships between Canada and Indigenous peoples with an emphasis on colonial, legal and political issues. With a broader understanding of the context of colonization, students will analyze contemporary relationships and efforts towards renewed relationships and reconciliation.
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Pathways
Confederation College offers a variety of articulation agreements designed to help you advance your education and career. Whether you're coming to us from another institution or planning your next steps after completing your program, our pathways make your transition seamless and effective.
Student Accessibility and Essential Program Requirements
Confederation College is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive learning environment and will provide reasonable accommodations to students with disabilities in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), and College policy.
Students who require accommodations are encouraged to engage with Student Accessibility Services and are responsible for initiating and participating in the accommodation process. Accommodation is a collaborative process involving the student, Student Accessibility Services, faculty, and the Academic School. Requests for accommodation are considered on an individual basis, and the College will work with students to identify reasonable accommodations that provide equitable access to learning while maintaining the integrity of the program.
Students are expected to demonstrate the essential knowledge, skills, professional behaviours, learning outcomes, and competencies required to successfully complete their program. While the manner in which these requirements are demonstrated may be accommodated where appropriate, the essential requirements themselves must still be achieved.
For programs involving laboratories, field work, clinical placements, aviation environments, trades training, equipment operation, simulations, community placements, or other environments where health and safety are critical, accommodations must also be consistent with applicable legislation, professional standards, licensing requirements, accreditation standards, and workplace safety obligations.
In some circumstances, a requested accommodation may not be reasonable or possible where it would:
Fundamentally alter an essential program requirement, competency, or learning outcome.
Compromise the health or safety of the student or others.
Conflict with provincial or federal legislation.
Conflict with the requirements of an external regulatory, licensing, accreditation, or professional body.
Prevent the student from demonstrating competencies required for safe and effective professional practice.
Note
Where a particular accommodation cannot be provided, the College will work collaboratively with the student to identify whether an alternative accommodation can appropriately address the student’s disability-related needs while maintaining essential program requirements.
