New Zealand Certificate in Engineering Fabrication (Trade) with strands in Heavy Fabrication and Light Fabrication

Summary

Get qualified while you work. Apply now and build your future in engineering fabrication.

NMITs specialised mechanical training workshop includes technology with lasers.

NMIT has a specialised engineering fabrication workshop with all the machinery needed to boost your skills.

Apprenticeships are built around the real-world needs of learners and employers. Our approach gives apprentices access to high-quality training and facilities while keeping them connected to their workplace.

With dedicated support, flexible night classes, and local block courses focused on skills that can’t always be learned on the job, this programme sets learners up for long-term success in the engineering fabrication industry.

This hands-on, employer-led apprenticeship programme is ideal for learners wanting to become qualified fabricators while earning and working in the industry.

Gain the practical skills and industry-recognised qualification to build a career in heavy or light fabrication, all while staying employed. Whether you're welding, building structures, repairing vessels, working in farming, forestry, mining, vineyard, or transport equipment, this programme gives you the foundation to become a qualified tradesperson.

The New Zealand Certificate in Engineering – Fabrication (Trade) (Level 4) incorporates foundational Level 3 learning and builds on these core skills to develop full trade competency. Designed for apprentices employed in the fabrication industry, this qualification focuses on progressively developing technical knowledge and practical skills aligned with industry standards, providing a clear pathway to recognition as a qualified fabrication tradesperson.

• Enter into a training agreement between yourself, your employer, and NMIT
• One two-week block course per year at the Nelson Campus (no block course in Year 4)
• Weekly night classes across the Top of the South
• Regular workplace visits by apprentice tutors – flexible drop-in sessions to support portfolio work and hands-on skill development
• Regular site visits by our apprentice tutors to support learners

• Heavy Fabrication – for those working with structural steel, mining, tanks and pressure vessels, heavy transport, industrial infrastructure or other heavy structures.
• Light Fabrication – ideal for those working with sheet metal, aluminium boat building and marine fabrication, stainless steel, food/beverage industry equipment or architectural fabrication.

Both strands lead to the same qualification but allow you to deepen your skills in the area that matches your workplace and career goals. Your employer and tutor will help guide you to the right strand based on the work you do.

What you’ll study

This programme includes unit courses specifically designed for fabrication trades:

• Year 1: CME301–CME308 – core engineering and workshop skills
• Year 2: CME401–CME407 – fabrication-specific practices
• Year 3: CME415–CME422 – strand-specific training in Heavy or Light fabrication
• Year 4: Continued workplace learning and portfolio completion