Crafting The Future: Enrolling In A Fabrication Engineering Course

Enrolling in a fabrication engineering course could be your pathway to a fulfilling career if you aspire to become a skilled engineer working with steel, aluminium and more. With the right course and mentor, you can train and help Aotearoa with your newfound skills.

Understanding Fabrication Engineering Courses

Engineering apprenticeships can teach you the core skills needed to succeed as a professional fabrication engineer in New Zealand. On top of teaching you necessary skills, such as reading plans and working with equipment and tools, they can also provide you with:

• A Wage. You’ll get paid for your hard work when you’re an apprentice. So, you’ll be able to work hard without worrying about finding another job to stay afloat. 
• Hands-On Experience. Regarding careers like engineering, the importance of hands-on experience cannot be overstated. Being able to work with tools and materials physically can give you a level of skill and experience that’s difficult to get from just books or online learning. 
• Networking. Enrolling in an engineering apprenticeship is a fantastic way to connect with engineers and fellow apprentices. These connections can help you find a good job in the future. The majority of apprentices stay with the company they trained with for a few years after completing their apprenticeship, so this networking will help them continue to find good jobs down the track. 

Fabrication engineers have good job prospects in New Zealand, so it’s a great career to train for. When you enrol in a course at ATNZ, you’ll have the opportunity to choose from three main engineering fabrication courses:

Heavy Fabrication.  Engineers in heavy fabrication master working with steel, typically at least 4mm thick, contributing to the creation of structural components for the construction industry and fabricating items such as boilers, significant structures, tanks and components for heavy machinery.

Heavy fabrication engineers can often find work as process plant fabricators or fabricators for pressure equipment, heavy transport equipment or machinery.

Light Fabrication. Light fabrication engineers specialise in working with lightweight metals like stainless steel and aluminium, playing a pivotal role in manufacturing handrails, balustrades, benchtops and various components used in the marine industry.

Light fabrication engineers can find careers as sheet metal workers, process plant fabricators and more.

Steel Construction. Engineers in steel construction focus on working with steel, often at least 4mm thick, contributing to the creation and repair of structural elements for buildings, bridges, cranes and a myriad of other applications.

Steel construction engineers can typically find work as structural steelworkers for buildings, bridges, cranes and other large structures. 

How To Enrol In A Fabrication Engineering Course

These career paths not only offer financial stability for you down the track but can also allow you to make substantial contributions to important industries, ranging from construction to manufacturing. As an engineer, you’ll play a vital role in creating structures and components that people use daily. 

So, how exactly can you begin your journey towards becoming a fully-fledged fabrication engineer? The first branch of your journey is to become an engineering apprentice so you can learn the skills you’ll need with the help of an experienced mentor. 

A journey in fabrication engineering involves specific steps to ensure you choose the right programme to set yourself on the path to success. Consider these steps as you pick the right fabrication engineering course for you:

1. Identify Your Interest. Determine your specific area of interest within fabrication engineering, whether it’s heavy fabrication, light fabrication or steel construction. If you’re unsure which course you’re most interested in, you can always speak to us at ATNZ to help identify the best path for you. 
2. Check Programme Requirements. Most fabrication engineering courses have minimal entry requirements. Typically, you need to be at least 16 years old, a New Zealand citizen or resident and possess enthusiasm, a positive attitude and a strong work ethic. These courses have no upper age limit and are open to anyone who meets the other requirements and wants to learn. 
3. Contact Programme Providers. Reach out to our team at ATNZ by booking a chat with us. We can discuss what you’re looking for in an apprenticeship programme, and if you’re struggling to determine the best path for you, we can discuss your opportunities.
4. Embrace Your Learning Opportunities. Once enrolled, make the most of your learning experience. Engage in hands-on projects, collaborate with peers and seek guidance from experienced mentors who can enhance your practical skills and provide valuable industry insights.

Paving Your Way Towards Engineering Success

Enrolling in a fabrication engineering course is not merely a career choice; it’s a transformative journey that drives you towards a future filled with possibilities. Whether you’re drawn to heavy fabrication, light fabrication or steel construction, the skills acquired during these courses open doors to various fulfilling careers.

If you have a drive to learn, we at ATNZ would love to speak to you. Please don’t hesitate to book a chat with us through our website or by contacting .

ATNZ: Helping hopeful engineers grow from apprentices to trained engineers.