The Path to Precision: What a Fabrication Engineering Course Offers

Fabrication engineers are crucial in many industries, from creating important components for building and construction projects to making automotive parts. If you dream of one day being an accomplished engineer, then a fabrication engineering course can open up a world of rewarding possibilities for you.

Of course, learning how to become an engineer is no simple journey. Being an engineer requires plenty of skill and drive. To get you started right, we’ll discuss the available programmes we have at ATNZ that could be ideal for you.

Fabrication Engineering Courses In Aotearoa

Fabrication engineering involves the creation, installation and repair of many kinds of metal products that are used in various industries across New Zealand. As one of these engineers, you’ll primarily work with materials such as steel, aluminium and stainless steel to create products that precisely meet specific parameters.

Because this field is so versatile, studying fabrication engineering can open up opportunities in a wide variety of industries. Fabrication engineers have great job prospects in New Zealand, with an average pay of 60k-70k per year or 80k or more when you gain more experience.

At ATNZ, we offer three main programmes in this field:

Heavy Fabrication Engineering Course. Heavy fabrication engineers generally work with steel that is at least 4mm thick, and the majority of the work done is to create structural steel for construction projects. This course equips apprentices with skills in metalworking, welding, cutting and forming to create functional and durable products. Those who finish this course will have ample opportunities to pursue careers as process plant fabricators, fabricators for pressure equipment or machinery and other occupations where their skills can be put to good use.

Light Fabrication Apprenticeship. As opposed to heavy fabrication engineers, light fabrication engineers specialise in working with more lightweight metals like stainless steel and aluminium. They fabricate useful items like handrails and balustrades, as well as contribute to diverse industries like marine manufacturing and architectural design. Apprenticeships in light fabrication provide hands-on experience in metal fabrication techniques, preparing individuals for roles as sheet metal workers, process plant fabricators or other careers that involve these lightweight materials.

Steel Construction Apprenticeship.  Steel construction engineers focus on fabricating structural steel components while using steel that’s often at least 4mm thick for buildings, bridges and heavy machinery. This apprenticeship program covers skills in welding, structural assembly and blueprint reading to prepare individuals for careers in construction and manufacturing. Graduates can pursue roles as structural steelworkers, contributing to the development of strong structures and industrial projects.

Qualities To Focus On To Be A Successful Fabrication Engineer

If you want to be an accomplished engineer, you’ll need to do more than simply enrol in a fabrication engineering course. Engineering requires a blend of technical proficiency, practical skills and positive personal qualities. Here are some essential attributes to focus on during your programme:

Keen Attention To Detail. Fabrication engineering demands precise accuracy in every task. If your creations are off by even a little bit, they may not work for their intended purposes. Paying close attention to measurements, specifications and quality standards will help ensure fabricated products’ integrity and functionality.

While paying attention to every detail may be a challenge at first, as you gain experience, you can hone your skills and become an experienced, accurate engineer.

Problem-Solving Skills. When working on any kind of engineering project, there’s always a chance that something will go wrong or issues will arise. So, developing strong problem-solving skills is a must for aspiring engineers. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills enables engineers to overcome the obstacles they face, devise innovative solutions that satisfy their needs and optimise the manufacturing process.

As you gain more experience during your engineering fabrication course, you’ll have an easier time solving problems quicker and more efficiently.

Time Management. Effective time management skills are essential for meeting project deadlines and maximising productivity. Prioritising the right tasks, allocating resources effectively and adhering to schedules are key aspects of successful engineering.

A Willingness To Learn And Grow. To succeed in any field, you’ll need enthusiasm and a willingness to learn and grow. While studying new concepts and developing new skills may be difficult and stressful at first, you’ll need to keep going with determination if you want to fulfil your engineering dreams. Even after your engineering course, you should still maintain an open mind while looking for new opportunities to grow as an engineer.

Taking Your First Steps On Your Path To Becoming A Fabrication Engineer

If you’re willing to learn, we want to help. At ATNZ, we help aspiring engineers find the right courses for them. For details, visit our website to read more about what we do and the programmes we offer.

To get started, you can contact our team at to book a chat with us.

Develop your engineering skills and contribute to Aotearoa’s thriving industries.