New Zealand Certificate in Engineering Fabrication (Trade) with strands in Heavy Fabrication and Light Fabrication
Course details
| NZQF Level | 4 |
|---|
About the course
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.
Programme structure
- 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
Strand options
- 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
Entry requirements
Academic requirements
40 credits NCEA Level 1, including 10 literacy credits and 10 numeracy credits,
OR
you may have completed the National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Level 2) [Ref: 1220] or the Level 3 New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (NZQA Ref: 2715)
Special entry
Skills for tertiary study (including literacy and numeracy) may be acquired through study, work and/or life experience. If you who can demonstrate these skills you may be approved for alternative entry. Literacy and numeracy assessments are available.
Additional requirements
To successfully complete this programme of study, candidates must be employed in the mechanical engineering industry at time of study.
You must enter into a 3-way training agreement between yourself, your employer and NMIT.
English requirements
If English is not your first language you will be required to show evidence of language competency, issued withing the last two years. If you have no evidence of your English language skills and are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, contact us for an assessment.
IELTS 5.5 Academic score (no lower than 5.5 in any subtest). For acceptable alternatives refer to the [English Proficiency Outcomes Chart](https://www2.nzqa.govt.nz/about-us/rules-fees-policies/nzqa-rules/approval-recognition-and-accreditation/#:~:text=2022%20are%20revoked.-,Appendix%201%3A%20Internationally%20Recognised%20English%20Proficiency%20Outcomes%20for%20International%20Students,-Rule%2022.2(d "English Proficiency Outcomes chart").
Students who have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance requirements are not required to provide evidence of English Language Skills.
About the provider
At NMIT, our goal is to ensure you graduate work-ready and confident in your knowledge and skills to step into a successful career. Our wrap-around support services guide you through the process of learning, teaching you skills for life and ensuring your well-being is supported so you can focus on achieving your goals.
NMIT strives to make meaningful and positive change to the businesses and members in our community. For nearly 120 years, we have stood strong as a cornerstone for high-quality tertiary education and community engagement Te Tauihu (the Top of the South).
This means when you join NMIT, you become connected to a network of industry partners and employment opportunities that can open doors for you. Our passionate tutors across multiple study areas are highly regarded and influential in their chosen fields.
Whatever path you wish to pursue, we'll do what we can to help you reach your goal. Our internationally recognised qualifications are yours for the taking, and the journey to get them can be a rewarding and uplifting experience.