7 Metalworking Preparatory Programs

The ancient art of blacksmithing is alive and thriving in the School of the Arts Blacksmithing and Metal Art Program. Enthusiastic and dedicated instructors share their passion and skills with you in the metal studio. With an emphasis on developing proper techniques and hands-on studio practice, you will learn how to bring your ideas from design to completion.

The metals studio is equipped with casting equipment that includes an electrically controlled large gas kiln and centrifugal and vacuum casting machines, wax injector and mold making equipment, two electric enameling kilns, gas forge, electro-forming equipment, and electric-powered Bonny Doon hydraulic press, acetylene and natural gas torches, flex shafts, two large anvils, a large variety of stakes and hammers, Dumore drill press, large rolling mill, and a bench and jump shear, spray etcher and spray booth, polishing equipment and full array of hand tools.

This course will give you an excellent grounding for progression either into industry or onto a relevant university-level course. You will learn a range of forging skills, from tool making to traditional fire welding techniques over the two years, culminating in a final project in which you will plan and make a large-scale final piece to your own design and specification. The second year also introduces restoration & conservation, in addition to a business studies module giving you the skills necessary to manage your own business.

Learn skills in metal design, drafting, metal joining, soldering, and welding to become an apprentice as a sheet metal worker. The Sheet Metal Worker Apprenticeship Program is designed to provide individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a career as a sheet metal worker. This program offers comprehensive training in metal design, drafting, metal joining, soldering, and welding, preparing apprentices for success in the field of sheet metal fabrication and installation.

Sheet Metal Workers lay out, fabricate, assemble, weld, install and service the following: ducting, spouting, fittings cabinets, gutters, copings, flashings, supporting devices, wall systems, building envelope, ornamental work and integral equipment associated with the blowpipe, air pollution, heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, roofing, restaurant, kitchen, marine installations and hospital equipment.

We offer the Welding - Pre-Employment program at Keyano College. This program will give you the skills needed to succeed in a welding entry level position and provide you with a solid academic foundation and refreshment in the areas of trades related science, mathematics, report writing and employability skills. The program also provides technical training. Completing this program will equip you with the technical knowledge and skills of a first year electrical apprentice. You will also have obtained many safety certifications required to work in the industry.

This course seeks to lay the foundation for a successful career in blacksmithing and comprehensively teaches the technical and theoretical skills that are essential to becoming a competent blacksmith. There is also the opportunity to enter national competitions, one of these being at the Three Counties Showground in Malvern. High-achieving blacksmiths trained at the College are very well regarded by employers and many subsequently trade in their own right. This subject is an excellent choice for a self-motivated and hard-working person who will be expected to have good hand/eye coordination and artistic ability in this exciting and growing industry.