About this program

  • Credential Awarded: Certificate of Achievement
  • Campus: Welland
  • Trade Code: 429A
  • Delivery Length: 30 Weeks Full-Time
  • Starts: May 4, 2026
  • Status:
    Applications Open

Overview

Program Overview

The General Machinist Trade is an exciting career choice with many opportunities for specialization. A General Machinist sets up and operates machine tools to produce precision metal parts and components. They interpret technical drawings, measure and inspect finished products, and ensure quality standards are met. Employment may include full-time, seasonal, or project-based work, with opportunities for self-employment.

An employed signed apprentice, in the General Machinist trade, may continue their in-school Apprenticeship Training at Niagara College. Upon completion of all levels of the General Machinist apprenticeship, they can seek provincial certification for a Red Seal Certificate of Qualification.

This is a 30-week full-time program, with 18 weeks of in-school training and a 12-week paid work placement. Twenty spots are available. This Pre-Apprenticeship is fully funded – tuition, textbooks, personal protective equipment (PPE), and parking or bus pass are covered.

Career Pathways

  • Aerospace machining technician
  • Automotive parts machinist
  • CNC machinist / operator
  • General machinist
  • Machine repair technician or tool operator
  • Maintenance machinist
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Mechanical assembler
  • Mould maker
  • Production or precision machinist
  • Quality control inspector
  • Technical sales representative
  • Tool and die maker

Program components include:

  • Academic Refresher Courses (High School Diploma or equivalent is required.)
  • Trade Preparation and Job Readiness Courses
  • Level 1 in-school Apprenticeship Training for General Machinist
  • Work Placement
Pursue an apprenticeship

After successful completion of the Pre-Apprenticeship program and you have signed an apprenticeship agreement, the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development will offer training to complete the apprenticeship. Training will be available at Niagara College.

About Pre-Apprenticeships

Pre-Apprenticeship Training Programs offered by Niagara College are fully funded by the Government of Ontario. These programs are designed to support participants entering the apprenticeship system and help prepare them for this step. Pre-apprenticeship programs are offered on a year to year basis upon funding approval by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. Successful applicants are required to undergo selection criteria as outlined by the Ministry.

Upon successful completion participants of pre-apprenticeship programs will receive an Ontario College Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate of Achievement, Level 1 in-school apprenticeship component, and work term experience (practical experience with a regional employer).

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Courses

Important

Please be advised that the curriculum you have selected is for a past or future term. The remaining information on this website is reflective of the most recent intake term, unless stated otherwise.

Term one (2026 Winter)
Code Course Name Credits
CPLN1019 PreApprenticeship Job Readiness 0
ENSD1036 PreApprenticeship Communications 0
MASD1034 Mathematics for General Machinist Pre Apprentice 0
STDV1033 Self Management and Self Direction 24 wk Pre Apprenticeship 0
MECH1014 Pre-Apprenticeship Health and Safety 3
MECH1026 PreApprenticeship Machining Processes Introduction 0
WELD1018 Pre-Apprenticeship Introduction to Welding Processes 3
Term two (2026 Spring)
Code Course Name Credits
APPR1150 Trade Theory I 5
APPR1151 Trade Practical I 6
APPR1152 Applied Trade Calculations I 2
APPR1153 Engineering Drawings I 2
Term three (2026 Fall)
Code Course Name Credits
PRAC1013 Work Placement - General Machinist 0
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Admission Requirements

  • Be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident
  • Be 18 years of age or older
  • Have a high school diploma/GED or verified equivalent
  • Be willing and able to commit to a full-time program for 30 weeks
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How to Apply

  2. For more information on the General Machinist Pre-Apprenticeship program at Niagara College please contact Josie Jansen at [email protected].You must attend an information session.
  3. Complete an Essential Skills Assessment.
  4. Attend a Recruitment Appointment scheduled with our Pre-Apprenticeship Staff.

This program is full and is no longer accepting applications.

Please complete the information below, and a program representative will be in contact with you.

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Information for Employers

For more information about this pre-apprenticeship program or hiring an Apprentice, please fill out the form below.

Contact Name(Required)
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