How to become a welder in Quebec?

To become a certified welder in Quebec, here is the typical pathway:

Training pathway:

1. DEP in welding: Diploma of Vocational Studies in welding and fitting, offered at several centres like CFP de Québec, CFP Léonard-de-Vinci, or CFP de la Baie-James. Duration: 1,800 hours, about 17 months (Inforoute FPT, program 5382 Soudage-assemblage — the 5195 Soudage-montage program it replaces also totalled 1,800 hours; mandatory implementation since 2025-2026). Tuition varies with the centre and the student's status: it is published on the program page of the centre concerned
2. ASP (Attestation of Professional Specialization): for example high-pressure welding — its length is published by the centre that offers it
3. Welding qualification (QBQ): practical qualification test — personal qualification through Emploi-Québec, or qualification recognized by the CSA W47.1 certified company, which qualifies its own welding personnel

Skills learned in DEP:

• SMAW (covered electrode), GMAW (MIG), FCAW (flux-cored), GTAW (TIG)
• Blueprint reading and welding symbols
• Basic metallurgy, safety, CSA W59/W47.1 standards

After the DEP:

• Employers ask for qualification in the positions and processes they actually use: that scope is what is checked when hiring
• Some employers offer sponsorship for the QBQ exam (cost covered by the company)
• A welder can specialize in pipe (6G certification), stainless steel, or aluminum