Earn While You Learn

Program Overview

St. Clair College's "Earn While You Learn" program prepares students for skilled trades careers in CNC machining, toolmaking, and mold making. The program offers free tuition, paid shop-floor training, and hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment. Upon completion, students receive a certificate and a first-year apprenticeship exemption, qualifying them for employment in related industries.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

St. Clair College offers a unique "Earn While You Learn" program designed to kick-start careers in skilled trades, particularly for those interested in becoming CNC machinists, tool or mold makers. This 46-week program provides:

• Free tuition: Students do not have to pay tuition fees.
• Real-world experience: Students gain practical experience working on actual parts for industry partners.
• Personal protective equipment: The program provides necessary safety gear.
The program structure is as follows:
• 6 weeks of in-class/shop floor workplace readiness training: This phase takes place Monday to Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (24 hours per week) and is paid for by two bursaries, three weeks apart.
• 40 weeks of shop-floor training: This phase takes place Monday to Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (32 hours per week) and students are paid an hourly wage.
The program equips students with the following skillsets:
• Safety training: Students learn essential safety practices.
• Technical math: Students develop their mathematical skills relevant to the trade.
• Blueprint reading: Students learn to interpret technical drawings.
• Training on state-of-the-art equipment: Students gain hands-on experience with modern machinery.
• Job readiness: The program prepares students for the workforce.
Upon successful completion, students receive a Precision Metal Cutting Certificate and a first-year exemption towards their apprenticeship.

Careers:

The program prepares students for careers as CNC machinists, tool or mold makers, and other related skilled trades positions. Upon completion, students are eligible for apprenticeship programs, which further enhance their skills and qualifications.

Other:

• Aptitude testing: Applicants must pass aptitude testing to be admitted to the program.