This training program provides a comprehensive introduction into mass timber construction for learners interested timber fabrication and/or fabrication design through two stackable micro-credentials. Learners may enrol in one or both courses.
Mass Timber Fabricator Micro-Credential
Working on the production floor, the timber fabricator completes all final part processes after CNC machine operations. CNC machines may complete 80–95% of operations, but there are often portions to be fabricated with large tools or complete operations with hand tools. Duties typically include allocating timbers to be cut on the CNC, post processing timbers after CNC cutting with power or hand tools, reading and understanding 2D single piece drawings, ability to navigate 3D models, operating heavy lifting equipment, pre-assembly of components, installation of steel to timber and timber to timber connections, feedback and design changes as necessary, test fitting of connections, QC signoffs, and finishing of elements with hand touch-ups, patches, and sanding, including potential coatings.
Larger operations may develop standardized processes broken out into different tool/skill groups (Whirlwind Consultants & Arbutus Search Group, 2023).
This micro-credential provides learners with a foundational competency set in:
- Wood science
- Tools and safety
- Mass timber fabrication
- Technical drawings and models
- General knowledge of product design, element use and packaging and shipping of a completed timber package
Program format
The micro-credential provides primarily asynchronous online training over eight weeks supplemented by employer site visits, wood and cutting science labs, case studies and guest lectures from industry leaders.
Program prerequisites include:
- Clear communicator and team member
- Detail oriented and logical
- Physically capable to carry out the job requirements (lifting, moving)
- Safety oriented (use of power/hand tools, workplace hazards, etc.)
Program outcomes
Graduates can apply for a four-week paid work-integrated learning placement at a local mass timber company (may be shift work). Upon completion, learners will be eligible for employment on a timber frame production floor, as a timber fabricator (detailing and finishing).
Equity, diversity & inclusion
Consistent with the Indigenization Plan, the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Action Plan and our Accessibility Commitment, Selkirk College makes every effort to make learning equitable and accessible to a diverse set of learners. Intentional work is also done with industry partners to support equity, diversity and inclusivity practices in the experiential learning and potential future employment opportunities of learners.
Applications from underrepresented and equity seeking groups, including women, Indigenous peoples, visible minorities and persons with disabilities are encouraged.
Applicant requirements
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Live in a small community
- Be legally entitled to study and work in Canada
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
Financial support
Financial supports are available for costs associated with travel and transportation, childcare and eldercare, training and associated training materials, disability-related supports and technological supports.
Tuition & funding
This customized training program is free, and seats are limited.
This initiative is funded by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and led by Colleges and Institutes Canada. The Green Pathways for Small Communities program will help rural, remote and northern communities diversify and grow their economies, adopt sustainable and green workforce solutions, provide opportunities for community members to develop their own skills and help local businesses keep pace with future sector growth.
Intake: Fall 2024
Course dates: TBC
Seats are limited and are based on participant eligibility.
Mass Timber Fabrication Designer Micro-Credential
A mass timber fabrication designer uses knowledge and principles of feasible fabrication processes, durable design and best practices in the use of large-format timber (mass timber, solid sawn timber, engineered wood products) to create a fabrication level 3D model of the project. The projects require the adaptation of technical construction plans, fabrication data and production sequencing for residential, public, commercial or industrial projects. The fabrication designer completes a fabrication-accurate 3D BIM model of the structure including connections, screws and integrated penetrations for other trades by coordinating structural and architectural drawings, as well as possible MEP (Mechanical Electrical Plumbing) 3D models supplied by the design team.
The fabrication designer is an integral member of the timber frame construction team and overall project delivery. They play a pivotal role in the sustainable use of wood products in the construction trade and will be one of the most in-demand positions for the foreseeable future (North Pacific, 2023; Whirlwind Consultants & Arbutus Search Group, 2023).
This micro-credential provides learners with a foundational competency set in mass timber design and 3D BIM fabrication using Cadwork software, conflict resolution communications, wood species and wood project integration, design for CNC machining, and 2D drawing packages and materials lists for project assembly.
Program format
The micro-credential provides training over 10 weeks. Participants will engage in 80 hours of self-paced, online learning and 20 hours of in-person software training. Learning will be supplemented by case studies, guest lectures from industry leaders, and a project design capstone project. Upon completion, learners will be eligible for employment as a mass timber fabrication designer.
Program prerequisites include:
- Clear communicator and team member
- Detail oriented and logical
- High school diploma or equivalent (math 12)
- Basic computer literacy and MS products (Excel)
- 3D and spatial acuity/literacy
- Portfolio with photos or résumé with references evidencing a combination of education and/or experience in:
- Construction trade
- Timber framing production.
- Digital design experience in architectural/industrial design, OR
- Demonstrated ability to visualize virtually in 3D
Equity, diversity & inclusion
Consistent with the Indigenization Plan, the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Action Plan and our Accessibility Commitment, Selkirk College makes every effort to make learning equitable and accessible to a diverse set of learners. Intentional work is also done with industry partners to support equity, diversity and inclusivity practices in the experiential learning and potential future employment opportunities of learners.
Applications from underrepresented and equity seeking groups, including women, Indigenous peoples, visible minorities and persons with disabilities are encouraged.
Applicant requirements
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Live in a small community
- Be legally entitled to study and work in Canada
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
Financial support
Financial supports are available for costs associated with travel and transportation, childcare and eldercare, training and associated training materials, disability-related supports, and technological supports.
Tuition & funding
This customized training program is free, and seats are limited.
This initiative is funded by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and led by Colleges and Institutes Canada. The Green Pathways for Small Communities program will help rural, remote and northern communities diversify and grow their economies, adopt sustainable and green workforce solutions, provide opportunities for community members to develop their own skills and help local businesses keep pace with future sector growth.
Intake: Fall 2024
Course dates: TBC
Seats are limited and are based on participant eligibility.