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Mechanical Techniques

A professor and two students in the Mechanical Techniques program are smiling as they examine a tool together in a classroom setting. They are engaged in a discussion, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Turn your passion for technology into a profession. Gain hands-on experience, use cutting-edge tools, and learn from industry experts to launch a rewarding career in industrial maintenance, advanced manufacturing and beyond.

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Home / Learn / Programs List / Mechanical Techniques
Credential
Ontario College Certificate
Duration
One year or less
Start Date(s)
January (Winter)
September (Fall)
Locations
Belleville
Open to
International Students
Domestic Students

Find your career

Prepare for a high-demand career across various industries. With a solid foundation in practical skills, you’ll be ready to join leading companies in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and beyond. Build a thriving career with the knowledge and innovation this program fosters. 

  • Many of our graduates gain apprenticeships and become industrial mechanics (millwright), welders, machinists, tool and die makers and industrial electricians. 
  • Graduates may also find meaningful opportunities in technical sales, entrepreneurship, and other business-oriented roles.  
  • Open doors to even greater opportunities by turning this certificate into a diploma by completing the Manufacturing Engineering Technician program.

Our grads get great jobs

  • Foreman, CN Rail 
  • Engineering Technician, Metso Minerals 
  • Millwright, Cascades 
  • Process Technician, Lactalis Canada 
  • Operations Technician, Procter & Gamble 
  • Hydraulics Technician, Multi-Flow FluidPower Inc. 
  • Operations Technician, Kellogg’s Canada 
  • Machinist, Kennametal Stellite Group

Is it for you?

This program is well suited to people who: 

  • Like to design and create. 
  • Want to know how things work. 
  • Enjoy working with their hands. 
  • Are drawn to repair anything mechanical or electrical.

How you'll learn

Experiential learning 

Gain a range of industry skills: 

  • Hands-on, practical labs blended with an appropriate amount of theory in welding, machining, electricity, maintenance and more. 
  • Explore product design using AutoCAD and the interpretation of engineering drawings. 
  • Earn experience diagnosing and troubleshooting. 
  • Use leading-edge simulation software to design and demonstrate hydraulic circuits and electrical circuits. 
  • The positive learning environment includes well-lit, roomy labs with a blend of new  and legacy equipment commonly found in industry. 

Outstanding faculty make the difference 

Learn in well-equipped labs with knowledgeable and dedicated faculty: 

  • Professors have wide-ranging industry experience in machining, pharmaceutical manufacturing, food processing, water bottling, uranium processing and millwright contracting environments, the Canadian Armed Forces, advanced manufacturing, transportation and many more. 
  • Teachers have a vast network of industry contacts to help connect students with jobs. 

Courses

MANU1009 Blueprint Reading 1

This course covers the theory, conventions, standards and procedures associated with the preparation of mechanical drawings. Orthographic drawings, pictorial drawings, sectional views, auxiliary views and principles of dimensioning are discussed to help students develop the skills to properly read blueprints. The course also introduces the student to computer aided design using AutoCAD.

COMP1017 Computer Applications

Students are introduced to Microsoft applications such as Outlook (email), PowerPoint, Microsoft Word and Excel. Students learn how to use the Internet and understand the use of a maintenance management system. Within the course, students are equipped with job searching techniques, interview skills and will prepare a cover letter and résumé.

MANU1006 Fluid Power 1

In this course students develop a clear understanding of the basic concepts of fluid power control systems. Students learn about the application of equipment such as pumps, actuators and control valves in detail, and develop a logical approach to the solution of fluid power control system design. Extensive hands-on labs reinforce the theoretical principles of fluid power.

MECH1001 Machine Maintenance 1

Students are introduced to standard practices used in the inspection, dismantling and replacement of components such as bearings, chain and belt drives, and couplings.

MANU1000 Machine Tools 1

Students will learn the basics of metal cutting using various machine shop tools including engine lathes, milling machines, drill presses, grinders, as well as various hand tools. Shop safety aspects and principles of metal cutting are discussed.

SAFE1001 Occupational Health & Safety 1

Students learn the rights and responsibilities under the OHSA. Safety related to the uses of overhead cranes, forklifts, proper hook-ups lifting loads, and awareness to safety concerns within the industry are introduced.

MATH1014 Technical Math 1

In this course, students demonstrate basic analytical skills and are prepared for further studies in mathematics. Topics include basic number systems and operations, basic algebraic operations and equations, units and measurement, and solving word problems.

WELD1008 Welding 1

This course provides an introduction to the theory and practice of welding to give the student a strong background in various fabrication processes. Oxy-acetylene cutting, brazing, braze, soldering and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (S.M.A.W.) will be covered.

CADD1021 Blueprint Reading & CAD 2

Students learn the interpretation of installation, assembly and detail drawings as applied to the maintenance trade. Prerequisite: MANU 1009

ELEC1004 Electrical Fundamentals

This is a continuation of the first semester course with applications of AC theory to the installation and maintenance of motors and control systems.

MANU1008 Fluid Power 2

A continuation of Fluid Power 1. Prerequisite: MANU 1006

MECH1006 Machine Maintenance 2

A continuation of Machine Maintenance as applied to air compressors, pumps, speed reducers and machine tools. Prerequisite: MECH 1001

MECH1004 Machine Tools 2

Students learn the application of turning, milling and grinding procedures to the repair of machine parts. Prerequisite: MANU 1000

MATH1016 Technical Math

Students consolidate skills in arithmetic, algebra, solving equations and geometry, trigonometry, and graphical analysis to solve problems used in technological applications. Prerequisite: MATH 1014

WELD1009 Welding 2

This course is a continuation from Semester 1 and furthers students’ knowledge of the application of standard welding processes to the repair and fabrication of equipment. Prerequisite: WELD 1008

GNED1100 Becoming a Global Changemaker

This Loyalist College graduate attributes course will help shape your perspectives, broaden your understanding of important issues affecting our societies today, and equip you with invaluable knowledge and skills that will inform your ability to influence your community in a meaningful and impactful way. By exploring topics such as cultural competency, Indigenous education, entrepreneurship, sustainability, health and wellness, and ecological literacy, you'll be equipped with a powerful toolkit that extends far beyond the classroom.

*Courses subject to change.

A student wearing safety glasses sets up a piece on a mill with a notebook resting on it. Fourteen green graphic circles are in the lower lefthand corner of the image.

Admission requirements

Required academic preparation 

  • OSSD/OSSGD or equivalent with courses at the general, advanced, (C), (U) or (M) level, AND 
  • Grade 12 English (C) level or equivalent 

OR 

Recommended academic preparation 

  • Welding and machine shop experience are highly recommended. 

Prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR) 

Do you have work experience or other types of non-credentialed learning? Through Loyalist’s PLAR program, applicants and current students may be eligible to receive academic credit for relevant educational, work and life experiences.

International students  

Learn more about admission requirements for international applicants and how to apply.

Costs

Approximate costs (2024 – 25) 

  • Domestic Tuition: $2,722.08 
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,367 
  • Total: $4,089.08 
  • Students are required to purchase a smartphone/data plan (iPhone or Android, though iPhone is preferred). 

Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc.   

*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and fees page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies.

Paying for college 

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.

Schulich Builders 

Students enrolling in this program may be eligible for the Schulich Builders scholarship program. 

Schulich Builders covers tuition, tools and living expenses for students enrolling in a skilled trades program. Loyalist College will award ten scholarships per year: 

  • Five $20,000 scholarships for one-year certificate programs, and 
  • Five $40,000 scholarships for two-year diploma programs

Learn more and apply today!

Approximate costs (2024 – 25) 

  • International Tuition: $15,000 
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,367 
  • Mandatory Health Insurance: $659 
  • Total: $17,026 
  • Students are required to purchase a smartphone/data plan (iPhone or Android, though iPhone is preferred). 

Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc.   

*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and fees page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies.

Paying for college 

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.

A student and a professor hold together mechanical components at a workbench while another student watches. All three wear safety glasses in the lab. Fourteen blue graphic circles are in the lower lefthand corner of the image.

Further study

Turn your certificate into a diploma 

Continue into year two of the Manufacturing Engineering Technician program and complete a diploma in one additional year.  

Pursue an apprenticeship 

  • Loyalist’s program uses many of the same curriculum standards as apprenticeship training for industrial mechanics (millwrights). 
  • Graduates are entitled to write the provincial test for an exemption from Level I of the in-school portion of the Industrial Mechanics apprenticeship. Candidates who pass the exam don’t need to leave the workplace to attend school for level one – making them more valuable to employers. Learn more about apprenticeships.

Autodesk certification 

Students are eligible to complete Autodesk certification exams at Loyalist College. Completing these industry-recognized credentials enables students to highlight that they have the in-demand skills employers are seeking. 

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Two students work side-by-side at a workbench full of mechanical equipment. Both are wearing safety glasses.

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