This 16-week micro-credential provides learners with a foundational competency in wood science, tools and safety, mass timber fabrication joints and connections, technical drawings and models, finishing techniques, and general knowledge of mass timber product packages.
Completion of the course is designed to equip participants with the foundational skills and knowledge necessary for entry-level competency, making them appealing candidates for employment in mass timber fabrication facilities. Completion can also prepare participants to stack micro-credential #2 for continued learning and competency building as a Mass Timber Fabrication Designer.
Working on the production floor, the mass 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).
Cost, Registration and Format
Cost: $1,500
Tuition subsidies: This program may be eligible for full tuition subsidies for learners who meet admission requirements. Please contact us to see if you qualify.
Dates: September 1–December 21, 2025
Format: 125 hours over 16 weeks. Students can expect to spend 7–8 hours working on materials per week. Online asynchronous (self-paced), optional synchronous sessions (once every two weeks for two hours), including guest speakers and site visits (also recorded). A one-to-two week onsite, hands-on learning lab is anticipated at the Selkirk Technology Access Centre (STAC) in Trail and/or at a partner site.
Tech requirements: Computer, internet