In Camosun College's metal shop, students are fusing old-school tools with high-tech gear. A new partnership between Camosun Innovates and the college's Sheet Metal apprenticeship program brings advanced design and fabrication tools into the shop, enhancing students' hands-on experience.
Sheet metal apprentice Mike Berben learned how to use AutoCAD for his capstone project.
"Our collaborative efforts give students access to high technology and new opportunities to use computer-aided design software like AutoCAD and Autodesk Fusion to create flat patterns for their shop projects" says Dallas Dolgopol, Sheet Metal Program Lead. "Instead of laying it out by hand with a compass and ruler, they can now use a CO laser cutter to cut their flat pattern templates."
In Camosun Innovates' Interurban campus lab home to many advanced manufacturing technologies including Western Canada's largest collection of 3D scanning equipment Sheet Metal students gain exposure to state-of-the-art tools. This integration aligns with SkilledTradesBC curriculum requirements and equips students with technology skills they'll use in the workforce.
"Students are being exposed to sheet metal engineering and advanced manufacturing, and it all fits within our learning outcomes," adds Dallas. "It shows them how using these high-tech tools can help us improve accuracy and productivity in the sheet metal industry."
At a recent Sheet Metal showcase, fourth-year students displayed their projects to the community and industry partners. Among them was Mike Berben, who proudly presented his gleaming stainless-steel diamond. This complex, multi-faceted geometric project requiring precise pattern development took Mike a couple of attempts to execute.
"I designed the diamond in AutoCAD to get proper measurements and patterns, then took my design to Camosun Innovates where they laser cut my patterns," says Mike, who works at a local HVAC company and has recently become Red Seal-certified. "I was able to 3D-model a prototype to see if I could bend the metal and get the geometry I wanted. I'm not great with computers, but this has been a really cool experience. I can see how this will be applicable in industry."
The collaboration between the two departments began organically after Dallas met Matt Zeleny, an Applied Research Technologist at Camosun Innovates, at a social event. Their shared enthusiasm for learning sparked a friendship and a professional partnership that brought hands-on technology into the metal shop.
"Dallas and I are cross-training each other," says Matt. "We've taken the initiative to make this happen. I've shared my applied technology skills with him, and he's taught me the principles of bending metal and welding."
Camosun Innovates' mandate is to enhance the capacity and productivity of small-to-medium-sized businesses in the region. The unit also supports on-campus learning and has previously collaborated with programs in mechanical engineering, electronics, computer science, interactive media, visual arts, and fine furniture.
"There's potential to work with other trades," says Matt. "It's important for instructors and students to know these tools are available on campus. Camosun Innovates is here to help."
About Camosun Innovates
Camosun Innovates is committed to transforming ideas into reality through collaboration and cutting-edge technology. As the applied research and innovation division of Camosun College, it focuses on addressing real-world challenges by developing practical solutions that enhance economic, social, and environmental well-being.
About the Sheet Metal Apprenticeship Program
Camosun's Sheet Metal apprentices gain skills and knowledge that make them highly employable within many areas of the metal trades industry. They learn sheet metal skills for HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning), custom precision sheet metal fabrication, architectural sheet metal, welding, and advanced drafting/layout skills.
