Construction Technology

An entry-level course for students interested in the building trades. This class covers beginning elements of construction used to complete, repair, and/or restore a residential structure. Topics included in this course are: demolition, framing, roofing, doors and windows, hardware, insulation, interior trim, and the basics of construction contracting. An introduction to preservation with an emphasis on historic restoration techniques will be covered where appropriate. The student will learn to operate common construction tools (power saws, electric drills, hammers, levels, and staple and nail guns) complying with OSHA and EPA health and safety standards. Completing the OSHA 10-hour training course for construction is a required component of the course.

This course is designed to introduce students to concepts, practices, standards and drafting techniques needed to both read and create architectural drawings in the construction industry. It focuses on the organization of drawings, reading floor plans and elevations drawings, symbols and notations, scaling and dimensioning practices, and materials of construction. Students will learn how to develop “shop drawings” from architectural drawings, extrapolate information from architects’ drawings, and create the necessary construction details needed to execute the design and build the project as they would in a job-site situation. Both hand drawing and computer assisted drawing methods will be explored.

A study of the sequential framing techniques used to build a residential home. Instruction on conventional floor, wall and roof systems common to wood frame construction are the main components of the course, with an introduction to steel stud and traditional timber frame methodology. Other topics include: math to solve construction problems, identification of building components, basic site and building layout, fundamentals of site work, and understanding the construction process. Safe work practices and the use, maintenance and selection of tools and equipment is integrated throughout the course.

A study of the exterior finish materials and techniques for residential buildings. The major topics include windows and doors, roofing, siding, decks, and gutter installation. Historic restoration principles will be covered when appropriate. Special attention will be given to historic window repair and restoration.

A course that allows students to develop a basic understanding of electrical wiring, residential plumbing, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning, and other electromechanical systems common to light construction. The electrical component of this course concentrates on residential application of codes, practices, terminology and equipment. The plumbing component will involve learning water supply and distribution, drain, waste and vent systems. General plumbing installation, maintenance and repair will also be covered. Electrical and plumbing safety and use of power and hand tools will be integrated throughout the course. Hands-on lab time will reinforce lecture and reading assignments.

Interior finish is the study and practice of the common materials and procedures used for finishing the interior of residential housing. Students will participate in lecture and lab activities that include techniques and best practices for hanging drywall, compound and taping, interior molding and trim work, modem and reproduction floor and ceiling finishes, and materials estimating. Safety procedures, proper use of hand and power tools, and specific math calculations will be integrated throughout the class.

Students learn about stair layout, stair components and assembly, hanging interior doors, advanced molding techniques, interpreting kitchen and bath drawings, and installation of manufactured cabinetry. Students will also learn to evaluate countertop materials and perform entry level fabrication and installation. Basic math, historic features, safety procedures, and proper use and maintenance of both hand and power tools are integrated throughout the course.

An introductory course taught to provide students with an overview of 18th, 19th, and early 20th century residential architecture and the societal case for historic building preservation. Through lectures, demonstrations and site visits, students are exposed to a range of construction, preservation and restoration methods, including stabilizing endangered buildings, and preserving and recovering architectural details. Students develop an understanding of building components and systems and learn to compare current technology with traditional tools and practices.

This capstone course provides opportunities for students to apply knowledge, aptitude and skills that were learned in previous coursework in a more comprehensive and authentic way. Under supervision of the college and through community partnerships, students will be involved in new site construction and/or repairs, and the rehabilitation of existing and historic buildings. Site location and project will be determined by current opportunities available and, when possible, by student preference.