Construction Fundamentals

The Construction Fundamentals course provides the student with the skills needed to perform a variety of duties in the construction field. This program prepares graduates to enter the construction field with a working knowledge of a construction site and on-the-job expectations. Upon completion of the Construction Fundamentals program, the graduate will have hands-on experience with blueprint reading, measuring, layout, hand and power tools, etc. Students gain information about employment positions immediately after graduation. Students will learn basic skills for running their own business and entrepreneurship. In this career path, a student can average a starting salary of $55,000.00-75,000.00 depending on whether working for the Union or not.

Class Minimum, 15; Class Max 25

Instructional Format

Each day includes a Pre-Test, Reading Assignment, Lecture/Demonstration, Hands-On Practice, and Post-Test. Weekly academic material follows the textbook, “From the Ground Up: A Builder’s Guide to Careers, Tools, and Construction Success.”

Course Schedule

Days: Monday – Thursday
Time: 8AM – 4PM (8 hours/day)
Total Duration: 6 weeks (192 hours)

Topics:

  • OSHA 10 Certification Training
  • Safety protocols, PPE, fire safety, hazard identification
  • Tool and shop safety
  • OSHA compliance in the construction field

Academic Integration:

  • Orientation & Course Expectations
  • Instruction Format Overview
  • Textbook Focus: OSHA Introduction and Shop Safety

Topics:

  • Basic hand and power tool use
  • Measuring, marking, layout, and small carpentry project
  • First aid, CPR, ergonomics

Academic Integration:

  • Textbook Focus:
    • Part One: Getting Ready
      • Chapter 1 – A Builder’s Career
    • Preview of Instruction Format (Pre-Test, Reading, Post-Test)
    • Professional Demonstrations

Topics:

  • Blueprint reading
  • Framing floors, walls, openings
  • Roofing basics: rafters and trusses

Academic Integration:

  • Textbook Focus:
    • Part One: Getting Ready
      • Chapter 2 – A Builder’s Tools

Topics:

  • Introduction to plumbing systems
  • Materials: PVC, PEX, copper
  • Cutting, joining, fixture installation
  • Drainage and code compliance

Academic Integration:

  • Textbook Focus:
    • Part Two: Getting the Right Jobs
      • Chapter 3 – A Builder’s Numbers

Topics:

  • Residential wiring theory & circuit design
  • Tools, switches, outlets, breakers
  • Safety and electrical codes
  • Construction Contracts
  • Estimating and Bidding practices

Academic Integration:

  • Textbook Focus:
    • Part Two: Getting the Right Jobs
      • Chapter 4 – Entering the Marketplace
      • Chapter 5 – Estimating and Bidding
      • Chapter 6 – Construction Contracts

Topics:

  • Capstone construction project
  • Resume writing and job search skills
  • Guest speakers and mock interviews
  • Labor, materials, subcontractor management
  • Intro to project scheduling and communication

Academic Integration:

  • Textbook Focus:
    • Part One: Interview Preparation
    • Part Three: Getting the Jobs Done Right
      • Chapter 7 – Labor, Materials, and Subcontractors
      • Chapter 8 – Project Management

Program Completion

Participants will receive:

  • OSHA 10 Certification
  • Certificate of Completion
  • Hands-on training experience across trades
  • Preparedness for entry-level construction roles or apprenticeships

Tuition & Fees

  • Tuition:  $7,200
  • Admin Fee:  $150
  • Books/Supplies:  $750.00
  • Total:  $8,100