College Catalog

This curriculum prepares a graduate with job entry competencies in the construction industry, specifically in carpentry and masonry skills. Students develop skills in the correct use of hand tools, portable power tools and portable power equipment. The major includes classroom instruction in construction methods, procedures and materials and an introduction to electrical and plumbing and heating principles and methods. Students gain experience with on-campus and off-campus construction projects under the supervision of qualified instructors. The third semester contains an option of home remodeling or commercial construction, depending on student interest.

Career Opportunities

Apprentice carpenters or masons, with advancement possibilities; employment in plants or factories where building units, components or building materials are made or sold.

Recommended High School Subjects

Mathematics; building trades courses are desired, but not necessary.

Remediation Strategies

Students are required to remediate all deficiencies in the first year. The order of remediation should be math, reading, English.

Transfer Procedures

This major is subject to the transfer standards established by the College (see http://www.pct.edu/catalog/TransferringCredits.htm ). Exceptions must be approved by the school dean.

Program Goals

A graduate of this major should be able to:

• practice safe work habits, identify work hazards, demonstrate responsible attitudes, and produce high quality work.
• use of the builder's level, transit, and other measuring devices for site preparation and building layout.
• demonstrate basic knowledge and skills in masonry and concrete construction.
• demonstrate basic knowledge and skills in the installation or exterior siding, roofing, trim and millwork, and building insulation.
• demonstrate basic knowledge and skills in the installation of interior finish, floors, walls, and ceilings.
• demonstrate basic knowledge and skills in the installation of doors and interior trim; build and/or install cabinetwork and finish stairways.
• demonstrate basic knowledge and skills of electrical, plumbing and heating, and other trades related to the building construction industry.
• apply carpentry, masonry, electrical, plumbing, heating, and material salvage skills in home remodeling projects.
• demonstrate and apply construction estimation and project management skills.
• demonstrate the basic manipulative skills needed to layout and plan work.
• interpret plans, drawings, specifications, lines, symbols, and abbreviations on working drawings or blueprints.
• layout and erect residential and light commercial structures.
• prepare preliminary architectural working drawings and sketches.
• describe various types of materials and methods used in the construction trade.
• solve building construction problems using mathematics.
• identify the building codes related to all the various aspects of residential building industry.
• look for, secure, and keep a job; understand the factors involved in self-employment and the importance of customer service; develop and work toward personal goals.

Curriculum

Additional Information

Endorsed by the Pennsylvania Builders Association.