Construction &
Architecture
Program Description
The Construction Architecture (CA) program offers the skills necessary to enter the residential and light commercial construction and architecture trades. These skills begin with safety and range from hand and power tool use to blueprint reading and creating, to framing and finish carpentry. Participants will gain experience with many of the building components within the fields of Construction and Architecture. Applied academics and workplace skills are an important part of this program and are integrated throughout the year. The curriculum being taught encompasses the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Certification for Core Curriculum: Introductory Craft Skills
Level I
Construction and architecture comprise one of the largest industries in the United States. The Construction and Architecture Level 1 program prepares students with skills related to safety and the basics of construction and architecture, including blueprint reading and basic design. The level 1 program is also designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the different pathways within the construction and architecture field. Upon completion of this course, proficient students will be able to demonstrate knowledge and skill in safety, hand and power tools, basic construction math, blueprints, material handling, and basic work-related skills. Students may be exposed to Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) software to create plans and three-dimensional drawings using industry standard dimensioning and notation. Students will visit local job sites to see the industry in action. Local industry will also be joining the classroom for presentations and observations. Students will begin to develop a physical and electronic portfolio. Students will also have the opportunity to earn several industry-recognized credentials (IRCs) applicable to construction and architecture.
Level II
Construction and architecture comprise one of the largest industries in the United States. The Construction Architecture Level 2 program is designed to build on students’ knowledge of safety, fundamentals, and understanding of the basics of the building and architecture trades. Students will practice and improve proper measurement, accurate assembly, applications of mathematical concepts, material estimating procedures, and safe work practices. Upon completion of the level 2 program, proficient students will demonstrate knowledge and skill in framing, building science, and understanding blueprints.
Students will learn and practice how to frame floors, walls, ceilings, roofs, and stairs while safely employing tools used in the trade. Students may be exposed to Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) software to create plans and three-dimensional drawing using industry standard dimensioning and notation, and connect their drawing layouts to actual models, components, and possibly buildings. Students will visit local job sites to see the industry in action. Local industry will also be joining the classroom for presentations and observations. Second-year students will have the opportunity for work-based learning, with the potential to turn into full-time employment. Students will develop a photo and electronic portfolio. They will have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials (IRCs) applicable to construction and architecture. Students will also be encouraged to join SkillsUSA, and Better Building by Design.
For more detailed information go to our Program of Study.
Industry Recognized Credentials
OSHA 10 Training
NCCER Core Curriculum
Forklift training
First Aid/CPR/AED
Your Instructor
John DiMatteo
I had worked in the field of Residential, Industrial, and Commercial Construction for around twenty-two years prior to working at WRCC. When I saw the job posting for a construction architecture instructor at WRCC in 2017, I saw it as an opportunity to increase the amount of training available for the construction industry in our part of the state as well as giving high school students a solid idea of what the industry could offer them for work and careers.
