Building Construction

Program Introduction

The Building Construction Technology Program provides a tremendous opportunity for students to investigate their interests in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction  Management.
 
Our "new" innovative program will ensure the basic hand and power tool skills of the Introductory Level 1 Exploring Building Construction Technologies. Students work with the design, construction, and skill application of a quality yard shed. Safety as our primary focus, we forge ahead learning code issues, site preparation, heavy equipment, and foundation masonry skills as we investigate in this initial class.
 
In Structural and Mechanical Building level 2, the students can expect to increase their construction knowledge and skills by focusing on Structural and Mechanical Building Engineering Applications and Technology by framing a small cabin, installing electric, plumbing, and learning the competencies of other trades 
 
The Advanced level 3 classes will finalize  their home building skills by using all advanced tools and building in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity, the Pennsylvania Home Builders Association, and community service learning projects. They will also be involved in a student business model enhancing their business and professional skills with an emphasis on construction business operations, as well as tackling the finishes and application of alternative energy with a focus on Smart Energy and Green building Techniques
 
 
 

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Community Involvement:
 
National Association of Home Builders
Pa. Builders Association
National Association of Home Builders Student Chapter Group
Habitat for Humanity
Corl Street Elementary
Our Lady of victory Pre-School
 
 
 
 
 
State College High School Plant Facilities Projects
Green Building and Builders Show programs, International Builders Show

 
Developed Curriculum:
Entire program revolves around the key integration of the interests of community businesses, NAHB, business models, and the complete construction of a home. All phases of construction are involved in the production of a home, therefore as we learn the details of every trade we apply them while we work in applying those trades in the construction of a home. Every trade interacts with the others and it is vitally important that all students understand and are comfortable with the cooperative "teamwork" of the home building process.

21st Century Educational Model:
Our  Building Construction Technology Program in career technology with its focus as a home building model curriculum could be the poster child for a 21st century educational model. On a daily basis, our educational environment incorporates individual skill training, teamwork and collaborative brainstorming, and technology research and understanding. Our program emphasizes:

Collaboration
Critical thinking
Oral Communications
Written Communications
Technology
Citizenship
Careers
Content
60/40
-ability for students to work in teams in class and in the shop
-students take on complex engineering problems and subjects
-presenting investigative building topics and reading text and current articles
-writing and developing an understanding of building code and theory
-use of current advanced tools, alternative energy, Green Building
-taking on framing for Habitat for Humanity, civic responsibilities, and service learning projects
-learning through work experience, business tours, and global opportunities
-application of all the above within a 60/40 model
-60% content or knowledge and 40% presentation or
application of that knowledge. All students will be
expected to act as professionals and learn how to
present what they know and adhere to the behaviors
and expectations they will encounter in a professional
business environment.

1. Current Advanced Tools:
Nail guns, power tools, excavation equipment, laser transits and more are all tools that are used in todays building market. The understanding of how to use these as well as the actual hands on use of these tools are vital.

2. Direct Involvement with the local chapter of National Association of Home Builders:
The owners of local construction companies are not only going to be the employers of our students but they are at the heartbeat of the local industry. Their knowledge and insight will give our students the edge in the job market. The students have an opportunity to spend a week at the International Builders Show to see the latest and greatest of our industry across the globe.

3. Building Code:
The building code now affects everyone in every phase of engineering, architecture and construction management and the application of all trades center around safe and quality practices. Students are introduced to the International Residential Code with over 400 code requirements touched upon.

4. Green Building:
Energy efficiency is the current and future concern for all aspects of life and starts in the home. Our projects and education will be centered on the developing "green" building techniques and alternative energy and those new applications are constantly being added to the energy code.

5. NAHB Curriculum Resource Texts:
Our reading and trade-based academics are being led by the National Association of Home Builders trade textbooks. All aspects of our academic presentations are based on the outline and years of building trade research of "practical" applications from the industry professionals.

6. House Construction:
As our students learn all phases on how to build a home, they learn by hands on experience models and installing what they are learning of an actual home.

7. 60/40 Model:
60/40 model was developed by the instructor from 25 years of hands on experience in residential and commercial construction. 60% knowledge and 40% delivery of that knowledge. Although it is vitally important to be as knowledgeable as possible in any field (60%) one must also be able to communicate (deliver) that knowledge in a way that allows for integrity, respect, quality teamwork, and safety (40%). We focus on giving our students hands on practical learning experiences while aiding the quality of their character and presentation skills.

"Attitude Is Everything"
Level 1: Hand tool experience, introduction to advanced tools, community
projects, and complete shed construction.
Level 2: Advanced tool skills, engineering application in construction, community projects and Habitat for Humanity Home.
Level 3: Continued advanced tools, community projects, business model curriculum,Green building and Alternative energy application, and Habitat for Humanity Home project.

All levels intensely learn with a primary goal of continued SAFETY.

Advanced Tools: Circular saw, nail guns, screw guns, cut off saw, miter-box, table saw,skid loader, vibra-roller, tamper, backhoe
Last Modified on January 16, 2013