The Construction Technology program provides preparation for a wide variety of positions in the construction field as a contractor, supervisor, building inspector or tradesperson. The program offers the opportunity to be self-employed and the pride and satisfaction of creating and building with your own hands.
Certificates of Achievement can be earned in:
- Building Inspection
- Construction Management
- Construction Technology
- Carpentry
- Electrical
- Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning/Refrigeration (HVAC/R)
- Plumbing
- Residential Maintenance
- Solar (Photovoltaics)
- Woodworking
The Associate in Science degree is awarded upon completion of 22.5 semester units in Construction Technology courses and the required general education and elective courses. Transfer to the CSU system for a bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or Industrial Technology is available.
Career Opportunities
Bricklayer, Building Inspector, Cabinetmaker, Carpenter, Construction Accountant, Construction Estimator, Construction Insurance Agent, Construction Law Specialist, Construction Salesperson, Construction Supervisor, Contractor, Cement Mason, Civil Engineer, Electrician, Environmental Construction Specialist, Financial Specialist, Framer, Hazardous Materials Specialist, Heating and Air Conditioning, Engineer, Job Foreman, Materials Engineer, Metal Building Specialist, Painter, Photovoltaic Technician, Plumber, Project Supervisor, Public Works Technician, Purchasing Agent, Safety Specialist, Soils Engineer, Surveyor, Waste Water Specialist, Water Distribution System Specialist.
Faculty
Bonato, Anthony
Parker, Jeffrey
Transfer
Some Construction Technology courses transfer to CSU as electives or may fulfill subject credit requirements. Some students in this program choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Architecture or Engineering. See Architecture and Engineering for transfer requirements for these majors.
CSU Stanislaus, located in the Central Valley not far from the San Francisco Bay area, offers a BS degree in Applied Studies Leadership, to which up to 30 units of VVC’s Construction and Manufacturing Technology courses can be applied. Prerequisites:CIS 101 Computer Literacy, ECON 102 Principles of Economics: Micro, and MATH 120 Introduction to Statistics, plus complete the remaining CSU General Education-Breadth requirements (you can use ECON 102 Principles of Economics: Micro and MATH 120 Introduction to Statistics for both). Visit assist.org for the most up-to-date information.
Programs of Study
- Basic Electrician Technician Certificate of Career Preparation
- Basic Framing and Carpentry Certificate of Achievement
- Basic Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC/R) Service Technician Certificate of Career Preparation
- Basic Residential Maintenance Technician Certificate of Career Preparation
- Basic Woodworking Certificate of Career Preparation
- Building Inspection Certificate of Achievement
- Construction Management Certificate of Achievement
- Construction Technology Certificate of Achievement
- Construction Technology, AS
- Photovoltaic Technician Certificate of Career Preparation
- Plumbing Technician Certificate of Career Preparation
Program Learning Outcomes
Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) are statements of the kind of learning a program hopes a student will achieve. The PLOs describe the knowledge, skills, problem-solving, communication and values that apply to all certificates and/or degrees within that program.
Upon completion of this program, students should be able to:
- Identify procedures and strategies to minimize safety hazards and environmental impact associated with construction and manufacturing projects.
- Properly perform construction and manufacturing trade work following standard industry practice.
- Describe building code and legal requirements associated with construction and manufacturing projects.
Construction Technology Courses
The goal of this course is to communicate the essential skills and knowledge of industrial power truck safety, in order to reduce and minimize the potential for forklift and material handling accidents. The course will cover the O.S.H.A. forklift safety rules, instructional videos, inspection procedures, and a written exam. This course will meet the OSHA required 8 hours of in-person instruction, with the additional hours held online. Two core classes are required to complete a Forklift Operator Certification. Forkift Lecture 010, and concurrent Forklift Lab 020, and/or Lab 030. Labs will cover 5 different classes of powered industrial vehicles.
Lecture Hours: 1.13; Lab Hours: 3.38
Transfer: Not transferable
The goal of this course is to communicate the essential hands-on skills and knowledge of a Class IV: Internal combustion engine trucks (solid/cushion tires), and Class V: Internal combustion engine trucks (pneumatic tires), in order to reduce and minimize the potential for forklift and material handling accidents. The course will cover the O.S.H.A. forklift operating rules, operational videos, inspection procedures, and a practical exam. This course will meet the OSHA required 8 hours of in-person instruction.
Lecture Hours: 1.13; Lab Hours: 3.38
Transfer: Not transferable
This course provides training for the Construction Industry that teaches construction workers how to identify, abate, avoid, and prevent job-related hazards. Workers also learn about their rights, employer responsibilities, and how to file a complaint. Students will earn an OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health completion card.
Lecture Hours: 13.5
Transfer: Not transferable
This course teaches students the fundamentals of low voltage systems installation. Subjects include installation of the following: fire alarms, communications, security, data, video, and building automation systems. This course can lead to employment as a low voltage technician.
Lecture Hours: 13.5; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Not transferable
This is a variable unit (1-4) laboratory class to provide advanced skill development in the following areas: electrical wiring, finish carpentry, heating and air conditioning, framing, plumbing and concrete and masonry construction.Students will complete 48-54 hours per unit of projects over the course of the class.
Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Not transferable
A laboratory class to provide additional skill development in the following areas: electrical wiring, finish carpentry, heating and air conditioning, framing, plumbing and concrete and masonry construction. Students will complete contract projects.
Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Not transferable
A laboratory class to provide additional skill development in the following areas: electrical wiring, finish carpentry, heating and air conditioning, framing, plumbing and concrete and masonry construction.
Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Not transferable
A laboratory class to provide advanced skill development in the following areas: electrical wiring, finish carpentry, heating and air conditioning, framing, plumbing and concrete and masonry construction. CSU
Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Not transferable
This noncredit course will cover the significant changes to the National Electric Code (NEC) as adopted by the State of California. This course is for building inspectors, electricians, and others who must comply with building codes as established by the NEC.
Lecture Hours: 9.0
Transfer: Not transferable
A foundational Construction course that prepares students for further Construction education and training. Topics include: tool safety and use, construction drawings, math, safety, and basic employability skills. Students who successfully complete CT 90 and CT 91 earn the Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (MC3) Certification for Pre-Apprenticeship, a national construction union certification.
Lecture Hours: 54.0; Lecture Hours: 3.38
Transfer: Not transferable
Lab and skill performance companion to CT 90, prepares students for further Construction education and training. Topics include: tool safety and use, construction drawings, math, safety, and basic employability skills. Students who complete both CT 90 and CT 91 earn the Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (MC3) Pre-Apprenticeship certification.
Co-requisite(s): CT 90
Lab Hours: 108.0
Transfer: Not transferable
This course is designed to provide the construction and manufacturing technology student with information and skills necessary to understand current job market needs and prepare a successful educational plan to obtain their desired goals. Students will develop an awareness of occupations and develop skills for seeking employment and completing job applications, resumes and interviews. CSU
Lecture Hours: 27.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Principles of management as they specifically relate to the construction industry. This course explores the relationship and importance of proper planning, estimating, contracting, financing and building. Also covered are leadership and supervisory skills and employer/employee relationship and safety.
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Principles of contracting, real estate and construction law. Course includes legal aspects of building codes, contractors licenses, workmen's compensation, social security, state safety regulations and lien laws as they apply to the construction trade.
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
A course designed to develop sketching skills and introduce sketching techniques currently used in the construction, industrial and architectural fields. Course will include principals of oblique, isometric and perspective sketching including shading and shadows. CSU
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
A study of common materials used in residential and commercial construction. Course includes use and limitations of soil, paving materials, concrete, lumber, wall materials, roofing, insulation, siding, sheet material, electrical and plumbing materials and fixtures. This course will also explore the use of steel, aluminum and plastics in modern construction.
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Review of basic arithmetic, fractions, decimals and percentages. Introduction to basic algebra and trigonometry as they apply to manufacturing and construction trades.
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This course introduces the basic issues and concepts of construction finance. Course examines the procedures for evaluation of all types of real estate credit and is designed to enable borrowers to utilize their resources to obtain financing.
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Use of the International Building Code and the various related state and local ordinances for plan checking and building compliance. Course includes a basic understanding of building codes and zoning as they apply to the construction and inspection of residential and light commercial buildings.
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
The first of a two part, in-depth study of the contents and applications of the Uniform Building Code and California amendments with emphasis on residential construction. Course includes building classifications by occupancy and type, engineering regulations and design requirements applicable to plan checking and structural building inspection.
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
An in-depth study of the International Building Code and California amendments with emphasis on commercial applications. Course includes energy conservation standards, specialized commercial structures, public safety and standards for handicapped accessibility. CSU
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This class is an indepth study of the contents and applications of the Uniform Mechanical Code. Course covers the use of this code for plan checks and inspection of residential and commerical structures.
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This course is an indepth study of the contents and applications of the Uniform Plumbing Code. Course includes underground and above ground water, gas and air pipe installations for residential and commercial structures. CSU
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This class is an in-depth study of the contents and applications of the National Electrical Code. Course covers the use of the Code for plan checks and inspection of residential and commercial structures. Plan reading, electrical theory, wiring methods and installation of electrical components and fixtures are also included. CSU
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Office organization, procedures and necessary paperwork pertinent to building and safety office management and inspection. Field inspection for completed buildings, zoning, health and safety ordinance applications. Course includes several field trips.
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Covers OSHA policies, procedures, and standards, as well as safety for general industry and health principles. Topics include scope and application of the OSHA general industry standards. Special emphasis is placed on those areas that are the most hazardous, using OSHA standards as a guide. Upon successful course completion, the student will receive either an OSHA 10 or 30 hour general industry or construction industry training completion card. 36 hours lecture.
Lecture Hours: 36.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This course is designed to develop the skills necessary to visualize and correctly interpret drawings, diagrams, blueprints, and schematics common to the electrical industry. Course includes branch and feeder circuit design and load calculations as they apply to residential, multi-family, commercial and industrial applications.
Lecture Hours: 27.0; Lab Hours: 27.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Theory, procedure and techniques for electrical wiring of residential and light commercial construction. Topic areas include blueprint reading, power panels, wire sizing, conduit bending and installation, pulling and installation of wires, lighting and plug circuitry, designated circuits, underground and swimming pool wiring.
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 108.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Learn the techniques necessary for commercial wiring. Size conductors for motor, intermittent and continuous loads. Wire for single and three phase services. Course includes wiring techniques common to commercial applications, running circuits with flex, electrical metallic tubing, rigid and liquid tight conduits and use of common conductors, cables, boxes and raceways. Includes transformer and motor load calculations, starters and over current protection devices.
Prerequisite(s): CT 120A, Minimum grade C
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 108.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Course covers use of hand and machine woodworking tools and techniques common to finish carpentry and cabinet making. Students will develop skill in safe and efficient operation of common tools, layout, cutting, assembly and finish of woodworking projects.
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 108.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This course provides instruction for layout, installation and repair of common residential and light commercial heating and air conditioning systems. Heating and air conditioning theory and energy calculations will be treated in detail. Course also includes use of solar energy for heating and cooling.
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 108.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Explore the more complex commercial and industrial uses of refrigeration, heating and air conditioning. Course covers installation and repair of the most common commercial refrigeration systems found in the food industry and industrial and manufacturing environments. Also included are computer controlled and central plant environmental systems, high and low pressure chillers, cooling towers and air handlers.
Prerequisite(s): CT 122A, Minimum grade C
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 108.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This course explores electrical and mechanical circuitry fundamentals, along with theory, operation and application of heat pump systems used in residential and light commercial heating installations including the heat pump refrigeration cycle, reversing valves, defrost methods of supplemental heat, balance point, air flow, and heat pump thermostats.
Lecture Hours: 54.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
A course designed to explore the principles and applications of surveying. Students will develop skill in the operation of surveying equipment used for measuring, leveling and locating of points. Course includes surveying techniques common to building and highway construction, general land surveying, hydrographic surveys and photogrammetric mapping.
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 108.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This course provides instruction for layout and installation of residential and light commercial plumbing systems and fixtures. Rough and finish stages of plumbing will be introduced and students will become familiar with reading plans and calculating and constructing the plumbing system.
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 108.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Course covers use of hand and machine tools and techniques common to residential and light commercial concrete and masonry construction. Plan reading, layout, forming, pouring of concrete, tilt-up and various finishing techniques will be introduced. Course also includes construction with brick, stone, concrete block, and other masonry shapes. CSU
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 108.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Grade Option. This course includes techniques used for construction of brick and block walls, decorative brick patios, planter edging and concrete slabs, curbs and walks. Class covers information on concrete and mortar mixes and proper forming, pouring and finishing of concrete slab wall footings.
Lecture Hours: 18.0; Lab Hours: 27.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Course covers use of hand and machine tools and techniques common to rough carpentry and residential and light commercial framing. Students will develop skill in safe and efficient operation of common tools, layout techniques, cutting and assembly of wall, ceiling and roof framing, and installing sheathing and insulation. CSU
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 108.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Grade Option. Learn the skills and techniques necessary for remodeling of structures. Course includes project planning, estimation and layout. Gain experience in framing, plumbing, electrical, dry wall, floor and wall finishing and concrete with projects that include patio and deck construction, room additions and kitchen and bathroom remodeling.
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This course is designed to introduce the student to the potentials of the computer as it directly applies to the construction industry. Course includes instruction and practice in the following common program types: operating system, word processing, presentation, spreadsheet, e-mail, web-page design, publishing, estimation, and introductory computer aided drafting.
Lecture Hours: 54.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Learn how to bid accurately and profitably. Course will teach you how to account for materials, labor, taxes, insurance, overhead, and profits across various trades in preparing winning estimates. Speed up your estimating process and increase your accuracy using today's leading construction estimation software. Estimating software allows take-offs using quick, single and assembly methods to meet your particular estimating needs.
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Learn how to speed up your estimating process and increase your accuracy using today's leading construction estimation software. Estimating software allows take-off using quick, single and assembly methods. Course includes development and maintenance of your database. Create your own crews, add-ons, formulas and assemblies to meet your particular estimating needs.
Lecture Hours: 36.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This course explores electrical fundamentals common to the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration fields. Course includes electrical theory, control circuitry and electronics, system supply circuitry and alternating and direct current troubleshooting. CSU
Lecture Hours: 54.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This course explores methods of generation and use of renewable energy. Topics include renewable fueld based generators, fuel cells, wave and tidal generation, geothermal, wind turbines, photovoltaic, barometric pressure, and hydroelectric generation. Course also covers active and pasive solar heating and cooling, alternate fueled vehicles and electric transportation.
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This course explores using photovoltaic technology to generate electricity for various applications: residential, remote, portable,auxiliary, or mobile.
Co-requisite(s): CT 142
Lecture Hours: 18.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This course explores using solar thermal technology for various applications including passive/active heating/cooling and generating electricity. CSU
Co-requisite(s): CT 142
Lecture Hours: 18.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This course explores renewable energy with a focus on wind electrical generation through the completion of actual projects.
Co-requisite(s): CT 142
Lecture Hours: 18.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This course explores using alternative fuels for transportation, heating systems, and generating electricity through the construction of an actual project.
Co-requisite(s): CT 142
Lecture Hours: 18.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Residential Solar Industry preparation: PV system components/function, building codes, sizing/design, and solar principles. Lab: design, safely install, and trouble-shoot multiple systems.
Lecture Hours: 72.0; Lab Hours: 108.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
A foundational construction course that prepares students for further construction education and training. Topics include: tool safety and use, construction drawings, math, safety, and basic employability skills. Students who complete the course can test to be certified in the Core Curriculum of the National Center for Construction Education and Research, a national construction certification. CSU
Lecture Hours: 54.0; Lab Hours: 108.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Construction Technology Manufacturing Courses
This noncredit woodworking class covers safety, the composition of wood and its characteristics, design and sketching, project planning, measuring and cutting, use of large and small power tools, and general woodworking techniques.
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Not transferable
This is noncredit woodturning course provides the information and skills necessary to successfully design, turn and finish typical woodturning projects. Course includes lathe, spindle, faceplate and drive chuck turning. Students will complete a variety of projects that can include pens and pencils, games and toy pieces, decorations, lamps, spindles, bowls and boxes.
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Not transferable
This course is designed to give the woodworking student an in-depth knowledge of common woodworking tools and equipment. Students will explore the safety, use and maintenance of saws, lathes, routers, planers, jointers, sanders and common power and hand tools used for basic woodworking projects.
Lecture Hours: 36.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This is a beginning woodworking class. Topics covered include safety, tools, the composition of wood and its characteristics, beginning design and sketching, project planning, measuring and cutting, use of large and small power tools, and general woodworking techniques. Students will be expected to complete multiple projects as part of their grade.
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This is an intermediate woodworking class. Topics include safety, tools, the composition of wood and its characteristics, finishing, intermediate design and sketching, and project planning. Students will generate shop drawings adequate to build the project. Students will measure, cut, and use power tools and general woodworking techniques.
Prerequisite(s): CTMF 121A, Minimum grade C
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This is an advanced course in fine woodworking using techniques common to custom wood products, furniture making and wood art. Learn the artisan's techniques for wood joining, carving, turning and finishing by completing various wood projects. Course includes a study of common woods, tools and methods for shaping and finishing.
Prerequisite(s): CTMF 121B, Minimum grade C
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
The second advanced course in fine woodworking using techniques common to custom wood products to learn the artisan's techniques for wood joining, carving, and finishing. CSU
Prerequisite(s): CTMF 121C, Minimum grade C
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Come develop your skills and learn the methods and procedures necessary for completing an advanced woodworking project. One specific advanced woodworking project is selected as the focus for each semester. Check with the Construction Technology department for the current project. Course may also include specialized techniques of turning, marquetry, parquetry, carving and intarsia. Grade option.
Prerequisite(s): CTMF-121A
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This introductory course will provide the woodworking student with information and skills necessary to successfully design, turn and finish typical woodturning projects. Course includes lathe, spindle, faceplate and drive chuck turning. Students will complete a variety of projects that can include pens and pencils, games and topy pieces, decorations, lamps, spindles, bowls and boxes.
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This advanced woodturning course includes green, seasoned and laminated wood and acrylic projects. Students will explore turning of large bowls and platters, maintaining natural edges, turning burls, proper box and lid construction, off center turning, chatter finishes and construction of tuning fixtures, centers and drives. Grade option.
Prerequisite(s): CTMF-129A
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Construction Technology Maintenance Courses
This class covers all major aspects of preventative maintenance and repair for residential and light commercial buildings. Topics covered include but are not limited to repairing roofing, plumbing, electrical, framing, installation, drywall, painting, concrete, flooring, safety, tools, heating and cooling, etc., as they apply to the maintenance and repair industry.
Lecture Hours: 54.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This class covers most aspects of residential and light commercial plumbing repair. Topics covered include but are not limited to plumbing tools, water supply systems, drainage systems, drainage problems, faucets and valves, piping, soldering and threading, water heating systems, plumbing fixtures, pricing, billing, and inventory management as they apply to the plumbing repair business.
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
This class covers most aspects of residential and light commercial electrical repair. Topics covered include but are not limited to electrical tools, electrical theory, wiring systems, electrical materials, electrical services, trouble shooting electric circuits, low voltage circuits, appliances and motors, and mathematics for electricians.
Lecture Hours: 36.0; Lab Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Construction Technology Public Works Courses
Plan reading for the construction of water, sewers, storm drain, and sewage facility projects. Basic survey methods, symbols, mathematical conversions, and determination of slope and grade. CSU
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Water distribution systems operation. Fundamentals of water production, quality, and system operation. Includes piping, services, pumps, reservoirs, mathematics, and basic hydraulics. Preparation for Grades I and II Water Distribution Operator Certification. CSU
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Methods used in collection of solid waste materials. Includes equipment, scheduling, and customer relations. Ultimate disposal of solid waste matter as well as projections concerning future collection and disposal operations. Special emphasis on municipal resource recovery, salvaging, and recycling.
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
A comprehensive examination of wastewater operations, impact of waste contributions from home and industry, effects of wastewater treatment, water reclamation and by-product disposal. CSU
Lecture Hours: 54.0
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only