Building a Strong Foundation with a Construction Technology Diploma
Are you looking to start a hands-on, high-demand career in construction? The Construction Technology Diploma at Iowa Lakes provides the technical skills and real-world experience needed to jumpstart your career in just three terms. This fast-track program prepares students for immediate entry into the workforce, equipping them with expertise in framing, roofing, concrete work, and finishing for residential, commercial, and industrial projects.
Train in state-of-the-art construction labs and on active job sites, using professional-grade tools and industry-standard building techniques. With an emphasis on practical application and safety, Iowa Lakes ensures that graduates master essential construction skills while preparing for certifications that enhance job readiness.
Explore career opportunities and industry wage projections through the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Construction and Extraction Occupations Outlook. Ready to start building your career? Connect with an enrollment coach today and take the first step toward a rewarding career in construction!
Find Your It!
Hands-On Training & Career Pathways
Master Essential Construction Skills in Just Three Terms
The Construction Technology Diploma program provides hands-on training in fundamental building techniques, including:
- Blueprint reading and site planning
- Framing, roofing, and exterior finishing
- Concrete work, masonry, and flooring installation
- Workplace safety, OSHA regulations, and construction codes
Advance Your Skills with an AAS Degree
The Construction Technology Diploma program graduates can further expand their expertise by continuing into the Construction Technology AAS Degree. This additional training opens doors to higher-paying roles in construction management, site supervision, and specialized building techniques.
With continued growth in the construction industry, skilled workers are in high demand. Whether you want to work in residential construction, commercial building, or start your own business, Iowa Lakes provides the technical training, real-world experience, and industry certifications to help you build a successful career.
Program Details
Length
3 terms
Degree
Diploma (37 credits)
Campus
Emmetsburg
Your Career Pathway: Additional Degree & Certificate Options
Additional Information
Term 1
CON 113 – Construction Print Reading
Studies the builders’ visual language and communication.
CON 201 – Framing Techniques and Lab I
Basic framing techniques with emphasis on identification and application. Lecture and laboratory.
CON 217 – Exterior Finishing
Exterior finish work on residential and commercial structures. Lecture and laboratory.
CON 218 – Framing Techniques and Lab II
This course covers the framing of a structure including floor systems, exterior and interior bearing/non bearing walls, stairways, roof systems, exterior fascia and soffit framing along with exterior sheathing.
CON 300 – Optimum Value Engineering – Adv. Framing
This course describes and explains advanced framing techniques that are used in high energy efficient framing in residential housing construction. Students will explore and apply ways to frame and finish framing systems that save energy but using proven techniques. Students will also go to current building projects and critique framing methods being used on site.
CON 399 – Concrete Systems & Foundations
This course is designed to have the student work with site prep, plan and on-site building layout, and foundation work along with basement bearing partitions. Also included will be interior and exterior concrete. The student will study slab-on-grade foundations, poured and block foundations, and permanent pressure-treated foundations. Estimating foundation and concrete materials will be covered.
Term 2
COM 723 – Workplace Communications†
Developing skills in reading, writing and listening as they apply to students’ vocational needs.
CON 120 – Construction Estimating
Estimating techniques used at the lumber desk at a retail establishment.
WEL 334 – Trade & Industry Welding
Principles and applications of gas and MIG welding theory, safety and shop practices are covered. Lecture and laboratory.
CON 228 – Methods of Interior Finishing
Covers interior finishing material and its installation in residential and commercial structures. Lecture and laboratory.
CON 429 – Interior Finishes
Covers interior wall coverings and their application as well as thermal and sound insulation. Lecture and laboratory.
CON 430 – Methods of Exterior Finishing
This course is a study of the products used in the exterior covering of a residential project including various types and styles of roofing materials, siding and exterior wall coverings, soffit and fascia materials, flashings, trim and moldings, exterior fasteners, caulks and sealants, and paints and preservatives.
MAT 772 – Applied Math
A course in elementary mathematical skills for technicians. Topics covered include fundamental operations with whole numbers, fractions, decimals and signed numbers; percents; geometric figures and basic constructions; area and volume formulas; English/Metric systems; measurements; and basic algebraic equations and applications.
Choose either CON 120 or WEL 334
Term 3
CON 431 – Construction Internship I
On-the-job training to gain experience in the student’s field of interest.
General Education & Program Learning Outcomes
In the Construction Technology Diploma program at Iowa Lakes, you will learn:1
- Communicate effectively with customers, vendors, employers and employees.
- Interpret building plans.
- Implement building codes.
- Produce a project using various building techniques.
- Operate the tools and equipment necessary for construction processes.
- Demonstrate an ability to work effectively with others.
- Demonstrate a general knowledge of industry safety.
1The What You’ll Learn section of our website provides a description of Learning Outcomes for students who successfully complete all requirements for obtaining a Construction Technology diploma from Iowa Lakes Community College.
Industry Certifications & Specialized Training
To give students a competitive edge, the program includes industry-recognized certifications, preparing you for advanced opportunities in construction leadership, safety compliance, and specialized trades. Certification opportunities may include:
- OSHA 10 & OSHA 30 Safety Certifications
- Forklift and heavy equipment operation
- Construction project management training
Building with Purpose: The House as a System Concept
At Iowa Lakes, the Construction Technology AAS program is built around the House as a System concept—an approach that integrates structural integrity, energy efficiency, sustainability, and modern building techniques to create high-quality, long-lasting structures. This whole-building perspective ensures students gain expertise in how different construction elements—framing, insulation, HVAC, and electrical systems—work together for optimal performance.
Students don’t just learn in a classroom—they build real-world projects every year, ranging from full-sized homes to cabins and specialty structures. Through a partnership with the Emmetsburg Economic Development Corporation, students apply their skills on live job sites, gaining practical experience in new home construction, renovations, and community projects. This hands-on training prepares students for real construction jobs and contributes to the local community’s growth and development.
Hands-On
Training
Career-Ready
Day One
Opportunities, Earnings & Growth
Projected Employment Growth
.4%
Potential Careers
General Contractor, Estimator, Construction Management, Building Inspector, Maintenance, Self Employment, Real Estate, Insurance Adjuster, Carpenter, Foreman, Project Manager
Projected Earnings
Iowa Workforce
$52,957
Average Salary
US Bureau of Labor
$60,970
Average Salary
START YOUR LAKER JOURNEY IN 4 STEPS!
Questions? Let's Talk
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Corey Menning Assistant Professor | Construction Technology 712-852-5341 | cmenning@iowalakes.edu |