Construction Technology
Prepare for a variety of careers in a field that is projected to keep growing, with our dual-track Construction Technology program. Whether you choose to work as a construction superintendent, estimator or home energy auditor, you’ll establish a foundational skill-set and get real work experience right here at Iowa Lakes.
Through off-campus job opportunities, like designing and building a home from the ground up or working on home additions, you’ll have the chance to learn about concrete and foundations, framing, exterior finishing, roofing, drywall, energy efficient construction practices, the building envelope and finish carpentry. Since our program has a strong emphasis on energy efficient construction, you’ll become familiar with the “house-as-a-system” concept and “green” building techniques.
Get your hands on our Energy Auditor-approved tools, including infrared thermal imaging cameras, blower door testers, duct testers and other various metering tools. Develop competence in using these tools to assess a home’s energy efficiency.
In just one year, you’ll earn your diploma and a skill-set that gives you an edge in the employment market. If you dream of running your own construction business or you simply want to have more career options available, enroll in the two-year program to earn an Associate in Applied Science degree. In the second year, you’ll build on what you’ve already learned by studying more business and accounting practices, gaining more advanced computer skills, and learning management and other valuable skills needed for supervisory positions or self-employment in the construction industry. You’ll also get more experience with advanced estimating, home design and CAD operation.
The best part is you can pursue your degree while continuing to work in the field and fine-tune your skills. You’ll have more opportunity in the second year to customize your schedule and classes to fit your needs.
Faculty Contact
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Corey Menning Assistant Professor | Construction Technology 712-852-5341 | cmenning@iowalakes.educreate new email |
Program Details
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Curriculum
Term 1
CON 113 – Construction Print Reading
Studies the builders’ visual language and communication.
CON 195 – Foundations and Concrete
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.
CON 201 – Framing Techniques and Lab I
Basic framing techniques with emphasis on identification and application. 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 217 – Exterior Finishing
Exterior finish work on residential and commercial structures. Lecture and laboratory.
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.
HSC 134 – First Aide/CPR
Emergency care for the injured. Airway management, hemorrhage control, care for shock victims, CPR/lifesaving skills.
Grading: P/Q
Term 2
CON 106 – Construction Welding
Welding techniques applicable to the construction trade.
CON 120 – Construction Estimating
Estimating techniques used at the lumber desk at a retail establishment.
CON 238 – Techniques of Exterior Covering
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 preservations.
COM 725 – Workplace Communications Essentials
Refining of skills in reading, writing and listening as they apply to the student’s vocational needs.
ENG 105 – Composition I
Emphasis on expository and argumentative writings including a review of usage and mechanics.
Prerequisites: Satisfactory score on the ACT, Accuplacer, ASSET,COMPASS as determined by Iowa Lakes policy
CON 228 – Methods of Interior Finishing
Covers interior finishing material and its installation in residential and commercial structures. Lecture and laboratory.
CON 229 – Install of Interior Finishing
Covers interior wall coverings and their application as well as thermal and sound insulation. Lecture and laboratory.
BUS 161 – Human Relations†
Students are given the opportunity to apply human relations concepts and evaluate experience and observations. Social skills required in various occupational settings will be developed, emphasizing how appropriate personal attitudes lead to social and business success.
MAT 770 – Applied Math
A review of whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percentages, linear and angular measurements and common formulas used in each particular industry.
Prerequisites: Appropriate placement score
Choose either CON 106 or CON 120
Choose either COM 725 or ENG 105
Term 3
CON 431 – Construction Internship I
On-the-job training to gain experience in the student’s field of interest.
Term 4
CON 932 – Internship
The Construction Internship II provides on the job training for area of student interest. This course will have a manager’s or supervisor’s emphasis with job shadowing and leadership skills the main focus. Students will be required to document their time and discuss with instructor during scheduled meetings.
SPC 101 – Fundamentals of Oral Communication†
The fundamentals course develops the basic skills involved in a variety of communication situations, including oral presentations and interpersonal speaking. Emphasis is placed on organization, audience analysis, vocal and physical delivery, listening, nonverbal communication, critical thinking, and methods of dealing with communication apprehension through class discussion and activities.
Term 5
ACC 111 – Intro to Accounting
Introduces the basic principles of accounting and the recoding of simple business transactions using the double entry system. Includes the accounting procedures of journalizing transactions, posting to the ledger, making a trial balance, creating receipt and disbursement of cash.
CON 351 – Computer Generated Blueprint and Design
This course is an overview of basic computer aided residential construction drafting and design. It explores concepts, issues and methods in computer-aided design. Emphasis is placed on the creation of two-dimensional as well as three-dimensional models using the design program.
CSC 110 – Intro to Computers
CSC-110 is an introductory course that surveys a variety of topics to include history, hardware, software, terminology, communications, computer ethics, and societal impact of computers. In addition to computer literacy, students will complete hands-on modules using operating systems, word processing, database, presentation, and spreadsheet software; such as Microsoft Office programs.
† indicates a course that fulfills the diversity requirement. This course may also fulfill another general AA requirement.
