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 (AAS) 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
 |
Corey Menning Assistant Professor | Construction Technology 712-852-5341 | cmenning@iowalakes.educreate new email |
Program Details
Did You Know?
Curriculum
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.
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
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.
Prerequisites: Appropriate placement score
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.
† indicates a course that fulfills the diversity requirement. This course may also fulfill another general AA requirement.
