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

PROGRAM LENGTH: 3 terms

DEGREE: Diploma (38 credits)

CAMPUS: Emmetsburg

Internship/Practicum

Did You Know?

Starting Salary $28,860 | Average Salary: $46,590

Projected Employment Growth: 8%

Accreditation: National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)

Special Certifications Available

Curriculum

Term 1

Credits: 2

Studies the builders’ visual language and communication.


Credits: 2

Basic framing techniques with emphasis on identification and ap­plication. Lecture and laboratory.


Credits: 3

Exterior finish work on residential and commercial structures. Lecture and laboratory.


Credits: 4

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.


Credits: 1

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.


Credits: 4

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.


Credits: 1

Emergency care for the injured. Airway management, hemorrhage control, care for shock victims, CPR/lifesaving skills.

Grading: P/Q


Term 2

Credits: 3

Developing skills in reading, writing and listening as they apply to students’ vocational needs.


Credits: 1

Estimating techniques used at the lumber desk at a retail estab­lishment.


Credits: 2

Principles and applications of gas and MIG welding theory, safety and shop practices are covered. Lecture and laboratory.


Credits: 3

Covers interior finishing material and its installation in residential and commercial structures. Lecture and laboratory.


Credits: 2

Covers interior wall coverings and their application as well as thermal and sound insulation. Lecture and laboratory.


Credits: 3

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.


Credits: 3

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

Credits: 6

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.