Carpentry

Freshman Program

This introductory carpentry course provides students with a strong foundation in woodworking skills and safety practices.

Core Topics:

Safety:

• Importance of safety in the shop environment
• Personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Tool safety and maintenance
• Emergency procedures

Hand Tool Skills:

• Using hand tools (saws, hammers, chisels, planes)
• Measuring and marking techniques
• Woodworking joints (mortise and tenon, dovetail, etc.)

Power Tool Operations:

• Safe operation of power tools (saws, drills, sanders, routers)
• Tool maintenance and sharpening
• Understanding tool capabilities and limitations

Blueprint Reading and Interpretation:

• Reading and interpreting basic blueprints and drawings
• Understanding dimensions, tolerances, and symbols
• Creating simple shop drawings

Woodworking Projects:

• Building various woodworking projects (e.g., boxes, shelves, furniture)
• Applying woodworking techniques and skills
• Finishing techniques (sanding, staining, painting)

Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD/CAM):

• Use basic CAD/CAM software
• Basic CNC machine operation

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Use hand and power tools safely and effectively.
• Read and interpret blueprints and drawings.
• Apply woodworking techniques to create various projects.
• Understand the principles of design and construction.

This course provides a solid foundation for further studies in carpentry and related fields. Students will develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the construction industry.

Sophomore Program

This course is designed to expand upon the foundational carpentry skills acquired in Grade 9. Students will delve into advanced techniques, including woodworking lathe operation, cabinetry construction, countertop fabrication (both laminate and solid surface), interior trim installation, interior finishing, and architectural millwork.

Core Competencies

• Technical Skills:
  • Mastery of hand and power tool operation
  • Proficiency in CNC router operation with AlphaCam software and Cabinet Vision
  • Skillful execution of carpentry projects aligned with the Career Connections Project Book 2 and Massachusetts 2017 VTE Carpentry Frameworks
• Safety Practices:
  • Adherence to OSHA 10 Construction safety standards
• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking:
  • Ability to interpret architectural drawings and blueprints
  • Effective planning and execution of carpentry projects

Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate proficiency in advanced woodworking techniques.
• Safely operate a variety of hand and power tools, including CNC routers.
• Interpret and apply architectural drawings and blueprints.
• Plan, layout, and construct complex carpentry projects.
• Develop strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Prepare for entry into a carpentry apprenticeship program.

Certification and Career Pathways

Successful completion of this course, including a written exam, will result in the issuance of an OSHA 10 Construction card and eligibility for the Carpenters Union Apprenticeship Program.

Sophomore Related 2

Basic Builders Math

This course provides a comprehensive foundation in the mathematical principles underlying residential construction. By exploring core concepts in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, students develop the skills necessary to tackle a wide range of construction challenges.

Key Topics:

• Blueprint Interpretation: Students learn to decipher architectural and engineering drawings, including floor plans, elevations, and cross-sections.
• Measurement and Estimation: Accurate measurement and estimation techniques are essential in construction. Students practice calculating areas, volumes, and dimensions of various construction elements.
• Material Science and Cost Estimation: The course covers the properties, applications, and costs of common construction materials, such as wood, concrete, steel, and masonry.
• Structural Principles: Understanding structural elements like beams, columns, and foundations is crucial. Students explore concepts of load-bearing capacity, stress, and strain.
• Practical Problem-Solving: Through real-world exercises and case studies, students apply mathematical principles to solve construction-related problems.

By the end of the course, students will be well-prepared for further education or entry-level positions in the residential construction industry. The emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and practical application equips students with the skills needed to succeed in this field.

Junior Program

This foundational course provides students with a strong understanding of residential construction principles and safety practices.

Key Topics:

• Safety:
  • Safety regulations and standards
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Tool safety and maintenance
  • Ladder and scaffold safety
• Tool Usage:
  • Hand tools (hammers, saws, chisels, planes)
  • Power tools (drills, saws, routers)
• Blueprint Reading:
  • Interpreting architectural drawings and blueprints
  • Understanding symbols, dimensions, and specifications
• Building Materials:
  • Types of wood (lumber, plywood, MDF)
  • Fasteners (nails, screws, bolts)
  • Building hardware (hinges, locks, handles)
• Construction Techniques:
  • Measuring and marking techniques
  • Cutting and joining techniques (sawing, drilling, routing)
  • Assembly techniques (nailing, screwing, bolting)
  • Finishing techniques (sanding, staining, painting)
• Building Codes and Standards:
  • Understanding building codes and regulations
  • Energy-efficient construction practices

Hands-on Projects:

• Simple Projects: Building small projects like birdhouses, toolboxes, and shelves.
• Framing Projects: Constructing wall and roof frames for model houses and sheds.
• Finishing Projects: Applying finishes to projects, such as staining, painting, and varnishing.

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Use hand and power tools safely and effectively.
• Read and interpret blueprints and drawings.
• Apply basic carpentry techniques.
• Understand building codes and safety regulations.
• Communicate effectively with others in the construction industry.

This course provides a solid foundation for further studies in carpentry and prepares students for entry-level positions in the construction industry.

Junior Related 2

Applied Technical Math I for Carpentry

This course provides a solid foundation in the mathematical principles essential for success in the residential construction industry. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications, students will develop the skills needed to solve construction-related problems, estimate material quantities, and understand building codes and standards.

Key Topics:

Fundamental Mathematics Review:

• Arithmetic operations
• Algebraic equations
• Geometric concepts (angles, triangles, circles)
• Trigonometric functions (sine, cosine, tangent)

Blueprint Reading and Interpretation:

• Understanding architectural drawings and blueprints
• Identifying symbols, dimensions, and specifications
• Extracting relevant information for construction purposes

Measurement and Estimation:

• Units of measurement (imperial and metric)
• Converting between units
• Calculating areas, volumes, and perimeters
• Estimating material quantities (lumber, concrete, drywall)

Construction Materials and Costs:

• Properties of construction materials (wood, steel, concrete)
• Material selection and pricing
• Estimating project costs based on material quantities and labor hours

Structural Principles:

• Load-bearing capacity of structural elements
• Stress and strain analysis
• Foundation design and construction
• Framing techniques (walls, floors, roofs)
• Building codes and regulations

Practical Applications:

• Problem-solving: Applying mathematical principles to solve real-world construction problems.
• Material Take-offs: Calculating material quantities for construction projects.
• Cost Estimating: Estimating project costs based on material and labor costs.
• Building Code Calculations: Verifying compliance with building codes and standards.
• Construction Drawings: Creating and interpreting construction drawings.

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Read and interpret blueprints accurately.
• Perform calculations related to construction projects.
• Estimate material quantities and project costs.
• Understand the principles of structural design.
• Apply mathematical concepts to real-world construction scenarios.

This course provides a strong foundation in construction mathematics, preparing students for further education or careers in the construction industry.

Senior Program

This senior-level carpentry course focuses on advanced techniques and skills required for commercial construction.

Key Areas of Focus:

Interior Construction:

• Drywall Installation: Techniques for hanging, taping, and finishing drywall.
• Metal Framing: Installing metal studs and tracks for walls and ceilings.
• Acoustical Ceiling Installation: Installing acoustic ceiling tiles and grids.
• Commercial Door and Frame Installation: Installing commercial doors and frames.
• Interior Trim: Installing baseboards, moldings, and other interior trim.

Exterior Construction:

• Siding Installation: Installing various types of siding (vinyl, fiber cement, wood).
• Trim Work: Installing exterior trim, such as window and door trim, fascia, and soffit.
• Roofing: Understanding roofing systems and installation techniques.

Construction Estimating and Project Management:

• Reading Blueprints: Interpreting architectural drawings and specifications.
• Estimating Materials: Calculating material quantities for construction projects.
• Project Scheduling: Planning and scheduling construction projects.
• Cost Estimating: Estimating labor and material costs.

Hands-On Experience:

• On-Site Projects: Participating in real-world construction projects.
• Shop Projects: Building and assembling components in a controlled shop environment.
• Industry Certifications: Preparing for and obtaining industry certifications (e.g., OSHA 10-hour, OSHA 30-hour).

By the end of this course, students will be well-prepared for careers in the construction industry. They will have the skills and knowledge to work as carpenters, construction foremen, or project managers. Additionally, the course will provide a solid foundation for further education in construction management or engineering.

Senior Related 2

Carpentry Technology – Elective

The Senior Carpentry Technology class provides a comprehensive theoretical foundation in carpentry and construction principles. This course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the field.

Key Topics:

• Blueprint Reading: Students develop the ability to interpret architectural and engineering drawings, understanding symbols, dimensions, and construction details.
• Building Codes and Regulations: Students learn about local, state, and national building codes and regulations, ensuring compliance and safety in construction projects.
• Construction Materials and Techniques: Students explore the properties, applications, and techniques for working with various construction materials, including wood, metal, concrete, and composites.
• Safety Procedures: Safety is emphasized throughout the course, with instruction on proper tool usage, hazard identification, and emergency procedures.
• Tool Usage and Maintenance: Students gain proficiency in using a variety of hand and power tools, as well as learning proper maintenance techniques.
• Estimation and Cost Analysis: Students develop skills in estimating material quantities, calculating project costs, and analyzing cost-effectiveness.
• Sustainability and Green Building Practices: Students explore environmentally friendly construction techniques and sustainable material choices.

Certifications

• OSHA 10-hour Construction Safety and Health training and certificate
• 1 year credit towards the 3 year (minimum employment) requirement needed to take the CSL, Construction Supervisors License Exam
• 3 certificate towards a 1 year apprenticeship credit in the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners (students will enter the union as a second year apprentice).

Post-Secondary Education

• Architecture
• Design
• Civil Engineering
• Carpenters Union
• Apprenticeship Training Center
• Construction Management