Program Synopsis: The Carpentry program at the ACE Center at Highland Springs consists of 2 courses of 3 credits each completed in succession to prepare students for a career in the construction industry. Workplace safety and a variety of construction techniques are taught to provide students a foundation for a job in residential construction.
Carpentry I: The Carpentry I course is designed to provide preparation for entry into the residential construction industry. The course begins with an introduction to all hand tools and power equipment used in the trade, and their safe use and operation. Classroom and laboratory instruction provides the knowledge and practical applications of residential and light commercial construction to include interpretation of material and components, and the general concept of home building. Students will participate in the construction of a house. Students will have the opportunity to earn the 10-hour OSHA certification.
Carpentry II: The second year in Carpentry involves more detailed knowledge and practical experience in all areas of residential construction and renovation. The class also focuses more on material estimation and blueprint reading. Before the student completes the course, he or she also will have prepared a resume and acquired some knowledge about job interviews. Students are also given the opportunity to take the NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) Core Curricula Assessment test which can count as up to two additional verified credits for a total of eight possible credits for completers.
Instructors: Mr. Coker has been a contractor for more than 2 decades.
Desired Aptitudes: Good eyesight, good manual dexterity, and a willingness to work outdoors are essential for a worker to be successful in this trade. Success in math classes is also important.
Employment Outlook (According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition):
|
Occupation |
Job Summary |
Median Salary |
| Carpenters | Carpenters construct and repair building frameworks and structures—such as stairways, doorframes, partitions, and rafters—made from wood and other materials. They also may install kitchen cabinets, siding, and drywall. | $39,530 |
| Construction and Building Inspectors | Construction and building inspectors ensure that new construction, changes, or repairs comply with local and national building codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications. | $52,360 |
| Construction Laborers and Helpers | Construction laborers and helpers do many basic tasks that require physical labor on construction sites. | $28,410 |
| Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers, and Tapers | Drywall and ceiling tile installers hang wallboards to walls and ceilings inside buildings. Tapers prepare the wallboards for painting, using tape and other materials. Many workers do both installing and taping. | $38,290 |
| Roofers | Roofers repair and install the roofs of buildings using a variety of materials, including shingles, asphalt, and metal. | $34,220 |