Construction Technology, Certificate

Location(s): Ankeny

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The Construction Technology Level 1 Certificate prepares students with fundamental, hands-on skills essential for an entry-level career in residential construction. This certificate program focuses on practical competency and jobsite readiness. Upon successful completion of this certificate, students will be proficient in multiple skills: Jobsite Safety and Tool Operation, such as operating common power tools safely and recognizing and mitigating typical jobsite hazards; Blueprint Interpretation, including the ability to read blueprints and accurately translate design information into the initial stages of a building project; Material Estimating, such as generating an accurate material take-off for a residential structure; and, Team Project Completion, including successfully participating as a member of a working team to complete a full-scale house build project. This certificate provides a strong foundation for immediate employment and can serve as the first step toward advanced studies in construction management or skilled trades.

Program Details

Locations: Ankeny

Pathway: Building trades and Transportation

Students may start this program Fall semester

Program Graduation Requirements

To earn a Construction Technology, Certificate a student must complete all required coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.

DMACC Important Dates

Important Dates & Deadlines website

Semester 1

CON 108 - Construction Safety Credits: 1
CON 152 - Construction Materials Credits: 2
CON 334 - Construction Techniques Credits: 7
CON 342 - Interior Trim Practices Credits: 3
CON 347 - Concrete Systems and Forming Credits: 3

Total Credits Required to Complete this Award - 16

Fixed Costs

Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$215.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs

	Semester 1	Semester 2	Semester 3	Semester 4	Semester 5
Books (approximate)
Supplies

Approximate total cost for the program: **

**Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?

Measure and cut the materials to proper size and place them.
Construct the framework of buildings, apply sheathing, house wrap, exterior applications and also install interior trim work, as well as cabinetry.
Install windows, interior and exterior doors and stairs.
Apply roofing materials.
Be concerned with the appearance as well as the accuracy of the work.
Build forms needed for concrete slabs, steps and walls.
Read and use tapes, levels and other measuring instruments.
Use a variety of tools including hammers, saws, chisels and planes, as well as power tools such as power saws, drills and air nailers and staplers.
Experience concrete flatwork.

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?

Read and understand blueprints.
Analyze a job, decide what to do, how to do it and what materials and tools to use.
Skillfully use many kinds of hand and power tools.
Climb, stoop, grasp and crouch while working.
Work above the ground without fear.
Have good eye-hand coordination.
Talk about and demonstrate your building trades skills and knowledge.
Punctuality, responsibility and willingness to work with others.
Practice safe work habits as an individual and in a group.
Basic computer skills or a willingness to develop them.

What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?

There may be much satisfaction from producing a finished product. You should be prepared to work outside in good and bad weather.
Your work is often seasonal.
Construction work is sometimes dangerous and often noisy and dirty.
Opportunities for self-employment are very good.
Students must provide their own transportation to the construction sites.
There is a DMACC-Carpenter’s Union Labor agreement that will allow a graduate of the program to drop one year from the apprenticeship program.
Average hourly wage: $22.16 (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Program Competencies

Demonstrate the ability to measure accurately using a tape, speed square and determine plumb and level.
Practice safety procedures on the job site.
Demonstrate the following skills: job seeking, problem-solving, listening, writing, time management, positive interpersonal relationships, punctual and leadership skills.

Competencies revised date

FY2027

Nondiscrimination Statement

It is the policy of Des Moines Area Community College not to discriminate in its programs, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information (in employment) and actual or potential parental, family or marital status. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law.

If you have questions or complaints related to compliance with this policy, please contact Director, Enterprise Risk Management, 2006 South Ankeny Boulevard, Bldg 22, Ankeny, IA 50023, 515-513-0655, feedback@dmacc.edu or the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Cesar E. Chavez Memorial Building, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310, Denver, CO 80204-3582, Telephone: (303) 844-5695 FAX: (303) 844-4303, TDD 800-877-8339 Email: OCR.Denver@ed.gov ₍₂₀₂₆₎