Program Description
Peninsula College’s Construction Technology program is an important component to the college’s commitment to workforce training in sustainable industries. The certificate in Construction Technology offers a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for employment in sustainable green construction trades, alternative building materials and methods and construction management. Foundation classes cover basic woodworking, foundations framing, roof systems and alternative energy. Core courses teach students green building concepts and design, engineered building materials, blueprint reading and alternative building methods. Capstone classes include jobsite management, construction leadership and estimation. Instruction consists of classroom presentations, hands-on training in lab settings and online learning modules.
Program Length: 3 Quarters
Program Code: CARCTC45
Career Opportunities and Earnings
Graduates of the Construction Technology program may find entry-level positions in residential and small commercial carpentry businesses and other related companies. Some graduates may elect to start their own green-based building business. The demand for carpenters with these skills is expected to increase over the next decade.
- Cabinetmaker
- Carpenter
- Construction management
- Form builder
- Framer
For current employment and wage estimates, please visit and search for the relevant occupational term: bls.gov/oes.
Program Outcomes
When this program is completed, the student will be able to:
- Use hand tools and power machinery safely
- Perform all aspects of basic carpentry
- Perform an energy analysis on an existing structure
- Work in teams to plan and build carpentry projects
Approximate Additional Costs
- Books, supplies and miscellaneous fees (per quarter): $150
- Tools and equipment: Most tools are provided. Students may choose to purchase their own tools and equipment at their own expense. Costs vary, but may be $300 or more.
- Tuition and fees: $5,631.48 total based on 2024-25 WA resident tuition rates (additional fees may apply)
- First quarter (12 credits): $1,572.32
- Second quarter (18 credits): $2,029.58
- Third quarter (18 credits): $2,029.58
Sample Schedule
This sample schedule is provided as a guide for a full-time student starting in fall quarter whose goal is to earn a certificate. The typical student schedule is based on entering the program during the fall quarter, however some programs allow students to enter in the winter or spring as well. Since not all do, please confirm with an advisor whether this program must be started during a specific quarter or not.
First Quarter (Fall)
Introduction to woodworking tools, materials, hand and power tools used in residential and commercial jobsites. Overview of the woodworking industry, safety and building materials. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly GRBD 101)
Credits: 3
This class introduces students to the beginning carpentry phases of conventional stick frame residential and light commercial construction. Learn International Building Codes as they apply to foundations and framing. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly GRBD 106)
This class has a $65 construction technology course fee.
Credits: 5
Prepares individuals to perform basic first aid procedures in cases of emergencies. Learn how to prevent accidents in the home and on the job. Adult CPR. Provides two-year certification. This class may include students from multiple sections.
This class has a $135.72 first aid course fee.
Credits: 1
Survey of workplace skills, including communication, team building, problem solving, and leadership. Emphasis on concepts of perception, attitude, motivation, and ethics.
Credits: 3
Second Quarter (Winter)
Students will explore the art of creating finished pieces and establishing a career in the woodworking industry. This class covers advanced woodworking, cabinet making, and Labor and Industry guidelines for shop floor plans and walkways. Students will construct using jogs and templates. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly GRBD 102)
This class has a $65 construction technology course fee.
Credits: 5
Introduction on how to read and use blueprints to construct residential and commercial structures. Course emphasis will be on learning to read blueprints and how to apply different types of foundations, framing, and interior and exterior finishes. Learn how building codes apply to various stages of construction. This is one of the required courses for the Carpentry one-year certificate. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly GRBD 105)
Credits: 3
This class will focus on the proper and safe construction of both rafter and truss roof systems. Students will learn about various roofing material, practice flashing and installing multiple roofing products. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly GRBD 108)
This class has a $65 construction technology course fee.
Credits: 5
Active reading, effective writing, and critical thinking, using subjective and objective approaches. Introduction to research techniques. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Communication Skills)
Credits: 5
Third Quarter (Spring)
College mathematics used in professional and technical programs. Content includes mathematical modeling and applications employing numerical operations; measurements; geometry; linear and nonlinear equations; exponent, radical, and polynomial operations; functions; formulas; plane analytical geometry with graphing; and an introduction to trigonometry. This class may include students from multiple sections.
Credits: 5
Students will learn finish carpentry techniques, craftsmanship finishing touches on construction project. Learn about traditional, colonial and modern construction styles including interior and exterior trim. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly GRBD 103)
This class has a $65 construction technology course fee.
Credits: 5
This class will focus on three of the most functional and visible elements of any residential construction or light commercial project: siding, decks, and stairs. Code compliance will be a major focus of deck and stair system construction. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly GRBD 107)
This class has a $65 construction technology course fee.
Credits: 5
Students will learn the necessary skills required to research, design, and build backyard farm and garden structures that promote efficiency of urban sustainable living. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly GRBD 160)
This class has a $65 construction technology course fee.
Credits: 3
Your personal educational plan will vary based on many factors including:
- The quarter you begin
- How many classes/credits you plan to take in each quarter
- Your math and English placement; Learn more about placement options by visiting the Assessment and Placement website.
- If you start in our Transitional Studies program