Building Construction Technician (Co-op and Non Co-op Version) at Algonquin College

Build a solid foundation of knowledge and skills for a lifelong career in the building industry.

The two-year Building Construction Technician Ontario College Diploma program provides you with the opportunity to learn the basics of the construction industry, including techniques, industry trends, and safety. This diploma program is offered in a condensed 42-week format, allowing you to quickly get the education you need, so you can get moving into your career.

Hands-on from day one, learn various skills that give you the foundation to get started in the construction industry, including:

• how to safely work on a construction site
• drafting
• structure design
• building of different structures in our modern lab setting
• industry-standard computer applications such as AutoCAD

All practical classes are taught in the Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence (ACCE) facility. ACCE is fully outfitted with up-to-date equipment and tools, which gives you the opportunity to learnboth traditional, as well as advanced technology used in today`s construction industry.

Students also have the option to gain real-world experience through a paid co-operative education (co-op) work term (see Additional Information for more details). Please note that places in the co-op version of the program are subject to availability.

Graduates of this program may find work as:

• an entry-level construction framer
• a door and window installer
• a junior estimator
• an assistant project manager

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

• Are team-oriented and like to work with others.
• Enjoy working in a dynamically-driven environment.
• Want a comprehensive introduction to the construction industry through both a hands-on approach and applied theory.

Careers

Graduates may find work as apprentice carpenters. Graduates may also apply for entry-level positions in the following occupations: construction framer, interior systems installer, exterior systems applicator, door and window installer, concrete form worker, deck and porch design/builder, junior estimator and assistant project manager.

Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

1. Develop and use strategies for ongoing professional development to remain current with industry changes, enhance work performance and explore career opportunities.
2. Comply with worksite health and safety practices and procedures in accordance with current legislation and regulations.
3. Review building plans and complete work in compliance with contractual obligations, the Ontario and/or National Building Codes, applicable laws, bylaws, standards and ethical practices in the building construction field.
4. Incorporate sustainability practices in the implementation of building construction projects in accordance with sustainable building construction guidelines.
5. Communicate and collaborate with a range of tradespersons and diverse project stakeholders to complete projects on time and to maintain effective working relationships.
6. Produce project sketches and documents in accordance with project specifications to support building construction projects.
7. Solve problems related to the implementation of building construction projects by applying basic technical mathematics and the principles of building science.
8. Select, maintain and safely use hand tools, and portable and stationary power tools, to efficiently complete building construction projects.
9. Complete building stages, from site layout and footings to the application of interior and exterior finishes, according to specifications.
10. Prepare material and labour estimates according to building construction project specifications.
11. Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.

Program Eligibility

• English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).

• Mathematics, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent).
• Mathematics, Grade 12 (MCT4C is recommended).
• Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
• IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT) Overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20.