In Architectural Design I, students will review various concepts used in the design and architecture field. They will learn about basic drafting equipment and how to use and maintain it. They will analyze challenges and solutions within the development of design. They will also learn how to prepare drawings manually and using AutoCAD software. A substantial portion of the course will be spent on sequential processes so that students develop an understanding of creating and annotating drawings as well as how to apply standard rules regarding line types, offset objects, creating layers, and setting up a page for plotting. They will also explore three-dimensional drawing and use coordinating and navigation systems to create them.

In Architectural Design III, students will review various concepts used in the design and architecture field. They will learn about additional CAD functions, professional ethics, and legal responsibilities as well as explore career options and complete a comprehensive Architectural Design project.

In this course, students will learn various concepts used in the design and architecture field. They will gain an understanding of basic architectural and civil drawings as well as prepare for the Autodesk® Certified User certification in AutoCAD exam. In addition to learning fundamental architectural drawing concepts like creating site plans, floor plans, and electrical plans, students will learn functions of Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD). CAD functions build on the foundation of architectural drawing, using specialized tools for enhancement, layout, and scale. Students will review the essentials of civil drawings including the interpretation and development of topographical illustrations. To round out the course, students will prepare computer-aided drawings to
demonstrate utilizing software to perform activities such as drawing site plans, roof plans, and wall sections. Finally, students will be provided an overview of the requirements, structure, and preparation techniques for the Autodesk® Certified User certification in AutoCAD exam.

This course introduces students to the LEED process. LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the global standard for green building certification. Throughout the course, students will gain an understanding of the various components of green building. The theme of sustainability and sustainable construction is woven throughout each module both in terms of physical environment and as it pertains to LEED certification.

This course introduces students to some of the foundational elements of home construction and then does a deep dive into careers, technology, and the future of home construction. It also addresses some of the academic proficiencies that different careers in the field of home construction will have to have. Later in the course, specific careers, career outlooks, and specialized education and training requirements will be covered. Students will discover the varied roles within the field as well as what it takes to own a construction company. Finally, the course delves into green construction and where the future of construction is headed.

The Building Maintenance Technology II course examines the multi-faceted construction industry. Students will explore contract documents and how each is pertinent to establishing business relationships with designers, clients, and other stakeholders. They will identify what goes into building a successful contract and how estimates, costs, and timeframes are estimated and calculated. Drafting techniques using CAD and BIM technology will also be discussed, specifically pertaining to how these technologies have transformed the building industry. Several logistical components like zoning, property lines, property setbacks, site elevations, calculating materials and labor costs, and establishing construction schedules are critical to the building process. Students will discover the impact of the built environment on the natural environment and how it has evolved over many years. Finally, students will learn about issues related to sustainability and creating more environmentally-friendly practices, procurement, and techniques in the construction industry.

The Building Maintenance Technology course will focus on all aspects of the construction industry from health and safety to the tools that every construction professional needs in their collection. Students will learn about the various roles in the industry as well as job outlooks, educational and experiential requirements, and salary information. Some activities will focus on career exploration to discover career options that best align with interests and talents. Students will learn basic construction math and how it is applied during design and building phases of projects. They will learn specifics about carpentry, construction drawings, framing floor systems, framing walls, and framing roofs. Throughout, they will establish a foundation for what opportunities exist for them in the industry.