The Building Construction Trades Program provides a variety of skills and expertise that are required for the completion of projects in the construction industry. Positions in the field include general contractor, project manager, construction company owner, and code enforcement inspector, among others. This program introduces students to the industries of construction, carpentry, masonry, electrical, and plumbing. Students completing this program will be prepared to enter an apprenticeship program or pursue post-secondary education.

Technical Skills

Basic masonry skills • Planning and installing house wiring • Knowledge of residential wall, roof, stair, and floor-framing parts and assembly • Basic codes and standards for residential plumbing

Professional Skills

Social and Communication Skills • Teamwork • Professional Attitude • Initiative and Self-motivation • Problem Solving • Interview Skills

Career Opportunities or Field Positions

Mason • Carpenter • Plumber • Electrician • Construction Manager • Pipefitter • Plumbing Service Tech • Gas Fitter

What Certifications can I earn?

OSHA Certification • Associated Builders and Contractors CORE Training and Certification • TracPipe Installation Cert. • VIEGA – Pro Press Cert. • Forklift Operator

What College Credits can I earn?

Click here for information on earning college credits while completing a Career Tech program.

Program Requirements & Expectations:

Reading and math skills are very important. Students should be at grade level in these areas. Students will be required to add, subtract, multiply, and divide whole numbers and fractions every day.

Uniform Requirements:

A CareerTech blue or gray t-shirt is required. In addition, the following CareerTech items may also be purchased: sweatshirt, hooded sweatshirt (no strings), or blue or gray flannel. Uniforms may be ordered online or purchased at the school store.

Jeans or work pants without holes.

Work boots (steel toe not required)

Out-of-Pocket costs:

School Uniform

Student Organizations?

Students may join the SkillsUSA student organization. This club brings students who share common interests together for an exchange of ideas and the opportunity to work towards a common purpose. It offers students recognition through a national program of awards and contests and seeks to cultivate excellence in leadership and in their technical skills. Visit http://www.skillsusa.org/ for more

What else should I know?

Students will spend approximately five hours working with their hands and approximately one hour of bookwork each day. Students will be required to work in conditions that are realistic to the industry.

Eric Wagaman

Mr. Wagaman has over 25 years of industry experience, which includes experience as a PA Conservation Corps crew leader. He has ABC Craft Instructor, CCST, EPA, and Hilti Powder Actuated certifications. He has received the Harbor Freight Top 10 Instructors in the Nation award and the ABC/NCCER Top 3 in the Nation for Craft Instructor of the Year award.