Building Trade Technologies Career Certificate

The construction business in Central Florida is booming, and the demand for construction workers is growing. Learn both sides of the spectrum, residential and commercial, including electrical, plumbing, HVAC and more.

Getting Started: Fall Term

Aug. 19:  Application

Aug. 26:  Classes Begin

Other Important Dates »

Why Seminole State?

  • Dedicated faculty: Faculty are "scholar-practitioners" with industry experience as well as academic credentials.  
  • Affordable tuition: Seminole State has significantly lower costs than trade schools.
  • High-tech facilities: Labs are equipped with the latest technologies that simulate real-world job conditions.  
  • Industry involvement: Our industry-focused certificate programs offer excellent connections to Central Florida employers.
  • Hands-on experience: Practical, hands-on learning experiences prepare students to apply their knowledge to real-world situations.
  • Career advancement: Graduates are prepared for immediate entry into the workforce upon certificate completion.

Additional Information


Building Trade Technologies
Type: Career Certificate
Major Code: GENBLD-VC
CIP: 0646041506

Program Description

Available Course Course Not Offered Fall 2024
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Students must complete all Required Courses with a grade of "C" or higher.

Workplace Safety and Tool Skills
75
Hours
This course identifies safety best practices adopted to reduce or prevent workplace accidents and injuries based on current Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards as related to the building construction industry. An emphasis will be placed on jobsite safety rules, personal safety attitudes and behaviors. This course encompasses industry standards, an understanding of documents such as Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and the proper use of safety equipment (i.e., fire extinguishers, scaffolding, ladders). Students will become familiar with emergency response and disaster plans. Students are introduced to the proper use and care of hand and power tools. Upon successful completion of OSHA training modules, students will earn an OSHA 10-Hour industry certification. Course must be completed with a grade of "C" or higher. Lab fee required.
Introduction to Blueprint Reading
75
Hours
Students entering into the construction building trades are introduced to the different types of plans used in the industry and how information is conveyed through these documents. This course will familiarize students with light construction building systems and a variety of assemblies. Topics include basic construction abbreviations, symbology, various scaling of drawings and how the specifications identify materials and methods. Related building codes will be briefly discussed. Students will also gain practical math skills needed in the architectural, construction and associated subcontract or professions, such as measurements for material, calculation of work hours and labor costs.Students must complete this course with a grade of "C" or higher. Lab fee required.
Construction Building Science and Methods
90
Hours
Students are introduced to building science, materials and methods for today's facilities. Emerging technologies, materials and processes that impact the operation and maintenance of facilities will be explored. Students will gain an understanding of sustainability, sustainable building design and its relationship between health, energy efficiency and its economic benefits. Sustainable materials, practices and processes and renewable energy sources related to the built environment will be highlighted. Standard practices and acceptable installation techniques will be emphasized. This course includes both online learning and on-campus experiences. Students must have access to a computer and the internet. Students must complete this course with a grade of "C" or higher.
Working in Construction Industries
75
Hours
Beyond the technical skills acquired throughout the program, workforce or employability readiness skills are objectives of this course. Students will be introduced to the importance of soft skills such as effective communication, interpersonal relationships, teamwork, organizational/time management skills and a strong work ethic. Additionally, students will learn about contracts, gain an awareness of the purpose of building and zoning codes and discuss situations where permits may be required. Students will also learn about professional licensing and exam preparation. This course includes both online and on-campus experiences. Students must have access to a computer and internet. Students must complete this course with a grade of "C" or higher.
Introduction to Carpentry and Finishing Techniques
90
Hours
Students will be introduced to basic carpentry skills to include rough and finished carpentry. In a hands-on lab environment, students will become familiar with various building systems such as roof, wall and ceiling framing and will develop skills installing windows, doors and cabinetry. Drywall installation and finishing techniques will also be introduced. Product knowledge of primers, paints and stains and proper application techniques are also covered in the course. Students must complete this course with a grade of "C" or higher. Lab fee required.
Masonry
75
Hours
Students will learn basic masonry skills to include how to determine masonry ratios, and mix and apply mortar. The use of masonry tools and equipment will be developed. Reading, interpreting measurements, drawings for masonry building projects and layout techniques will be applied in field exercises. Students must complete this course with a grade of "C" or higher. Lab fee required.
Plumbing
90
Hours
This introductory course provides an understanding of basic plumbing components and systems. In a lab setting, the course integrates hands-on experience working with various pipes, fittings, connectors and fixtures commonly used in the plumbing trade. Students will also gain knowledge in the layout and installation of a water distribution system. Students must complete this course with a grade of "C" or higher. Lab fee required.
HVAC Systems
90
Hours
This introductory course provides an overview of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) systems in residential and commercial settings. Students will gain knowledge of heating and cooling principles, standard safety practices in the industry and selecting refrigerants according to their properties. Other topics presented in the course include determining the appropriate refrigerant level and repair/troubleshooting techniques. Emerging technologies in the HVACR industry such as computer monitoring control systems and air quality management will be introduced. Students must complete this course with a grade of "C" or higher. Lab fee required.
Basic Electrical Skills
90
Hours
This introductory course provides an understanding of basic electrical theory and skills necessary for maintenance and repairs. An emphasis will be placed on safety practices and procedures when working with electrical systems. In a lab setting, students will gain hands-on experience working with wiring, circuitry and troubleshooting electrical systems. Other topics include the various phases of electrical generation; schematics and symbols of electrical systems; and using Ohm's Lay to determine power. This course must be completed with a grade of "C" or higher. Lab fee required.
Building Trades Capstone
150
Hours
The certificate program culminates in this capstone course. In a lab setting, students will demonstrate knowledge and the mastery of skills acquired throughout the program on a comprehensive team design-build project. Students must complete this course with a grade of "C" or higher. Lab fee required.
Total Hours: 900

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Tuition and Fees*

 Seminole State
Tuition$70
Fees$14
Total per Credit Hour$84
Total per Contact Hour Rate$3

For more information on Seminole State's tuition and fees, please see the current fee schedule.

* Tuition costs are based on program costs for in-state students according to the current fee schedule. The cost for books, supplies and any other program-related expenses will vary by program. Financial aid may be available for qualified students. As Seminole State is a commuter college with no residence halls on its campuses, costs for room and board are not calculated.