A female student in a construction trades course uses her left hand to steady herself as she looks upward into the rafters of a structure.

Contact

Maryah Smith-Overman
Assistant Dean
Newton (Building 4), room 150
919-536-7200, ext. 4008
smith-overmanm@durhamtech.edu

Construction Trades (Continuing Education)

Short Term

The Construction Trades program provides training for entry-level positions in varied trade areas and skill building for those currently employed. Short-term training and Continuing Education courses are offered to assist students in becoming more marketable in the building trade industry. Courses include Plumbing, Welding, HVAC, Cabinetry, Carpentry, Pre-construction, and General Home Repair. Apprenticeships and industry recognized certifications are offered across the trades as well. In courses at Durham Tech, students can learn new skills in well-equipped labs with great instruction and meet employers offering local, living wage employment.  

Email Maryah Smith-Overman if you have questions about courses.

CAB-3100A Introduction to Cabinetry

This course is designed to teach the fundamental techniques of cabinetmaking. Course topics can include but are not limited to understanding the difference between production and custom cabinets, learning the proper selection of woods, materials, tools and finishes, learning how to plan, blueprint and build a small cabinet, understanding cabinet installation and how to estimate building and labor construction costs.
Section Number Dates Location Building Room Time Format
This course has already started or is not being offered this term.

CAR-3118B General Contractor Prep

This course is a review of the laws, codes, and procedures covered by the General Contractor's License Exam for residental and light construction. This classification includes construction of all one and two family dwellings covered by the NC Residential code.
Section Number Dates Location Building Room Time Format
This course has already started or is not being offered this term.

SEF-FIHR Fix It! Home Repair

Are you looking to learn to change faucets, lighting fixtures, or repair drywall? This home maintenance oriented course will cover basic electrical, plumbing, and carpentry related home repairs. Safety and tool usage will be covered, as well as an overview of common maintenance issues that commonly arise in homes. Energy efficiency and preventative maintenance will be covered throughout the course as well.
Section
Number
Dates Location Building Room Time Format
90592
3/7 - 5/9
Main Campus
145
TH 6:00:00 PM - 9:00:00 PM
Classroom

SEF-30037 Make Your Own Custom Cutting Board

New to woodworking or looking to get started? This beginner level woodworking course teaches you how to safely use basic woodworking equipment and hand tools, while creating a solid wood cutting board. Throughout this 5-hour course, you will be instructed through every stage of the project. This class includes all materials and tools you will need to complete a cutting board for yourself or as a gift to give.
Section Number Dates Location Building Room Time Format
This course has already started or is not being offered this term.

BPR-3011A Blueprint Reading

This course covers all of the fundamentals of the language of architecture. The symbols, lines, and terminology used in the architecture and residential construction trades are also covered. Upon completion of the course, the student is able to clearly understand a set of residential blueprints. 24 hours.
Section Number Dates Location Building Room Time Format
This course has already started or is not being offered this term.

SEF-3001WC Makerspace Tools & Techniques

Discover the world of creativity and innovation in the Newton Makerspace! In this hands-on course, you'll explore an array of tools, including: 3D printers, laser engraver, sewing machines, CNC machine, and power tools. Whether you're a beginner or looking to expand your skill set, this 8-week journey will empower you to bring your ideas to life using cutting-edge tools and techniques. Students will also have access to the makerspace during working hours for the duration of the course.
Section
Number
Dates Location Building Room Time Format
93584
4/11 - 5/30
Main Campus
120
TH 6:00:00 PM - 9:00:00 PM
Classroom

SEF-3001NV Forklift Trng Certification

This course provides instruction on the operation and maintenance of an industrial forklift. Core topics include forklift design, controls and instrumentation, pre-use inspection, safety awareness, and forklift stability.
Section
Number
Dates Location Building Room Time Format
93599
4/26 - 4/26
Main Campus
159
F 2:00:00 PM - 8:00:00 PM
Classroom

CAR-3112D Construction Estimating

This construction estimating course includes the processes most commonly used in building construction trades to calculate material schedule take-offs from architectural drawings and scopes of work. The students will learn and practice calculations of construction estimating formulas for the materials and labor of given projects in consideration of the additional design, administrative, insurance, permitting, waste management, and safety related direct costs and impact to scheduling.
Section Number Dates Location Building Room Time Format
This course has already started or is not being offered this term.

CAB-3100B Introduction to Woodworking

This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of woodworking. We will cover shop safety, the scientific properties of wood, interpreting and/or creating a plan, cutting and milling stock, basic joinery, and effective use of tools. Upon completion, participants will have a general understanding of shop safety, correct use of hand and power tools, materials and fasteners, furniture/cabinet joinery and assembly, and design principles related to woodworking. Students will apply these skills and knowledge to produce a finished furniture or cabinetry project.
Section Number Dates Location Building Room Time Format
This course has already started or is not being offered this term.

SEF-3001SL CNC Workshop

Explore the exciting world of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) and Shopbot technology in this two-day course. Get hands-on experience and learn the fundamentals of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) design using Aspire software, and discover how to create intricate designs with precision accuracy. Participants will gain an understanding of Shopbot machines, including setup and maintenance, and learn the basics of cutting parts. By the end of this course, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and skills to bring your designs to life with the power of CNC.
Section
Number
Dates Location Building Room Time Format
93637
4/15 - 4/19
4/15 - 4/19
Main Campus
116
M 6:00:00 PM - 9:00:00 PM
F 6:00:00 PM - 9:00:00 PM
Classroom

CAR-3108H Construction Fundamentals

This course is an introduction to the trades and working with your hands. Participants will learn safety, construction math, and how to use hand and power tools in a variety of trade applications. Construction Fundamentals will focus on professional development, including communication, employability skills, and resume building. Students will gain the skills and certifications necessary to obtain entry-level work in a variety of trade areas. There are opportunities to meet employers throughout the course and learn about careers and wages. Students will gain necessary experience through job shadowing with local industry partners. Apprenticeship information, learning about curriculum programs, and further training opportunities in the trades will be discussed throughout the course. Participants involved in this course will complete 10-hour OSHA certification training in Construction Safety.
Section Number Dates Location Building Room Time Format
This course has already started or is not being offered this term.

MAS-3002A Beginning Masonry

This course covers masonry tools, usage, fundamental techniques and practice. Masonry materials and application methods of typical residential walls and veneers will be covered. Participants will mix mortar and practice building with brick and cinder block. Methods for building corner leads, hogging out, and laying to the line will be practiced.
Section Number Dates Location Building Room Time Format
This course has already started or is not being offered this term.

Suggested Paths

Student wearing hat standing in front of small house that is being built by Durham Tech students on main campus.

“I love the hands-on approach to learning at Durham Tech. The construction trades program provides me with the confidence to start and finish projects and helps me understand more of the nomenclature of the home building industry. It’s been a great experience.”

—Jesse Blackmon