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Core

Overview

Core: Introduction to Basic Construction Skills prepares individuals for entry-level positions on project sites by providing the basics in safety, hand and power tools, construction math, materials handling, construction drawings, rigging and employability skills.

This competency-based program can be used as a pre-apprenticeship program, meets Perkins funding requirements and is recognized throughout the country by the construction industry. The knowledge and skills established in Core are the foundation that successful construction careers are built on.

For schools governed by the Florida Department of Education, 150 hours of knowledge and skills-based instruction are required when using this program.

Craft Snapshot

Translation
Available
REVISED
2021, 6th Edition
NCCERconnect Deliver instruction using our pre-loaded content and course management tools, streamline training, and track results through the online gradebook. Students learn using the interactive eTextbook and Media Library with Active Figures that bring the material to life, anytime and anywhere they choose.
Available
LANGUAGES
English
Build Your Future in Construction
Elective

Module ID 00100: Construction is an exciting, well-paying industry that offers an abundance of career opportunities. With a growing need for individuals who are ready to learn while getting paid, it provides a great fit for people of all backgrounds, skills, and strengths. Carpenter, pipefitter, welder, electrician, and crane operator are just a few of the construction professions in high demand. This module will help you understand the state of the industry, the job opportunities that currently exist, and the training options that will lead you on a path to your new construction career.

Basic Safety (Construction Site Safety Orientation)

Module ID 00101: Work at construction and industrial job sites can be hazardous. Most job-site incidents are caused by at-risk behavior, poor planning, lack of training, or failure to recognize the hazards. To help prevent incidents, every company must have a proactive safety program. Safety must be incorporated into all phases of the job and involve employees at every level, including management.

Introduction to Construction Math

Module ID 00102: Craft professionals rely on math to do their jobs accurately and efficiently. Plumbers calculate pipe lengths, plan drain slopes, and interpret dimensioned plans. Carpenters meet code requirements by using math to frame walls and ceilings properly. HVAC professionals develop ductwork and calculate airflow with practical geometry. Whichever craft lies in your future, math will play a role in it. This module reviews the math that you will need and sharpens the skills that you will be using in the exciting modules ahead.

Introduction to Hand Tools

Module ID 00103: Every profession has its tools. A surgeon uses a scalpel, an instructor uses a whiteboard, and an accountant uses a calculator. The construction crafts require a broad array of hand tools. Even if you are familiar with some of the tools, all craftworkers need to learn how to select, maintain, and use them safely. A quality hand tool may cost more up front, but if it is properly used and maintained, it will last for years. A true craft professional invests wisely in hand tools, and uses, maintains, and stores them with the same wisdom.

Introduction to Power Tools

Module ID 00104: Power tools play an important role in the construction industry. Thousands of construction workers across the world use power tools every day to make holes, cut different types of materials, smooth rough surfaces, and shape a variety of products. Regardless of their specialization, all construction workers eventually use power tools on their job. This module provides an overview of the common types of power tools and how they function. It also describes the proper techniques required to ensure their safe and efficient operation.

Introduction to Construction Drawings

Module ID 00105: Various types of construction drawings are used to represent actual components of a building project. The drawings provide specific information about the locations of the parts of a structure, the types of materials to be used, and the correct layout of the building. Knowing the purposes of the different types of drawings and interpreting the drawings correctly are important skills for anyone who works in the construction trades. This module introduces common types of construction drawings, their basic components, standard drawing elements, and measurement tools that are typically used when working with construction drawings.

Introduction to Basic Rigging
Elective

Module ID 00106: A common activity at nearly every construction site is the movement of material and equipment from one place to another using various types of lifting gear. The procedures involved in performing this task are known as rigging. Not every worker will participate in rigging operations, but nearly all will be exposed to it at one time or another. This module provides an overview of the various types of rigging equipment, common hitches used during a rigging operation, and the related Emergency Stop hand signal.

Basic Communication Skills

Module ID 00107: The construction professional communicates constantly. The ability to communicate skillfully will help to make you a better worker and a more effective leader. This module provides guidance in listening to understand, and speaking with clarity. It explains how to use and understand written materials, and it also provides techniques and guidelines that will help you to improve your writing skills.

Basic Employability Skills

Module ID 00108: Becoming gainfully employed in the construction industry takes more preparation than simply filling out a job application. It is essential to understand how the construction industry and potential employers operate. Your trade skills are extremely important, but all employers are also looking for those who are eager to advance and demonstrate positive personal characteristics. This module discusses the skills needed to pursue employment successfully.

Introduction to Materials Handling

Module ID 00109: Lifting, stacking, transporting, and unloading materials such as brick, pipe, and various supplies are routine tasks on a job site. Whether performing these tasks manually or with the aid of specialized equipment, workers must follow basic safety guidelines to keep themselves and their co-workers safe. This module provides guidelines for using the appropriate PPE for the material being handled and using proper procedures and techniques to carry out the job.

Contributing Subject Matter Experts

Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) are a vital part of NCCER’s Curriculum development process. SMEs are construction and maintenance professionals who have journey-level experience and have experience teaching their trades to others.

View Subject Matter Experts
Contributing Subject Matter Experts
Below is a list of subject matter experts for this craft:
A

Anthony Johnson, Exelon Generation

B

Bob Fitzgerald, The Southern Company

Brett Richardson, Starcon

C

Chris Williams, ABC National

E

Erin M. Hunter, River Valley Technical Center

Erin Moritz, Toledo Refining Co. LLC

F

Fernando Sanchez, TIC – The Industrial Company

H

Harold (Hal) Heintz

J

Jan Prakke, Lake Mechanical Contractors, Inc.

John Ambrosia, West Georgia Electric

John Stronkowski, Industrial Management & Training Institute Incorporated

Jon Jones, Pittsburg State University

M

Mark Bonda, Maintenance & Construction Technology Alliance (MCTA)

Matthew Smith, Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC

Michael Sandroussi, ABC Merit Shop Training Program Inc. dba CTC of the Coastal Bend

P

Paul Fontenot II, Safety Advantage, LLC

R

Ralph Yelder Jr., KBR Industrial Services

Rich Baldwin, PCL Construction Enterprises, Inc.

S

Sidney Mitchell, The Shaw Group, Inc.

T

Todd Hartnell, Central Cabarrus High School

Tony Ayotte, Cianbro Companies

NCCERconnect

Optimize your classroom time, while accelerating knowledge for learners. NCCERconnect works to provide learners with always-available access to online training materials, including videos, interactives, a rich eText, practice quizzes and other engaging content.

  • Mobile access to the eText also allows for learning on-the-go.
  • Instructors can get started quickly with pre-built assignments, use the robust course tools for class management, and track student participation and results through the online gradebook.
  • Designed to help learner engagement in any classroom, whether a blended, virtual or traditional classroom environment.

Instructor Resources

Instructor Toolbox

NCCER’s Instructor Toolbox provides easy access to important instructional resources for your training program. You’ll find downloadable course planning tools, examples of classroom activities and projects, and instructor tips and best practices to help you enhance your program.

Academic Pre- and Post-Tests

Academic pre- and post-tests are created for secondary career and technical education. These tests are designed to be used as a diagnostic tool to gauge the trainee’s knowledge gained during the course of academic instruction.

Successful completion of these tests will not result in an NCCER credential.