Building Trades, CTS

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The Building Trades Program provides students with the knowledge and practical skills required for employment in residential and light commercial construction. Coursework emphasizes jobsite safety, structural framing, and precision finishing techniques, incorporating current industry standards and modern construction practices. Graduates are prepared for skilled carpentry positions, apprentice roles, or entry-level supervisory opportunities, with a clear pathway to completion of a Montana Registered Apprenticeship.

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to

Apply construction safety standards by demonstrating compliance with OSHA and NCCER protocols, proper tool handling, and hazard mitigation practices.
Interpret and use construction documents by accurately reading blueprints, specifications, and codes to plan and execute residential and light commercial projects.
Construct structural and finish systems using appropriate materials, fasteners, and tools to industry standards for framing, roofing, siding, stairs, doors, windows, and interior trim.
Integrate building codes and modern construction practices by applying the International Residential Code (IRC) and sustainable, high-performance building methods in project work.
Demonstrate project management and teamwork skills by coordinating workflow, communicating effectively, and documenting progress within a team-centered jobsite environment.
Apply estimating, budgeting, and scheduling principles to plan, monitor, and evaluate construction projects for accuracy, efficiency, and quality control.

First Semester

CSTN 100 - Fundamentals of Construction Technology Credit(s): 3
CSTN 120 - Carpentry Basics and Rough-In Framing Credit(s): 3 *
CSTN 142 - Int-Ext Finish Carpentry Credit(s): 3 *

First Semester Total: 9

Second Semester

CSTN 148 - Blueprint Reading, Codes, and Estimating Credit(s): 3 *
CSTN 160 - Construction Concepts and Building Lab Credit(s): 3 *
CSTN 161 - Construction Concepts and Building Lab II Credit(s): 3 *

Second Semester Total: 9

Total Credits: 18

* Indicates prerequisite or corequisite required. Check course description.