Carpentry - Building Construction Technician
Ministry approved title is Building Construction Technician.
- With the addition of a 16 hour intro to welding course, graduates are exempt from Level 1 of the General Carpentry Apprenticeship (graduates must apply for the exemption)
- All classes are taught in the in workshops that are fully outfitted, with up-to-date equipment and tools
- 3 semester delivery model allows for a student to continue working part-time as the weekly timetable is approximately 16 hours per week
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
International
Availability
Competitive?
Fall 2026
No
Schedule
Coming soon - a schedule that will show when each Level of the program will be delivered. See the Courses tab for further details on the Levels within this program.
Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
Eligible for Post-Graduation
Work Permit?
CIP Code(s): 46.0415
This accelerated two-year Building Construction Technician Ontario College Diploma program, delivered over three consecutive academic periods (semesters), provides you with the opportunity to learn the basics of the construction industry, including techniques, industry trends, and safety.
Hands-on from day one, learn various skills that give you the foundation to get started in the construction industry or to pursue apprenticeship training, including how to:...(read more)
Overview
Ministry approved title is Building Construction Technician.
Build a solid foundation of knowledge and skills for a lifelong career in the building industry.
This accelerated two-year Building Construction Technician Ontario College Diploma program, delivered over three consecutive academic periods (semesters), provides you with the opportunity to learn the basics of the construction industry, including techniques, industry trends, and safety.
Hands-on from day one, learn various skills that give you the foundation to get started in the construction industry or to pursue apprenticeship training, including how to:
- work safely on a construction site
- construct floor, wall and roof systems
- apply various interior and exterior finishes
- build structures that align with industry standards
- draw with industry-standard computer applications such as AutoCAD
All practical classes are taught in the Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence (ACCE) facility. ACCE is fully outfitted with up-to-date equipment and tools, which gives you the opportunity to learn both traditional and advanced technology used in today's construction industry.
Graduates of this program may find work on new construction or renovation projects in residential and commercial sectors. With this diploma, you may also pursue further education in construction or seek exemption from the Basic Level of the General Carpenter Apprenticeship training.
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
CON7014
Course Name:
Building Tools and Materials
Course Description:
Proper selection of materials and safe operation of tools are essential skills for construction industry professionals. Students gain the ba... + Read More
Hours:
112.0
Code:
CON8000
Course Name:
Estimating and Calculations
Course Description:
A firm foundation of math is essential for estimating and calculating in constructing building projects. Students develop fluency with trade... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CON8115
Course Name:
Construction Safety
Course Description:
Safety on a jobsite is important aspect in the construction industry. Students gain the knowledge required for the safe use of ladders, scaf... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
CON8116
Course Name:
Residential Foundations and Framing
Course Description:
Fundamental building construction skills are required to construct a house from foundations to the roof. Students begin with residential fou... + Read More
Hours:
98.0
Code:
CON8127
Course Name:
Applied Construction Geometry
Course Description:
An understanding of basic geometric principles is fundamental to building construction. Students examine and utilize basic geometric princip... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
DRA8110
Course Name:
Working Drawings
Course Description:
Manual drafting techniques provide the students with a practical method of learning about the 2-dimenstional drawing used in building constr... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL1004
Course Name:
Professional Communication Essentials
Course Description:
Communication remains a fundamental skill regardless of discipline or field of study. Using an applied approach, students focus on writing, ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CAD8010
Course Name:
Foundations of AutoCAD
Course Description:
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) is a tool used throughout the architecture industry to produce construction drawings. Building construction prof... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CON8120
Course Name:
Framing and Exterior Finishes
Course Description:
Finishing the exterior of a building is critical for creating a comfortable indoor environment and for keeping the elements out. Students co... + Read More
Hours:
126.0
Code:
CON8128
Course Name:
Hand-Framed Roof Construction
Course Description:
Hand-framed roof systems provide flexibility and the option of customization in the construction of a home. Students apply geometric skills ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CON8129
Course Name:
Residential Estimating
Course Description:
The principles of residential building estimating are essential for accurately planning building projects. Plan reading and construction met... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CON8134
Course Name:
Building Science
Course Description:
Professionals in the construction industry must possess an awareness of both the environmental and green energy effects on buildings and mat... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
GED6442
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CAD8021
Course Name:
AutoCAD and Revit
Course Description:
Digital tools such as AutoCAD and Revit are used to create 2D and 3D models of buildings and structures that support planning, costing and c... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CON8131
Course Name:
Deck Systems and Stair Construction
Course Description:
Deck and porch construction provides functionality and an aesthetic appeal to homes. Students gain knowledge and experience in framing exter... + Read More
Hours:
84.0
Code:
CON8132
Course Name:
Estimating and Project Management
Course Description:
Fundamental business knowledge and principles are required to bid on, plan, monitor, control and complete projects in sustainable way. Stude... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL2003
Course Name:
Communications 2 for Technicians
Course Description:
Communicating effectively in the workplace is a key component of career advancement and essential skills development. The ability to read, u... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
WEL8000
Course Name:
Welding for General Carpentry
Course Description:
Welding is a skill used in the carpentry trade for both structural and architectural applications. In the lab, students develop basic weldin... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
WOO8805
Course Name:
Interior Systems
Course Description:
The interior finishes are an important part of home construction as they provide durability, functionality, and comfort. Students develop th... + Read More
Hours:
112.0
Code:
GED6442
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates may find work as apprentice carpenters or may also apply for entry-level positions in the following occupations: construction framer, interior systems installer, exterior systems applicator, door and window installer, concrete form worker, deck and porch design/builder, junior estimator, and assistant project manager, and junior site supervisor.
Pathways
Please note: There may be more pathways available for this program than are listed here. Please use our Pathways search tool to see every option.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Develop and use strategies for ongoing professional development to remain current with industry changes, enhance work performance and explore career opportunities.
- Comply with worksite health and safety practices and procedures in accordance with current legislation and regulations.
- Review building plans and complete work in compliance with contractual obligations, the Ontario and/or National Building Codes, applicable laws, bylaws, standards and ethical practices in the building construction field.
- Incorporate sustainability practices in the implementation of building construction projects in accordance with sustainable building construction guidelines.
- Communicate and collaborate with a range of tradespersons and diverse project stakeholders to complete projects on time and to maintain effective working relationships.
- Produce project sketches and documents in accordance with project specifications to support building construction projects.
- Solve problems related to the implementation of building construction projects by applying basic technical mathematics and the principles of building science.
- Select, maintain and safely use hand tools, and portable and stationary power tools, to efficiently complete building construction projects.
- Complete building stages, from site layout and footings to the application of interior and exterior finishes, according to specifications.
- Prepare material and labour estimates according to building construction project specifications.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2026/2027 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar's Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as CSA-approved safety footwear, non-tinted protective eyewear, hearing protection, gloves and hard hat, as required in each lab environment. Hand tools, such as tool belt, hammer, knife, tape measure and a chalk line. Approximate cost for PPE and hand tools, which are used for the full program, is $100-300.
Approximate cost for textbooks for the full program is $400-550.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent;
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing, for which a fee will be charged.
Program Eligibility
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
- Mathematics, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent, MCT4C is recommended).
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band; OR TOEFL Internet-based (iBT) tests taken prior to January 21, 2026 overall 80, with a minimum in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20; OR TOEFL Internet-based (iBT) tests taken after January 21, 2026 overall 4, with a minimum in each component: Reading 4; Listening 4; Speaking 4; Writing 4; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 110, minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.
Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English and mathematics.
Application Information
BUILDING CONSTRUCTION TECHNICIAN
Program Code 6442X04FWO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application
process information: https://algonquincollege.my.site.com/myac360/s/
For further information on the admissions process, please visit:
Admissions - Registrar's Office https://algonquincollege.com/ro/admissions/
Additional Information
Program Resources
Graduates who become registered as apprentice carpenters, may be eligible to apply for Advanced Standing for the in-school portion of their apprenticeship training.
Contact
Craig Barlow
Program Coordinator
Room CA503
Craig Barlow is a Coordinator and Professor at Algonquin College and an active carpenter doing renovations and additions. He graduated from the Building Construction Technician program from Algonquin college and received the top student award. He later completed his apprenticeship through Algonquin college and in now a Red Seal carpenter. Craig has worked on many commercial and residential projects in the Ottawa area. He participated in a program called Expedition Africa in 2006 which took him to Tanzania to help build a schoolhouse 2000 m up Mount Kilimanjaro. Recently he has participated in the development of a carpentry program, with a focus on new builds and hurricane resistance, for the country of Dominica. Craig discovered his passion for teaching in 2007, and has worked hard encouraging students to actively participate in their learning ever since. He continues to learn and make the student experience an inclusive one.