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Carpentry and Renovation Technician 

Two faculty members are wearing blue t-shirts with white text reading Loyalist College. The two faculty members are looking directly at the camera with one arm around a mock-up structure of a building.

Combining theoretical and hands-on learning, gain well-rounded skills and knowledge in woodworking and building techniques, drafting, understanding of building codes and regulations, sustainable practices, and construction management.

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Home / Learn / Programs List / Carpentry and Renovation Technician 
Credential
Ontario College Diploma
Duration
Two years
Start Date(s)
May (Spring)
September (Fall)
Locations
Belleville
Open to
International Students
Domestic Students

Find your career

Prepare for opportunities in new construction and renovations for both residential and commercial building:

  • Specialize as a contractor, new homebuilder, renovator, general carpenter, home inspector, building inspector, energy efficiency and green/sustainable builder, fine finish carpenter, project coordinator, manager or estimator.
  • Employers include general contractors, subcontractors, new homebuilders, woodworking shops, renovation and restoration contractors, government and municipal departments. There are also opportunities with product manufacturers and with retail outlets for building materials, such as hardware stores, lumberyards and building centres.
  • Training in entrepreneurship and estimating can help you work towards running your own business as an independent contractor.
  • Loyalist College grads are eligible to pursue professional certification through the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT).
  • Loyalist College grads are able to apply skills to help obtain apprenticeships such as General Carpenter.  

Our grads get great jobs

  • Construction Framer, Classic Construction
  • Granite Fabricator Installer, Take Mike for Granite
  • Carpenter, Nick Hoornweg Contracting
  • Chief Estimator, Ontario Flooring
  • Landscaper, Scott Wentworth Landscaping Group

Is it for you?

People who enjoy careers in construction renovation:

  • Like to see a project through from the early stages to finishing touches.
  • Take pride in their work.
  • May be drawn to opportunities for self-employment.
  • Enjoy working outdoors, indoors or both.

How you'll learn

Experiential learning

Learning emphasizes practical hands-on work during a major carpentry, new construction or renovation building project:

  • Practise your skills in carpentry and construction including, rough carpentry/framing, finish carpentry, base footings, insulation, vapour and air barriers, drywalling, window and door installation, interior and exterior finishes, fine finishing techniques, and roofing.
  • Study building codes, work from blueprints, produce basic sketches, develop building details and create computer-assisted drawings using AutoCAD and SketchUp.
  • Receive hands-on instruction in environmentally sound construction techniques, proper tool usage and jobsite safety.
  • Obtain industry-required certificates such as Working at Heights and First Aid.
  • Learn green building techniques.
  • Second-year students develop advanced techniques in sustainable and alternative building, sustainable construction, green build and healthy homes (i.e., low VOC (volatile organic compounds)), electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems.
  • Grow your skillset with introductory courses to welding and electrical wiring, and gain skills in construction planning and management.

Outstanding faculty make the difference

  • Teachers share their experience based on 15 years in residential and small commercial design, working in architectural and construction firms, and running their own businesses.
  • Our program faculty are expert builders and general contractors who use a wide network of industry contacts to connect students with jobs.

Courses

BLDG1016 Applied Building and Construction Theory

This course focuses on building basic skills involving general tool work and layout techniques. Content will be delivered through a balance of theory and practical applications. Students will develop and practise construction skills with both hand and power tools. Co-requisite: SAFE 1002

CNTP1000 Building Construction Techniques 1

A hands-on course that covers common types of wood, wood structures, wood joints, and hardware utilized in typical construction practices. The selection, safe use, and maintenance of hand tools, portable power tools, and stationary power tools required on a typical construction site are also covered. Co-requisite: BLDG 1016, SAFE 1002

BLDG1001 Building Construction, Codes and Standards 1

This course is an introduction to typical construction methods and standards for houses and small buildings in Ontario. Part 9 of the Ontario Building Code is a major focus with particular attention to site work, footings, foundations, floor systems and stairs. The roles and responsibilities of architectural and construction professionals are reviewed.

BLDG1015 Building Methods & Materials

This course takes a look at the materials and methods used in new construction and renovation projects. An in-depth exploration of how materials are tested and perform in various typical applications is a major focus, as well as methods of installation. Co-requisite: SAFE 1002

MATH1026 Computations for Construction & Renovation

This course is designed to help the student understand the application of basic mathematical concepts in the field of building technology. Emphasis is place on arithmetic, basic algebraic operations, geometry and trigonometric functions.

CADD1010 Computer Applications /CAD 1

The course starts with an introduction to computer applications involving Windows OS, the Microsoft Office Suite, and client based e-mail. The development of basic drafting skills using the AutoCAD software will occupy the latter part of the course.

CNTP1005 Drafting Studio

Through exploration and the production of drawings, students learn to read and interpret construction drawings. Students learn to accurately record information and apply scale to present information in a variety of drawing types and views. Conveyance of information is reinforced through lettering, dimensioning and drawing organization.

SAFE1002 Health & Safety

This course is designed to develop the students’ knowledge of the health hazards and safety risks that are present on a typical job site. The course will prepare students with strategies required for personal protection and general site safety. Upon completion of this course, the student will have earned certifications for key areas for employment on a typical construction project.

CNTP1002 Basic Finishing Techniques

This course covers the composition of exterior and interior walls. Included are the application and installation of exterior sheathing, insulation, air and vapour barriers, drywall, taping, priming and painting, and trim work. Prerequisite: CNTP 1000, SAFE 1002, BLDG 1016

CNTP1003 Building Construction Techniques 2

A continuation of the previous course, this hands-on course covers properties of wood and lumber and methods of framing residential floors, walls and roofs. Additional attention will be given to the detail framing that is entailed in stair construction. Prerequisite: CNTP 1000, SAFE 1002, BLDG 1016

BLDG1007 Building Construction, Codes and Standards 2

This course deals with the design and construction of exterior walls, roofs, and the structure of residential wood-framed buildings. Section 9 of the Ontario Building Code is specifically referenced. There is an emphasis on insulation and building membranes. Alternative residential construction techniques are also introduced. Prerequisite: BLDG 1001

CADD1020 CAD 2 Construction Renovation

A continuation of CADD1010 Computer Applications/CAD 1, this course adds to the use of computers utilized for construction drawings and detailing. Drafting skills are developed through the use of production-level CAD programs. Students become acquainted with drafting standards, construction drawing organization and building detailing. Through the preparation of a partial set of construction drawings, students are introduced to the techniques needed to prepare properly scaled drawings, text, and dimensions. File organization techniques will also be reinforced. Prerequisite: CADD 1010, CNTP 1005

COMM1066 Communications-Common Core

This course prepares students to be successful in college communication and is foundational for workplace communications.

CNTP1001 Residential Estimating

This course will introduce the student to basic area and volumetric calculations as required for quantity take-offs. Using typical contract specifications and drawings, students prepare estimates of quantities if materials and construction costs for residential buildings. Estimates will be prepared in both written and computer form. Prerequisite: CNTP 1000, MATH 1026, CNTP 1005

GNED1100 Becoming a Global Changemaker

This Loyalist College graduate attributes course will help shape your perspectives, broaden your understanding of important issues affecting our societies today, and equip you with invaluable knowledge and skills that will inform your ability to influence your community in a meaningful and impactful way. By exploring topics such as cultural competency, Indigenous education, entrepreneurship, sustainability, health and wellness, and ecological literacy, you'll be equipped with a powerful toolkit that extends far beyond the classroom.

CNTD2004 Alternative Residential Construction Techniques 1

This hands-on course emphasizes environmental awareness and reinforces the concept of the house as a complex system. It encourages energy and material conservation through building details and material management. Students have the opportunity to study and work with less common methods and materials utilized in residential construction to further broaden their scope. Prerequisite: CNTP 1003, CNTP 1002

ELEC2009 Basic Electrical Wiring Techniques

This course will provide students with a fundamental understanding of residential electrical wiring techniques, as well as information about the Ontario Building Code as it pertains to wiring. Students carry out drawn layouts of wiring diagrams, as well as practical wiring exercises, in various framed scenarios. Emphasis is placed on the role of a licensed electrician within a construction project and the limitations/restrictions of non-licensed individuals. Prerequisite: SAFE 1002, CNTP 1000

WELD2011 Basic Welding & Metal Fabrication

This course will provide students with an understanding of basic angle grinding and welding techniques. Students will learn proper setup and procedures for oxy-acetylene cutting and welding, shielded metal arc welding and gas metal arc welding. Prerequisite: SAFE 1002

CADD2005 Drafting Studio 2 CAD for Construction Renovation

Building upon previous studies in blueprint reading, drafting standards, and computer-aided design, students utilize industry-standard software to produce design and construction drawings. Students will work in both 2D and 3D environments/software to complete drawings. Application of building codes, construction knowledge, and practices will also be required. Prerequisite: CADD 1020

CNTD2001 New Construction & Renovation Techniques 1

While working on a core construction project, students are given instruction and guided through key stages of a typical construction build. Our hands-on approach allows students to continue to hone the skills gained in the first year. Students examine construction processes pertaining to light wood frame construction, including platform framing, rain screen wall systems and roof systems. Prerequisite: CNTP 1003, CNTP 1002

CNTD2003 Residential Estimating 2

This is a continuation of CNTP1001 Residential Estimating 1. This course continues to explore linear counts, area and volumetric calculations as required for quantity take-offs as well as introducing time and cost estimation. Using typical residential construction specifications and drawings, students prepare estimates for a given project. Both new construction and renovation of existing residential buildings may be covered. Estimates may be prepared in both written and computer form. Prerequisite: CNTP 1001, MATH 1026

GNED General Education Elective

General Education Courses

CNTD2010 Alternative Residential Construction Techniques 2

A continuation of CNTD 2004 Alternative Residential Construction. Students continue to explore less common methods and materials in the construction industry, utilized to promote sustainability and energy efficiency. Green building techniques are emphasized and examined to evaluate effectiveness. Students learn to assess their material choices, building practices and construction detailing to evaluate performance and energy efficiency of their building. Methods to increase performance are further discussed. Prerequisite: CNTD 2004, CNTD 2001

CNTD2008 Basic Building Systems

This course will discuss building systems appurtenant to a typical new home or renovation project. Students review plumbing practices, layouts and detailing. Learning is reinforced through hands-on applications. Mechanical systems are also discussed. Students review standard heating, cooling and ventilation systems. Energy efficiency is reviewed in relationship with R-value, air leakage and air movement, and their effects on heating/mechanical systems. Prerequisite: CNTD 2001

CNTD2011 Basic Finishing Techniques 2

This course is a continuation of Basic Finishing Techniques CNTP1002. It reinforces learning and further develops skills in exterior finishes and insulation. It reinforces attention to air and vapour barriers through examining proper sealing, taping and caulking practices. Interior finishes are also studied with installation of drywall, interior doors and hardware, trim and casing. Skill development is emphasized in detailing, tolerances and quality of work. This course will show students the importance of quality workmanship related to previous stages of construction. Prerequisite: CNTD 2001

CNTD2006 Business & Contract Law

This course is designed to develop an understanding and appreciation for typical building contracts and the responsibilities borne by the contractor. Students evaluate how this will affect their working relationships, construction processes and warranties afterwards. Students review various contract types for a typical medium-to-small residential build. Prerequisite: COMM 1053 or COMM 1002 or COMM 1066

CNTD2009 Construction & Renovation Techniques 2

This is a continuation of New Construction and Renovation Techniques 1 CNTP 2001. Students continue to progress through their core construction project while developing and adding to their skill sets. New techniques are introduced to facilitate installation and balancing of windows and doors for both interior and exterior wall systems and the coordination of their work in relation to other trades such as electrical, mechanical and plumbing, stairs and finish flooring systems. Through progression and application, students realize the effects of their completed work and good workmanship on the building process, other trades, and the end product. Prerequisite: CNTD 2001

CNTD2012 Construction Management

This course deals with the management of building construction projects. Subjects dealt with include planning and scheduling, sub-trade organization, inspection activities, site diaries, and record-keeping, as related to the duties and responsibilities of the building construction manager. Prerequisite: BLDG 1007, CNTD 2003

GNED General Education Elective

General Education Courses

*Courses subject to change.

A carpentry and renovation technician student is wearing a hard hat and working with a piece of wood. The student is also wearing gloves and is holding a pencil in their right hand. Fourteen green graphic circles are in the lower lefthand corner of the image.

Admission requirements

Required academic preparation

  • OSSD/OSSGD or equivalent with courses at the general, advanced, (C), (U) or (M) level, AND
  • Grade 12 English (C) level or equivalent

OR

Recommended academic preparation

  • Mathematics and sciences

Prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR) 

Do you have work experience or other types of non-credentialed learning? Through Loyalist’s PLAR program, applicants and current students may be eligible to receive academic credit for relevant educational, work and life experiences.

International students  

Learn more about admission requirements for international applicants and how to apply.

Costs

Approximate costs (2024 – 25)

  • Domestic Tuition: $2,722.08
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,367
  • Total: $4,089.08

Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc.

*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and fees page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies.

Paying for college 

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.

Schulich Builders

Students enrolling in this program may be eligible for the Schulich Builders scholarship program.

Schulich Builders covers tuition, tools and living expenses for students enrolling in a skilled trades program. Loyalist College will award ten scholarships per year:

  • Five $20,000 scholarships for one-year certificate programs, and
  • Five $40,000 scholarships for two-year diploma programs.

Learn more and apply today!

Approximate costs (2024 – 25)

  • International Tuition: $15,000
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,367
  • Mandatory Health Insurance: $659
  • Total: $17,026

Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc.

*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and fees page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies.

Paying for college 

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.

Two carpentry and renovation technician students are working on a wooden structure. The two students are sitting down on the ground and wearing hard hats. One student is drilling a screw into the wood while the other student is observing. Fourteen blue graphic circles are in the lower lefthand corner of the image.

Further study

Pathways and university transfer 

What’s next? Build on the knowledge and skills you learned at Loyalist by continuing your academic journey. Return to Loyalist to complete a second diploma or a post-graduate program in as little as a year, or receive credit recognition for your Loyalist studies when pursuing a degree at a university. Explore pathway opportunities.

Continue your journey with an apprenticeship

  • Those wishing to pursue an apprenticeship may be awarded advanced standing toward the in-school component of a Construction Craft Worker apprenticeship
  • Loyalist College grads are able to apply skills to help obtain apprenticeships such as General Carpenter.
  • Information about qualification requirements leading to certification is available on the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development website. You can also contact an Employment Ontario apprenticeship office near you.
  • The skills you acquire may also assist in obtaining licenses and accreditation such as Red Seal.

Autodesk certification

Students are eligible to take the Autodesk certification exams at Loyalist College. Completing these industry-recognized credentials enables students to highlight that they have the in-demand skills employers are seeking.

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