Carpentry

Program Picture

The Carpentry program is designed to provide learners with the working knowledge and skills necessary to enter the carpentry area of the construction industry.

Students will be introduced to all aspects of the carpentry trade, and will acquire an understanding of how a building is structurally supported and protected from the elements. Through classroom, lab and on-site training, students will be introduced to the building layout, framing, roof system, interior and exterior finish. Safe operation of hand and power tools will be taught.

Students who complete the program can earn up to 1360 hours towards their apprenticeship requirement which in turn will lead them to the status of a Red Seal licensed carpenter.

Courses

Carpentry Courses

  print full list with descriptions

Take the following course(s):


Workplace Communications

Workplace Communications

This course is designed to allow students to develop preparatory skills for securing and retaining employment including; workplace communication, time management, critical thinking and problem-solving, and customer service. Upon successful completion of this course students are able to use oral communications techniques, and create a variety of written documents and reports used in the workplace. Methods and strategies for job search, preparation and retention are also incorporated.

Hours: 45
Course Code: COMM-1005

Computer Essentials

Computer Essentials

In this course, students are introduced to the fundamentals of various software programs and information processing systems used in today's workplace and educational environments. Students develop the skills necessary to understand and efficiently use common workplace productivity tools. The main areas of focus include: operating systems, e-mail and groupware, word processing, spreadsheets, electronic presentation software, and the integration of these technologies.

Hours: 45
Course Code: COMP-1000

Occupational Health and Safety

Occupational Health and Safety

In this course students will learn the information needed to prevent accidents and protect themselves and others from injury on the worksite. As well, students will be able to take appropriate steps in the event of an accident. Specific components of the course are: provincial legislation regarding workplace health and safety, First Aid, CPR, WHMIS, fires and extinguishers, safe use of ladders and scaffolding, Foreman position in the workplace, and a practical safety component.

Hours: 45
Course Code: CRPTRY-1000

Hand Tools

Hand Tools

In this course students learn to identify and use hand tools necessary for working in the carpentry trade. Emphasis is placed on determining when to use specific tools, following safety measures and maintaining tools.

Hours: 90
Course Code: CRPTRY-1010

Stationary Power Tools

Stationary Power Tools

In this course students learn to identify and use stationary power tools related to the carpentry trade. Emphasis is placed on operating and maintaining tools in a safe and effective manner.

Hours: 45
Course Code: CRPTRY-1015

Portable Power Tools

Portable Power Tools

In this course students learn to identify and use portable power tools related to the carpentry trade. Emphasis is placed on the safe operation of the tools as well as standard care and maintenance to ensure their ongoing effectiveness.

Hours: 90
Course Code: CRPTRY-1020

Blueprint Reading

Blueprint Reading

This course introduces students to working drawings used for construction. Students will learn to read drawings and interpret the information contained in the drawings.

Hours: 45
Course Code: CRPTRY-1026

Math for Carpenters

Math for Carpenters

This course is designed to enable the student to develop trade related math skills. Students will acquire competency in the math skills as they relate to their carpentry program and future career. Emphasis will be placed on developing problem solving and critical thinking skills. Students will be challenged to continually make connections between math and carpentry, as well as every day applications.

Hours: 45
Course Code: CRPTRY-1030

Site Preparation and Building Layout

Site Preparation and Building Layout

In this course students will learn about preparing the site, materials and equipment for building. Students will learn the necessary steps to take to secure permits for building, what permits are required for building and when they are necessary. Also, students will learn to direct cranes and other equipment using hand signals, to apply safe lifting practices and to use appropriate knots, hitches and bends.

Hours: 30
Course Code: CRPTRY-1035

Foundations and Concrete Structures

Foundations and Concrete Structures

In this course, students will study concrete, concrete foundations, alternative foundations, and foundation supports. They will be involved in a variety of classroom and hands on experiences to learn the necessary skills to be able to meet the demands of industry.

Hours: 45
Course Code: CRPTRY-1040

Floor Systems

Floor Systems

In this course students will study the loads and forces that affect a building. They will learn the requirements for floor frame supports according to the National Building Code and will also learn how to lay out and build floor systems, under supervision.

Hours: 45
Course Code: CRPTRY-1045

Wall Framing Systems

Wall Framing Systems

This course introduces students to wall framing systems used in the construction of wood buildings. Students will be able to differentiate between framing systems for wood buildings and identify the purpose of each framing system. Additionally, students will identify all of the components used in wall construction as well as participate in wall assembly.

Hours: 45
Course Code: CRPTRY-1050

Roof Framing Systems

Roof Framing Systems

This course is designed to give the learner the ability to differentiate between styles of roof and cornice systems. Learners will identify and describe wood trusses used in wood frame construction including truss installation. Additionally, topics such as the handling of wood trusses, how loads and forces act upon a wood truss and methods of erecting and bracing wood trusses, will be covered.

Hours: 30
Course Code: CRPTRY-1055

Door and Window Systems

Door and Window Systems

After completing this course students will be able to identify typical residential window and door types and describe their use. Additionally, learners will be able to install, under supervision, interior and exterior windows and doors including hardware, accessories, and door trim.

Hours: 45
Course Code: CRPTRY-1065

Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish

Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish

In this course students will learn National Building Code requirements for the installation of insulation, air and moisture barriers, ventilation requirements, Gypsum wall board, gypsum lath, suspended ceilings, metal frame doors, and demountable partitions. Students will experience the installation of some of these different materials.

Hours: 45
Course Code: CRPTRY-1070

Roof Finish

Roof Finish

In this course students learn the types of roof coverings and materials used in residential construction. Students also learn how to prepare a residential roof for covering, as well as application procedures for roof shingles, wood, and roll roofing.

Hours: 30
Course Code: CRPTRY-1075

Exterior Wall Finish

Exterior Wall Finish

In this course, students will identify the materials used to finish the exterior walls of residential construction. They will also learn installation methods for vinyl siding, metal siding, wood siding and other exterior finishes. Also included in this course is how to finish the eaves and rakes and preparations for masonry exterior finishes.

Hours: 45
Course Code: CRPTRY-1080

Materials of Construction

Materials of Construction

This course provides students with a thorough introduction to the materials used in residential construction. Categories of materials include metal, woods, composites, concrete, and glues. Students will be able to identify types of woods and explain the process of turning trees into building materials.

Hours: 45
Course Code: CRPTRY-1085

Occupational Health and Safety

Occupational Health and Safety

An overview of the Occupational Health and Safety Act of Prince Edward Island. Students examine the legislation, how PEI employees are protected while on the job and the responsibilities of employees and employers.

Hours: 0
Course Code: SAFE-1005

Profile Facts
Start Date:September
Length:9 months
Location:Summerside Waterfront Campus
Credential Issued:Certificate, Carpenter

Red Seal Information

Apprenticeship Training Logo

The most successful path to a Red Seal as a carpenter begins with the Carpentry program. This program enables you to earn 1,360 hours and write one block exam, which puts you well on your way to Red Seal certification. Upon graduation, once you are working with a suitable employer, you will register as an apprentice to complete your journey to challenge the Interprovincial Exam. When you register, Apprenticeship PEI will give you credit for the hours earned and block exams passed while you were at Holland College.

The Interprovincial Red Seal gives you the ability to work anywhere in Canada without further testing or certification. The Red Seal is recognized as the Interprovincial standard of excellence for your chosen trade and is the designation most employers will ask for.


Graduate Opportunities

  • Building contractors
  • Self-employment
  • Building supply yards

Admission Requirements

  • Grade 12 or equivalent with credits at or above the general level
  • Resumé including work and volunteer experience with applicable dates, membership in groups, associations or athletics, awards and distinctions, and any other information about yourself relevant to the program

Tuition & Fees

Tuition
Year 1 $3,600

View a full breakdown of costs and booklist for this program.

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Contact

If you have any questions concerning the Carpentry program, please contact:

  • General Inquiries (902) 888-6448