Westwood Construction / Bldg Trades

Westwood High School
300 Westwood Dr
Ishpeming, MI 49849

Instructors: John Jessen

Career Focus

Prepared for immediate employment, apprenticeship opportunities, advanced certifications, and further education

Details

This class provides a unique opportunity for students to learn carpentry and construction skills by participating in the construction of a variety of projects, including large commercial buildings. Students are prepared for entry-level employment skills in the construction field and for participation in post-secondary construction- related programs such as construction management, construction engineering, and architecture.

Students participate in estimating, layout, foundation and cement work, rough-in carpentry, roofing, wiring, interior wall finishing, exterior finishing and siding, finish carpentry including trim, etc. Students are involved in all phases of residential construction. They are also exposed to blueprint reading as well as math and science concepts as they relate to the construction field. In addition to participating in post high school programs, many graduates of this program work for area contractors or establish themselves as a licensed contractor.

This class is typically available to students in grades 10-12.

Resources

Building Technology HS-College Plan (PDF)

Links

“If you’re thinking about taking this class, I would! It’s really good hands on and you get to build some cool stuff. We’re building a house for Habitat for Humanity.”

Jacob P., Westwood HS
Construction Student

“Students learn the ins and outs of the residential construction industry. You see a lot of the local contractors hiring students that have worked with other students in the area.”

John Jessen, Westwood HS
Building Trades Teacher

How to Get Started

High School Credit

Students should inquire within their guidance office about high school curriculum requirements that may be satisfied through a CTE class, as this is determined individually by school district.

College Credit

College credit(s) possible

Students can earn up to 4 college credits from NMU
Students must earn a grade of 90% or better and be recommended by the instructor
Each college reserves the right to set its own credit-granting policy
Contact your college(s) to find out the score it requires to grant credit, the number of credit hours granted, and the course(s) that can be bypassed with a satisfactory score

NMU courses satisfied:

CN 110 - Construction Processes - NMU Credits Granted 2

CN 156 - Construction Systems & Methods - NMU Credits Granted 2

Industry Certification

Industry-recognized Certification

10-hour OSHA Construction Industry Safety*

*Credentials are nationally recognized, portable and stackable, which means students have the option of attaining more advanced credentials in the future.