Class Central is learner-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

VDCI

Construction

via VDCI

Overview

This course gives you a solid, practical understanding of how buildings actually come together, making it a strong fit for anyone working in or moving toward construction, engineering, architecture, or real estate development. You’ll learn the materials, systems, and terminology used across the industry while gaining insight into how teams collaborate at every stage of a project, from early site work all the way through final turnover.

You’ll dive into site preparation, including soil conditions, utilities, earthwork, foundations, heavy equipment, cranes, and structural systems with load considerations. The course also covers building envelopes and interiors, such as moisture control, roofing, cladding, windows, wall systems, finishes, flooring, and ceilings. On top of that, you’ll explore MEP systems, including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, fire protection, elevators, commissioning, and post-occupancy turnover, giving you a well-rounded view of how all building systems work together in real projects.

Syllabus

Site Utilities & Foundation Construction Course Online

  • Key concepts of site utilities, including water, sewer, and drainage systems.
  • Best practices for planning and performing earthwork, such as excavation, soil compaction, and grading.
  • Detailed overview of foundation systems, including shallow and deep foundations.
  • How to analyze and interpret soil reports to guide foundational decisions.
  • Methods for ensuring site safety and compliance with construction codes and standards.
  • Techniques for coordinating utility installations with other site development activities.
  • Insights into sustainable site development to minimize environmental impact.

Building Structure Course Online

  • Understand how structural systems support and distribute loads.
  • Key concepts of material properties, such as strength, durability, and load-bearing capacities.
  • Techniques for assessing structural stability and identifying potential risks.
  • How to interpret structural drawings and effectively communicate with engineers and construction teams.
  • The principles of sustainable building practices to optimize performance and reduce environmental impact.
  • Real-world applications of structural codes and regulations for safety and compliance.

Building Enclosure Course Online

  • Understanding the primary functions and components of building enclosures (walls, roofs, foundations).
  • Controlling thermal, moisture, and air flow to improve energy efficiency.
  • Selecting appropriate materials based on climate, budget, and building use.
  • Identifying and addressing common issues like moisture intrusion and thermal bridging.
  • Implementing sustainable practices to reduce environmental impact.
  • Collaborating effectively with professionals to optimize building enclosure performance.

Interiors & Finish Work Course Online

  • Learn about the intricate steps involved in completing building interiors, from drywall installation to painting, millwork, and flooring.
  • Understand the principles of exterior site work, including paving, hardscapes, landscaping, and site furniture installation.
  • Explore the variety of materials used in finishes, their properties, and their best applications to ensure durability and aesthetic appeal.
  • Master the techniques needed to communicate effectively with design, construction, and subcontractor teams to execute finishing phases seamlessly.
  • Gain expertise in assessing project quality, ensuring compliance with design specifications, and performing final inspections.
  • Learn to manage budgets and timelines specific to the finishing phases of a construction project.

Fundamentals of MEP for Buildings Course Online

  • Discover the fundamentals of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) and how these mechanical systems contribute to occupant comfort and building performance.
  • Explore the components of building electrical systems, including power distribution, lighting, and low-voltage systems such as AV, telecom, and data.
  • Learn the principles of plumbing systems, including water supply, drainage, and waste systems, and their role in maintaining hygiene and safety in buildings.
  • Understand how MEP systems integrate within a project and the importance of designing them for efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness

Building Construction Fire Protection Course Online

  • Designing and installing fire protection systems, including wet-pipe and dry-pipe suppression systems.
  • Conducting startup, testing, and inspection of fire protection systems.
  • Understanding fire safety regulations and ensuring compliance.
  • Documenting system performance and ensuring quality assurance.
  • Troubleshooting and resolving issues during system commissioning.
  • Communicating effectively with engineers, inspectors, and stakeholders.

Construction Materials Course Online

  • Understand the properties and uses of essential construction materials, including concrete, steel, wood, and more
  • Explore the latest innovations in sustainable and green construction materials
  • Learn how to evaluate and select the appropriate materials for various project requirements
  • Gain practical knowledge on applying materials in both residential and commercial contexts
  • Develop skills to assess material performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness
  • Discover industry trends and best practices for using materials in modern construction projects

Commercial Blueprint Reading Course Online

  • Gain a comprehensive understanding of architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical plans as applied to a mixed-use commercial construction project.
  • Learn to read and interpret symbols, notations, and technical details in accordance with industry standards. Evaluate the similarities between all sets of construction documents submitted for building permits.
  • Work with real-world construction drawings and documents to build practical skills.
  • Understand how blueprints are used to estimate costs, plan projects, and ensure on-site accuracy during construction.

Residential Blueprint Reading Course Online

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the inter-relationship between the drawings included in a set of Construction Documents (blueprints).
  • Analyze different drawings and see how scale is presented throughout a set of Construction Documents.
  • Evaluate the similarities between all sets of blueprint construction documents submitted for building permits.
  • Recognize the need for consistency in presenting information in all types of Construction Documents in this online blueprint reading course.

Intro to Construction Estimating Course Online

  • Understand the fundamentals of construction estimating for residential and commercial projects.
  • Learn to interpret architectural and structural plans to extract relevant cost-related data.
  • Master different types of estimates, such as conceptual, preliminary, and detailed estimating.
  • Gain insight into quantity surveying, estimating takeoffs, labor costs, equipment costs, and contingency planning.
  • Explore industry-standard tools and software used for creating precise cost estimations.
  • Develop problem-solving skills to analyze discrepancies and mitigate cost overruns effectively.

Taught by

Luis Hernandez, David Nguyen, Ed Wenz, and Matt F.

Reviews

4.6 rating at VDCI based on 240 ratings

Start your review of Construction

Never Stop Learning.

Get personalized course recommendations, track subjects and courses with reminders, and more.

Someone learning on their laptop while sitting on the floor.