The Carpentry Program of Study prepares students for careers in residential and commercial construction. Students develop foundational and advanced skills in building techniques, framing, finishing, blueprint reading, measurement, and construction safety. The program emphasizes hands-on learning using industry tools and materials while preparing students for apprenticeships, certification, and entry-level employment in the construction trades.
Students will learn to:
- Apply construction safety standards and OSHA practices
- Read and interpret blueprints and construction drawings
- Measure, cut, and assemble building materials accurately
- Frame walls, floors, and roof systems
- Use hand and power tools safely and effectively
- Explore careers in residential and commercial construction
If you have questions regarding the Carpentry Program of Study at Navarro Early College High School, please reach out to Jenny Allen, Carpentry Instructor, at jenny.allen@austinisd.org.
Course Sequence
The following courses are required to complete the Carpentry Program of Study. Courses are organized by program level and are not required to be taken in sequential order. Below are the program levels, their corresponding courses, and course descriptions.
- Level 1: Principles of Construction
- Level 2: Construction Technology I
- Level 3: Construction Technology II
- Level 4: Practicum in Construction Technology (First Time Taken)
Course ID: 8400.HT00.Y / 8400.H000.Y
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite(s): NONE
Principles of Construction introduces students to the construction industry, including safety practices, construction materials, tools, and basic building techniques. Students explore career opportunities while developing foundational skills used across all construction trades.
Students will learn to:
- Apply OSHA safety standards and workplace safety practices
- Identify construction tools, materials, and equipment
- Understand basic construction methods and systems
- Read basic construction drawings
- Explore careers in the construction industry
Course ID: 8410.HT00.Y / 8410.H000.Y
Credit: 2.0
Prerequisite(s): NONE
Construction Technology I introduces students to fundamental construction skills used in residential building. Students gain hands-on experience in measurement, layout, framing basics, and tool usage while following industry safety standards.
Students will learn to:
- Measure, cut, and assemble construction materials
- Perform basic framing techniques
- Read and interpret construction drawings
- Use hand and power tools safely
- Apply jobsite safety procedures
Course ID: 8420.HA00.Y
Credit: 2.0
Prerequisite(s): Construction Technology I
Construction Technology II builds on foundational skills by introducing advanced construction methods used in residential and light commercial projects. Students work on more complex building systems and develop increased independence in construction tasks.
Students will gain experience in:
- Advanced framing and structural systems
- Installation of doors, windows, and finishes
- Construction layout and planning
- Applying building codes and standards
- Working collaboratively on construction projects
Course ID: 8411.HA00.Y
Credit: 2.0
Prerequisite(s): Construction Technology II
Practicum in Construction Technology provides students with a supervised, work-based learning experience where they apply classroom knowledge in real-world construction settings. Students work alongside industry professionals to develop advanced technical skills and workplace readiness.
Admission Requirements
- Successful completion of prerequisite construction coursework
- Instructor approval
- Meet district/employer requirements for work-based learning
Students will gain experience in:
- Applying construction and carpentry skills on job sites
- Using industry-standard tools, materials, and equipment
- Reading and interpreting construction plans
- Demonstrating workplace professionalism and teamwork
- Preparing for employment, apprenticeships, and postsecondary training
Industry-Based Certifications
Students who successfully complete this program have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications that validate their technical skills, industry knowledge, and workplace readiness. These credentials help prepare students for careers in carpentry, construction, and skilled trades while providing a competitive advantage for employment and apprenticeships.
Industry-Based Certifications may include:
- NCCER Core
- NCCER Carpentry Level I
- OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification
Career Opportunities
Students completing this program may pursue careers such as:
- Carpenter
- Framing Carpenter
- Residential Carpenter
- Commercial Carpenter
- Finish Carpenter
- Construction Laborer
- Construction Foreman
- Construction Estimator
- Building Inspector
- Project Manager (with additional education or experience)
- Construction Supervisor (with experience)
- General Contractor (with licensing and experience)