Spencer Easton

Core Classes

This course provided me with an overview of the U.S. construction industry with particular focus on the social, cultural, and economic trends, issues, and events that impact and shape the industry. This course helped me develop a clearer focus on my educational and occupational goals. 

I gained knowledge and experience of using graphical communications as used in the construction industry. Including print reading and interpretation of architectural, structural, electrical, and mechanical drawings. I learned how Residential and commercial plans are used and the differences between them.

This course provided me with the understanding of residential building techniques and materials. The course examined common construction materials, components, and systems as related to wood frame structures, including sustainable materials. I analyzed the residential construction process from site planning to finish construction.

I learned commercial building techniques and materials. Basic materials and installation methods for commercial construction. I also was able to study sustainable construction methods .

I was able to use and learn Computer applications that are used in the construction field. Various software packages were introduced and studied specifically to their application in the construction industry.

I learned to interpret contract documents used in the various construction delivery methods.  I was able to cover contracts, bidding documents, bonding and insurance, conditions of the contract, general requirements, and technical specifications.

During this class I was able to obtain knowledge of concrete, its physical and mechanical properties, and the design and quality control of concrete mixes. I designed my own "6 bag" no water reducer or add mixture concrete that held a 4250 PSI after 28 days. 

I performed basic surveying operations necessary for the location, layout, and construction of a building. I was able to learn the interpretation of site plans and topographic maps. I plotted a topographic area as a project. 

From this class I am able to interpret current building codes and how they apply to the construction and use of buildings. I used the IBC (International Building Code) 2012 for study and application.

I developed material estimates for building projects. I learned both manual and computer applications in working with architectural drawings for estimating quantities. We put together an estimating spreadsheet for every stage and material for building  in residential construction practices.

 This class consisted of supervised work experience in the construction industry with placement and course objectives approved by the faculty supervisor. Ethics as it relates to construction management was discussed.

In Progress

I gained the fundamental skills necessary to plan and schedule the construction process and familiarize myself with computer scheduling software packages. I learned how to balance resources to complete projects. I was able to use Microsoft Project the whole semester to apply what I learned in class.

In progress

This course provided me with a basic knowledge of electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems used in residential and light commercial buildings. I learned advantages and disadvantages of various systems, and how their design and installation integrates into the management of the building process.

I was able to analyze the behavior of engineered structures.  Including properties of materials and mechanics as they relate to the structural behavior of load resisting components.

In progress

In progress

In progress

During this course I learned the Occupational Safety and Health Act and other federal/state legislation that apply to safety requirements and responsibilities of the construction management industry. I was also able to obtain my 30 Hour OSHA certification by the end of the semester. 

800 hours of supervised work experience in the construction industry with placement and course objectives approved by the faculty supervisor.