Student Reviews
“I loved this program and learned so much. Andy is an outstanding teacher.”
"This program gave me greater knowledge, better understanding and a space to hone my skills, plus a network with other students that, I hope, will benefit our careers in the future."
"The experience helped me navigate a career change. I was able to use the program to start as an apprentice with a homebuilder and then leverage my new knowledge with my other professional experiences to move into a PM position."
"The instructor was of great help and full of knowledge. The fun part was using the shop and learning with others from different fields."
"We saved ourselves tens of thousands of dollars on home projects, which was our goal. So the class was absolutely worth it."
"I started my own handyperson business after completing the program."
"The mixture of classroom and hands-on learning provided an opportunity to apply the techniques we were learning in person and get immediate feedback. The informal setting allowed everyone to ask questions as we went along, allowing each person to get insights on other projects/jobsites/approaches."
"Gave me a much-needed confidence boost! I feel like I have the fundamentals that I will need to bring with me into troubleshooting both in the office and on the jobsite."
"I highly support this program and would 100% do it again. I would recommend this path to anyone looking to make a career transition or increase their industry knowledge to grow in their career."
"I've gained a lot of confidence in how to approach projects and communicate about project requirements."
"We have since demoed part of our house, reframed 21 window openings, resheathed our entire house, rebuilt stairs, etc. None of which was even concievable to us before this class."
"I learned significantly more about building than I knew before, and met great people."
Class Overview
Demand is high for workers with residential building skills in the Seattle area. Construction jobs can be rewarding and paid well. This certificate program provides hands-on career training in "whole building" residential construction.
The first of three parts, this class is designed to help you develop skills that can be directly put to work in the real world. This program is open to people with no experience, as well as anyone currently working in construction who would like to take their career to the next level.
Gain foundational construction skills including experience with tools and materials, carpentry skills, and jobsite safety. Enjoy lecture, discussion, and written materials, along with hands-on experience, to prepare you to take the Carpentry Basic Certification exam (optional).
Gain the knowledge and experience for gainful employment and advancement in residential construction, or for personal benefit.
See an overview of the Residential Construction program.
Learning Objectives
- Week 1: Introduction
- Week 2: Hand Tools
- Week 3: Hand Power Tools (plus a Saturday Session - Hand Tools: Framed Square)
- Week 4: Stationary Power Tools
- Week 5: Wood and Wood Products
- Week 6: Fasteners (plus a Saturday Session - Power Tools: Push Stick and Cutting Board)
- Week 7: Shop - Roof Framing
- Week 8: Jobsite Safety and Construction Aids
- Week 9: Building Layout or Site Visit (plus a Saturday Session - Built Walls)
- Week 10: Building Layout or Site Visit
*** Fall 2026 Schedule Notes: This class meets in person on ten Thursday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., between October 1 and December 10, with no class on Thursday, November 26. In addition, there are three Saturday sessions from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on October 17, November 7, and December 5.
Recommended Textbook
Residential Construction Academy Carpentry, 5th Edition. ISBN13: 9781337918503 and ISBN10: 1337918504. Available as a hardcover book or e-book. You can find these at your favorite bookstore or online.
Who Might Enjoy This Class
Note: There is an age requirement for this class of 18 years of age or older.
- People interested in entering the workforce in residential construction - no experience required!
- Anyone currently working in construction who would like to take their career to the next level
- Homeowners interested in doing home remodel or repair
Class Details
Fall 2026
- When : Thursday, , Saturday Oct 01 to Dec 10 ; 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
- Location : SCWTC , SC - WTC - Wood Lab A -WTC0116 , 2310 S. Lane St. Seattle WA 98144
- Fee : $1599
