Carpentry and Renovation Techniques
Construct your future.
- Enjoy a more personalized learning environment with our small classes
- Benefit from supportive and experienced faculty who are active in their industry
- Gain the latest and best industry-specific knowledge and skills to be career-ready upon graduation
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
International
Availability
Competitive?
Fall 2025
No
Schedule
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Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
The one-year Carpentry and Renovation Techniques Ontario College Certificate program prepares you for a future in construction, whether you pursue apprenticeship training, employment as a framer or finisher or simply want to tackle a few projects around the house.
You acquire a well-rounded education, combining traditional carpentry skills with newer technologies. Algonquin College`s Waterfront Campus in Pembroke is a great place to learn, as you have access to high-quality tools in a state-of-the-art shop....(read more)
Overview
Construct your future.
The one-year Carpentry and Renovation Techniques Ontario College Certificate program prepares you for a future in construction, whether you pursue apprenticeship training, employment as a framer or finisher or simply want to tackle a few projects around the house.
You acquire a well-rounded education, combining traditional carpentry skills with newer technologies. Algonquin College`s Waterfront Campus in Pembroke is a great place to learn, as you have access to high-quality tools in a state-of-the-art shop.
Gain knowledge and skills in:
- hand and power tool usage
- carpentry/framing techniques
- blueprint reading
- welding
- hoisting and rigging
- plumbing
- applied construction geometry
- mathematics
- the Ontario Building Code
- general and specific safety training
Throughout this physically demanding program, explore the latest green technology and energy-efficient construction techniques. Apply your construction skills to building projects that will help local communities.
There is an anticipated shortage of skilled workers in the construction industry as a result of an aging workforce and local expansion. That means there are many opportunities for employment available to graduates. With this certificate, you may pursue a specialized education in construction, or seek exemption from the Basic Level of the General Carpenter Apprenticeship training.
Graduates may find work as a(n):
- apprentice carpenter
- construction framer
- interior systems installer
- exterior systems applicator
- renovator
- door and window installer
- concrete form worker
- deck and porch designer/builder
- junior construction site supervisor
- junior estimator
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Are interested in pursuing a career in the skilled trades.
- Are team-oriented, enjoy physical labour and working outdoors.
- Have effective communication skills and interpersonal abilities.
- Are safety conscious and respectful of standards and regulations.
- Possess problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
- Enjoy working with mathematical problems.
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
CON7014
Course Name:
Building Tools and Materials
Course Description:
It is essential for professionals in the construction industry to possess the skills and knowledge for proper selection of materials and saf... + Read More
Hours:
112.0
Code:
CON7206
Course Name:
Construction Safety
Course Description:
A safe work environment is paramount in today's construction industry. Students gain the knowledge required for the safe use of ladders, sca... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
DAT7323
Course Name:
Computer Applications for the Trades
Course Description:
Today's trades are relying ever-increasingly on the use of technology on and off the worksite. Students develop basic computer skills necess... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
DRA7334
Course Name:
Plans, Specifications and Codes I
Course Description:
Successful construction projects and renovations begin with and depend on an understanding of accurate project plans. Students use drafting ... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
ENL7777
Course Name:
Communications I
Course Description:
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-orient... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MAT7013
Course Name:
Applied Construction Geometry
Course Description:
Knowledge of basic geometry is frequently used in the construction industry. Students examine and utilize basic geometric principles through... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
MAT7014
Course Name:
Applied Mathematics for the Trades I
Course Description:
Mastery of mathematical theories is essential for success in the construction industry. Students practise performing technical calculations ... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
CON7015
Course Name:
Residential Framing and Exterior Finish
Course Description:
Students develop skills to frame houses and small buildings. Students examine the Ontario Building Code and the structural requirements pert... + Read More
Hours:
154.0
Code:
CON7016
Course Name:
Fundamentals of Building Science
Course Description:
Professionals in the construction industry must possess an awareness of both the environmental and green energy effects on buildings and mat... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
CON7017
Course Name:
Collaborating with Supporting Trades
Course Description:
To complete a successful building project, effective interaction of supporting trades is essential. Communication with and perspective of ot... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
DRA7335
Course Name:
Plans, Specifications and Codes II
Course Description:
The construction industry depends heavily on comprehension of blueprint interpretation and creation. Students examine residential building b... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
MAT7015
Course Name:
Applied Mathematics for the Trades II
Course Description:
Accurate and efficient use and estimation of time and materials is essential within the construction industry. Students utilize applied math... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
PLU7011
Course Name:
Introduction to Plumbing
Course Description:
Students examine the basic theory and practice of terminology, tools, equipment and safe work practices used in residential applications of ... + Read More
Hours:
24.0
Code:
WEL7311
Course Name:
Metal Cutting and Welding
Course Description:
Students examine the basics of welding procedures as practised in building construction. Students examine safety precautions, types and uses... + Read More
Hours:
14.0
Code:
GED1519
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates may find employment as apprentice carpenters, construction framers, interior systems installers, exterior systems applicators, renovators, door and window installers, concrete form workers, deck and porch design/builders, junior construction site supervisors or junior estimators.
Pathways
Please use our Pathways tool to search for pathway options.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Identify and use strategies to enhance work performance and continued learning to keep pace with industry changes.
- Identify and adhere to established health and safety practices that apply to specific job sites, in accordance with current legislation and regulations.
- Perform building construction and renovation tasks in compliance with contracts, the Ontario and/or National Building Codes, applicable laws and industry`s ethical practices.
- Work in accordance with established sustainability practices.
- Communicate and collaborate with diverse clients, supervisors and tradespersons to complete projects on time and to maintain effective working relationships.
- Assist with maintaining accurate project documents and use computer technologies to support building construction and renovation projects.
- Solve on-site trade-related building and renovation problems by applying principles of basic technical mathematics and building science.
- Select, maintain and safely operate hand tools, and portable and stationary power tools, to efficiently complete building construction and renovation tasks.
- Assist with the completion of building and renovation stages, from site layout and footings to the application of interior and exterior finishes, according to specifications.
- Assist in the preparation of material estimations according to building construction and renovation project documents.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2024/2025 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar`s Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
- Textbooks, supplies and safety equipment cost approximately $900. Textbooks are available in both hardcover and e-text versions.
- For more information and associated fees, please visit: www.algonquincollege.com/coursematerials.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or Mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee will be charged.
Program Eligibility
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
- Mathematics, Grade 11 (MBF3C or equivalent).
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT) Overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 110, minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.
Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English and mathematics.
Application Information
CARPENTRY AND RENOVATION TECHNIQUES
Program Code 1519X01FPM
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar`s Office
Algonquin College in the Ottawa Valley
1 College Way
Pembroke, ON K8A0C8
Local: 613-735-4700
Toll-free 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 1-866-620-3845 Fax: 613-735-4739
https://algonquincollege.com/pembroke
Additional Information
Program Resources
Graduates who become registered as apprentice carpenters may be eligible to apply for Advanced Standing for the classroom portion of their apprenticeship training. Graduates may also be eligible to apply for Advanced Standing in Algonquin College`s Building Construction Technician or Heritage Carpentry and Joinery program.
Contact
Adam Johns
Program Coordinator
Room 321
My 10-plus years of work in the trades has made me a bit of a workhorse who strives in a constantly shifting and fast-paced environment. This, as many teachers would agree, is exactly the environment we work in every day. I believe in giving back to our community. For the last several years, our classes participate in a variety of building projects for our community. We have built an obstacle for the Cancer Society’s Git’Er Done Mud Run, which took place at Wilderness Tours. We’ve done picnic tables for the City of Pembroke, 30-plus feet of dock for the rowing club, rebuilt the benches for our waterfront boardwalk and completed our first timber frame project (an 8’ x 10’ pavilion) for Little Lakes Park in Beachburg. I also belong to the Renfrew County Home Builders Association, where local contractors and business owners meet to discuss the industry. In the future, I’d very much like to create projects that can continue to help our local communities, but in bigger and better ways.
I believe the most important thing that faculty can pass on to our students is to stay safe while working in the industry, and to always make sure to do the job right the first time. Completely avoidable workplace injuries happen all too often in the trades. We’re working very hard to teach our students how to identify dangerous situations and how to handle those situations on the job site. We train our students to take pride in their work and do our best to show them the advantages of creating something that will not only look fantastic but will hold up to the test of time.