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Architecture & Construction

  /    /  Architecture & Construction

The Architecture and Construction career cluster comprises one of the largest industries in the United States. Earnings in this career cluster are higher than average and it offers more opportunities than most other industries for individuals who want to own or run their own business. This career area also offers many opportunities for adult apprenticeship after training.

This career cluster prepares students for careers in designing, planning, managing, building and maintain the building environment.  People employed in this cluster work on new structures, restorations, additions, alterations and repairs.  Students in this youth apprenticeship learn and practice skills that prepare them for diverse post-secondary opportunities.  These opportunities could include two or four-year college programs, apprenticeships or employment.  Students in this apprenticeship have the option to participate in the following pathways:

  • Design/Pre-Construction Pathway
    • Architectural Drafting
    • Architectural Planning

For Parents

The number of architecture firms and business in Jefferson County is limited.  Please help us connect with business if you know of a great placement for your student.

  • Entering junior year or senior status
  • Display a genuine interest in the Architecture Pathway
  • Currently enrolled in or have taken computer –assisted design (CAD) courses in junior and/or senior year – AutoCad or SolidWorks
  • Compile a professional portfolio of designs to show during the interview
  • Interview effectively and are hired in an architecture position
  • Maintain a high level of attendance in school and on the job
  • Secure transportation to the job
  • On-track for high school graduation

Students take courses at their high school that are part of the program of study for architecture that provide the related classroom instruction needed to compliment the worksite training. Such courses can include:

  • Drafting & Design I & II
  • Architectural Drafting
  • Principles of Engineering
  • Introduction to Engineering Design

Talk to your School to Career Coordinator or Technical Education Instructor for further information.

The employer provides opportunities to experience the basics of architectural careers in relation to the competency checklist.  They provide a mentor to guide and train the student.  The employer also evaluates the student on a quarterly basis.

The student can be employed in any business or industry that employs drafting/designers in architecture, engineering, or mechanical areas.  They also are able to provide the student with the competency-based training in the drafting/design area that is specific to the student’s career interest. The positions for these students are usually 2-3 hours a day after 1 p.m. The student needs to be employed a minimum of 450 hours for the one year program and 900 hours minimum for the two year program.

Credit between school districts varies, but typically the student will receive 1/2 – 1 credit per semester for the work experience and the same for their classroom training.  All students should receive a wage according to the type of work they are performing.

Resource Pathways