Advanced Diploma in Building Renovation Technology

Program Overview

This program is designed to teach you new construction and building renovation skills from both an applied perspective and a management perspective, including carpentry techniques and new materials applications while providing a solid understanding of the renovation-related trades.

Hands-on training takes place in fully equipped labs where students practice current techniques related to renovations and new home construction, using sustainable design principles. The third year of the program focuses on project management skills required to work in a supervisory role. You will also have an introductory exposure to the business skills that can be adapted to starting and running a renovation, custom home building or general contracting business.

Practical applications include:

• Residential construction and renovations
• Millwork
• Demolition
• Framing
• Finishes
• Drywall installation and finishing
• Site management
• Cabinetry
• Stair construction
• Building code
• Basic electrical, HVAC, and plumbing systems.

Business skills include:

• Business management
• Marketing
• Client relations
• Project management
• Site management
• Scheduling
• Controlling, estimating and bookkeeping
• Budgeting and financial management
• Inspections

You will also learn how to use and apply computer software and technology currently used in the construction industry, including spreadsheets, computer-aided design, estimating, project management and presentation tools.

Note: When you enrol in the program in January, you are required to complete semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year in order to continue into semester 3 in the fall.

This program is unique in Ontario.

Your Field Education Options
This program requires the successful completion of two semesters of field placement. George Brown works with employers and industry partners to identify potential work experience opportunities. Students are also strongly encouraged to pursue self-directed industry work experience opportunities they believe would provide the learning experiences they value and meet the learning outcomes of the program. This valuable work experience can in turn be added to your resume.

In addition to more formal on-the-job work experience, George Brown College endeavours to provide additional learning opportunities with real-world challenges and clients. Find out more about field education at our Industry Liaison Office.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Develop and use strategies for ongoing professional development to remain current with industry changes, enhance work performance and explore career opportunities.
  • Comply with and monitor health and safety practices and procedures in accordance with current legislation and regulations.
  • Prepare quotes and monitor that work is completed in compliance with the rights and conditions of contractual obligations, the Ontario and/or National Building Codes, applicable laws, bylaws, standards and ethical practices in the building construction and renovation field.
  • Promote and maintain sustainability practices in the implementation of building construction and renovation projects.
  • Facilitate collaboration and interaction among a range of tradespersons and project stakeholders to support timely completion of building construction and renovation projects.
  • Review and interpret project plans and produce technical sketches and documents to support building construction and renovation projects.
  • Use technologies to obtain, analyze, organize and communicate building construction and renovation information.
  • Analyze and solve technical problems related to the design and implementation of building construction and renovation projects by applying the principles of advanced technical mathematics, building design and building science.
  • Select, maintain and safely use hand tools, and portable and stationary power tools, when performing layout, cutting, fitting and assembly operations.
  • Complete building and renovation stages, from site layout and footings to the application of interior and exterior finishes, in accordance with blueprint specifications and conservation principles.
  • Evaluate the methods employed and the use of equipment and materials involved in the completion of building construction and renovation projects.
  • Schedule, coordinate and monitor the progression of building construction and renovation projects by applying principles and strategies of project management.
  • Design and implement business strategies to develop home building, renovation and re-development enterprises.
  • Apply leadership, supervision and interpersonal skills to manage building construction and renovation projects.