Construction Technology At Merlo Campus

Our Construction Technology Program is certified by the Oregon Bureau of Labor & Industries as a Registered Pre-Apprenticeship program, sponsored by the Pacific Northwest Carpenters Institute.

Students who complete our two-year program will have an advantage over other applicants when applying for a position as an apprentice at Pacific NW Carpenters Institute and other Union Apprenticeship training programs. Apprenticeships are "earn while you learn," paid positions to learn a trade and solidify a high-wage, reliable and rewarding career.

The Construction Technology Program was envisioned and designed in collaboration with a dedicated Advisory Board consisting of union apprenticeship programs, industry partners, district facilities and district staff. Established in 2018, the board has provided essential feedback to ensure the creation of a program that meets the needs of the construction industry and prepares our students for a career in the construction trades.

"This program changed my whole high school experience. I loved the hands on experience and being able to learn about and use the tools. I feel prepared for the next steps."

-Construction Technology Student

MERLO High School Construction Course Offerings

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN...

Designing or renovating buildings
Working with tools
Organizing projects
Managing people

IN THIS PROGRAM, YOU'LL...

Learn to safely use a variety of tools, equipment and machinery to build finished products
Understand technical drawings and specifications
Learn how buildings are constructed from the foundation to the roof
Demonstrate effective teamwork and communication skills
Practice safe, legal, and ethical working habits
Be exposed to a variety of opportunities for a future career in the construction trades

COURSE OFFERINGS

Click on each tab to see what courses are offered for students at each grade level.

Sign up during forecasting in FEBRUARY. If a course has more interested students than enrollment space, a lottery will be conducted.

Introductory Courses

Construction Technology I

This course will dive into the construction world and get students thinking like a builder. Content will include basic measuring & layout, introduction to tools and tool safety. Once students understand the basics of hand tools and fasteners, they will be able to choose from several challenging yet rewarding projects to build. Safety protocols will be adhered to and students will be expected to wear a hardhat and safety glasses every day. A significant amount of class time will take place outside, so it will be an expectation that students are prepared for the elements. The intention of this course is to provide experience, exposure and guidance to students curious about careers in the trades.

2 credits (2 semesters double-blocked)
11-12 grade
Open to all BSD students

Intermediate / Advanced Courses

Construction Technology II

This class will focus more on advanced skills and zeroing in on the trade students are most interested in. Students in the course will be expected to read and follow instructions and detailed drawings to complete projects independently. We will also offer hands on experience welding and exploring electrical and plumbing systems.

2 credits (2 semesters double-blocked)
12 grade
Open to all BSD students

Merlo Elective Course

Introduction to Construction

Available to Merlo Community School students only.

This course is designed for students who are interested in the building and construction trades. Students will be introduced to a wide variety of careers in the field of residential construction. Students will gain basic knowledge and construction skills through a variety of lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on projects. Course content will focus on shop and job site safety practices, the proper use of hand tools, power tools and machinery, accurate measurement, construction math, and industry vocabulary. Other topics covered include types of building materials, project planning, cost estimation, interpreting blueprints, communication skills and productivity.

.25 credit
9-12 grade

More Information

POSSIBILITIES AFTER GRADUATION

three photos showcasing different jobs in the industry, income ranges from $34-83,000 annually

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