Fleming College

Program Highlights

Gain a solid understanding of the various technical elements of home renovation along with the business skills necessary to succeed in the industry. Topics include:

The aim of the Carpentry and Renovation Technician program is to prepare entry-level carpenters, including construction labourers who can function in a wide array of construction projects using sustainable practices. The emphasis is on hands-on experience, including a service learning experience in the community assisting a not-for-profit organization.

This program has been designed to include four semesters with progressive opportunities to earn carpentry apprenticeship levels:

• After successfully completing semester two you will have earned the Carpentry Techniques Ontario College Certificate and have an opportunity to challenge level one for General Carpentry apprenticeship
• By completing two more semesters, you can earn an Ontario College Diploma in Carpentry and Renovation Technician, and can challenge level two for General Carpentry apprenticeship

In addition, graduates will have an opportunity to obtain industry related health and safety certifications.

Construction Skills Grads: Class of 2013 and 2014

If you graduated from the Fleming College Construction Skills program in 2013 or 2014, you are eligible for admission to semester 3 (second year) of the Carpentry and Renovation Technician diploma. Contact Program Coordinator Simon Mokedanz for more information about the program. Contact the Admissions Office for details on how to apply.

Service Learning Experience

The service-learning component in the Carpentry and Renovation Technician program provides the opportunity to:

• learn and develop through active participation in an organized service experience that meets community needs, coordinated in collaboration with Fleming College and the local community
• use newly acquired skills and knowledge in real life situations
• integrate academic curriculum and service learning in a structured experience
• foster personal growth, a sense of community, and empathy for others

Success Factors

Employers are looking for carpentry candidates who possess these skills and characteristics:

• basic knowledge of the trade and industrial safety regulations
• ability to read blueprints and perform trade calculations
• able to work outside, in both heat and cold, have a good sense of balance, and demonstrate manual dexterity
• organizational skills, the ability to work collaboratively with others and strong interpersonal skills
• ability to conceptualize and visualize projects
• ability to adapt to a variety of environments and to new equipment
• detail oriented and willing to take initiative

Career Opportunities

At the completion of all four semesters, graduates should be well versed in Basic Carpentry, Residential Construction, and understand some basic Industrial, Commercial, Institutional (ICI) construction practices. They will be ready for employment in the construction industry with the added knowledge of sustainable practices, project management, and entrepreneurial skills. Initial employment includes roles such as: General Carpenter Apprentice in residential carpentry, Skilled Labourer with an opportunity for Apprenticeship, or Carpenter's Helper. Additional opportunities may include roles such as Project Coordinator in a construction office, Assistant Site Superintendent, or Clerk of Works in municipal construction departments. After several years' experience, graduates may be able to start their own business or work in construction management.

Program Progression

Successful completion of all courses in the Ontario College Carpentry Techniques Certificate is required for entry into the Carpentry and Renovation Technician program.

Additional Costs

Books approximately $550; tools up to $700 (including safety shoes and glasses).

Download the Required Equipment and Tools list

Transfer Agreements

You may be able to use credits obtained at Fleming College to continue your postsecondary education in pursuit of a degree. The articulation and credit transfer agreements with our partner institutions are summarized below.