Course Descriptions

Introduction to Concrete Science Technology

CST100

Introduction to the history of concrete, employment opportunities, job functions, and professional organizations in the concrete industry. As needed.

1 Credit: 1 Lecture

Concrete Tools & Materials

CST110

Introduction to the numerous tools used in the concrete industry. Identification and appropriate use within and in conjunction with concrete processes. Emphasis on safety in the use of the equipment as well as care and maintenance of the equipment. As needed.

2 Credits: 2 Lecture

Properties & Testing of Concrete

CST120

A detailed study of the properties of concrete as it is used as a building material. Properties pertaining to durability, abrasion resistance, permeability, etc. Composition applications for various uses. Testing procedures used to determine acceptable strengths and characteristics for specific tasks. Provides relevance for concrete testing as it relates to safety and longevity. Spring Only.

4 Credits: 2 Lecture, 6 Lab

Concrete Codes & Standards

CST140

A review of codes associated with the concrete industry. Discussion of standards set by the concrete industry and their relevance to assuring the safety and welfare of the public. Detailed analysis of the different concrete systems and how codes and standards apply to each. As needed.

3 Credits: 3 Lecture

Concrete Materials & Repair Products

CST160

Overview of the materials utilized in residential and commercial concrete application. Function and industry standard application of the materials such as concrete mixes, sealers, jointing material, strengthening and bonding materials, and caulking. Use and application of fiberglass and steel reinforcement materials. As needed.

2 Credits: 2 Lecture

Concrete Industry Internship

CST201

Specialized work experience allows for the application of skills acquired in previous coursework and provides opportunities to solve site-specific concrete industry problems. Topics include entrepreneurship, concrete industry field practices, estimating and scheduling, job cost control, and accounting. This internship experience requires a minimum of 225 work experience hours, but may include more hours depending on the individual needs of the internship experience. Completion via internship experience with a residential or commercial concrete-industry employer is strongly encouraged. An internship with a building contractor who covers the goals of this internship will be considered.

3 Credits: 0 Lecture, 15 Internship

Prerequisites:
BCT238

Concrete Industry Internship

CST202

Specialized work experience allows for the application of skills acquired in previous coursework and provides opportunities to solve site-specific concrete industry problems. Topics include entrepreneurship, concrete industry field practices, estimating and scheduling, job cost control, and accounting. Students must complete a minimum of 200 hours in an appropriate work environment. Internship experience with a residential or commercial concrete-industry employer is strongly encouraged. Activities may include library and field research, data analysis, report writing, and presentation of projects. Permission of the instructor is required.

1 Credit: 0 Lecture, 5 Internship

Decorative Concrete

CST204

An in-depth look at decorative concrete applications, practices, and procedures. The study of different types of decorative concrete relative to coloration and pattern processes. Included are applications for interior and exterior use such as counters, stamping, staining, and precast for architectural aesthetics. Hands-on skills in stamping, stenciling, coloration, carving vertical applications, forming, polishing, and using additives. As needed.

3 Credits: 1 Lecture, 6 Lab

Concrete Production Problems & Conflict Resolution

CST207

Study of the defects in concrete with an emphasis on troubleshooting the causes of concrete failure. Topics include testing, analysis of mix design, and job placement procedures. Diagnosis of common and recurring field problems such as set times, air content variation, low strength, cracking, scaling, and other site issues. Pre-construction meetings and job conferences along with problem resolution and arbitration. As needed.

3 Credits: 3 Lecture

Forming, Shoring & Reinforcing

CST208

Hands-on practices for forming, placing and reinforcing concrete. Understanding the transport and finishing of cast-in-place concrete foundations and grade slabs. Emphasis on precast concrete and the production and utilization of precast methods. Reinforcing and stabilizing precast structures. Comparative analysis of precast and cast-in-place applications. As needed.

3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab

Structural Concrete & Innovative Concrete Technologies

CST209

Specific knowledge of concrete use relative to structural building applications. Examination of the use of new and innovative concrete technologies in commercial and residential construction. Advantages and disadvantages when concrete is specified as the building material of choice from the perspective of suppliers, architects, and contractors. Fall Only.

3 Credits: 2.50 Lecture, 1.50 Lab

Concrete Construction Estimating

CST210

Overview of estimating material takeoffs and cost of concrete projects ranging from residential flatwork, parking garages, highways, bridge decks, etc. Topics include evaluating needs and cost data for reinforcement materials such as steel bar, steel fiber, fiberglass bar, fiberglass fibers, and mesh; using industry standards for determining flat rate costs per yard and reinforcement per unit; comparing cost data from different sources for both material and labor; and reviewing and determining take-off quantities from construction prints. As needed.

3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab