About this course

This comprehensive introductory course provides clean energy professionals with essential knowledge of construction materials, methods, and techniques. Students will explore traditional and modern building approaches, from natural materials like wood and stone to innovative solutions like self-healing concrete and 3D printing. The course covers the complete building process from site preparation and foundations through MEP systems, with special emphasis on sustainable building practices and modern construction technologies relevant to clean energy installations. Perfect for professionals who need to understand construction fundamentals to better integrate renewable energy systems, conduct energy audits, or work effectively with building contractors and architects.

Subjects covered

Construction Trade Skills

Learning Objectives

  • Evaluate appropriate construction materials, methods, and techniques for various building applications and energy efficiency projects
  • Analyze building construction systems to identify opportunities for clean energy integration and performance improvements
  • Apply construction safety standards and professional practices when working on or around construction projects

Course outline

9 modules
5 hours to complete
1. Orientation Materials
This course is self-paced, so you don’t need to be logged in at any specific time. You can get started immediately after you enroll and the course materials will remain in your account with minimum guaranteed access for 12 months (1 year) after enrollment.
2. Construction Materials: Traditional to Innovative
Comprehensive overview of construction materials from traditional natural resources to cutting-edge innovations, with focus on energy efficiency implications
Key Learning Points:
  • Traditional materials: wood, stone, clay applications and properties
  • Modern materials: steel, concrete, glass, and synthetic options
  • Innovative materials: self-healing concrete, transparent wood, carbon fiber
  • Material selection criteria for energy-efficient construction
3. Construction Methods: From Traditional to Modern
Exploration of construction approaches from traditional on-site methods to modern prefabrication and modular construction techniques
Key Learning Points:
  • Traditional methods: masonry, timber framing, cast-in-place concrete
  • Modern Methods of Construction (MMC): modular and prefabrication advantages
  • Sustainability-focused methods: green building and passive solar design
  • Method selection based on project requirements and efficiency goals
4. Construction Techniques and Digital Tools
Specific construction techniques, assembly methods, and modern digital tools that improve quality and efficiency
Key Learning Points:
  • Structural techniques: post-tensioning, slip-forming, 3D printing applications
  • Assembly techniques: welding, bolting, riveting for different materials
  • Digital management: BIM (Building Information Modeling) fundamentals
  • Quality control and precision techniques in modern construction
5. Building Systems: Foundations Through MEP
Comprehensive overview of building systems from site work and foundations through mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems
Key Learning Points:
  • Foundations and sitework: soil analysis, excavation, foundation types
  • Building envelope: roofing, cladding, insulation, and thermal protection
  • MEP systems overview: HVAC, electrical, and plumbing basics
  • System integration considerations for energy efficiency
6. Professional Standards and Safety
Essential safety protocols, professional standards, blueprint reading, and construction mathematics for clean energy professionals
Key Learning Points:
  • OSHA safety standards and fall protection requirements
  • Blueprint reading: interpreting 2D drawings, scales, and symbols
  • Construction mathematics: area, volume, and material quantity calculations
  • Professional communication and jobsite coordination
7. Sustainable Construction and Future Trends
Modern sustainable building practices, green construction methods, and emerging trends relevant to clean energy integration
Key Learning Points:
  • Green building principles and net-zero construction practices
  • Recyclable materials and sustainable resource management
  • Integration opportunities for renewable energy systems
  • Future construction trends: automation, AI, and advanced materials
8. Course Summary & Professional Development Path
Course recap, knowledge integration, and guidance for continued learning in construction and clean energy fields
Activities:
  • Comprehensive final assessment
  • Personal development action plan
  • Resource compilation
9. Feedback and Additional Resources
This is our last module but you still have access to the all of course materials for 12 months (1 year), so keep working and you'll be able to complete the course at your own pace. After your year of access expires you can optionally extend access with a HeatSpring Membership. Enjoy the course and keep in touch!

Author

Brian Hayden

Co-Founder, HeatSpring

Co-founder and Managing Partner at HeatSpring. Brian teaches entrepreneurship at the University of Michigan College of Engineering. Brian has business degrees from the University of Michigan (BBA) and Babson College (MBA). He loves education, clean energy, and entrepreneurship.

Frequently asked questions

Full FAQ
How does this course work?
You can begin this online course instantly upon enrollment. This course is delivered entirely online. Pre-order courses are available on launch date. This course is self-paced and you can set your own schedule to complete the materials. You can begin the lecture videos and other course materials as soon as you enroll. After successfully completing the course, you will be able to generate a certificate of completion.
How long do I have access to the materials?
Students get unlimited access to the course materials as soon as they enroll and for one year (365 days) after enrollment. Rewatch videos and review assignments as many times as you want. View updates the instructor makes to the course as the industry advances. Return to your course anytime with online access from anywhere in the world. After the one year of access expires, access can be extended by joining as a HeatSpring member. A single membership extends access to course materials for all past enrollments.
Will the instructor really answer my questions during this course?
Yes! This is an instructor-led online course. You can ask questions on the discussion board and get prompt answers from your instructor. It varies by instructor and by course but typically instructors check-in between daily and weekly to check quiz results or project work, review and respond to discussion board questions and read survey responses. Check the enrollment page for specific information about each instructor's check-in frequency.
Is there a certificate of completion?
Yes, when you complete this course you are eligible for a certificate of completion from HeatSpring. You can download your certificate as soon as you have completed all of the course requirements. Students can easily share their verified certificates on their LinkedIn profiles using our LinkedIn integration.
Can I register multiple people?
Yes, please visit our For Teams page to get a group discount.

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