Unique, hands-on laboratory and classroom experiences in basic architecture, construction, and engineering skills. Learn practical skills from industry experts, experience jobsite tours, and more!
Students will develop the entry-level skills and knowledge needed to explore the many careers available in the industries of architecture, construction, and engineering.
All ACE Academy courses are aligned and articulate into Kirkwood's Registered Apprenticeship Program: Construction Technologist.
Completion of the Construction Trades track with the addition of an internship component, as well as a math and communication elective, will earn successful students an ACE Diploma.
ARC-153 | ACE Professions | 3 credits
Overviews the commercial construction industry through a case study of local Architectural, Construction (both General Contractor and Subcontractors) & Engineering professions. Emphasizes the players as well as the processes and legal/contractual issues involved in a typical project. Includes job shadow opportunities.
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
CON-101 | Architectural Plans and Specifications | 3 credits*
Introduces the skills and methods for understanding and interpreting construction drawings and technical specifications for residential and commercial buildings.
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
CON-190 | Construction Lab | 3 credits
Provides introductory construction lab experience in a project-based environment that emphasizes teamwork, communication, productivity, and the soft skills required for success in the construction industry. Students are introduced to hand and power tools commonly used in construction, along with basic residential and commercial construction systems and construction safety. Construction systems may include foundation systems, floor systems, wall systems, roof systems, exterior finishes and interior finishes.
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
CON-313 | Structures & Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing Systems | 3 credits
Continues the study of materials, methods and terminology used in modern construction. Focuses on mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, and their coordination with other systems. Includes the use of charts and tables to evaluate system requirements.
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
*Course counts toward Kirkwood's Interior Design Degree Program.
All ACE Academy courses are aligned and articulate into Kirkwood's Registered Apprenticeship Program: Construction Technologist.
Completion of the Architectural and Engineering Design track with the addition of an internship component, as well as a math and communication elective, will earn successful students an ACE Diploma.
ARC-153 ACE Professions | 3 credits
Overviews the commercial construction industry through a case study of local Architectural, Construction (both General Contractor and Subcontractors) & Engineering professions. Emphasizes the players as well as the processes and legal/contractual issues involved in a typical project. Includes job shadow opportunities.
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
CAD-201 | Introduction to Building, Information and Modeling | 3 credits
Introduces a building information modeling CAD program and the process involved in generating a complete set of working drawings. Emphasizes drawing set up, file management, architectural information organization, attention to detail, converting sketches to CAD, modifying CAD drawings and applying problem-solving skills.
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
CON-101 | Architectural Plans and Specifications | 3 credits*
Introduces the skills and methods for understanding and interpreting construction drawings and technical specifications for residential and commercial buildings.
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
CON-410 | Architectural Modeling | 3 credits*
Introduces construction concepts through computerized model building. Explores various wall systems and the phases of the construction process.
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
*Courses count toward Kirkwood's Interior Design Degree Program.
Students may find immediate employment opportunities in the community after completing the ACE Academy. Be prepared for further training in the architecture, construction, or engineering industries and gain a competitive edge for local apprenticeship programs.
Construction & Building Inspector
$62,150
Industrial Engineer
$96,150
Civil Engineer
$81,850
Architect
$83,750
For more information about career pathways in Architecture, Construction, and Engineering, visit www.Explore-ACE.org.
The Kirkwood Architecture, Construction & Engineering (ACE) Academy can lead students to college certificates, diplomas, associates, bachelors, and graduate degrees. Examples of college majors include, but are not limited to: Architectural Technology, Carpentry, Construction, Masonry Technology, Plumbing Technology or Civil Engineering.
If you’re planning to transfer to a four-year college or university after attending Kirkwood, specific transfer information can be found at All About Transferring.