Construction Blueprint Reading (8-Session Program | 9-Week Schedule)

Master blueprint reading in a structured, 8-session series designed to equip you with practical skills and hands-on experience. This course will provide foundational knowledge of blueprint reading as it relates to the architectural and building industry. Participants will learn the theory of orthographic projections and how to read and interpret floor plans, sections, and elevation drawings. The course will also cover foundations, schedules, means and methods, symbols and notations, scaling and dimensioning practices, and reading blueprints for structural, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems.

Students will receive textbook Printreading for Heavy Commercial Construction to support learning and exercises.

Some homework will be assigned throughout the course to reinforce learning and practical application.

Topics Include:

-Understand architectural and engineering scales, dimension and area drawings

-Distinguish between the different types of drawings

-Learn civil, architectural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and finish schedules

-Know the difference between load and non-load bearing walls

-Follow detailed views from main plan or drawing

-Convert engineering dimensions to architectural

-Understand different drawing types and their usage

-Know what a floor plan, section, and elevation are

-Understand symbols, notations, abbreviations, and material schedules

-Work with drawings on dimensions, finishes, details

-Area calculations

Program Benefits:

-Gain a knowledge of blueprint reading as it relates to building construction projects

-Understand the design process and the role of design professionals

-Be able to find trade information using blueprints

-Be able to answer construction questions related to the layout and installation of materials at the jobsite

-Be able to identify problems or shortcomings of the blueprints you are using

Program Schedule & Attendance Requirement:

This is an 8-session course delivered over 9 weeks. Participants must attend all 8 sessions and are expected to begin with Session 1 and complete through Session 8. Mid-course enrollment is not permitted.

• Week 1: April 30
• Week 2: May 7
• Week 3: May 14
• Week 4: May 21
• No Class (Bye Week): May 28
• Week 5: June 4
• Week 6: June 11
• Week 7: June 18
• Week 8: June 25

Instructor:

Thom McAdams, B.Arch
Forensic Expert, Fleisher Forensics

Thom McAdams is a forensic expert and consulting construction manager with over 35 years of experience in construction, design, and project management. His expertise includes construction claims, contract administration, safety, and field operations across a wide range of building and infrastructure projects.

In addition to his industry work, Thom has been an instructor with Associated Builders and Contractors for decades, teaching blueprint reading, estimating, and project management. He is also a former adjunct professor at Penn State University and Drexel University. Thom holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Drexel University and is an OSHA-authorized construction outreach trainer.