Center for Employment Training

Green Building Construction Skills

Soledad
Certificate · On Campus
Green Building Construction Skills
Accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE).
30 weeks (900 clock hours)
$15,249.00; the catalog defines this amount as program tuition and says no additional tuition is assessed within its completion window.
Certificate awarded on completion.
GBC30
Soledad — 930 Los Coches Drive, Soledad, CA 93960

Green Building Construction Skills is a Certificate program offered by Center for Employment Training in Soledad, CA. The program takes 30 weeks (900 clock hours) to complete, with a total tuition of $15,249.

Program Overview

This program will prepare students to perform the duties and responsibilities required by entry level positions in the building maintenance and the solar energy systems fields, such as plumbing helper-installer, carpenter (construction) helper, electrician helper, plumber helper, and solar energy systems installer. Students will learn construction related math, OSHA-based safety standards, carpentry, electrical skills, plumbing, exterior and interior finish, and basic photovoltaics (PV). Students will also learn fundamentals of energy, energy transfer, energy systems within a home, the "home as a system" concept, what factors impact comfort and efficiency, and how to conduct an energy survey. Additionally, students will demonstrate proficiency in customer service, the use of the internet, and job search skills. Students will be prepared to take the NABCEP entry level exam and the certification exams in BPI's Energy Auditor and Envelope/Shell Pro and ESCO's Green Awareness.

What Sets This Program Apart

Students will be prepared to take the NABCEP entry level exam and the certification exams in BPI's Energy Auditor and Envelope/Shell Pro and ESCO's Green Awareness.

Admission Requirements & Process

Get the skills you need for a job you love. CET’s hands-on training and industry connections help students of all backgrounds create a better life through better work. Our admission process is simple, and with open enrollment there’s no need to wait for the semester or quarter – you can enroll today and start job training right away.

General Requirements

  • Minimum Age
    CET’s doors are open to anyone 18 years of age and older who wants to learn a skill for placement into a job. Those younger than 18 years of age (but not younger than 16) may be…
  • No Academic Requirements
    CET does not have academic requirements for admission into any of the programs it offers. No previous academic experience is required, and CET provides the necessary general…
  • CASAS Assessment
    CET uses the CASAS assessment (paper-based and eTest) to determine baseline reading and math skills.
  • Diploma, GED or ATB
    Original High School Diploma, or GED, or Foreign Equivalent, or meet Ability-To-Benefit (ATB) guidelines (if applying for financial aid). The Adult Education Career Pathways…
  • Identification Documents
    Driver’s License or other official picture I.D., Social Security Card, and Proof of Citizenship/Residency (original Birth Certificate, Passport, Permanent Resident Card, or…
  • Proof of Income
    Last two years’ Federal Income Tax Return of applicant and spouse, if married, or parent(s’) Income Tax Return; proof of other income (SSI, Disability, Workers Comp., etc.); and…
  • Selective Service Registration
    Proof of Selective Service Registration, if born on or after 1/1/1960, or proof of exemption. Emergency alternate contacts of close relatives (address, telephone and/or cell phone…

Application Process

  1. 1
    Meet with an Admissions Advisor
    Discuss your interests and discover which program makes the most sense for you. When an initial inquiry is made, you are scheduled to attend a general information session presented by an Admissions Advisor. To get the most out of your first appointment, bring proof of income, an ID or driver’s license, your Social Security card, your high school diploma, GED, foreign equivalency or ATB, and your residency card (if applicable).
  2. 2
    Discuss Financial Aid and Complete the FAFSA
    Talk with your campus Financial Aid Officer (FAO) and find out if you qualify for federal financial aid. Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or come in to your local CET and speak with your Financial Aid Officer.
    FAFSA Code for Soledad: 016516
  3. 3
    Review Program Details
    After you select your program and possible financial aid, the Instructor/Advisor provides a formal presentation of the program and goes over the start date, tuition, tools and textbooks provided, and information about the school.
  4. 4
    Enroll and Start Training
    Congratulations! With CET’s open enrollment there’s no need to wait for the semester or quarter – your job training program starts right away. You have the right to cancel the enrollment agreement and obtain a refund of charges paid through attendance at the first class session, or the 10th class-day after enrollment, whichever is later.

Program Schedule

Class code(s): GBC30. Published length: 30 weeks (900 clock hours).

Cost of Attendance & Financial Aid

Cost and Financial Aid Information is an estimate for general reference only. It is not an offer or guarantee of financial aid or of any price, and what a School charges you may differ.
Total Program Tuition
≈ $15,249
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

The governing campus catalog publishes $15,249.00 as Total Charges and states that this is program tuition; no additional tuition is assessed for students completing within the stated window. Required books/e-books and specified uniforms or protective equipment are included, subject to the catalog's opt-out limits. CET participates in federal student-aid programs for eligible students.

Curriculum

  • Introduction to Carpentry — 60 hours
  • Construction Math — 90 hours
  • Rough Carpentry — 90 hours
  • Electrical Skills I — 90 hours
  • Electrical Skills II — 120 hours
  • Plumbing Skills I — 60 hours
  • Plumbing Skills II — 90 hours
  • Exterior & Interior Finish — 15 hours
  • Basic Photovoltaics — 90 hours
  • Job Preparedness — 30 hours
  • Customer Service Skills — 10 hours
  • Basic Computer Skills — 20 hours
  • Total Hours of Instruction — 900

All programs are open enrollment; competency completion varies among students.

The required courses below are from Center for Employment Training's published catalog.

Required Courses

Name
Introduction to Carpentry
Construction Math
Rough Carpentry
Electrical Skills I
Electrical Skills II
Plumbing Skills I
Plumbing Skills II
Exterior & Interior Finish
Basic Photovoltaics
Job Preparedness
Customer Service Skills
Basic Computer Skills

Career Outcomes

Job Placement Assistance

CET job developers work with students to prepare them to obtain jobs through the preparation of resumes, applications, and mock interviews. Career Service Specialists work with local industry to match CET trainees to available jobs. CET does not guarantee job placement, but does actively help job-ready individuals to find training-related jobs, follows up on students who leave the program and continues to offer additional placement assistance to those in need. In addition, CET prepares students to identify job opportunities and to compete in the job market on their own.

Job Retention Follow-Up

It is the policy of CET to maintain records of graduates and withdrawals from the program and provide post-training follow-up services to all former students. Follow-up activities include assistance primarily to ensure job procurement; employment retention, and gathering of employment data of former students; and dissemination of information on opportunities for further education. Each of CET's programs prepares the students for occupations that are in demand in the local labor market. The programs are designed in close cooperation with local employers to ensure that CET graduates fill industry needs.

What to Expect as a CET Student

Holistic Approach

Since inception, CET's fundamental purpose was to develop and implement an effective method for training a diverse and needy population. The program therefore is designed as holistic, comprehensive, individualized, and adaptable to each person's needs.

Technical Skill Training

CET offers its students an open-entry, open-exit, competency-based employment training program. All instruction is in English. The program is individualized and covers the learning necessary for the desired occupational goals. A student advances along his/her/their own individual training plan, moving through academic and technical competencies, as he/she/they demonstrate the required mastery. The training includes a strong hands-on component using tools and equipment similar to those found in industry. CET promotes good work habits through simulation of a business environment. Attendance and punctuality are always required in recognition of their importance on the job.

Integrated Basic Skills & Human Development

CET provides contextualized academic instruction to all students. Vocational English and foundational education are systematically integrated into the skill training curriculum and are delivered within the framework of the specific occupational program in which the student is enrolled. Students' work habits, behavioral patterns, and communication skills often have as much impact on job success as does technical knowledge. In order to prepare students for the demands of the world of work, CET provides a Human Development component, with instruction in life skills, communication strategies, situations on the job, and informational sessions by professionals on topics such as general health, parenting, and budgeting.

Location

Soledad
930 Los Coches Drive
Suite 103
Soledad, CA 93960

Accreditation & Approvals

CET is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE) and approved to operate in California by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE).

Frequently Asked Questions

What programs are offered?
Click here for a list of programs.
How much does it cost?
Click here for a list of tuition
Is there a location near me?
Click here for a list of locations.
Will you help me find a job?
Click here for information about placement assistance.
What programs do you offer to prepare of the business industry?
Click here for a list of programs that prepare you for the business industry.
What type of programs do you offer that prepares you for the Construction & Building Maintenance?
Click here for a list of programs that prepare you for the Construction & Building Maintenance industry.
What type of programs do you offer that prepares you for the Culinary industry?
Click here for a list of programs that prepare you for the Culinary industry.
What type of programs do you offer that prepares you for the Medical industry?
Click here for a list of programs that prepare you for the Medical industry.
What type of programs do you offer that prepares you for the Technical Trades industry?
Click here for a list of programs that prepare you for the Technical Trades industry.
What type of programs do you offer that prepares you for the Truck Driving & Logistics industry?
Click here for a list of programs that prepare you for the Truck Driving & Logistics industry.
What types of industries can I be trained for?
We want you to succeed, so we train you for jobs where there’s expected to be continued growth, including: • Business • Childcare • Construction & Building Maintenance • Culinary • Medical • Technical Trades • Truck Driving & Logistics
Where are construction skills classes offered?
CET offers this program in Coachella, Colton, El Centro, Oxnard, San Diego, Santa Maria, Soledad, and Watsonville.
How long is the program?
This class is 900 hours and generally takes about 8-9 months to complete.
What is the class schedule and when does the next class start?
This is a daytime program. The class meets Monday – Friday for six hours. CET has open enrollment, you start class anytime you are ready. Once your enrollment is completed, you start right away.
How much does the program cost?
When people ask “how much is tuition”, most of us think of just the cost of the program and maybe books and supplies. But, when you attend school you’ll have other costs to add in such as housing and food if you live on your own. If you live with your parents or are a parent, well that can change things a bit. To make things simpler, visit our Tuition Page. Use the calculator to estimate what everything costs and what kind of aid may be available to you. You can find out more about aid and tuition in the student catalog.
What will I learn in this construction trade class?
CET’s Green Building Construction Skills job training program focuses on a variety of skills. Learn more about the competencies you will master, review our program information sheet and browse the student catalog.
What kind of certifications or licenses will I be prepared to take?
The skills you learn about energy efficiency will allow you the option to take the ESCO Green Awareness exam.
What types of jobs will I be qualified for after I graduate from the program and what can I expect to make?
After completing this building class, you’re qualified for a variety of specialized positions in the trades. Here are a few options! You can learn more about jobs and pay in your area by checking out the links below*: • Framer • Solar Technician • Carpenter’s Helper • Plumber’s Helper • Maintenance Technician *Job Outlook and Salary data provided by mynextmove.org.
How do I apply?
Applying to CET is easy. Learn more by visiting the Admissions page, or better yet – Sign up for a Tour and visit the class in person.
Do I have to have a minimum GPA to enroll?
No, there are no GPA requirements.
What if I didn’t graduate from high school or don’t have my GED?
At CET you may have options without them. Be sure to tell the Admissions Department so they can guide you through the eligibility process.
How big are the classes?
Classes average 20-25 students and vary by program.
Are there any high school math classes I need to get started?
No, you’ll get everything you need in the job training program. You’ll be provided with basic skills instruction, including vocational English and math. Additional one on one tutoring is available, if needed.
Can I go to CET without a diploma or GED?
Yes, CET accepts students who haven’t earned a high school diploma or GED.
What should I do to see if I qualify for Financial Aid?
To qualify for Federal Student Aid, you must: • Demonstrate financial need. (Except for Unsubsidized and PLUS (Parent) loan programs.) • Certify that you’ll use Federal Student Aid only for educational purposes. • Have a high school diploma, a General Education Development (GED), or meet Ability-To-Benefit (ATB) guidelines. • Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment. • Be a citizen or an eligible non-citizen. • Not be in default on a federal student loan or owe money on a federal student grant (or have made satisfactory arrangements to repay it.) • Be making satisfactory academic progress. • If you do not have a high school diploma or GED, you may qualify under the ATB, inquire with your Admissions or Financial Aid Officer.
How do I apply for financial aid?
Start filling out a free application for Federal Student Aid: • Each CET location has a Financial Aid Officer who will help you and your family identify sources of financial aid and fill out the required forms. • Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or come in to your local CET and speak with your Financial Aid Officer.
What if I cannot locate my GED certificate or transcript?
Locate your GED: • You can visit the official GED website to submit a transcript request form.
Am I eligible for financial aid if I don’t have a HS diploma/GED?
Eligibility requirements for federal financial aid such as Pell Grants or federal student loans state that students must have either a GED or high school diploma, or have been homeschooled at the secondary level as defined by state law. However, it may be possible to qualify for federal financial aid if a student meets all of the following: • Passes the Ability to Benefit (ATB) test or completes 225 hours or 6 credit that count towards a certificate, AND • Concurrently enrolls in the Adult Education Career Pathways program.
Where can I take the Ability to Benefit test to qualify for Financial Aid?
Independent test administrators administer the Ability to Benefit test. Ask the local admissions advisor what the testing schedule is – some CET’s test at the local center.
I took the Ability to Benefit Test but don’t have my scores, do I need to retake the test?
You can get your scores by contacting Wonderlic at (877) 605-9496. Or we may be able to access your scores. Speak with the local admissions advisor.
What is CET’s Adult Education Career Pathways program?
It is a required program for those who enroll at CET under the Ability to Benefit (ATB). The “Adult Education” part focuses on academic instruction and education services that increase a student’s ability to read, write, and speak in English and perform mathematics or other activities necessary for the attainment of a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent. The “Career Pathways” part means you are also enrolled in a program aligned with the education and skill needs of the regional economy and must have been developed and implemented in collaboration with partners in business, workforce development, and economic development.
CET is national. What about the graduation and job placement rates for the career field I choose in my state?
Good question! When you’re making decisions about your future, it’s important to be as informed as possible. To see statistics about CET’s program performance in your location, go to your state’s location page and take a look at the Federal Student Right to Know and School Performance Fact Sheets. You can also get this information from your local CET advisor.
Ready to get started?
Request information about Green Building Construction Skills at Soledad.
Green Building Construction Skills