Blueprint Reading: Session 1 - General Construction, Civil, Project Delivery Methods | Architectural, Structural
When:
- Jan 23, 2026 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
Where:
- ELEVATE - Business & Events Center
- 4100 Westown Pkwy
- West Des Moines, IA 50266
| Fee | Type of Fee |
|---|---|
| $450 | / Person - MBI Members |
| $575 | / Person - Non-Members |
| $650 | / Person - MBI Members for FULL SERIES |
| $875 | / Person - Non-Member for FULL SERIES |
Presenter: Brad Perkins, Iowa State University - Ames, IA
Construction drawings can be difficult to understand, and mistakes can be costly. Being able to read and understand construction drawings is a fundamental skill for anyone involved in the construction industry. In this series, participants will gain the skills necessary to read and understand typical construction documents - blueprints and specifications.
This session will provide the participant with an introduction to the life cycle of a construction project from project conception, through design, construction, and project closeout. Participants will learn about project delivery methods, such as the traditional Design-Bid-Build, as well as alternative delivery methods, including Design-Build and Construction Management. We will focus on the reading and use of architectural and structural plans and specifications including standard symbols, plan organization, specification organization; use of standard architectural scales; architectural plan views, details, elevations, and sections; use of architectural schedules, notes, and symbols; structural foundation plans; and plan reading for structural building systems, including precast concrete, structural steel, site cast concrete, and masonry. Roles of the various parties in each delivery method will be discussed: owner, architect, engineer, contractor, and subcontractor.
Master Builder Designation: Project Management - 7 Credits | Ecological - 1 Credit