Architecture and Construction Career Cluster

Revised May 2024

The Architecture and Construction career cluster focuses on designing, planning, managing, building, and maintaining the built environment. Careers include architect, carpenter, construction manager, electrician, plumber, and HVAC technician.

Statewide Program of Study: Carpentry

The Carpentry program of study prepares students for careers in constructing, installing, and repairing wood structures such as frameworks, partitions, rafters, and stairways. Students learn to install, dismantle, and move machinery based on blueprints and layout plans.

Secondary Courses for High School Credit

• Level 1: Principles of Construction
• Level 2: Construction Technology I
• Level 3: Construction Technology II
• Level 4: Practicum in Construction Technology
  (Sunsetting after the 2025–2026 school year)

Work-Based Learning and Expanded Opportunities

Work-Based Learning Activities

• Intern with a carpenter to practice measuring materials and assembling structures
• Participate in a pre-apprenticeship involving installing cabinets, drywall, and siding

Expanded Learning Opportunities

• Shadow a construction manager to learn how construction teams complete projects
• Participate in SkillsUSA

Example Postsecondary Opportunities

Apprenticeships

• Carpenter

Associate Degrees

• Construction Management
• Construction Engineering Technology
• Building Construction Technology

Bachelor’s Degrees

• Construction Engineering
• Construction Science
• Construction Management

Graduate Degrees

• Construction Engineering Technology
• Construction Engineering
• Construction Management
• Project Management

Example Aligned Occupations

Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers

• Median Wage: $44,699
• Annual Openings: 758
• 10-Year Growth: 14%

Carpenters

• Median Wage: $46,272
• Annual Openings: 5,623
• 10-Year Growth: 15%

Construction Managers

• Median Wage: $95,072
• Annual Openings: 6,325
• 10-Year Growth: 24%

Industry-Based Certifications Offered in LCISD

• HBI Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate Training (PACT), Basic Carpentry
• HBI Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate Training (PACT), Core

Additional Information

Successful completion of the Carpentry program of study fulfills requirements for the Business and Industry endorsement.

Data Source: TexasWages, Texas Workforce Commission (Retrieved March 8, 2024)

Visit the Texas Education Agency website for more information