# Fundamentals of MEP for Buildings Course Online

Canonical URL: <https://vdci.edu/courses/mechanical-electrical-plumbing-av-tel-data>

## Overview

Understanding MEP systems is a critical foundation for construction and design projects and is the focus of the fifth course in the Construction Fundamentals series. This course introduces the essential principles of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing systems that support building performance, efficiency, and safety, including HVAC systems and controls, thermal comfort, indoor air quality, plumbing for domestic water and waste, and key electrical concepts such as power distribution and emergency systems.

Through this course, students gain a clear understanding of how mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems work individually and together within a building. Topics include HVAC performance and occupant comfort, electrical power and low-voltage systems such as AV, telecom, and data, and plumbing systems that support sanitation and safety. The course also emphasizes system coordination, helping students understand how MEP design decisions impact efficiency, sustainability, and overall project costs.

## What you'll learn

- Mechanical Systems: Discover the fundamentals of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) and how these systems contribute to occupant comfort and building performance.  
- Electrical Systems: Explore the components of building electrical systems, including power distribution, lighting, and low voltage systems such as AV, telecom, and data.  
- Plumbing Systems: Learn the principles of water supply, drainage, and waste systems and their role in maintaining hygiene and safety in buildings.  
- Design Coordination: Understand how MEP systems integrate within a project and the importance of designing for efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness

## Instructors

### David Sellers — Instructor

David, the Chief Academic Officer, has a Bachelor of Architecture Degree from Penn State University and an MBA from Point Loma Nazarene University. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects. He has been teaching Autodesk programs for over 10 years and enjoys working and teaching in the architectural industry. In addition to working with the Autodesk suite, he has significant experience in 3D modeling, the Adobe Creative Suite, Bluebeam Revu, and SketchUp. David enjoys spending his free time with his wife, biking, hanging out with his kids, and listening to audiobooks by the fire. 

**Credentials:**

- Licensed Architect
- Autodesk Certified Instructor (ACI SILVER – Certified \> 5 Years)
- Autodesk Certified Professional: AutoCAD, Revit, Fusion 360
- Adobe Visual Design Specialist
- SketchUp Certified 3D Warehouse Content Developer

### Luis Hernandez — Instructor

Luis has a Bachelor of Architecture Degree from the University of Southern California and over 10 years of professional AEC industry experience. He has made extensive use of AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit and Photoshop in his work, and is happiest when helping others achieve success. He’s an avid traveler who has run 10 marathons and enjoys reading, yoga, camping, volunteering and attending music festivals all over the world.

## Pricing

**Tuition:** $329