# Site Utilities & Foundation Construction Course Online Canonical URL: ## Overview This opening course in the [Construction Fundamentals course series](https://vdci.edu/courses/construction-fundamentals-course) focuses on the real-world work that happens before a building ever goes up. It covers how construction teams function on site and the sequence of activities that prepare a site for development, including evaluating soil and subsurface conditions, operating heavy equipment such as scrapers, dozers, and excavators, clearing and grubbing land, installing site utilities, and performing earthwork and excavation support. You will also examine foundation installation, including grade beams, while gaining context on the history of concrete, how it is used as a building material, and why it is essential to safe and stable structures. The course also breaks down the systems and decisions that support effective site development. Topics include water, sewer, and drainage utilities, practical methods for excavation, grading, and soil compaction, and an overview of both shallow and deep foundation systems. You will learn how to interpret soil reports, follow construction codes and safety requirements, coordinate utility work with other site operations, assess structural components, and make informed design choices. Sustainable site development practices are also discussed, helping you understand how to reduce environmental impact while maintaining efficiency and performance. ## What you'll learn - Key concepts of site utilities, including water, sewer, and drainage systems. - Best practices for planning and performing earthwork, such as excavation, soil compaction, and grading. - Detailed overview of foundation systems, including shallow and deep foundations. - How to analyze and interpret soil reports to guide foundational decisions. - Methods for ensuring site safety and compliance with construction codes and standards. - Techniques for coordinating utility installations with other site development activities. - Insights into sustainable site development to minimize environmental impact. ## Pricing **Tuition:** $279