Find the best Blueprint Reading class to fit your needs
What is Blueprint Reading?
Blueprint reading is the skill of understanding and interpreting the technical drawings used in construction projects. These drawings, or blueprints, show all the details of a building or structure, from the layout of rooms to the placement of electrical wiring or plumbing. Knowing how to read these blueprints is necessary for anyone working in construction, whether you want to be a Contractor or an Electrician. Overall, blueprints provide you with the “how” and “where” of the building process.
The first blueprint was introduced by Sir John Herschel in 1842 and the continual evolution and advancement developed well into the early to mid-1900s. Back then, they used a special blue paper and a process called cyanotype, a cameraless printing technique that made the drawings stand out. While tools have changed since then, the need to read blueprints remains. Understanding these detailed drawings is just as important today to make sure the project gets done correctly.
Blueprint Reading Classes in Atlanta
VDCI offers a Blueprint Reading Fundamentals Bundle which lasts six weeks and covers how to read construction documents for everything from residential to commercial construction projects. The self-paced courses offered at VDCI allow you to take your education into your own hands and learn how you see fit. You will analyze drawings and evaluate their similarities. Moreover, you’ll learn how to identify inconsistencies in construction documents and understand how 3D models streamline the project’s productivity. Additionally, you’ll receive a verified digital credential by completing this course with adequate grades.
Learn Blueprint Reading
- Nationally accredited
- Create your own portfolio
- Free student software
- Learn at your convenience
- Authorized Autodesk training center
Also from VDCI, you can explore the nine-week Blueprint Reading and Estimating Fundamentals Bundle that offers comprehensive training in reading and interpreting construction drawings. It also includes strategies and practices for estimating project costs accurately. You will practice reading architectural, structural, and MEP plans as well as calculate the cost for materials, labor, and other budgeting concerns. Through quantity surveying and estimating takeoffs, you will learn how to become a proficient and productive construction employee.
You could also opt for the Blueprint Reading Course - Residential Construction course which teaches you more about the inter-relationship between drawings in construction documents and allows you to analyze these drawings for different purposes. You will learn how to further evaluate these documents as a means of recognizing how important consistency is when working in this field. Overall, you’ll pick up essential blueprint reading and drawing skills in addition to learning how to read everything from title sheets and floor plans to interior elevations and roof plans. Similarly, if you’re more interested in commercial work, you could explore the Blueprint Reading Course - Commercial Construction course. This allows you to dive deeper into construction documents for projects like hotels, retail shops, and parking garages. You’ll explore mixed-use commercial projects that differ greatly from that of residential construction. With both courses, you will have a well-developed and fully-stocked arsenal of construction skills at your disposal.
What Can You Do with Blueprint Reading Training?
Once you have nailed down blueprint reading, you’ll have the skill set to take on projects of all kinds. Whether it’s working on a new home, remodeling an office, or even tackling larger commercial projects, understanding how to read blueprints is the key to making sure everything in the build matches the original design, which keeps things running according to plan.
Blueprint reading is also useful for renovation and remodeling. If you’re dealing with an existing structure, you can read and understand the original blueprints to figure out where changes need to occur. This may involve adding new walls or updating electrical systems. Overall, blueprint reading skills ensure you can continue to make improvements to the plan that is accurate, detailed, and useful.
Plus, blueprint reading is useful in various roles, such as project management, quality control, or construction estimating. When you can read blueprints, you’re better at managing various teams, delegating tasks, keeping projects on budget, and making sure everything stays up to code. In essence, blueprint reading opens professional opportunities where you’ll be seen as a valuable asset to any team or project.
What Will I Learn in a Blueprint Reading Class?
In a blueprint reading class, you’ll start with the basics, like understanding how to read architectural and construction drawings. You’ll learn how to decipher the floor plans, elevations, and section views. Plus, you’ll get familiar with all the symbols and notations used in blueprints. Understanding how to read blueprints is like cracking a code, so once you know how, you’ll be able to visualize how things should come together on-site.
As you move along in the class, you’ll get into more detailed blueprints, like site plans or structural drawings. Some blueprints may include mechanical systems as well. Through practice, you’ll learn to spot mistakes as well as make sure all the elements align properly. One inconsistency could change everything, so this part of the process is critical and through specialized training, you’ll acquire those skills. Knowing how to read these drawings ensures the project gets done the right way.
On top of that, you’ll inevitably acquire some soft skills along the way that go hand-in-hand with the technical skills. Blueprint reading requires keen problem-solving abilities and paying attention to the smallest of details. It’s a skill that makes a big difference no matter what field or specialty you enter. By the end of the course, you’ll feel more comfortable dealing with blueprints and, over time, reading them will become second nature.
What Kinds of Training Options are Available to Learn Blueprint Reading?
Learning blueprint reading requires time, practice, and patience -- and an effective training method. There are tons of options to choose from, and which one works best really depends on your learning style, schedule, needs, and preferences. In-person training is the most traditional route that gives you interaction, hands-on practice, and direct assistance. You can network with others and benefit greatly from training center resources. If you like structure and prefer the social aspect of in-person training, then this is the best option for you.
Live online classes are a nice blend of freedom and structure, which many students appreciate. You attend classes but from the comfort of your home, so you can still ask questions, receive feedback, and collaborate with other students. It’s a great way to learn important skills without having to leave the house.
For those who need extra freedom during their learning experience, self-directed courses are a solid choice. With this training option, you get access to different study materials like textbooks, videos, and online resources. You can go through the content at a pace that suits you, but you’re not entirely on your own since the course provider often gives students additional resources.
Lastly, you can choose on-demand courses that offer a hands-off learning method that consists of reading through articles, watching pre-recorded videos, and completing assignments. You can learn whatever you want and however you want with courses from platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and Skillshare. It’s a great way to take a more independent approach to learning blueprint reading.
Choosing the Right Training Method for You
With any educational pursuit, you’ll want to consider several factors before deciding which training method is right for you. In-person training offers interaction and hands-on experience which makes it easy to pick up the skills. An instructor is also there to help you progress through the curriculum and you can network with others in the class. However, you need to be present for each class, which means having the time, transportation, and funds to attend. If you have a flexible schedule and live within a reasonable distance from the training center, an in-person course is a great option. This is especially true if you want to take your training from the classroom to the workplace.
Those who can’t attend an in-person class but still want structured, professional training can opt for a live online class. You can attend from anywhere with an internet connection without needing to leave the house. The classes are interactive and collaborative and you still follow course guidelines and timelines, which works for busy professionals who want to learn new skills. Still, you have to consider several factors. First, live online training gives you more options but you may have to consider time zones. Likewise, you’ll want to avoid technical issues that could potentially disrupt your experience. Although live online training is flexible, you still have to attend a class so your schedule has to be somewhat open.
Self-directed courses give you the option to pace yourself. You can access a mentor if you need clarification, but otherwise, the course is hands-off. This method is ideal for driven individuals who don’t need someone hovering over them to make sure they get their work done. On the other hand, this requires such a high level of discipline that it could be easy for even the most determined learner to fall off course. Plus, the limited interaction makes it a little less effective if that’s not your vibe. You might find that you spend more time on certain trickier topics and fall a little behind where you thought you would be.
Lastly, on-demand classes are incredibly flexible and offer a wide range of options, from beginner to advanced and short courses to certificates. They are cost-effective and allow you to revisit material as you wish, skip information that you feel is unnecessary, and study according to your comfort level. However, these classes lack interaction, so you can procrastinate or lose motivation as a result. Most importantly, consider the quality of the on-demand course you pick. Some providers have a wide variety of courses, but some are not aligned with current industry standards. Above all else, ensure the provider is reputable before choosing an on-demand course.
Blueprint Reading Job Titles and Salaries
A Construction Estimator calculates the total cost of a project by analyzing blueprints, materials, labor, and other factors. They provide detailed cost estimates to ensure projects don’t go out of budget. According to Indeed, Atlanta-based Construction Estimators earn 16% above the national average, landing at roughly $94,000. However, salaries can vary depending on your level of seniority. For instance, a Junior Construction Estimator earns closer to $68,000 whereas a senior-level employee could earn closer to $103,000.
An Architectural Designer creates designs for buildings and spaces alongside Architects. They develop concepts, plans, and 3D models to bring the project to life and consider all structural and environmental aspects. Indeed shares that the average base salary for an Architectural Designer in Atlanta is close to $69,000 with a broader expected salary range of $50,000 to $97,000.
A Construction Project Manager oversees all aspects of a construction project, from start to finish. They manage budgets, timelines, and coordination between contractors, subcontractors, and stakeholders to ensure everything stays on the right track. Construction Project Managers living in Atlanta can expect an average salary of $99,000, per reports from Indeed. This is roughly the same as the national average and the field offers room for growth.
Blueprint Reading Corporate Training
If you want to provide your team with the most hands-on, effective way to collaborate, advance in their position, and work as a cohesive group, consider corporate training. When it comes to a specialized skill like blueprint reading, interactive training is paramount for giving your employees the necessary skills to handle similar situations and projects in the real world. VDCI offers corporate training with flexible options that can be customized to meet your team’s specific needs. Whether your team is just starting or looking to sharpen their skills, the expert instructors will tailor the lessons to make sure everyone is supported throughout the entire process. Plus, you can choose between in-person or live online training -- whichever works best.
For companies that want to train multiple teams at once, consider purchasing vouchers for regular classes in bulk. They are offered at a discounted rate to alleviate any financial concerns, so this is a budget-friendly approach to corporate training. If you want to learn more about pricing, scheduling, and available options, contact VDCI at partnerships@vdci.edu to discover more.
