About this course

Our goal is to get everyone speaking the same language and working as a team on utility-scale solar projects. To do that everyone needs training on the purpose of construction drawings and how to read them. 

Subjects covered

Solar Design and Installation Utility-Scale

Learning Objectives

  • Understand construction drawing theory
  • Learn how construction drawing theory applies to utility-scale solar pv projects

Bundle outline

2 courses
5 hours to complete
Course 1 • 6 modules
Construction Drawings 101
Welcome • 2 assignments
Orientation Materials

This is a self-study on demand course. This course is self-paced, so you don’t need to be logged in at any specific time. You can get started immediately after you enroll and the course materials will remain in your account with minimum guaranteed access for 12 months (1 year) after enrollment.

  • Welcome to Construction Drawings 101 (03:33 minutes)
  • Construction drawings are used by millions of professionals
Module 1 • 4 assignments
Fundamentals of Construction Drawings

This section introduces participants to the fundamental role of construction drawings in translating design concepts into physical structures. Emphasizing the acquisition of practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for creating professional-grade construction drawings. Participants will explore the foundational principles of construction drawings, focusing on clarity, accuracy, and adherence to industry standards. They will also be introduced to the diverse range of construction drawings, from architectural plans to electrical schematics, understanding their unique purposes and components.

  • Intro Overview From Concept to Creation (02:44 minutes)
  • Intro Overview From Concept to Creation: Drawing Board (08:34 minutes)
  • Fundamentals of Construction Drawings (01:11 minutes)
  • Fundamentals of Construction Drawings: Drawing Board (14:31 minutes)
Module 2 • 3 assignments
Drafting Tools and Techniques

This module delves into the tools and techniques used in construction drafting. It covers traditional tools like squares and compasses, as well as modern digital drafting software such as Revit, AutoCAD, and SketchUp. Participants will engage in hands-on demonstrations, from basic sketching to advanced 3D modeling techniques.

  • Drafting Tools & Techniques (01:39 minutes)
  • Drafting Tools & Techniques: Drawing Board (08:20 minutes)
  • Software tools for creating simple construction drawings
Module 3 • 2 assignments
National Drafting and Drawing Standards

Participants will receive an overview of national drafting standards and guidelines such as ANSI and AIA. Detailed explanations will be provided for standards concerning lines, layers, symbols, text, and other elements crucial for maintaining consistency, clarity, and professionalism in construction drawings. Emphasis will be placed on adherence to these standards for effective understanding, collaboration, and compliance.

  • National Drafting Standards (02:17 minutes)
  • National Drafting Standards: Drawing Board (05:23 minutes)
Module 4 • 2 assignments
Drawing Essentials

This module unravels the intricacies of construction drawings, including floor plans, elevations, sections, and details. Participants will explore architectural drafting conventions such as scale, notation, and symbol usage, essential for effectively communicating design intent.

  • Drawing Essentials (02:26 minutes)
  • Drawing Essentials: Drawing Board (13:00 minutes)
Module 5 • 5 assignments
Systems Integration, Green Building and Sustainable Design

Integration of building systems such as electrical, Solar PV, HVAC, and plumbing elements will be covered in this module. Strategies for harmonizing these systems within construction drawings to ensure seamless coordination and functionality in the built environment will be discussed. Participants will also learn about sustainable design practices, incorporating renewable energy systems, passive design strategies, and environmentally friendly materials into construction drawings.

  • Systems Integration, Green Building and Sustainable Design (01:08 minutes)
  • Systems Integration: Drawing Board, Commercial Project Coordination (13:44 minutes)
  • Systems Integration: Drawing Board, MEP Coordination (03:18 minutes)
  • Systems Integration: Drawing Board, Green Building Solar Projects (04:27 minutes)
  • Systems Integration: Drawing Board, Green Building Electrification Projects (05:30 minutes)
Module 6 • 6 assignments
Real-World Applications and Case Studies

This module examines real-world challenges encountered in construction drawing projects, emphasizing adaptability and problem-solving skills. Discussions on professional ethics, integrity, and accountability in construction drawing practice, including considerations of safety, sustainability, and regulatory compliance, will be incorporated. Guidance for professional growth and advancement in the field, from entry-level draftsperson to seasoned architectural designer or construction manager, will also be provided.

  • Where to find sample drawings
  • Real World Example - Reviewing a Plan Set (08:39 minutes)
  • Real World Applications (01:15 minutes)
  • Real World Applications: Drawing Board (05:25 minutes)
  • Wrap-Up Construction Drawings 101 (01:07 minutes)
  • How do solar professionals use construction drawings?
Conclusion • 7 assignments
Feedback and Additional Resources

This is our last module but you still have access to the all of course materials for 12 months (1 year), so keep working and you'll be able to complete the course at your own pace. After your year of access expires you can optionally extend access with a HeatSpring Membership. Enjoy the course and keep in touch!

  • SketchUp - Free drafting software
  • AutoCAD - Powerful drafting software for professionals (Free Trial)
  • Notebooks for creating hand sketches
  • 1 Year of Access to Course Materials
  • Feedback: 2-minute Exit Survey
  • Consider Joining as a HeatSpring Member
  • Certificate of Completion: Request a Certificate
Course 2 • 3 modules
Understanding Utility-Scale Solar Construction Drawings
Welcome • 3 assignments
Orientation Materials

This course is self-paced, so you don’t need to be logged in at any specific time. You can get started immediately after you enroll and the course materials will remain in your account with minimum guaranteed access for 12 months (1 year) after enrollment.

  • Set up email notifications and your student profile
  • Introduce yourself on the discussion board
  • Get FREE Access to Andy's Foundations of Solar PV: Fundamentals for Understanding Utility Scale Solar
Module 1 • 3 assignments
Introduction to the Course

  • Introduction to the Course (06:50 minutes) Preview
  • Introduction to the Course (optional download) (.pdf)
  • A Guide for Developers and Investors (.pdf)
Module 2 • 8 assignments
Basics of Drawings

  • Construction Drawing Basics & Types of Drawings (10:38 minutes)
  • Drawing Generation (08:27 minutes)
  • Permitting Process and Modifications (05:21 minutes)
  • Basics of Construction Drawings (optional download) (.pdf)
  • Basics of Drawings Quiz
  • Basics of Bluebeam Revu
  • Basics of Adobe Acrobat
  • Additional Resources & Links
Module 3 • 13 assignments
Details of Drawings

  • Common Sheets with (Most) Drawing Sets and Sheet Specific Fundamentals (12:30 minutes)
  • Revision History, Scale, and Sheet Details (04:49 minutes)
  • Electrical Drawings - Part 1 (11:32 minutes)
  • Electrical Drawings - Part 2 (09:50 minutes)
  • Civil Drawings - Part 1 (15:17 minutes)
  • Civil Drawings - Part 2 (06:07 minutes)
  • Mechanical Drawings (12:45 minutes)
  • Final Thoughts (01:51 minutes)
  • Details of Construction Drawings (optional download) (.pdf)
  • Details of Drawings Quiz
  • Topography & Contour Lines
  • Using an Architectural Scale on Construction Drawings
  • Using Bluebeam's Calibrate Scale Feature
Conclusion • 5 assignments
Feedback and Additional Resources

This is our last module but you still have access to the all of course materials for 12 months (1 year), so keep working and you'll be able to complete the course at your own pace. After your year of access expires you can optionally extend access with a HeatSpring Membership. Enjoy the course and keep in touch!

  • Share the course on LinkedIn and with your wider network!
  • 1 Year of Access to Course Materials
  • Feedback: 2-minute Exit Survey
  • Consider Joining as a HeatSpring Member
  • Certificate of Completion: Request a Certificate

Continuing Education Units

Approved NABCEP CEU Hours

NABCEP Credential Advanced Hours for Exam Recertification CEU Hours NEC JTA RE Elective Building or Fire Code
2.5 2.5 0 2.5 2.5 0
0 2.5 0 0 0 0
2.5 2.5 0 2.5 2.5 0
2.5 2.5 0 2.5 2.5 0
2.5 2.5 0 2.5 2.5 0
2.5 2.5 0 2.5 2.5 0

Instructors

Gwendolen St. Sauveur

Founder, CEO | Architectural & Mechanical HVAC Design Consultant, BTF Net Zero Designs

Gwendolen St.Sauveur EI LEED GA, is currently the CEO of BTF Net Zero Designs. Over her career Gwen has worn the various hats of Mechanical Engineer, MEP Designer, Architectural Designer, Construction Coordinator & Estimator. For a decade she was a mechanical engineer gaining hands-on experience through a dizzying array of commercial projects across New England. She...

Andy Nyce

Sr. Director of Project Management, Erthos Inc.

I'm Andy Nyce - originally from New Zealand, but I've spent the last nine years in the United States in a range of engineering, construction, project management and quality control roles in the large scale renewables industry. I've been directly involved in over 2GW of execution at every level of installation, management and commissioning. I'm currently the Sr....

Frequently asked questions

Full FAQ
How does this course work?
You can begin this online course instantly upon enrollment. This 0 module course is delivered entirely online. This course is self-paced and you can set your own schedule to complete the materials. You can begin the lecture videos and other course materials as soon as you enroll. During your year of access the instructor will be in the course answering questions on the discussion board every Friday. After successfully completing the course, you will be able to generate a certificate of completion.
How long do I have access to the materials?
Students get unlimited access to the course materials as soon as they enroll and for one year (365 days) after enrollment. Rewatch videos and review assignments as many times as you want. View updates the instructor makes to the course as the industry advances. Return to your course anytime with online access from anywhere in the world. After the one year of access expires, access can be extended by joining as a HeatSpring member. A single membership extends access to course materials for all past enrollments.
Is there a certificate of completion?
Yes, when you complete this course you are eligible for a certificate of completion from HeatSpring. You can download your certificate as soon as you have completed all of the course requirements. Students can easily share their verified certificates on their LinkedIn profiles using our LinkedIn integration.
Can I register multiple people?
Yes please visit our [HeatSpring for Teams](/for_teams) page to get a group discount.

Reviews

4.9
Based on 19 reviews from the 2 courses in this bundle
10/27/2024

As a manager of design in a solar engineering group, I work on a team of engineers and drafters. We struggle with presenting unified work in both content and style. Knowing what contractors and AHJs expect to see is a very useful aid for us, and it was disclosed very well in this course.

Ben Rodgers
Manager, Design, UGE
02/16/2024

I will 100% recommend taking this course, if you are looking be able to read constructions drawings across many disciplines

Momodou Bah
10/10/2023

Comprehensive course about solar construction drawings and how to read them. Highly recommended to anyone interested.

Chirag Pansuriya
Design Manager, StraightUp Solar

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