The purpose of this workspace is to create a living, 3D project for students to learn about the systems of residential construction. Upon first glance, it looks like it could evolve into a cute living arrangement, larger than a studio. One new addition to aid students, driven by Horton has been their “sandbox.” Sandbox is a figurative term and as Horton puts it, “The instructional house we built inside the Construction Education Alliance lab acts as an instructional sandbox, providing a creative workspace for myriad construction skill development opportunities.” Whether a student is a rookie training to earn their boots, or a journeyman looking to transition into a managerial setting, Parkland with its state-of-the-art programs is the perfect setting. Entry-level employment is generally in the areas of project management, field inspection, material testing, cost estimating, computer-aided drafting, and surveying. As stated by the program directory, “The Construction Management Program prepares students to enter the construction industry in technical, managerial, and supervisory roles in three major areas: residential and light commercial building construction, heavy commercial building construction, and civil construction (roads, bridges, utilities). The curriculum offered by Parkland is an associate degree in construction management and certificates for a stronger start in basic construction skills. Starting Parkland in 1998, he has weathered recessions and housing bubbles in the economy, structuring Parkland’s construction around curricula to equip students with a long-range view, ready for anything. From Horton’s experience, he has developed a philosophy where Parkland College is the vehicle for creating outstanding workers that will build upon and advance the industry that has supported him and will support them.
Todd Horton, graduate from UIUC, veteran Air Force civil engineer, former Illinois Department of Transportation engineer, current educator, and more, his knowledge of the industry is more than implied.
They were able to learn the trade and network due to the experience of Todd Horton, construction management program director. Currently, I-74 is undergoing its next phase of transformation, built by the workers of the Illinois Department of Transportation, some of which built their education at Parkland College. Knock on wood, the season of winter is over, revealing the cracks of the season to come, road construction. In Illinois, there are two distinct seasons with many sub-seasons sprinkled sporadically. Parkland, and its industry-focused curriculum, is the perfect education for anyone with any experience, approved by industry leaders. It takes time and patience to learn each component and the relationship shared. “The instructional house we built inside the Construction Education Alliance lab acts as an instructional sandbox, providing a creative workspace for myriad construction skill development opportunities.”Ĭonstruction doesn’t happen overnight.