> > > Pre-Technical and Basic Industrial Skills Courses

Courses

Pre-Technical and Basic Industrial Skills

Trade Safety: Getting Started

Course #: 186001
Course Objectives:

  • Name the agencies that make and enforce safety regulations and explain an employee’s responsibilities under those regulations.
  • List the hazards associated with chemicals and describe how to avoid those hazards.
  • Name several electrical shock hazards and the techniques used to prevent shocks.
  • List the steps in a lockout/tagout procedure.
  • Explain the importance of machine guarding and name several types of machine guards.
  • Name the four classes of fire and how to extinguish each of them.
  • Describe the proper technique used to lift a heavy load.
  • Explain how to avoid hand injuries when using hand and power tools.
  • List some of the hazards involved in welding and hot cutting operations and how to prevent them.
  • Explain how job analysis and the science of ergonomics are used to improve the workplace.
  • Explain the importance of personal protective equipment and name several types of PPE.

Working Safely with Chemicals

Course #: 186002
Course Objectives:

  • Recognize the six different ways in which a chemical can cause physical injury.
  • Name the routes or paths of entry by which chemicals can enter the body.
  • Describe the types of injuries caused by chemicals.
  • Identify potential chemical dangers in your workplace.
  • Describe how to identify, store and label hazardous chemicals.
  • List several methods used to prevent chemical accidents.
  • Explain why proper training is important to chemical handling.
  • Describe the types of personal protective equipment used and worn when handling chemicals.
  • Explain the role of governmental agencies in enforcing chemical regulations.

Fire Safety

Course #: 186003
Course Objectives:

  • Describe the types of property losses and injuries associated with fires.
  • Explain how fires are ignited.
  • Identify the four classes of fire.
  • Describe the primary fire hazards found in the workplace.
  • Explain the various ways in which fires can be prevented.
  • Describe the operation of several different fixed fire protection systems.
  • Identify the proper type of portable fire extinguisher to use on a fire.
  • Describe the operation of several different types of fire extinguishers.
  • Explain how to defend yourself and others in a fire situation.
  • Describe how to safely evacuate a burning building.

Material Handling Safety

Course #: 186006
Course Objectives:

  • Recognize the hazards associated with handling materials.
  • Know the types of injuries that can be caused by these hazards.
  • Understand how to effectively use safe material handling practices.
  • Know how to avoid physical injury when handling loads.
  • Know and follow the rules for safe operation of powered industrial material handling equipment.
  • Understand and respect the limits and restrictions placed on powered material handling mechanisms.

Basic Industrial Math

Course #: Block X21
Duration: 30 hours (includes 6 tests)
What Students Learn:

This module of six study units offers the trainee arithmetic and basic mathematics, metric measurement, and calculator fundamentals. The Metric System is an introductory unit which includes metric conversions. Problem exercises and examples in this module are presented in on-thejob scenarios with applications drawn from the industrial context.

Special Notes:
  • These updated study units replace lessons contained within the current version of Practical Math and Measurements, Block X01. Each study unit contains a progress exam.
  • Formulas, study unit 186012 replaces Formulas, study unit 2468.
Components:
  • 186008 Addition and Subtraction
  • 186009 Multiplication and Division
  • 186010 Fractions, Percents, Proportions, and Angles
  • 186011 Metric System
  • 186012 Formulas
  • 186013 Introduction to Algebra

Addition and Subtraction

Course #: 186008
Course Objectives:

  • Define the terms: whole number, numeral, digit, decimal, place value, addend, sum, minuend, subtrahend, and difference.
  • Explain the significance of the digit zero in a number.
  • Differentiate between concrete and abstract numbers.
  • Properly prepare numbers for addition and subtraction.
  • Perform addition and subtraction on numbers.
  • How to check your answers to both addition and subtraction problems.
  • How to use a calculator to add and subtract numbers.

Multiplication and Division

Course #: 186009
Course Objectives:

  • Define the terms: factor, multiplicand, multiplier, partial product, dividend, divisor, quotient, and remainder.
  • Recognize the various signs used for multiplication and division.
  • Properly prepare numbers for multiplication and division.
  • Perform multiplication and division on whole numbers and decimals.
  • How to check your answers to both multiplication and division problems.
  • How to find the average of a group of numbers.
  • How to use a calculator to multiply and divide numbers.

Fractions, Percents, Proportions, and Angles

Course #: 186010
Course Objectives:

  • Define the terms: fraction, proper fraction, improper fraction, lowest common denominator, percent, ratio, and proportion.
  • How to add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions and decimals.
  • How to change fractions to decimals and decimals to fractions.
  • Solve problems involving percent.
  • How to use a protractor to measure angles.
  • Lay out templates for checking angles.
  • How to use a calculator to solve percent problems and to convert fractions to decimals.

Metric System

Course #: 186011
Course Objectives:

  • Name the base units most commonly used in the metric system.
  • Identify metric prefixes and their values.
  • Apply conversion factors to increase or decrease metric base units.
  • Estimate lengths in metric units.
  • Express temperature in degrees Celsius.
  • Define the terms: mass, density, force, torque, and pressure. Identify the metric units used to measure each one.
  • How to use a calculator to convert one metric unit to another.

Formulas

Course #: 186012
Course Objectives:

  • Explain the use of letters in formulas.
  • Prepare and use formulas to solve problems.
  • The use of formulas to calculate the perimeter of a triangle and rectangle, distance, area of a triangle, rectangle, and circle, volume of a pyramid, current in a circuit, and volume of a sphere.
  • How to use a calculator to find square root and solve formulas.
  • Transform and solve an equation.
  • Perform basic arithmetic operations with signed terms.
  • Substitute given numerical values for letters in a formula and find the unknown quantity.

Introduction to Algebra

Course #: 186013
Course Objectives:

  • Define the terms: term, constant, coefficient, exponent, monomial, trinomial, and polynomial.
  • Identify and combine like terms in an expression.
  • Multiply and divide terms containing exponents.
  • Remove parentheses from an expression and simplify the expression.
  • Perform basic arithmetic operations with signed terms.

Linear and Distance Measurement

Course #: 186021
Course Objectives:

  • Recognize the difference between English and metric units of length.
  • Find the perimeter of rectangular, square, or triangular areas or objects, such as rooms or machine bases, after measuring the sides.
  • Calculate the circumference of circular objects like pipes of tanks after measuring the diameter.
  • Measure lengths with the aid of rigid and flexible rules, thickness gauges and screw pitch gauges.
  • Read a typical vernier scale and micrometer to take precise measurements.

Problem Solving and Troubleshooting

Course #: 186073
Duration: 10 hours (includes 1 test)
What Students Learn:

Basics of problem solving, troubleshooting, and critical thinking

Applying a logical procedure to solving problems and troubleshooting systems

Selecting and using the right troubleshooting tools

Focusing on and collecting information related to the problem at hand

“Using what you know” to understand complex systems

Applied Geometry

Course #: 186085
Duration: 5 hours (includes 1 test)
Course Objectives:

  • Recognize characteristics of angles and closed plane figures
  • Distinguish between common geometric solids
  • Apply basic geometric construction techniques
  • Calculate perimeters and areas of a polygon, circle, and ellipse
  • Apply the formula for area and volume of geometric solids
Special Notes:
  • This course replaces course X0211.

Practical Trigonometry

Course #: 186086
Duration: 5 hours (includes 1 test)
Course Objectives:

  • Define trigonometric functions and use a calculator to perform them
  • Use trigonometric tables and apply interpolation
  • Solve right triangles for angular and side dimensions
  • Apply the laws of sines and cosines in solving oblique triangles
Special Notes:
  • This course replaces course X0212.

Introduction to Print Reading

Course #: 186080
What Students Learn:

Drawings: Why You Need Drawings; Making Drawing; The Uses of Drawings; Standard Drawing Information; Paper Sizes; Drawing Scales; Communicating with Drawings; Detail Drawings; Assembly Drawings; Drawing Revisions; Lines Used on Drawings; Perspective and Projection Drawing: Perspective Views; Drawing Views; Sectional Views; Full Sections and Half Sections; Symbols in Sections; Wall Thickness--A Useful Section View; Sections through Ribs; Common Feature Representations: Bolt Circles; Arcs and Circles; Slots and Grooves; Holes; Repetitive Features.

Course Objectives:
  • Describe the basic format for conveying technical information in a drawing
  • Identify and interpret the various drawing views used in technical drawings
  • Understand how information is organized in notes and title blocks
  • Interpret the different line types used in drawings
  • Understand the concept of the drawing scale and how it affects information shown in the drawing
Special Notes:
  • This study unit takes the place of study unit 186039.

Print Reading Symbols and Abbreviations

Course #: 186081
Prerequisites:

  • Introduction to Print Reading (186080)

What Students Learn:

Symbols and Abbreviations: Common Abbreviations and Their Uses; Architectural Symbols; Electrical Symbols; Symbols in Mechanical System Drawings: Plumbing and Piping Symbols; HVAC Symbols; Welding; Symbols in Mechanical Drawings: Materials in Section; Screwand Bolt Specifications; Machining and Finish Symbols ; Hydraulic and Pneumatic Symbols.

Course Objectives:
  • Interpret the most common abbreviations used on drawings
  • Understand and interpret the various symbols and notations used on drawings for electrical, architectural, mechanical, and other types of applications
  • Recognize how symbols are used to show standard materials, parts, and assemblies
  • Interpret thread specifications
  • Understand some common symbols used in machining prints
  • Recognize common symbols found on hydraulic and pneumatic prints
Special Notes:
  • This study unit takes the place of study unit 186041.

Dimensioning and Tolerancing

Course #: 186082
Prerequisites:

  • Introduction to Print Reading (186080)

What Students Learn:

Introduction to Dimensioning Systems: Dimensional Standards; Working with Numbers; Measurement Systems; Dimensioning on Prints: Tolerances; Rectangular Coordinate Dimensioning; Angular Dimensioning; Arcs and Radii; Fits; Gears and Gear Teeth; Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing: Basic GD&T Concepts; Datums; Feature Control Frames; Geometric Tolerances; Modifiers.

Course Objectives:
  • Know the international standards and conventions that apply to drawings
  • Understand how different numbering systems were developed and how they’re applied to prints and drawings
  • Understand dimensions and tolerances on drawings that describe geometries of parts and assemblies
  • Recognize and interpret common symbols and nomenclature used in geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)
  • Understand how GD&T uses symbols to explain and describe the designer’s intent, and eliminate misinterpretation of the print
Special Notes:
  • This study unit takes the place of study unit 186040.

Reading Shop Prints, Part 1

Course #: 386043
Duration: 10 hours (includes 1 test)
Course Objectives:

  • Interpret working drawings.
  • Evaluate various systems of dimensions and tolerances.
  • Recognize symbols, notes, and specifications called out on detail and assembly prints.
  • Identify material requirements as specified on a print.
  • Evaluate a print to determine the proper procedure to make a simple part.
Special Notes:
  • This study unit takes the place of study unit 6720A.

Reading Shop Prints, Part 2

Course #: 386044
Duration: 10 hours (includes 1 test)
Prerequisites:

  • Reading Shop Prints, Part 1 (386043)

Course Objectives:
  • Interpret more complex working drawings.
  • Define and use cam, gear, and thread terminology.
  • Interpret cam, gear, and thread specifications on shop prints.
  • Work with various sectioning techniques.
  • Read and interpret a bill of materials.
  • Evaluate more complex prints to determine the best order of machining.
Special Notes:
  • This study unit takes the place of study unit 6720B.

Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing

Course #: 386E01
Duration: 20 hours (includes 4 tests)
Prerequisites:

  • Basic Industrial Math (Block X21)
  • Reading Shop Prints (386043 and 386044)

What Students Learn:

Lesson 1 - Introduction to GD&T Systems, Datum and Feature Control Frames · Defining Tolerance Control Systems; Reasons for Using Geometrics; GD&T Symbols; Datum; Interpreting Feature Control Frames; Scanning Prints.

Lesson 2 - Geometric Tolerance Zones: Controlling Form, Profile and Orientation. · Entities Found in the Tolerance Zone; Form and Profile Controls: Straightness, Flatness, Roundness, Cylindricity, Lines and Surfaces; Orientation Controls: Parallelism, Angularity, and Perpendicularity.

Lesson 3 - Material Modifiers, Location & Runout Characteristics and the GD&T System: · Least and Maximum Material Conditions; Runout; Inspecting Geometric Position; Finding Earned Tolerance; System Notes; "The 13 Characteristics".

Lesson 4 - Practical Application of GD&T Skills for Manufacturing · Single Axis Feature Inspection and Rework; Inspecting and Reworking Two Axis Features; Computing Geometric Tolerances for Designs; Complex Tolerances.

Special Notes:
  • This course consists of a textbook and supplemental study guide.

Bench Work

Course #: 5004A-C
Duration: 30 hours (includes 3 tests)
What Students Learn:

Part 1 (5004A). Introduction to Bench Work; Wrenches, Hammers, Pliers, and Screwdrivers; Punches, Twist Drills, Reamers, and Broaches; Saws, Chisels, and Snips; Finishing and Grinding Tools; Files, Scrapers, and Abrasives.

Part 2 (5004B). Threaded Fasteners; Bolts, Screws, and Studs; Thread Systems; Hole Preparation for Threaded Fasteners; Mechanical Fasteners; Rivets, Keys, and Pins; Threading with Hand Tools; Taps: Tap Drills; Tap Wrenches; Removal of Broken Taps; Repairing Damaged Threads.

Part 3 (5004C). Fitting Practice; Tolerance, Allowance, Clearance, and Fit; Babbitting; Hack Saw; Band Saw Machine; Clamping Work for Sawing; Soldering; Soft Solder; Soldering Copper; Sweat Soldering; Brazing; Hand Solders and Fluxes; Torch Brazing; Induction Brazing; Furnace Brazing.

Precision Measuring Instruments, Part 1

Course #: 186068
Duration: 10 hours (includes 1 test)
Course Objectives:

  • Purpose and Language of Measurement
  • Scale Instruments and Accessories
  • Vernier Caliper
  • Micrometers, Gages, and Protractors.
Special Notes:
  • This updated course replaces course 3500A.
  • The entire course consists of study units 186068, 186069, and 186072.

Precision Measuring Instruments, Part 2

Course #: 186069
Duration: 10 hours (includes 1 test)
Course Objectives:

  • Indicators
  • Shop Gages
  • Gage Blocks
  • Fundamentals of Trigonometry
  • Sine Bar and Sine Plate.
Special Notes:
  • This updated course replaces course 3500B.
  • The entire course consists of study units 186068, 186069, and 186072.

Precision Measuring Instruments, Part 3

Course #: 186072
Duration: 10 hours (includes 1 test)
Course Objectives:

  • Setup and operation of optical alignment systems including laser and alignment telescopes.
  • Use digital readout gages that apply either absolute or incremental measuring systems.
  • Explain the use of optical comparators and toolmaker’s microscopes.
  • Recognize applications that call for in-process and post-process gaging, including video inspection and CNC tool presetters.
  • Uses of modern non destructive testing (NDT) technologies including magnetic particle inspection and ultrasonic testing.
Special Notes:
  • This updated course replaces courses 3500C and 186070.
  • The entire course consists of study units 186068, 186069, and 186072.

Jobs, Companies, and the Economy: Basic Concepts for Employees

Course #: 186034
Duration: 5 hours (includes 1 test)
Course Objectives:

  • Recognition of how the economy affects the actions of companies, employees, consumers, and investors.
  • The concept of capitalism and the principles of supply and demand.
  • How government policies affect the amounts of saving, spending, and investing by companies and individuals.
  • Understand economic measuring tools such as the inflation rate, the unemployment rate and Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
  • How labor is divided into three employment sectors and how wages are set, including the influence of labor unions and the benefits of a multi-functional workforce.
  • Recognition of how both the employee and the company must compete in an increasingly international marketplace.

Quality Concepts: Tools and Applications

Course #: 186036
Duration: 5 hours (includes 1 test)
Course Objectives:

  • Describe how job roles change as a company evolves in its quality consciousness.
  • Explain several ways in which you can support TQM.
  • Identify approaches, practices and skills associated with positive organizational change.
  • Differentiate between the "change process" at the company level and the manufacturing processes that require improvement.
  • Describe major causes of process variation and give examples of how they may affect you in your job.
  • Explain why and how the reduction of variability is a key factor in process improvement.
  • Describe why and how quality and process improvement depend on data-driven decision making.
  • Identify seven quality tools and explain their uses.

Electrician Training worker
View Programs
From foundational skills to advanced career training, we offer over 3,000 courses aligned with 35+ occupational pathways.
Man Auto Worker
Download Case Study
Learn how UAW-Ford filled its skills gap with Penn Foster.
Construction Workers
Download Report
Discover exclusive insights on training and development from skilled trades leaders.
TOP