Building Construction Technology

HBI Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate Training Building Construction Technology Certification

Building a Future in Building Construction Technology (BCT)

Earning a PACT BCT (Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate Training in Building Construction Technology) Certification provides individuals with a strong foundation in essential construction skills and industry knowledge. This certification equips participants with practical, hands-on training that aligns with industry standards, making them highly competent and prepared for the workforce. Employers value the structured curriculum and verified skill sets that come with this certification, as it ensures that candidates are proficient in areas such as carpentry, electrical work, and basic construction safety. This not only enhances employability but also opens doors to entry-level positions that serve as stepping stones to a rewarding career in construction.

Beyond immediate job opportunities, the PACT BCT Certification supports career advancement by fostering continuous learning and professional growth. It demonstrates a commitment to quality and safety practices, which are highly regarded in the construction industry. Additionally, the certification can serve as a gateway to further education or specialized training, enabling individuals to explore diverse pathways, from supervisory roles to specialized trades. By earning this certification, individuals position themselves as competitive candidates in a rapidly evolving industry, equipped with the skills and confidence to contribute meaningfully to construction projects of all scales.

Benefits

Enhanced Employability: Demonstrates your proficiency in construction technology, making you a competitive candidate in the job market.
Career Advancement: Equips you with industry-relevant skills, paving the way for promotions and higher-level positions within the construction field.
Immediate Workforce Entry: Provides practical knowledge and hands-on training, allowing you to seamlessly transition into the workforce upon certification completion.
Industry Recognition: Offers validation of your expertise, earning respect and credibility from employers and peers in the construction industry.
Lifelong Learning: Encourages continuous upskilling and knowledge acquisition, ensuring professionals stay updated with evolving construction technologies and practices.

Minimum performance levels:

HBI PACT BCT Certification
Number of Questions	40
Time Limit	50 mins
Passing Score	70%
Proctored	Yes
Format	Computer based/Written Online

PACT Building Construction Technology (BCT) Certification

Exam Objectives:

GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY CONCEPTS

Fill and interpret work orders and make-ready checklists.
Fill out and correctly maintain service work orders.
Caulk around fixtures.
Repair and re-grout tile.

CARPENTRY MAINTENANCE

Demonstrate carpentry safety practices.
Identify basic carpentry hand tools, their function, and how to use the tools safely.
Identify basic carpentry power tools, their function, and how to use the tools safely.
Identify anchors and fasteners.
Identify carpentry-related materials commonly used in carpentry maintenance.
Replace, repair, and install siding.
Perform weatherizing procedures.
Repair drywall and plaster walls.
Replace and repair interior walls.
Identify procedures for replacing, repairing, and installing floor coverings.
Install wall and ceiling insulation.
Install or replace interior trim.
List steps for installing keyed, privacy, and passage lock sets.
Describe key security systems.

ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE

Demonstrate electrical safety practices.
Identify basic electrical hand tools, their function, and how to use the tools safely.
Identify basic electrical power tools, their function, and how to use the tools safely.
Identify anchors and fasteners commonly used in electrical maintenance.
Identify electrical-related materials.
Properly use electrical test equipment, such as multimeters and outlet testers.
Troubleshoot/repair or replace outlets, switches, fuses, and fixtures in existing building.
Identify power supplies (e.g., single-phase, three-phase).
Wire 120-Volt circuits.
Wire low-voltage circuits using a schematic.
Identify and correct defective two-wire and three-wire cords & plugs.
Maintain emergency lighting systems, exit lights, and signs.
Check and test “hard-wired” smoke detectors.

PLUMBING MAINTENANCE

Demonstrate plumbing safety practices.
Identify basic plumbing hand tools, their function, and how to use the tools safely.
Identify basic plumbing power tools, their function, and how to use the tools safely.
Identify anchors and fasteners commonly used in plumbing maintenance.
Identify plumbing-related materials.
Cut, clean, and glue plastic pipe.
Assemble compression fittings.
Replace and repair plumbing fixtures and connections.
Describe how a garbage disposal works.
Describe the three most common problems related to garbage disposals.
Identify and describe water supply, diverter and drains for a tub/shower.
Replace, repair, and install plumbing accessories.
Clean and replace traps, drains, and vents.
Identify and describe backflow prevention.
Demonstrate proper use and application of thread seal, pipe dope, and plumber’s putty.

HVAC/PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

Demonstrate safety practices for servicing environmental control systems.
Identify basic hand tools, their function, and how to use the tools safely.
Describe basic heating operations for a gas furnace.
Clean the removable burner tubes and ports on a gas furnace.
Describe basic heating operations for electrical baseboard.
Test the heating element on an electric baseboard heater.
Describe basic heating operations for hydronic systems.
Identify 13 key parts of a hydronic heating system.
Describe the four main parts of an air conditioning system.
Describe the flow of refrigerant in an air conditioning system.
Clear evaporator pan and drain line.
Check thermostat operation.
Clean condenser.
Replace furnace and/or cooling filters.
Locate shutoffs for electrical and plumbing fixtures.
Identify potential electrical hazards.
Check the condition of emergency exit floor plans.

LANDSCAPING MAINTENANCE

Use and maintain grounds-keeping equipment (mowers, edger’s, etc.) safely.
Identify basic landscaping hand tools, their functions, and how to use the tools safely.
Maintain and police grounds.
Prune trees and shrubs.
Identify basic components of a pool system.

APPLIANCE REPAIR

Identify common appliance components for a clothes dryer, washing machine, and dishwasher.
Test and replace a clothes dryer door switch.
Identify and describe key parts of an electric and gas range.
Remove/repair/replace the cook-top ignitor on a gas range.
Test and replace oven temperature control.
Describe how a dishwasher works and Identify key parts.
Test the dishwasher motor.
Adjust and test the dishwasher door latch and switch.

HBI assessments must be administered in a proctored environment following the NOCTI Security Policy and test administration guidelines. Access to resources through the Internet, local network, mobile devices, or electronic storage media is strictly prohibited during test administration.

Before the Test

Complete Proctor Training

Review NOCTI’s Proctor Training Manual or video.
Sign confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements.

Coordinate with the Test Site Coordinator

Confirm date, time, location, and type of test (online/paper, written/performance).
Receive the list of examinees and test materials access info.

Prepare the Testing Environment

Ensure the room is quiet, well-lit, and distraction-free.
Arrange seating to prevent cheating.
Test computers for internet access and NOCTI site compatibility (if online).
Verify technical requirements (browsers, plug-ins, etc.).

Secure and Check Materials

For online tests: Ensure login credentials are available and tested.
For performance tests: Ensure tools, materials, and equipment match NOCTI requirements.
Lock away any unauthorized materials (phones, notes, books, etc.).
Check IDs or use roster/photo verification as per policy.

Read NOCTI Proctor Script Aloud

Follow script exactly to maintain test standardization.

Monitor Testing Activities

Circulate the room to ensure test security.
Do not assist students with test content.
Watch for signs of cheating or unauthorized behavior.

Manage Time

Note start and end times.
Provide time warnings as allowed.

Record Irregularities

Note any disruptions, student misconduct, or technical issues.
Inform the test coordinator immediately if needed.

After the Test

Collect and Secure All Materials

Online: Ensure all students submit/exit the exam properly.
Paper: Collect test booklets and answer sheets securely.

Complete Proctor Documentation

Fill out irregularity forms (if applicable).
Submit attendance sheets and any required signatures.

Report to the Test Site Coordinator

Return all test materials securely.
Discuss any issues or incidents that occurred.

Maintain Confidentiality

Do not discuss test content or student performance.
Store or destroy confidential materials per NOCTI policy.

Home Builders Institute (HBI) collaborates with NOCTI to offer certifications assessments aligned with construction and building trades. NOCTI provides a secure/approved testing platform, HBI is the certifying agency. These assessments are designed to validate the occupational skills of students, individuals and industry professionals ensuring readiness for employment or upskilling in the residential construction industry.

Site Setup

Create a NOCTI account by going to https://www.nocti.org.
Designate a Site Coordinator.
Ensure Coordinators are not HBI instructors unless pre-approved in an administrative role.
Submit the signed Testing Agreement acknowledging NOCTI's Security Policy.

Pre-Assessment Preparation

Review and distribute digital study materials (if applicable).
Verify system access:
- Client Services Center
- Teacher Resource Center
- Digital Badge or Study Guide System
Schedule assessment sessions.
Secure testing room and necessary equipment (computers, tools, materials).

Test Security and Integrity

Ensure all materials (tests, scoring tools, credentials) are not copied or shared.
Secure all passwords and accounts related to NOCTI systems.
Immediately report any testing irregularities, breaches, or access issues to NOCTI (within 24 hours).
Cooperate with any HBI/NOCTI investigation and follow remediation procedures if necessary.

Post-Assessment Tasks

Submit all written and performance scores.
Review individual and group score reports for instructional feedback.
Document and archive test procedures for compliance and audits.

Certification Award Process

After successful completion of required assessment(s)
Students who meet or exceed the passing score for their assessment(s) are:
- Awarded an industry-recognized HBI Certification.
- Coordinators can download and print certificates through the Client Services Center if physical copies are needed.
- Credentials can be shared by successful test takers with employers or training programs as proof of competency.

Mobile Devices
This site supports Chromebooks and most Android tablets and iPads manufactured since 2010, provided the browser specifications meet those defined below. Please use our online practice test at https://testing.nocti.org before planning large scale use of mobile devices.

Windows Systems

Minimum Operating System and Hardware Requirements

Windows 10 Version 2016 LTSB and above
1024 x 768 minimum resolution is highly recommended

Internet Browsers Supported

Firefox 97 or higher
Google Chrome 98 or higher
Microsoft Edge 98 or higher

Mac Systems

Minimum Operating System and Hardware Requirements

OS X version 10.14 or higher

Internet Browsers Supported

Safari 14.0.3 or higher
Firefox 97 or higher
Microsoft Edge 98 or higher

Chromebook Systems

Minimum Operating System and Hardware Requirements

Recommended Chrome OS version 61 or higher

Internet Browsers Supported

Google Chrome 98 or higher

Text-to- Speech

Sound device or speaker required for use.

Allowable accommodation is available only for test takers with a formalized plan in place (e.g., Individualized Education Plan (IEP), 504 Plan). Accommodations for English Language Learners (ELL) should align with state requirements and guidelines. For reasons associated with assessment standardization, security, and costs, the NOCTI assessments are only offered in English at this time.

It is a site’s obligation to ensure learners receive proper accommodation according to local, state, and federal requirements. If your accommodation is not addressed below, please direct questions to NOCTI at nocti@nocti.org.

Multiple Sessions
Online and paper/pencil credentialing assessments can be administered in up to three sessions for most test titles.

Printed Booklets
In some cases, paper/pencil administration is necessary to satisfy IEP requirements. NOCTI offers paper/pencil testing for many of its credentials.

Readers
A reader may be assigned to read both online and paper/pencil credentialing assessments for participants who have been identified as needing this accommodation.

Text-To-Speech
Text-to-speech is available through QuadNet™, NOCTI’s online testing system. Participants hear the question-and-answer choices read aloud and can view them in a larger font.

Time Extensions
QuadNet™ has the ability to incorporate extended time requests for online administration. Sites may also allow extended time for paper/pencil administration.

Home Builders Institute