Training Programs

Introductory Studies in Mass Timber Construction (Online) is a micro credential designed for professionals with a background in construction who want to transition into or expand their expertise in mass timber. Delivered fully online, in a self-paced format, this program provides foundational knowledge of mass timber products, construction methods, digital tools, and building performance. Participants explore case studies and real-world applications while developing essential skills in estimation, site layout, and project management, all through the lens of this rapidly growing sector.

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Program Details:

• Program Title: Micro Credential Introductory Studies in Mass Timber Construction ‍
• School: BCIT School of Construction and the Environment ‍
• Total Credits: 5.0 ‍
• Workload: 6–9 hours/week ‍
• Program Length: Up to 16 weeks total (up to 8 weeks/course) ‍
• Delivery Mode: Fully online, self-paced, continuous entry (start anytime) ‍
• Format: Not cohort-based

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Course Details:

Course #1 XTMB 1001 - Mass Timber Construction: Intro to Products, Layouts, Cost Estimation and Digital Delivery

Length: 2.5 credits, 8 weeks, 37.5 hours, continuous entry, online
Course Themes:

• Module 1: Introduction to Mass Timber Products and Prefabrication
  
  • Identify the main characteristics and properties of commonly used mass timber products.
  • Describe the advantages and challenges of using mass timber in construction.
  • Explain the concept of prefabrication and its benefits in mass timber construction.

• Module 2: Mass Timber Construction Sites and Safety
  
  • Recognize the typical layout of a mass timber construction site.
  • Identify key safety considerations specific to mass timber construction.
  • Describe safe work practices applicable to activities on a mass timber site.

• Module 3: Estimating and Cost Planning in Mass Timber Projects
  
  • Distinguish between basic tools and types of estimates used in construction.
  • Relate different estimate types to corresponding stages in building design.
  • Explain how quantity surveyors and estimators support decision-making early in the design process for mass timber projects.

• Module 4: Digital Tools for Mass Timber Project Delivery
  
  • Describe the role of digital tools in improving efficiency in mass timber construction.
  • Explain the principles and applications of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in project delivery.
  • Define Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) and its relevance in mass timber construction.

• Case Study Component
  
  • Analyze real-world examples of mass timber projects through case studies.
  • Identify lessons learned and best practices illustrated by mass timber case studies.

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Course #2 XTMB 1002 – Mass Timber Construction: Intro to Installation, Building Performance and Construction Management

Length: 2.5 credits, 8 weeks, 37.5 hours, continuous entry, online
Course Themes:

• Module 1: Structural Components and Installation of Mass Timber Construction
  
  • Identify the basic structural components, typical layouts, and connections used in mass timber construction.
  • Describe key procedures and safety considerations related to the site installation of mass timber components.
  • Explain best practices for handling and lifting mass timber elements during construction.

• Module 2: Building Enclosures in Mass Timber Construction
  
  • Define the role of building enclosures in separating interior conditioned space from exterior environments.
  • Explain how environmental control contributes to the durability and sustainability of mass timber building enclosures. ‍
  • Identify common materials, components, and assemblies used in mass timber building enclosures.

• Module 3: Fire Protection in Mass Timber Construction
  
  • Describe the primary strategies used to achieve fire safety in mass timber buildings.
  • Compare fire protection performance between light-frame and mass timber construction.
  • Identify building features and design choices that impact fire resistance in mass timber assemblies.

• Module 4: Sound Insulation in Mass Timber Construction
  
  • Explain how building design affects sound insulation performance in mass timber construction.
  • Differentiate between sound insulation characteristics in light-frame and mass timber construction systems.
  • Identify key building features and materials that influence acoustic performance.

• Module 5: Phases of Mass Timber Construction Projects
  
  • Describe the main phases of a mass timber construction project.
  • Identify the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders in each project phase.
  • Recognize the planning and coordination efforts required to manage and execute mass timber projects successfully.

• Case Study Component
  
  • Identify how structural, enclosure, fire, and acoustic performance are achieved in real-world mass timber construction.
  • Reflect on lessons learned and apply insights to future project planning and design.

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Target Audience:

This program is ideal for professionals in the construction industry, including:

• Carpenters ‍
• Ironworkers ‍
• Quantity surveyors & estimators ‍
• Construction managers ‍
• 3D modellers & designers ‍
• Developers & manufacturers ‍
• Early career engineers and architects ‍
• Building inspectors or those involved in off-site or mass timber projects

Recommended for Success:

• English 12 (or equivalent). ‍
• Applicants must have experience in a construction-related field and basic computer proficiency.

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Program Outcomes:

• Demonstrate foundational knowledge of mass timber products, structural systems, and construction methods, including installation techniques and prefabrication strategies. ‍
• Apply key principles of building performance in mass timber projects, including enclosure design, fire protection, sound insulation, and site safety practices. ‍
• Explain the role of digital tools and technologies, such as BIM (Building Information Modelling) and DfMA (Design for Manufacture and Assembly), in the planning and delivery of mass timber construction projects. ‍
• Interpret basic cost planning and estimation methods relevant to early-stage mass timber project development and describe the roles of estimators and quantity surveyors. ‍
• Analyze real-world case studies to identify best practices, lessons learned, and practical applications of mass timber construction methods, materials, and project management approaches.

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Upcoming:

• Next Offering: This micro-credential is offered in a continuous-entry delivery format. Interested participants can register and begin anytime throughout the year. ‍
• Application Process: Through the School of Construction and the Environment – Industry Services. Interested participants can request an application package from Christine Pinkham at cpinkham@bcit.ca‍
• Laddering: Successful completion may open pathways to further studies.

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The Associate Certificate in Construction of Mass Timber Structures is a 15.0-credit part-time program designed for skilled trades professionals seeking to expand their expertise into mass timber construction. Through a blend of online learning and in-person hands-on training, students gain technical knowledge in construction planning, material handling, rigging, and installation, with a strong emphasis on the site installation phase. Participants build a two-storey mass-timber  structure during the in-person practicum, developing practical skills and teamwork. This program prepares students to contribute effectively to mass timber projects across commercial, residential, and institutional sectors.

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Program Details:

• Program Title: Associate Certificate in Construction of Mass Timber Structures
• School: BCIT School of Construction and the Environment
• Total Credits: 15.0
• Program Length: 6 months  
• Workload: Average 9 hours/week  
• Format: Cohort-based
• Delivery Mode: Blended (online, part-time + 2 week in-person practicum)

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Course Details:

• TMBR 1020 – Introduction to Mass Timber Construction
  (3.5 credits, 6 weeks, 52.5 hours, Online)
  Focuses on construction planning, logistics behind delivery of a mass timber project, specialized equipment for mass timber construction, rigging and hoisting, and construction site safety.

• TMBR 1030 - Installation of Mass Timber Structures
  (3.5 credits, 6 weeks, 52.5 hours, Online)
  Focuses on erection of mass timber structures. Includes preparation for mass timber installation (e.g., site preparation, material storage, inventory, reading and interpreting mass timber construction documents), lifting considerations, handling mass timber materials, and framing of wall, floor and roof assemblies.

• TMBR 1040 – Building Enclosures for Mass Timber Construction
  (3.5 credits, 6 weeks, 52.5 hours - Online)
  Focuses on installation of building envelope assemblies. Includes typical barrier materials and components for enclosures, prefabricated enclosures, mass timber enclosure details, and best practices for moisture management.

• TMBR 1050 – Interior Components and Services for Mass Timber Construction
  (1.5 credits, 3 weeks, 22.5 hours - Online)
  Focuses on installation of interior components and integration of mechanical – electrical – plumbing services in mass timber buildings. Includes best practices related to installation of fire resistance components and sound insulation components mass timber buildings.

• TMBR 1060 – Practicum: Construction of Mass Timber Structures
  (3.0 credits, 2 weeks, 45 hours - In-person, hands-on)
  In person, practical training on the installation of structural components, connections and building envelope using a 2-storey mass timber mock-up structure.

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Target Audience:

This program is ideal for professionals in the construction industry, including:

• carpenters, ironworkers, and building Installers
• site foremen and crew leads
• skilled tradespersons with foundation-level training
• individuals with experience in structural installation looking to upskill for mass timber projects

Entrance Requirements:

• English Studies 12 or equivalent  
• Math 11 or equivalent  
• Completion of, at minimum: Carpentry or Ironworker Foundation Program  
• Current fall protection training certification (within 3 years)
• Work experience in the carpentry or ironworker trade is an asset.  
• Basic computer proficiency is highly recommended.  

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Program Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:

• Plan, organize, and support mass timber installation on job sites
• Apply safe and effective rigging and hoisting techniques
• Interpret construction documents specific to mass timber
• Install mass timber structural elements and enclosure components
• Work effectively in team environments while solving on-site challenges
• Enhance employability in the growing mass timber sector

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Upcoming:

• Next Intake: Winter 2026 (Applications open September each year)  
• In-Person 2-Week Practicum:  Summer 2026 at BCIT’s Burnaby Campus  
• Tuition: Credit available for students who previously completed the Micro-Credential in Mass Timber Construction
• Application Process: Through the School of Construction and the Environment – Industry Services. Interested participants can request an application package from Christine Pinkham at cpinkham@bcit.ca

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Cost Estimating for Mass Timber is an advanced course designed for experienced cost estimators and quantity surveyors who want to develop specialized knowledge in mass timber construction. Delivered over 9 weeks, this online course combines weekly instruction, real-world estimating exercises, and practical assignments. Participants will explore the unique characteristics, sequencing, and cost drivers of mass timber systems across a range of building types (residential, commercial, institutional, and infrastructure) while gaining hands-on experience creating accurate cost estimates in today’s evolving market.

• Course Number: TMBR 3005
• Course Title: Cost Estimating for Mass Timber
• School: BCIT School of Construction and the Environment
• Total Credits: 3.0
• Total Hours: 45
• Duration: 9 weeks
• Workload: Average 5 hours/week
• Delivery Mode: Hybrid, part-time - Online with weekly instructor-led live sessions  

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Course Details:

This course provides both general and practical insights into estimating mass timber projects, including:

• Overview of the mass timber construction process and how it differs from traditional systems
• Pricing influences including supply chain dynamics, market demand, and building codes
• The role of technology (e.g., prefabrication, BIM) in estimating
• Real-world estimating practice across various building types and infrastructure
• Weekly feedback and support from an instructor with industry experience, i.e., each module begins with a short instructor presentation, followed by collaborative learning and hands-on practice

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Target Audience:

This course is ideal for:

• Construction cost estimators working with general contractors or developers
• Quantity surveyors (QS)
• Professionals with a CEC designation or equivalent
• Those with at least one year of full-time experience in construction cost estimating

Recommended for success:

• English 12 (or equivalent)
• Basic computer proficiency
• Minimum one year of relevant construction estimating experience

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Course Outcomes:

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the sequencing and cost structure of mass timber projects compared to traditional systems
• Identify how technology, codes, and market forces influence pricing
• Develop accurate cost estimates for a variety of project types, including:
  
  • Single-family and low-rise buildings
  • Mid- and high-rise buildings
  • Commercial, institutional, and industrial projects

• Above-ground infrastructure (e.g., pedestrian or transit bridges)
• Evaluate sustainability and cost efficiency when comparing mass timber to other construction systems

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Upcoming:

• Next Offering: Winter 2026  
• Application Process: Through the School of Construction and the Environment – Industry Services. Interested participants can request an application package from Christine Pinkham at cpinkham@bcit.ca

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Digital Project Delivery for Mass Timber Construction is an advanced online course that introduces professionals to the transformative role of digital modeling in mass timber construction. Participants explore how tools like BIM (Building Information Modelling), VDC (Virtual Design for Construction) and DfMA  (Design for Manufacturing and Assembly) enhance project planning, design, fabrication, and execution, from schematic design through to occupancy. Through case studies, real-world applications, and insights from industry experts, this course provides essential knowledge for using digital tools to improve construction outcomes, streamline schedules, and support sustainability and climate action goals.

• Course Number: TMBR 3010  
• Course Title: Digital Project Delivery for Mass Timber Construction
• School: BCIT School of Construction and the Environment
• Total Credits: 3.0
• Total Hours: 45
• Duration: 9 weeks
• Workload: Average 5 hours/week
• Delivery Mode: Online, part-time

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Course Details:

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to how digital modeling impacts methods and tools used in mass timber projects. Topics include:

• Overview of BIM, VDC, DfMA, and Digital Twins
• Integrated project delivery and real-time collaboration
• Construction scheduling and sequencing for mass timber
• Fabrication modeling and detailing with high precision
• Optioneering and decision-making in early design phases
• Structural advantages of mass timber and digital analysis of components
• Industry guest sessions exploring future trends and innovations

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Target Audience:

This course is ideal for:

• Designers, engineers, architects, and construction managers looking to deepen their understanding of digital workflows in mass timber
• Professionals in fabrication, estimating, scheduling, and BIM/VDC coordination roles
• Early-career and transitioning professionals entering the mass timber sector
• Anyone involved in mass timber project delivery or planning seeking to enhance technical and digital competencies

Recommended for success:

• Basic computer proficiency
• Experience in a construction-related field is recommended

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Course Outcomes:

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:

• Describe how digital modeling reshapes mass timber construction workflows
• Apply knowledge of digital tools (BIM, VDC, DfMA, Digital Twins) to building design and construction
• Interpret and create construction schedules for mass timber projects
• Analyze fabrication models and use precision detailing effectively
• Evaluate different structural and material options through optioneering
• Understand the role of digital project delivery in advancing low-carbon, high-performance buildings
• Gain insight into emerging trends and technologies in the mass timber sector

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Upcoming:

• Next Intake: Winter 2026  
• Application Process: Through the School of Construction and the Environment – Industry Services. Interested participants can request an application package from Christine Pinkham at cpinkham@bcit.ca

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Mass Timber for Construction Managers is a hybrid course designed to equip construction professionals with the tools and knowledge to effectively manage mass timber projects. The course emphasizes the unique nuances of preconstruction workflows in mass-timber (MT) construction—interdisciplinary activities that require close collaboration between consultants, contractors, fabricators, installers and trades. The course aims to help participants build a deeper understanding of how early planning, coordination, and sequencing directly influence project success. The course helps participants shift their mindset by recognizing how proactive early planning, interdisciplinary coordination, and thoughtful sequencing are not just technical steps, but critical drivers of success in MT projects. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of mass timber systems and project management strategies, preparing them to lead projects confidently from planning through to successful completion.

• Course Number: TMBR 2000  
• Course Title: Mass Timber for Construction Managers
• School: School of Construction and the Environment
• Total Credits: 2.0
• Total Hours: 30 hours
• Duration: 6 weeks
• Workload: Average 5 hours/week
• 3 hours/week online, self-directed
• Four in-person workshops (3 hours each)
• Format: Cohort-based
• Delivery Mode: Hybrid (online + in-person sessions)

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Course Details:

Participants will complete four self-directed online modules; each paired with a dedicated in-person session. Each module is designed to deepen understanding of the content through practical application, peer engagement, and problem-solving, including:

• Industry speakers – Insights and lessons from seasoned professionals.
• Case study analysis – Real-world mass timber project analysis.
• Collaborative workshops – Simulated decision-making and planning exercises.
• Hands-on demonstrations – Direct interaction with mass timber components and connections.

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Target Audience:

This course is ideal for:

• Construction project coordinators and managers
• Site superintendents and supervisors  
• Architects and engineers involved in project delivery
• Industry professionals transitioning into mass timber project management

A background in project management is recommended for those without direct field experience.  
Previous experience with mass timber is not required.  

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Course Outcomes:

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:

• Explain to their teams the fundamental properties of mass timber, benefits and challenges, and manufacturing process and correctly apply Mass Timber specific terminology in their everyday work life.
• Articulate the critical role Preconstruction Planning plays in the successful execution of a mass timber project.
• Identify the unique risks associated with Mass Timber Buildings and properly account and create a risk mitigation plan
• Articulate the value of an integrated project team approach in mass timber construction and apply the necessary mindset shift in guiding the interface between stakeholders during early collaboration, coordination, fabrication, supply and execution.
• Understand the critical role of delivery and logistics coordination in mass timber construction and identify strategies to optimize site logistics, sequencing, material handling, and just-in-time delivery to improve efficiency during project execution.
• Assess what information is needed from the different project team stakeholders to create an effective project preconstruction plan.

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Upcoming:

• Next Intake: Winter 2025/2026
• Application Process: Through the School of Construction and the Environment – Industry Services. Interested participants can request an application package from Christine Pinkham at cpinkham@bcit.ca

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Designing with Mass Timber: Principles of Sustainability is a 2-week hybrid mini-course that explores the role of forests and bio-based materials in advancing low-carbon, high-performance buildings. Through a life cycle perspective, participants will examine how mass timber contributes to climate change mitigation, sustainable design, and human health. Featuring expert-led guest lectures, this course equips professionals with the tools to make informed, sustainability-focused material decisions. Ideal for those seeking CPD credits, the course emphasizes real-world applications aligned with LEED®, Built Green®, and Passive House certification systems.

• Course Number: TMBR 2010  
• Course Title: Designing with Mass Timber: Principles of Sustainability
• School: School of Construction and the Environment
• Total Credits: 1.0
• Total Hours: 15
• Duration: 2 weeks
• Workload: Average 7 hours  per week
• Format: Cohort-based
• Delivery Mode: Hybrid (Self-paced online modules + 4 live guest lectures), part-time
• Delivery Platform: BCIT Learning Hub  
• CPD Credits: 15 (pending approval from AIBC and BC Housing)
• Application: Department approval required

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Course Details:

• Course Themes:
  
  • The Role of Forests in the Carbon Cycle and Climate Change Mitigation: Understand how sustainable forestry and carbon storage in wood products support climate goals. ‍
  • Life Cycle and the Role of Wood in Sustainable Building Construction: Learn about embodied carbon, biodiversity impacts, and material certifications. ‍
  • Indoor Environmental Quality and Human Health: Understand how indoor environments featuring wood and mass timber affect occupant health. ‍
  • Green Building Certifications :Explore how mass timber can contribute to meeting the criteria of major Canadian green building certification systems.  

• Industry Speakers:
  Participants will benefit from 1-hour lectures delivered by industry leaders, including:
  • Etienne Bélanger – Forest Products Association of Canada & Peter Moonen – Canadian Wood Council
  • Angela Lai – Core Two
  • Tye Farrow – Farrow Partners
  • Manuela Londono Suarez – Perkins & Will

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Target Audience:

This course is ideal for professionals working in the built environment looking to integrate low-carbon materials and improve project sustainability outcomes, including:

• architects and designers
• engineers and construction managers
• builders and developers
• policy advisors

Recommended for success:

• English 12 (or equivalent)
• Basic computer proficiency

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Course Outcomes:

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:

• Explore how forests and wood products contribute to climate change mitigation and carbon cycling
• Discuss material recommendations based on embodied carbon, health, and certification requirements
• Explain the impact of wood on indoor environmental quality and occupant wellness
• Discuss sustainability principles in alignment with certification frameworks such as LEED®, Built Green®, and Passive House

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Upcoming:

• Next offering: Pilot delivery scheduled on September 29 – October 10, 2025
• Registration is open: Apply through the BCIT School of Construction and the Environment – Industry Services. Interested participants can request an application package from Christine Pinkham at cpinkham@bcit.ca.  
• Limited seats: Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot.  
• Tuition: sponsored  

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