27205 Cold-Framed Steel Framing

Course Syllabus: Cold-Formed Steel Framing

Course Information

• Course Title: Cold-Formed Steel Framing
• Module ID: NCCER 27205-13
• Level: Carpentry Level 2
• Contact Hours: 15 Hours (including classroom instruction, lab activities, review, and testing)
• Prerequisites: Completion of NCCER Carpentry Level 1 or equivalent knowledge of basic carpentry principles, safety, and tools
• Edition Reference: NCCER Carpentry Fifth Edition (Revised 2013)

Course Description

This module introduces trainees to cold-formed steel framing systems used in residential and commercial construction. It covers the types and grades of steel framing materials, component identification, tools, fasteners, and step-by-step instructions for selecting, laying out, and installing metal framing for interior and exterior walls (both load-bearing and non-load-bearing), partitions, headers, and other applications. Emphasis is placed on safety, accuracy, and industry standards.

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this module, trainees will be able to:

1. Describe the advantages, types, grades, and applications of cold-formed steel framing materials and systems.
2. Identify and select appropriate components, tools, and fasteners for cold-formed steel framing projects.
3. Lay out and install tracks, studs, bracing, blocking, and bridging in steel framing systems.
4. Construct common header types (e.g., back-to-back, box, and L-headers).
5. Differentiate between and install load-bearing (structural) and non-load-bearing (non-structural) steel stud walls, including openings.
6. Apply safe work practices when handling and installing cold-formed steel materials.

Performance Tasks

Trainees must demonstrate proficiency in the following tasks under instructor supervision to achieve module completion and NCCER credentialing:

• Identify components of a steel framing system.
• Select and use appropriate tools and fasteners.
• Build back-to-back, box, and L-headers.
• Lay out and install a steel stud structural (load-bearing) wall with openings, including bracing and blocking.
• Lay out and install a steel stud non-structural (non-load-bearing) wall with openings, including blocking and bracing.

Course Outline and Schedule

(Assuming a typical delivery over 2–3 days or spread across several sessions; adjust based on program needs)

Session 1: Introduction and Materials (3 Hours)

• Overview of cold-formed steel framing vs. wood framing
• Advantages (noncombustible, lightweight, dimensionally stable, corrosion-resistant)
• Types and grades of steel framing materials
• Component identification (studs, tracks, joists, bridging, bracing)

Session 2: Tools, Fasteners, and Safety (3 Hours)

• Tools for cutting, fastening, and layout (e.g., aviation snips, screw guns, powder-actuated tools)
• Fasteners (self-tapping screws, pins, welds)
• Safety practices and PPE requirements (gloves, eye protection, handling sharp edges)

Session 3: Layout and Basic Installation (4 Hours)

• Reading blueprints and specifications for steel framing
• Layout techniques for walls and openings
• Installing tracks and studs
• Installing bridging, bracing, and blocking

Session 4: Headers and Advanced Applications (3 Hours)

• Constructing headers (back-to-back, box, L-headers)
• Load-bearing vs. non-load-bearing wall installation
• Exterior and interior applications, partitions, and soffits

Session 5: Review, Performance Testing, and Module Exam (2 Hours)

• Hands-on performance task verification
• Review key concepts
• Module written examination

Instructional Methods

• Classroom lectures and discussions
• Multimedia presentations (NCCER PowerPoints if available)
• Hands-on laboratory exercises and demonstrations
• Group activities and blueprint reading practice

Required Materials

• NCCER Carpentry Level 2 Trainee Guide
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Safety glasses, gloves, hard hat, work boots
• Tools (provided or trainee-supplied): Tape measure, level, square, chalk line, screw gun, aviation snips, clamps
• Materials for labs: Cold-formed steel studs, tracks, fasteners, etc.

Assessment and Grading

• Performance Tasks — 50% (Must successfully complete all required tasks to pass the module)
• Written Module Examination — 50% (Multiple-choice; minimum passing score 70%)
• Attendance and Participation — Required for certification
• Successful completion earns NCCER module credit toward Carpentry Level 2 certification

Safety Requirements

Safety is integrated throughout the course. Trainees must adhere to OSHA standards and NCCER safety guidelines. All hands-on activities require proper PPE and safe tool handling. Unsafe practices will result in removal from lab activities.

Instructor Notes

This syllabus aligns with NCCER standards for standardized, portable credentials. Instructors should use the official NCCER Instructor Guide and Performance Profile Sheets for verification.

For the most current NCCER curriculum updates, visit nccer.org.