Williamsport, PA – Two comprehensive residential construction textbooks, written by Pennsylvania College of Technology faculty member Jack Jones, were recently published by The Goodheart-Wilcox Co. Inc., solidifying his impact on construction education.

Jones, an associate professor of building construction technology at Penn College, authored a brand-new textbook, Principles of Residential Construction: Essential Skills and Practices, as well as the 14th edition of Modern Carpentry, a widely used reference in construction training.

A New Approach to Residential Construction Education

Principles of Residential Construction: Essential Skills and Practices is a 623-page textbook designed for secondary education students, providing a structured, hands-on approach to learning. The book is accompanied by a skill-building workbook, authored by Peter Kruppenbacher, assistant professor of building construction technology at Penn College. Together, they aim to offer students real-world, practical experience from day one.

Each chapter of Principles of Residential Construction introduces a new phase of home construction, covering essential materials, tools, safety precautions, mathematical applications, drawings and plans, and sustainable building practices. The curriculum aligns with industry-recognized certification programs, including the Home Builders Institute Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate Training (PACT) Core and Green Core exams, administered by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and NOCTI.

Modernizing Carpentry Education

In addition to writing Principles of Residential Construction, Jones also authored the 14th edition of Modern Carpentry, a nearly 1,000-page textbook aimed at post-secondary programs. He previously wrote the 13th edition and continues to refine the text to reflect evolving industry standards and best practices.

This latest edition of Modern Carpentry offers comprehensive coverage of residential and light commercial construction, structured in a way that mirrors the actual sequence of home construction. Key topics include:

• Site preparation and layout
• Foundations and framing
• Sheathing and roofing
• Windows, doors, and exterior finishes
• Stair construction and cabinetry
• Interior finishing

The updated edition provides expanded coverage of workplace safety protocols, building code compliance, and the essential soft skills that carpenters need in the modern workforce.

Impact on Construction Education

Jones’s contributions have been widely recognized within the Penn College community.

“We were thrilled when Jack joined our building construction team!” said Ellyn A. Lester, assistant dean of construction and architectural technologies. “He’s had an immediate impact on the students and our program overall, as evidenced by this joint project with Pete, one of the longstanding members of our faculty. I'm so glad he’s sharing his expertise in such an expansive way.”

Jones brings over 25 years of experience in the construction industry, having worked as a carpenter, general contractor, and educator. Before joining Penn College in 2022, he spent 12 years at Alfred State College, where he served as the building construction department chair.

In addition to his academic and professional background, Jones is an outreach trainer for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). He has also been a member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America and the Rochester Builders Exchange. His commitment to education has earned him recognition as an honorary member of the National Society of Leadership and Success, through which he received an Excellence in Teaching Award.

Jones holds a bachelor's degree in business administration from Mansfield University of Pennsylvania, now part of Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania – Mansfield.

Expanding Opportunities in Construction Education

Pennsylvania College of Technology offers a robust construction program, preparing students for careers in residential and commercial construction. Programs include:

• Associate Degrees in Building Construction Technology and Concrete Science Technology
• Bachelor’s Degree in Residential Construction Technology & Management

For more information on Penn College’s building construction program, call 570-327-4520.

To learn more about Pennsylvania College of Technology, a national leader in applied technology education, contact the Admissions Office via email or call toll-free at 800-367-9222.

Originally reported by Penn College News.