Courses

Two people reviewing architectural plans on a table, with a laptop and drafting tools present. One person points to the plans while the other writes notes. A small house model is also visible.

Introduction to Plan Reading & Contract Interpretation

Master the fundamentals of reading engineering plans and interpreting contracts with practical, hands-on training that prepares you to confidently administer municipal construction projects.
Two people reviewing architectural plans on a table, with a laptop and drafting tools present. One person points to the plans while the other writes notes. A small house model is also visible.

Registration Info

Click a date below to start your registration.

May 3 - 5, 2027
Fee:
Member Rate - $1,390.00
Duration:
3 Days

What You’ll Learn

  • Interpret symbols, abbreviations, and specialized notations on plan and profile drawings  
  • Calculate elevations and grades to verify construction compliance  
  • Understand the key elements of municipal construction contracts  
  • Apply contract terms and conditions in real-world construction scenarios  
  • Navigate bonds, insurance requirements, and payment methods  
  • Execute the roles and responsibilities of an effective inspector 

Course Description

Gain the confidence to read engineering plans and interpret contracts with this foundational course designed for municipal construction professionals. Whether you’re reviewing a set of drawings for the first time or stepping into an inspection role, this practical course breaks down complex documents into manageable, actionable information. 

Through real-world case studies and hands-on exercises, you’ll learn to extract critical data from plan and profile views, understand contract requirements, and apply this knowledge to effectively administer construction projects. From elevation calculations to understanding bidder information, this course equips you with the essential skills to succeed on the job site. 

  • This course should be mandatory for all new supervisors/foremen/managers in Public Works, very handy.

    Greg

  • An extremely useful course designed to give basic knowledge base for anyone who uses OPSS or OPSD data, in their daily work. It creates working knowledge so that communication with Contractors and Engineers and Municipal staff isn't so awkward.

    Craig

Course Details

  • Road supervisors and forepersons  
  • Construction inspectors and lead hands  
  • Municipal personnel new to construction contract administration  
  • Public works staff transitioning into inspection roles  
  • Certified Road Supervisor (CRS) candidates  
  • Engineers seeking PEO PEAK professional development hours 
  • Symbols and abbreviations on plan views  
  • Symbols and abbreviations on profile views  
  • Existing site conditions and constraints  
  • Plan vs. profile drawings: understanding the relationship  
  • Elevation and grade calculations  
  • Specialized information and construction instructions  
  • Environmental contract components and considerations  
  • Contract elements and content overview  
  • Bonds, insurance, and methods of payment  
  • Information for bidders and tender documents  
  • Roles and responsibilities of inspectors  
  • Case studies based on actual municipal projects 
  • No prerequisites  
  • Calculator required for grade and elevation calculations  
  • AORS: Elective course for Certified Road Supervisor – Intermediate level (CRS-I) 
  • OACETT: Please contact OACETT for details 
  • Engineering Institute of Canada: Awards 2 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) 

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Guelph 35 Cowan Pl., Guelph, ON

$359.99 + taxes/night (Standard rooms, non-smoking)
$379.99 + taxes/night (King Suite with Pull-out Sofa, non-smoking)

Check-in: 3:00 pm; Check-out: 12:00 pm

To book, call the hotel directly at 519-763-2339 and ask for the “Ontario Good Roads “special rate.

Please note: The cut-off date to book is Friday, February 26, 2027, to guarantee a reservation. Once the reservation is made, no complimentary changes or cancellations are allowed after Sunday, April 18, 2027.

Delta Hotels Guelph Conference Centre 50 Stone Rd. West, ON

$209.00 + taxes/night

Book your group rate for Good Roads – Open Block

Please note: The cut-off date to book is Monday, April 5, 2027, to guarantee a reservation.

Cambridge Hotel & Conference Centre 700 Hespeler Rd., Cambridge, ON

$149 + taxes/night (Traditional 2 Queens and Deluxe 1 Queen with pullout)

Check-in: 3:00 pm; Check-out: 11:00 am

To book, call the Reservations Department at 1-866-622-1505 or Email frontdesk1@cambridgehotel.ca and use the group name: Guelph Road School 2027

A valid credit card is required for all individual reservations to guarantee the room.

Please note: The cut-off date to book is Monday, April 2, 2027, to guarantee a reservation.

Question:
Is this course suitable for someone with no prior experience reading plans?

Answer:

Yes, this is an introductory course designed for those new to plan reading and contract interpretation. No prior experience is required.

Question:
Will there be hands-on practice with actual plans and contracts?

Answer:

Yes, the course includes practical exercises and case studies based on real municipal projects to reinforce learning.

Question:
Do I need to bring anything to the course?

Answer:

A calculator is required for elevation and grade calculations. You may also find it helpful to bring examples of plans or contracts from your own work.