Description

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to reading, interpreting, and applying mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) construction drawings for commercial projects. Participants will develop the skills needed to confidently navigate:

• Multidisciplinary plan sets, understand building system layouts, and interpret the symbols, conventions; 
• Documentation used in MEP design and construction; 
• Drawing organization and sheet numbering conventions;
• MEP symbols, legends, and graphical standards;
• Mechanical plans (HVAC systems, duct and pipe routing, mechanical equipment), electrical plans (conduit routing, lighting layouts, panel schedules), plumbing plans (water supply, draining, venting systems, plumbing equipment and fixtures);
• Coordination between architectural, structural, and MEP drawings;
• Reading specifications and understanding design intent: and 
• Common field issues and how to identify them through drawings.

The course emphasizes practical application through real-world plan examples, cross-disciplinary coordination, and common field scenarios. Participants will learn how MEP systems integrate into the overall building design and how to identify critical components, including ductwork, piping, electrical circuits, equipment schedules, riser diagrams, and control systems. The course also highlights the relationships between architectural, structural, and MEP drawings, helping learners build the foundational literacy required for effective communication in design and construction environments.

Recommended for project engineers, project managers, estimators, coordinators, field leaders, and anyone working with MEP construction documents. 

Brad Perkins, PE, is a professional engineer and Senior Lecturer in Iowa State University’s Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering. A graduate of Iowa State’s Construction Engineering program, Brad brings industry experience as a design engineer along with nearly 20 years of experience educating future construction professionals. Brad is passionate about workforce development and preparing the next generation of construction leaders through education, mentorship, and industry engagement.