NEWS | ArkiTalk 01 Connects Students to Skilled Trades
April 30, 2026 — 5th year Architecture students from the Isabela State University – Ilagan Campus Architecture Department participated in the ArkiTalk 01: TESDA Skill Seminar yesterday, featuring discussions on carpentry, plumbing, and electrical systems through real-world construction applications and facility demonstrations.
The seminar was conducted as part of the field trip subject spearheaded by Ar. Jefsie M. Antonio under the guidance of Ar. Blessie Joy M. Laguna. The program opened with a welcome address from Maria Elena A. Narcisco, Vocational School Superintendent, represented by Engr. Elmer A. Bartolome.
During his message, Bartolome shared the possibility of making the collaboration between the Architecture Department and TESDA-ISAT faculty an annual activity for future field trip programs.
One of the resource speakers, Engr. Francisco B. Narag, Associate Professor III, discussed carpentry specializations and plumbing systems. His discussion focused on actual on-site construction problems, modern carpentry methods, and the growing use of steel materials instead of wood in present-day construction.
Narag also introduced the newly opened National Certificate (NC) III program for steel construction, emphasizing the need for adaptability in the industry.
Meanwhile, Engr. Julius B. Baja, Instructor I, discussed the fundamentals of electrical systems, including the basic processes and different types of electrical layouting plans used in construction projects. He also presented common on-site electrical problems and practical solutions based on field experience.
After the seminar proper, student delegates were divided into two groups for a tour of TESDA training facilities.
One group visited the electrical learning facilities, where Engr. Elmer A. Bartolome showcased the “Industrial Motor Control System Trainer,” a research-developed training equipment used for industrial electrical system training. Students were also introduced to TESDA trainees who compete annually in the Regional Technolympics.
Bartolome also explained that students enrolled in the electrical program may continue their fourth year in college after three years of technical training and still qualify to take the Electrical Engineering board examination. He added that many of their former students are now licensed engineers.
The second group toured the carpentry and plumbing facilities led by Engr. Francisco B. Narag, where student prototypes and modern plumbing materials were presented. Discussions included comparisons between traditional and newly developed pipe materials currently used in construction.
The event concluded with recognition of the field trip committee and organizers whose efforts contributed to the successful conduct of the seminar and facility tour.
[Correspondent : ISU-Ilagan Architecture Department]