When
July 10, 2026
Time
8:00am - 12:00pm EST
Contact Hours
4
Location Online - Course
This hybrid online class will combine both live instruction and independent online work that you will complete during the day. Independent work will include quizzes, readings, videos and short assignments. Access to a computer with a webcam (either a camera that is built into your laptop or one that connects via USB), a reliable internet connection and a workspace that is free from distraction and noise will set you up for success.
Description
This course provides participants with the knowledge and skills needed to understand, set up, and use elevation and grade measurement instruments commonly employed in surveying and construction-related applications.
Participants will explore the principles of surveying, including the differences between geodetic and plane surveys, and gain familiarity with commonly used instruments such as automatic levels, theodolites, total stations, and GPS-based surveying technology. The course also covers basic surveying mathematics, topographic and construction surveying concepts, survey staking, and the interpretation of construction plans. Emphasis is placed on practical applications for determining elevation, slope, and grade, as well as the proper use of benchmarks, grade stakes, and leveling procedures.
Agenda
Learning Objectives
- Describe basic surveying principles and terminology.
- Identify common survey types and their applications.
- Recognize and use elevation and grade measurement equipment.
- Explain the use of GPS technology in surveying.
- Calculate basic elevation, slope, and grade measurements.
- Interpret construction plans and surveying data.
- Apply survey staking and leveling concepts.
- Use benchmarks, grade stakes, and slope stakes correctly.
- Read rod measurements, stadia readings, and differential leveling information.
- Support construction and utility projects through accurate elevation and grade determination.
Instructor
Tony DeCresie
Tony DeCresie brings a very diverse and extensive background spanning numerous industries and businesses – working with both public and private entities. He is a nationally recognized and awarded training manager with several different organizations over the past 25 years.
Tony’s primary area of focus revolves around transportation, highway & road work site safety training and heavy equipment operations safety.
Summary of Qualifications:
Ex-DOT Certified Safety Manager
Previous minority owner of Long Haul Trucking Business
Previous Director of Dump Truck Fleet Operations in private sector
CDL & Highway Road Work Site Safety Operations
Heavy Equipment Operations Management
Well versed in broad spectrum of OSHA and DOT Safety Training Topics
Freight Brokerage Association – Director of Training
Development of In-House Safety Training Programs
Trailering and Load Securement
Roadside Inspections, DOT Compliance Audits and Fleet Safety.
Excavation & Trenching Safety (Competent Person Certification)
Asphalt and Paving Operations
Road and Bridge Maintenance Operations and Safety
Public Works Operations Safety
Who Should Attend
Designed for public works, transportation, utility, and infrastructure personnel, the course introduces fundamental surveying concepts, equipment operation, and elevation and grade determination techniques.
Registration and Payment
The following registration fees cover the session, all course materials and meals:
Local Government: $45.00
State/Federal: $70.00
Private Industry: $165.00
Click here for UVA TTA's general registration information, cancellation policy, and refund policy. UVA TTA accepts the following credit cards: American Express, VISA, MasterCard, and Discover. Credit card information cannot be taken over the phone. Alternatively, after registering you can print out a voucher to send in with your payment. After you have completed the transaction you will receive an automatically generated email confirming registration and payment if applicable. Final confirmation and instructions will be sent out during the week prior to the class date.
Special Registration Instructions for Employees of the Virginia Department of Transportation
VDOT employees must register through the VDOT Virtual Campus. Registration fees and related expenses for all VDOT employees will be paid from the VDOT Learning Services Center budget. Registrants should contact their District Training Coordinator or the VDOT Learning Services Center (Central Office employees) for instructions on how to seek reimbursement for travel expenses.
Due to current travel restrictions, VDOT employees are strongly encouraged to attend U. Va. TTA workshops on a day trip basis. Overnight travel requires permission from your District Administrator or Chief -- and in some cases higher levels of authority. If you require overnight lodging to attend a U. Va. TTA workshop, consult with your supervisor, District Training Coordinator, or VDOT Learning Services Center on travel approval procedures.