Traffic signal construction is a critical component of roadway infrastructure that demands precision, adherence to standards, and proactive oversight. Projects must meet the detailed requirements of the Caltrans Standard Plans and Specifications Manual, and any deviation—whether through poor workmanship or ineffective traffic control—can result in safety hazards, costly rework, and increased liability for public agencies.

This intensive online course provides in-depth training on the inspection and management of traffic signal construction, emphasizing field-proven practices that ensure quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. Participants will gain hands-on insight into the correct installation and inspection of essential signal system components, including conductors and cables, signal heads, controller cabinets, grounding systems, and pedestrian/vehicle detection technologies. The course also addresses effective coordination with contractors, plan interpretation, and documentation protocols that protect agencies during project delivery.

Led by seasoned industry professionals, the course blends technical instruction with real-world case studies to prepare participants for the challenges they will face in the field. Whether you're new to signal construction inspection or looking to sharpen your existing skills, this course offers practical tools and up-to-date knowledge critical for ensuring successful project outcomes.

Additional course detail is provided in the sections below.

• Course Topics
  • Pre-construction activities
  • Electrical and structural installation
  • Conduit and cabling systems
  • Traffic signal components
  • Construction close-out & asset management
• Course Outline
  Session 1: Overview of Inspection, Plans, Design, and Bidding

  • Introduction to Inspection
  • Plans and Specifications Overview
  • Industry Standards & Design References

  Session 2: Pre-Construction Preparation and Equipment Familiarization

  • Pre-Construction
  • Traffic Signal Equipment

  Session 3: Pedestrian, Bicycle, Communication, Finals

  • Detection
  • Pedestrians
  • Communication
  • Record Keeping & Finals
• What you will learn

  Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the full lifecycle of traffic signal construction—from interpreting signal plans and preparing for construction, to installing electrical systems, conduit, and signal components.

  Attendees will learn industry best practices for ensuring proper bonding, grounding, and splicing, as well as techniques for setting up signal heads, controllers, and detection systems.

  The course also covers maintenance strategies, salvage procedures, and the integration of modern signal technologies. Through this training, attendees will be equipped with the practical knowledge and field-based insights necessary to effectively inspect, manage, and support the delivery of safe and compliant traffic signal projects.

• Who should attend

  This class is intended for traffic signal technicians, engineering inspectors, electrical contractors, junior engineers, and traffic signal engineers involved in the design, oversight, or inspection of signal infrastructure projects.

• Course Prerequisites

  [no prerequisites identified]

• Course Instructors

  Justin Calkins, ITS Project Manager, DC Electric Group, Inc.

  Mr. Calkins currently serves as ITS Project Manager for DC Electric Group Inc. and has more than 20 years of experience across a wide range of roles in the ITS industry. His career has included hands-on work as a traffic signal technician, product sales and technical support, construction estimating, project management, and ITS system integration and operations. This broad background has given him a well-rounded understanding of the challenges and practical needs involved in designing, installing, and maintaining traffic signal, roadway lighting, and ITS systems.

  He holds an IMSA Level III Field Technician certification and has experience working with a variety of vendors, consultants, public agencies and contractors throughout Northern California to support the delivery of practical solutions, often helping to bridge the gaps between technical design, operational needs and physical construction. Throughout his career, he's found satisfaction in mentoring others-whether that's training customers on new systems, supporting field crews, or simply sharing lessons learned from his past experience. He values collaboration and is passionate about supporting public agencies in understanding and applying ITS technologies.

  Rafat Raie, PE, Principal at Advanced Mobility Group

  Mr. Raie, a highly regarded professional Traffic Engineer who has been a distinguished instructor with the TechTransfer program at the Institute of Transportation Studies since 2001, offering a broad range of courses covering design, operations, planning, and maintenance. Over the course of his career, Mr. Raie has served as City Traffic Engineer for several municipalities across northern and southern California, where he successfully implemented various Smart City applications, including the first deployed cloud-based emergency vehicle pre-emption system in the United States.

  Widely recognized as a Transportation Technology expert, he is leading the Contra Costa County Transportation Authority in developing its inaugural Digital Motions Master Plan. In his current role as Principal at the Advanced Mobility Group, he supports multiple public agencies by managing their communication systems, parking technologies, signal design and coordination, multi-modal data management, and transit analysis. Mr. Raie's extensive expertise and practical insights make him an exceptional resource for professionals seeking to deepen their knowledge and advance their skills in Traffic Engineering.

• Registration Information

  Registration for this course occurs at the TechTransfer training host site. Use the button to the right to directly access the course page and registration portal. You will be asked to create a user account as part of the registration process.

  A confirmation email will be sent to you within two business days of TechTransfer receiving your paid registration.

  If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the TechTransfer Registrar at (510) 643-4393 or registrar@techtransfer.berkeley.edu.

• For more information

  To learn more about TechTransfer courses and credits, see their FAQ (https://www.techtransfer.berkeley.edu/faq-page).

  To learn more about TechTransfer's cancellation, refund, and substitution policies, see How to Enroll (https://www.techtransfer.berkeley.edu/enrollment/how-enroll).

  Cancellation Policy:

  The cancellation fee for this course is $75. At TechTransfer, there are no refunds for classes with registration fees of $75 or less. For all other classes, you may cancel your enrollment and receive a refund of your registration fee less $75, provided they receive your written request to cancel at least 5 full working days before the class is scheduled to begin. In lieu of canceling your registration, you may (1) transfer your registration to another TechTransfer class, (2) receive a tuition credit for the full amount, useable toward a future class, or (3) send a substitute in your place.

  Note: TechTransfer recommends you discuss any possible problems or online security issues with your IT person before you register for any online classes. If you are worried about connectivity issues, please contact the online training coordinator the week before the class to schedule a time to test your system. If you do not test your system and you have technical issues during a live online class, we will not provide a refund.