how to become a drafter

Last Updated on April 14, 2021 by

The best thing about the article below is that it gives you top notch information on how to become an architect drafter, architectural drafter salary & architectural drafter certificate. All you have to do is read ont to find out more.

You will also discover related articles on architectural drafting, architectural drafter schools & how to become a drafter on collegelearners.

To become an architectural drafter, you need an associate degree in architectural drafting or design. You may also choose to pursue a bachelor's degree or certification through the American Design Drafting Association. Qualifications for this job are familiarity with computer-aided design and drafting software (CAD/CADD), as well as math and science skills. Jobs as an architectural drafter are available across many industries but are often with architectural firms or construction design companies.

ARCHITECTURAL DRAFTER CAREERS

What Does an Architectural Drafter Do

Drafters use software to convert the designs of architects and engineers into technical drawings. Most workers specialize in architectural, civil, electrical, or mechanical drafting and use technical drawings to help design everything from microchips to skyscrapers.Duties

Drafters typically do the following:

Design plans using computer-aided design (CAD) software
Work from rough sketches and specifications created by engineers and architects
Design products with engineering and manufacturing techniques
Add details to architectural plans from their knowledge of building techniques
Specify dimensions, materials, and procedures for new products
Work under the supervision of engineers or architects

Many drafters are referred to asCAD operators. Using CAD systems, drafters create and store technical drawings digitally. These drawings contain information on how to build a structure or machine, the dimensions of the project, and what materials are needed to complete the project.

Drafters work with CAD so they can create schematics that can be viewed, printed, or programmed directly into building information modeling (BIM) systems. These systems allow drafters, architects, construction managers, and engineers to create and collaborate on digital models of physical buildings and machines. Through three-dimensional rendering, BIM software allows designers and engineers to see how different elements in their projects work together.

Civil drafters prepare topographical maps used in construction and civil engineering projects, such as highways, bridges, and flood-control projects.

Electrical drafters prepare wiring diagrams that other construction workers use to install and repair electrical equipment and wiring in power plants, electrical distribution systems, and residential and commercial buildings.

Electronics drafters produce wiring diagrams, assembly diagrams for circuit boards, and layout drawings used in manufacturing and in installing and repairing electronic devices and components.

Mechanical drafters prepare layouts that show the details for a wide variety of machinery and mechanical tools and devices, such as medical equipment. These layouts indicate dimensions, fastening methods, and other requirements needed for assembly. Mechanical drafters sometimes create production molds.

How To Become an Architectural Drafter

Drafters typically need specialized training, which can be accomplished through a technical program that leads to a certificate or an associate's degree in drafting.Education

Drafters generally need to complete postsecondary education in drafting. This is typically done through a 2-year associate's degree from a technical institute or community college.

Technical institutes offer instruction in design fundamentals, sketching, and CAD (computer-aided design) software and award certificates or diplomas upon completion. Programs vary in length but are generally 2 years of full-time education. The types of courses offered will also vary by institution. Some institutions may specialize in only one type of drafting, such as mechanical or architectural drafting.

Community colleges offer programs similar to those in technical institutes that lead to an associate of applied science in drafting or related degree. After completing an associate's degree program, graduates may get jobs as drafters or continue their education in a related field at a 4-year college. Most 4-year colleges do not offer training in drafting, but they do offer classes in engineering, architecture, and mathematics.

To prepare for postsecondary education, high school students who take courses in mathematics, science, computer technology, design, computer graphics, and where available, drafting, may find such classes useful.Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations

The American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) offers certification for drafters. Although not mandatory, certification demonstrates competence and knowledge of nationally recognized practices. Certifications are offered for several specialties, including architectural, civil, and mechanical drafting.Important Qualities

Creativity. Drafters must be able to turn plans and ideas into technical drawings that will guide the creation of real buildings, tools, and systems.

Detail oriented. Drafters must pay close attention to details so that the plans they convert are technically accurate according to the outlined specifications.

Interpersonal skills. Drafters work closely with architects, engineers, and other designers to make sure that final plans are accurate. This requires the ability to take advice and constructive criticism, as well as to offer it.

Math skills. Drafters work on technical drawings. They may be required to solve mathematical calculations involving factors such as angles, weights, and costs.

Technical skills. Drafters in all specialties must be able to use computer software, such as CAD, and work with database tools, such as BIM (building information modeling).

Time-management skills. Drafters often work under strict deadlines. As a result, they must work efficiently in order to produce the required output according to set schedules.Average Salary$48,449

Should I Become an Architectural Draftsman?

Architectural draftsmen (drafters) create technical drawings and plans by using computer software to convert the designs originally created by architects. These plans are then used in the construction of various types of buildings. Drafters might specialize in providing services in the residential or commercial sectors. These professionals tend to work with architects in office environments, though they might be required to visit construction sites from time to time, and most drafters are typically employed for full-time work.

Career Requirements

Degree Level	Associate's degree
Degree Field	Drafting, drafting technology or architectural drafting
Certification	Optional certification is provided by the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA)
Key Skills	Technical skills, mathematics, deductive reasoning, critical thinking, ability to understand complex industry software; knowledge of computer-aided design and drafting (CADD)
Salary (2014)	$49,970 annually (median salary for all architectural and civil drafters)

Sources: O*NET Online, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, CareerOneStop

Step 1: Earn an Associate's Degree

Many employers prefer their workers to have at least an associate's degree in drafting. Technical institutes offer training in the field, which may include an emphasis on AutoCAD (computer-aided drafting). Drafting education is also offered at some community colleges as an associate's degree in drafting or engineering graphics. Coursework typically covers drafting fundamentals, residential architectural drawing and CADD.

Success Tip:

Apply for an internship. Participating in an internship while in college provides students with the opportunity to gain additional knowledge and experience. Internship programs also offer students the chance to acquire skills while under the guidance of seasoned professionals and to network with potential employers.

Step 2: Find Employment

Many architectural drafters enter the field performing routine work under the supervision of experienced peers. They are hired to complete structural blueprints for residential and commercial structures. Depending on their level of expertise, architectural drafters may be consulted on building materials.

Success Tip:

Go to job fairs. Not all architectural drafting jobs are advertised in a newspaper or online. Attending job fairs provides additional opportunities for candidates to meet with employers that are hiring for open positions.

Step 3: Gain Certification

Professional certification for drafters is available through the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA). Although employers do not usually require certification, it provides proof of professionally recognized excellence in the drafting field. Certification through the ADDA requires passing a 90-minute exam that covers a wide variety of drafting knowledge. Certified drafters must submit for recertification every five years.

Step 4: Consider Career Advancement

Drafters may choose to advance their career perspectives by pursuing further education in architecture. To become an architect, drafters must complete a professional bachelor's degree program and gain licensure in their field. Students having an associate's degree may be able to apply earned credits toward a 4-year program, depending on the school.

Architectural drafters: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more

How to Become an Architect? CareerBuilder Videos from funza Academy. - YouTube

Architectural drafters draw architectural and structural features of buildings for construction projects. These workers may specialize in a type of building, such as residential or commercial. They may also specialize by the materials used, such as steel, wood, or reinforced concrete.Education RequiredDrafters generally need to complete postsecondary education in drafting. This is typically done through a 2-year associate's degree from a technical institute or community college.Job OutlookThe projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026:7% (As fast as average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.) Licenses/CertificationsThe American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) offers certification for drafters. Although not mandatory, certification demonstrates competence and knowledge of nationally recognized practices. Certifications are offered for several specialties, including architectural, civil, and mechanical drafting.Median pay: How much do Drafters make?$53,480 Annual Salary$25.71 per hour

Careers for Drafters

Aeronautical drafters
Automotive design drafters
Blueprint tracers
Building drafters
CAD designers
CAD drafters
Circuit board drafters
Civil computer-aided design and drafting technicians
Civil drafters
Die designers
Drafting layout workers
Draftsmen
Draughtsmen
Electrical computer aided design and drafting technicians
Electrical drafters
Electrical systems drafters
Electronic drafters
Electronics drafters
Gage designers
Geological drafters
Marine drafters
Mechanical design drafters
Mechanical drafters
Printed circuit board drafters
Structural drafters
Tool and die designers
Tool designers