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Computer aided drafting schools train students in the field of
architectural drafting using innovative technology, principles, and
techniques. Drafting schools help students learn how to prepare
plans, technical drawings, and construction blueprints for
buildings, structures, and mechanical designs. While drafting design
often involves using hand drawn sketches and technical drawings
developed manually, computer aided design is becoming a widely used
alternative. With computer aided design and drafting (CADD) systems,
the draftsman makes use of special software and applications to
create electronic versions of each drafting design.
Job Description
and Responsibilities of a Draftsman
Graduates of
computer aided drafting schools are involved with many aspects of
technical drawing, drafting design, and computer applications. They
are commonly responsible for:
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Working with a
team of draftsmen
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Preparing
technical drawings used by production and construction workers
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Working with
specifications and technical reports for buildings, machinery, or
other mechanical systems
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Creating rough
sketches for design processes
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Using
knowledge of standardized building techniques and structure
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Learning
design elements
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Using tables,
calculators, and computers to put together plans
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Using CADD
systems to prepare drawings
A traditional draftsman made use of pens, compasses, and pencils to
prepare plans and drawings, but today's industry requires thorough
training using CADD systems. Computer aided design schools help to
train students with using a variety of programs and applications for
drafting and sketching.
Career Options
after Training at Computer Aided Drafting Schools
Schools
prepares students with many techniques, skills, and comprehensive
knowledge of drafting design. Computer aided drafting schools enable
students to gain hands-on experience with software, programs, and
tools that are essential for the industry. Students can choose to pursue a specialized career as a:
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Aeronautical
draftsman
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Architectural
draftsman
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Civil
draftsman
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Electrical
draftsman
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Electronic
draftsman
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Mechanical
draftsman
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Pipeline
draftsman
Aeronautical
drafters are responsible for working with engineering drawings, and
are commonly found in aeronautic labs and aerospace departments.
Architectural drafters work with structural features of buildings in
both the residential and commercial sectors. Civil drafters work
with topographical and relief maps, and are often involved with many
city projects and regional planning. Electrical drafters help to
prepare layouts and wiring diagrams for various buildings and
electrical distribution systems. Electronics drafters are involved
with electronic devices, components, and circuit board assembly
diagrams. Mechanical drafters are responsible for detail and
assembly of various devices. Pipeline drafters work with
construction layouts and chemical plants to ensure that all piping
systems are designed efficiently and according to specifications.
An entry-level
draftsman may work with supervisors or as an assistant until they
gain knowledge and experience. Computer aided drafting design
requires ongoing skills and proficiency; at an intermediate level, a
draftsman can gain more experience and judgment for calculations. A
senior drafter, designer, or supervisor is responsible for working
in a team-based environment.
Computer
Aided Drafting Training Programs
A drafting
course can be taken at a technical college or
vocational school, but attendance at a formal training program is preferred by most employers. Training in the
field includes courses that develop skills in mechanical drawing,
engineering technology, drafting applications, and communications.
Strong problem-solving skills and an eye for detail are important
characteristics of a successful draftsman. A basic class
taken in high school can lay the foundation for further education in
the field.
Drafting schools
offer many specialized courses for a particular course of study. A
student may choose a class that specializes in electronics,
or a course that focuses on mechanical engineering instead.
Selecting the right program requires learning about
the career specialization of interest. Although the field of
drafting design is so diverse, intensive technical training is still
required; many technical institutes and 2-year programs offer
general education in addition to specialized techniques and
training. A program at a 2-year college offers students
comprehensive training in the field, and many 4-year colleges accept
this course of study as a basis for further education.
Typical courses
required include:
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AutoCAD
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Commercial
drafting
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Structural
drafting
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3-D CAD
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Mechanical
engineering
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Engineering
principles
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Building
design and materials
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Architectural
drafting
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Microstation
Certification
for a Draftsman
Students who are
strong in mathematics, engineering, and architecture do well in
drafting design schools. Prospective drafters need to have both
artistic and technical abilities, along with good interpersonal
skills. Certification is available through the American Design
Drafting Association (ADDA), and obtaining this certificate
demonstrates proficiency in nationally recognized practices and
standards. In order to receive certification, the candidate must
pass the Drafter Certification Test. A drafting course program can
help students prepare for this test as it focuses on architectural
terms, standards, drawings, and geometric construction.
Drafting School
Accreditation
Computer aided
drafting schools are typically accredited by the Accrediting
Commission of Career Schools and Colleges in each state.
Earning
Potential and Employment Prospects for Graduates
Drafters must break out of traditional roles to meet the demands of the
industry. Job growth is expected to be slower than average for
draftsmen through 2014; this is largely due to technological
advances and a reduced need for manual drawings. Students who
specialize in a particular field, and those that become proficient
with CADD systems will have a higher chance of obtaining attractive
positions in the industry. Many job openings in the field are
replacing manual drafters completely; however, the majority of
opportunities are available for those with at least two years of
postsecondary training. The demand
for mechanical, architectural, and civil drafters is expected to
grow faster than other fields.
Median annual earnings for architectural and civil drafters were
$39,190 and $43,000 for mechanical drafters in 2004. Related
occupations include:
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Architects
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Commercial designers
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Science technicians
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Engineering technicians
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Surveyors
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Cartographers
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