Drafters make drawings and plans that specify dimensions, materials, and processes used in the making of a product. These drawings then serve as guidelines for workers who build or produce the actual product. Architectural drafters create drawings for the structural, functional, and decorative aspects of buildings and structures. They may specialize in residential, commercial, industrial, or public buildings, or in the kind of material used, such as reinforced concrete, steel, or timber. Drafters may also work on cost estimating, writing specifications, and creating building models.
Architectural drafters find work in architecture and engineering firms. Most employers prefer candidates with a formal training in architectural drafting. Several institutes offer diplomas or associate degrees in architectural drafting, for example Lincoln Tech, Pennsylvania Institute of Technology, Westwood College, and New England Institute of Technology. There are several online drafting courses available as well, which are popular for the flexibility that they offer. Examples of institutes offering online drafting programs are NewSchool of Architecture and Design and Silicon Valley College.
With the advent of Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD), most programs offer training and mastery of the relevant computer software. Online CAD courses can provide the necessary skills needed to secure a drafting position in the modern engineering environment. The coursework of an online CAD program may include AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor, which are the most popular varieties of CAD software available. There are several institutes that offer quick, short-term courses for AutoCAD online. Precision Technical Institute, ITT Tech, and Penn Foster Career School-Online are some examples of institutes offering online CAD programs.
Architectural drafting online curriculums include introductory lessons in design, basic blueprint reading, relevant mathematics like geometry and trigonometry, plotting basics, drawing commands, text commands, dimensioning, isometric and three-dimensional modeling, and so on. Online CAD classes also include CADKEY, Mechanical AutoCAD, technical writing, elementary statistics, spreadsheet applications, etc. Additionally, accredited online drafting classes prepare students for NCARB’s Architect Registration Examination (ARE), and their coursework may include building design, general structures and forces, strength of materials, and pre-design. As with any other education, it is always advisable to review potential courses for accreditation, and whether or not the courses will be accepted toward a degree.
After completion of the program, people find employment with architectural and engineering firms, construction contractors, government agencies, cost estimators, building supply centers, residential and commercial builders, and so on. Experienced drafters may advance to senior drafter, designer, or supervisory positions, and with relevant degrees, go on to become engineers and architects. Salaries for architectural drafters vary significantly, depending on the skill and experience.
Architectural drafting is a vital part of any building project. While the employment of drafters is not expected to grow rapidly, the demand for skilled drafters will always be high. Most drafters say that the best part about their career is seeing their drawing eventually become reality. With strong mathematics, an eye for detail, and expertise in the latest CAD software, you can be sure to have an exciting career ahead.
For more information on earning your degree in Computer Aided Design visit www.keydegree.com for more information.
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