How to Become a Senior Draftsman
Draftsman, also called drafters, prepare plans and technical drawings, typically by using computer-aided design and drafting. They take specifications from engineers and architects and turn them into diagrams used by manufacturing and construction staff to create products and buildings. Drafters specialize in many technical fields, including aeronautical, architectural, civil, electrical and mechanical. As with any career, draftsmen begin with entry-level jobs and progress to senior positions after years of experience.
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Instructions
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Take drafting courses in high school. A few employers take draftsmen directly from high school, as long as they have certain skills and can learn more. Also take courses in design, computer graphics, science and technology.
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Obtain a degree in drafting, which is what most employers prefer. This can come from community colleges and technical institutes. Examples include the Computer Drafting and Design program from ITT Technical Institute or the Associate of Applied Science in Architectural/Engineering Drafting Technology from Central New Mexico Community College. Those in institutes finish their training more quickly and receive a more-intense technical education. Community colleges include more general subjects such as drafting theory or design. Four-year colleges do not have drafting degrees, strictly speaking. Instead, major in architecture or engineering.
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Gather your best drawings and plans into a portfolio that you can show to prospective employers. This may be the best way to prove your skill and talent when getting your first job.
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Get certification from a recognized professional organization such as the American Design Drafting Association. You need to pass a Drafter Certification Test that examines your knowledge of such things as geometric construction and technical terms. Employers do not require such certification, but it can enhance prospects and salaries.
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Apply for and obtain a job as an entry-level drafter. You'll find job listings on national sites such as CareerBuilder, local newspapers and drafting societies.
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Spend several years at the job. Prove yourself doing routine jobs. After gaining experience, you can become an intermediate drafter, where you can perform calculations and work more independently. After more years of experience, you may progress to senior drafter and supervise new employees or be in charge of entire drafting projects. In some companies, this progression to the highest level can take as little as three years. A solid combination of drafting technique, advanced training and good communication skills helps any drafter progress.
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References
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