How to Become an Architectural Design Drafter
An architectural design drafter plays an important role in the overall process of building structures. The drafter produces drawings and plans to be used by engineers and architects in building projects. Architectural design drafters must rely on their background and knowledge to produce a detailed design that will assist other professionals in the successful completion of architectural structures.
Instructions
-
-
1
Enroll in the right high school courses, such as drafting, English, science, computers and design.
-
2
Obtain experience with CAD systems, which are increasing in use and popularity in the industry. A 2-year drafting degree will provide this training.
-
-
3
Develop your communication skills, which are essential to convey complex ideas in an articulate manner.
-
4
Practice your problem solving skills by working on case studies or asking for practice problems from an instructor. This is essential when you will be required to make difficult decisions.
-
5
Become certified through the American Design Drafting Association (see Resources below). Although not required, certification gives you a competitive edge and establishes your knowledge of standard drafting practices.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Many architectural design drafters become specialized in specific aspects of building, such as residential housing. They may also focus on particular types of building materials, such as steel or timber.
Most drafting positions require a 2-year Associate degree or higher.
Entry-level architectural design drafters usually work under close supervision until they have gained experience. Then they may be given more difficult projects and be asked to execute more individual judgment.
People who have received technical training in the military may be able to apply that training to civilian work. They may need additional training before they can work as architectural design drafters.
Most drafters work 40 hours per week. Very few work part-time.
The number of architectural design drafters is expected to grow rather slowly. However, this growth will vary depending on the needs of particular industries and communities. Consult the U.S. Department of Labor for a detailed outlook of this career track (see Resources below).
Not all drafting schools are created equal. Consider asking prospective employers about the schools they recommend.
While most design drafters sit at a drafting table in relatively comfortable offices, sitting for long periods of time may lead to repetitive motion injury, eyestrain or back problems.
Resources
More Like This
Comments
-
chord0
Jan 20, 2009
Nowadays, sitting in front of a computer is what you will be doing most of the times at this job. Knowing the different Cad systems, especially Autocad is essential, a detailed book with all the commands is definitely the best to start. Also later on you will be expected to know how to estimate costs of the construction, basic materials used and their ingredients, etc. This is all related to construction and important to know, study proper books, ask questions, take notes, and taking those courses is a good approach. chord0 -
chord0
Jan 20, 2009
Nowadays, sitting in front of a computer is what you will be doing most of the times at this job. Knowing the different Cad systems, especially Autocad is essential, a detailed book with all the commands is definitely the best to start. Also later on you will be expected to know how to estimate costs of the construction, basic materials used and their ingredients, etc. This is all related to construction and important to know, study proper books, ask questions, take notes, and taking those courses is a good approach. chord0
-
ehowfan84
Nov 17, 2007
During School - As you get further into your training in architectural drafting, be prepared to take on projects that can be tedious and have the potential to contain difficult problems that you'll need to solve in certain parts of a project or assignment. Don't be afraid to ask an instructor for assistance if you can't figure out a specific design problem. If you have a lot of friends, give them a heads-up that you will spend long hours including long nights and weekends to keep up with assignment and project dealines during busy times. They will better understand that your schedule can be hectic during busy periods of your training in school. Do your best in mathematics as this is a very essential skill you need when you solve math problems on the job. After school good luck in finding this job! Never give up! Finding a job is just a numbers game!
