Drafting and Design Technology
Your computer and drawing skills can add up to a great career.
Drafters use their natural ability to “see” how something should look and then utilize Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) software to make it happen. They prepare detailed drawings and plans for a variety of products and services.
Today, talented drafters are doing more of the work traditionally done by engineers and architects. These areas include:
- Engineering drawings used in the design and manufacture of airplanes and missiles
- Architectural and structural drawings of buildings
- Topographical and relief maps for major construction projects such as highways, bridges, pipelines, flood control, water, and sewage systems
- Wiring and circuit board assembly diagrams, plus schematics and layout drawings used in the manufacture, installation, and repair of electronic devices and components
- Wiring and layout diagrams used to erect, install, and repair equipment and wiring in communication centers, power plants, electrical distribution systems, and buildings
- Machinery and mechanical device drawings that indicate dimensions, fastening methods and other requirements
- System diagrams for oil and gas fields, refineries, chemical plants,
and process piping systems
Today, architectural and civil drafters hold 46% of all drafting jobs, mechanical drafters hold about 31% and electrical and electronics drafters hold about 14%.
Employment opportunities should be best for individuals with at least 2 years of post-secondary training and strong user capabilities in computer-aided design and drafting systems.
Check out all of our available
Drafting and Design Technology Programs.
If you enjoy figuring out complex ideas, this could be a great opportunity.
Successful drafters spend a great portion of their workday in front of computers creating detailed drawings. They must have the patience required for precision work and a high level of interest in their specific technical area.
A career in drafting would be right for you if you:
- Are very precise and detail oriented
- Have strong problem solving skills
- Have strong visual/spatial abilities
- Enjoy working on a computer
- Are both creative and technical
- Work well alone or as part of a team
Aubree Osborne
drafting employer
