Drafting and Design Technology

Madison

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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 47% of all drafting jobs, mechanical drafters hold about 31% and electrical and electronics drafters hold about 13%.

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: