Architectural drafting technologists typically prepare drawings and plans for different types of construction developments. Learn more about architectural drafting technologies and how to enter this field below.
If you choose a career in architectural drafting technology, you could work closely with architects and construction professionals to create plans and blueprints for various structures. Architectural drafters can often specialize in one or more areas, such as business buildings, offices, retail outlets or homes. Related occupations include architectural engineering and architectural designing. Architectural technicians receive similar training.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employers generally desire applicants who have completed a formal educational program (www.bls.gov). As a graduate of an architectural drafting technology program, you could qualify for employment as an architectural drafter, civil drafter, electrical drafter or mechanical drafter. Architecture companies, engineering businesses and development firms often hire architectural drafters. Landscaping and prototyping are other options.
Employment of architectural and civil drafters was expected to increase nine percent between 2008 and 2018, reported the BLS in 2011.. The average annual earnings for architectural and civil drafters in May 2010 was $48,740, reported the BLS.
Community colleges and technical schools often offer architectural drafting technology certificate programs and undergraduate programs. These might include drafting technology associate's degree programs, computer-aided drafting (CAD) associate's degree programs or drafting and design (CADD) associate's degree programs. As an architectural drafting technology student, you can take classes covering CAD, construction procedures, engineering basics, history of building styles, sketching and illustrations. Structural design, structural drafting, structural materials and plotting are also frequently covered. Online architectural drafting and design courses might also be offered.
The American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) offers voluntary certification for drafters. You'll need to pass a relevant knowledge test to obtain certification.With more experience and additional education, you couldadvance to management positions. You might want to enter into a management position or maybe change professions to an architect. Many opportunities are available in architectural drafting technology.The BLS noted that some architectural drafters eventually receive enough education and training to become architects or engineers.