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Drafters are responsible for preparing technical drawings
and construction plans that may be used to build a number of objects. Mechanical
drafters construct outlines for machinery, and electronics drafters draw circuit
board and wiring diagrams, for example. Civil drafters design maps and outlines
used in major construction projects, and architectural drafters draw building
plans. Requirements to become a drafter generally include a post-secondary
degree or certificate in a related field, strong computer skills and drafting
software skills; some companies may require candidates to acquire special
certifications as well.Mechanical drafters work to create the best and most
efficient machinery. They create detailed drawings to show how to assemble
machinery or other mechanical devices, such as the gear shaft in vehicle. To
become a drafter in the mechanical field, some type of post-secondary education
is generally required, including training certifications from a technical or
community college. Courses that help to prepare for a mechanical drafting
certificate include mechanical drawing, general machinery or shop classes and
mathematics. Employers also consider knowledge of computers and specialized
drafting programs to be desirable skills. Electronics drafters are responsible
for creating wiring or circuit drawings, which are used to install and
manufacture electronic devices and parts. Most electronics drafters hold a
two-year degree from a technical school. To become a drafter in the electronics
field, students usually need to take specialized courses in drawing electronic
circuits and components. Civil drafters work with cartographers and surveyors to
prepare maps for areas undergoing some type of construction project. These
projects may include new highway construction or pipeline and bridge
construction. They may also be responsible for creating outlines for sewage
systems or flood-control projects. Most civil drafters hold some type of
certification from a two-year vocational school. Civil drafters may also need to
take specialized courses to learn more about surveying and land use. Civil
drafting programs vary depending on the area in which one is attempting to
become certified. Architectural drafters draw depictions of architects’ designs.
These drafters may specialize in a particular type of structure, such as
commercial or residential buildings, or they may specialize in particular
building materials, such as concrete or steel. Some architectural drafters hold
four-year degrees in engineering or architecture. Regardless of the drafters
educational level, they still will likely have to complete training at a
vocational school. The content of the certification program to become a drafter
usually varies depending on the area of concentration. Most drafters will need
to take courses to learn how to use Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD)
systems. CADD systems allow drafters to store electronic designs to be
programmed into manufacturing systems. The American Design Drafting Association
(ADDA) also offers certification for drafters. A drafter certification test is
offered through authorized online sites and provides certification upon
completion. The test typically includes questions about drafting concepts,
geometric concepts and drafting standards. |
