A drafter translates a designer’s ideas into a finished picture using drawing and drafting skills. The drawings produced will be used as a guide by every other link in the chain of construction, both on-site and in the office. The drafter must be detail-oriented and skilled in free-hand and mechanical lettering and drawings, and should have good hand-eye coordination.
Education and Training
Drafting courses taught in high schools, vocational-technical schools, and other training institutions are a minimum requirement. Drafters need a good background in math, including geometry and trigonometry. Any classes which teach the basics of mechanical drawing, lettering, and blueprint reading will be useful. Draftsmen may wish to seek additional study in mathematics and computer-aided design in order to keep up with technological progress within the industry.
Advancement Potential
There are numerous areas of specialization within the field of drafting, many of which lead to greater opportunity for performing actual design work. Since some firms frequently employ several drafters, there is potential for a management position within the drafting crew. With additional training, draftsmen may become recognized engineering technicians—individuals whose primary function is to provide technical support to the designers and engineers who work in construction.
