Drafting and design techs use their knowledge and skills in many industries. One that has a promising future is architectural drafting because it coordinates with the construction boom. Drafting and design are at the heart of the construction industry because structures cannot be built without accurate plans.
What Is A Drafting & Design Tech
A drafting and design tech that works as an architectural drafter plays a key role in modern architecture and construction. This technician creates technical drawings that translate design concepts into reality. Reality means renderings of residential, commercial, industrial, and civil structures that become completed projects.
These professionals use their acquired skills to produce new drawings by interpreting data from field measurements, notes, and existing drawings. They use engineering and architectural terminology and basic concepts to create the desired technical plans. Techs modify their drawings and plans as directed by their supervisors.
Drafters and designers use advanced computer-aided design (CAD) software to help maintain the essence of the modern architectural landscape. They maintain sustainability and efficiency by streamlining workflows and enhancing the precision and accuracy of drawings. Techs use software that evolves continuously as powerful tools in their industries.
Drafting & Design Tech: Basic Responsibilities
Drafting and design techs participate in architectural projects by working with architects, engineers, construction managers, and other drafters. Projects start with:
- Working From Sketches – Drafters start with rough sketches and specifications created by architects and engineers.
- Designing Plans – Drafters use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create technical drawings that include dimensions, materials, specifications, and procedures for new products.
- Adding Details – Drafters use their knowledge of building techniques to add details to architectural plans.
Drafters use a variety of tools including computers, advanced software, technical handbooks, and tables to fill in technical details for their drawings. Software is used to create, store, and view drawings electronically in 2D and 3D form. Techs and architects use non-photo blue pencils for sketching and preliminary drawings because blue lines do not show up on photocopiers or scanners.
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“Drafting and design are at the heart of the construction industry because structures cannot be built without accurate plans.” |
Drafting & Design Techs Go Into More Detail
Once the technical drawings are underway, drafters and designers tackle the next steps toward completion. They continue to coordinate with architects and engineers on the job to:
- Follow Codes And Regulations – Techs ensure that building codes and local regulations are followed by talking with local government officials.
- Prepare Specifications – Drafters help prepare building specifications to obtain approval from a supervisor and client.
- Outline Materials – Techs outline the quantity and quality of materials needed, including labor rates, timeframes, and costs.
Drafting techs primarily follow local building codes and regulations to create drawings. They ensure their designs comply with safety and construction standards specific to where a project will be built. The codes cover items such as structural integrity, fire safety, and accessibility which are put into the design through detailed specifications.
Other Drafting & Design Tech Duties
To round out their work on a project, drafters and designers confer with all interested parties. They show their progress in several ways including on a computer, during site inspections, on a phone, and in emails:
- Conducting Site Inspections – Drafters conduct site inspections and field surveys when necessary to ensure the accuracy of their work. They physically inspect the site to verify that the work in progress aligns with the design plans they created. Techs check for any discrepancies, potential issues, and ensure the construction team is accurately interpreting the drawings. They also document observations and communicate any necessary adjustments with the contractor and project manager.
- Communicate And Coordinate – Techs regularly communicate and coordinate with all interested parties to keep on top of a project and its timeframe. These people include clients, inspectors, supervisors, engineers, and architects.
Drafting and design techs keep their knowledge and skills current by learning new technologies, such as advanced CAD, computer-aided drafting and design (CADD), and Building Information Modeling (BIM).
In summary, drafting and design professionals play critical roles in modern architecture. Their services provide a foundation for the architectural and construction industries.
Where To Learn The Role Of A Drafting & Design Tech
The key to success in architectural drafting and design is by earning a college degree. ITI Technical College offers an exceptional Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) Degree in our Drafting and Design Technology Program. Here, you earn the essentials of a career to obtain an entry-level position in drafting and design.
For more information about graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website: https://iticollege.edu/disclosures/
