Architectural Engineering Technology - A.A.S.

Career Development

The associates degree allows students to begin pursuing many different career pathways and specific occupations for their career development. Some career pathways

and career occupations may require additional education, coursework, training, testing, certification, or licensure beyond the associates degree. Before making any

career decisions, students should thoroughly research the employment requirements for the career pathways and specific career occupations.

.

Career Pathways

Examples of related career pathways may include:

What Can I Do With This Major? (Architecture)

Architecture and Engineering Career Cluster/Group

Career Occupations

Examples of related career occupations that may require a high school degree, workforce development training, and/or certificate include:

Surveying and Mapping Technicians

Examples of related career occupations that may require an associates degree include:

Architectural Drafters

Examples of related career occupations that may require a bachelors, masters, and/or doctorate degree include:

Architects

Architectural Manager

Landscape Architects

Naval Architects

Surveyors

Transfer

Transferring after graduation to a bachelor degree program may be possible by working early with a student success specialist (academic advisor) and the transfer

college/university. Additionally, the University of the District of Columbia offers many opportunities for transferring to bachelor degree programs. Additionally, other

colleges, universities, and training institutions offer transfer opportunities for students as well.

Examples of related transfer bachelors degrees include:

Bachelors Degree in Architecture

Bachelors Degree in Architectural Engineering

Bachelors Degree in Civil Engineering

Bachelors Degree in Engineering

Drafters and Architectural Technicians

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Drafters

Summary

Drafters take designs from professionals such as engineers and architects, and convert them into plans needed for construction.

Quick Facts: Drafters

2010 Median Pay $47,880 per year

$23.02 per hour

Quick Facts: Drafters

Entry-Level Education Associate’s degree

Work Experience in a Related Occupation None

On-the-job Training None

Number of Jobs, 2010 205,100

Job Outlook, 2010-20 6% (Slower than average)

Employment Change, 2010-20 11,400

What Drafters Do

Drafters use software to convert the designs of engineers and architects into technical drawings and plans. Workers in production and construction use these

plans to build everything from microchips to skyscrapers.

Work Environment

Like other workers who primarily use computers to do their work, drafters usually work indoors and full time, although overtime is not uncommon.

How to Become a Drafter

Developments in new technology are causing entry-level requirements to rise. An associate’s degree is the typical level of education needed to enter the

occupation. In addition, drafters need skills from academic programs so that they may move into the work of designing directly for professionals such as

engineers or architects.

Pay

The median annual wage of drafters was $47,880 in May 2010.

Job Outlook

Employment of drafters is expected to grow 6 percent from 2010 to 2020, slower than the average for all occupations. Developments in software programs used

by drafters and other professionals they work with are changing the nature of drafters’ work and how this work will have to be done.

Similar Occupations

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of drafters with similar occupations.

O*NET

O*NET provides comprehensive information on key characteristics of workers and occupations.

Contacts for More Information

Learn more about drafters by contacting these additional resources.

What Drafters Do

Drafters prepare technical drawings and plans.

Drafters use software to convert the designs of engineers and architects into technical drawings and plans. Workers in production and construction use these

plans to build everything from microchips to skyscrapers.

Duties

Drafters typically do the following:

Design and prepare plans for using computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) software

Produce effective product designs by using their understanding of engineering and manufacturing techniques

Add structural details to architectural plans from their knowledge of building techniques

Prepare multiple versions of designs for review by engineers and architects

Specify dimensions, materials, and procedures for new building projects or products

Work under the supervision of engineers or architects

Many drafters are referred to as CADD operators. With CADD systems, drafters create and store drawings electronically so that they can be viewed, printed, or

programmed directly into automated manufacturing systems. New software systems, such as building information modeling (BIM) and product data

management (PDM), are coming into use. Through three-dimensional rendering, BIM software allows designers and engineers to see how elements in their

projects work together. PDM software helps users track and control data, such as technical specifications, related to projects. Just as BIM is changing the work

of architectural drafters as well as engineers and designers, PDM is changing the work of mechanical drafters. These software systems allow drafting and design

work to be done at the same time as the work done by other professionals involved in the project.

There are several kinds of drafters, and the most common types of drafters are the following:

Aeronautical drafters prepare engineering drawings that show detailed plans and specifications used in manufacturing aircraft, missiles, and related parts.

Architectural drafters draw architectural and structural features of buildings for new construction projects. These workers may specialize in a type of

building, such as residential or commercial. They may also specialize in materials, such as steel, wood, and reinforced concrete.

Civil drafters prepare topographical maps used in major construction or civil engineering projects, such as highways, bridges, and flood-control projects.

Electrical drafters prepare wiring diagrams that other workers use to install and repair electrical equipment and wiring in powerplants, electrical

distribution systems, and buildings.

Electronics drafters produce wiring diagrams, assembly diagrams for circuit boards, and layout drawings used in manufacturing, installing, and repairing

electronic devices and components.

Mechanical drafters prepare layouts that show details for a wide variety of machinery and mechanical devices. These layouts indicate dimensions, fastening

methods, and other requirements needed for assembly.

Process piping or pipeline drafters prepare plans used in the layout, construction, and operation of oil and gas fields, refineries, chemical plants, and

process piping systems.

Work Environment

Drafters use computer software to do their work.

Drafters held about 205,100 jobs in 2010. They work in engineering and drafting service firms, architectural and landscape architectural firms, and various

manufacturing industries. The industries employing the largest numbers of drafters in 2010 were as follows:

Architectural,

engineering, and

related services 50%

Construction 7

Machinery

manufacturing 6

Fabricated metal

product

5

manufacturing

Transportation

equipment

manufacturing 5

Like other workers who primarily use computers to do their work, drafters usually work indoors and full time, although overtime is not uncommon.

How to Become a Drafter

Drafters add structural details to architectural plans from their knowledge of building techniques.

Drafters usually need some postsecondary education, such as an associate’s degree, to enter the occupation.

Education

Employers prefer applicants who have completed postsecondary education in drafting, typically an associate’s degree from a technical institute or community

college. Drafters who specialize in architecture may need a higher degree, such as a bachelor’s degree. To prepare for postsecondary education, high school

courses in mathematics, science, computer technology, design, computer graphics, and, where available, drafting, are useful.

Technical institutes offer focused technical education in topics such as design fundamentals, sketching, and CADD software. They award certificates or

diplomas, and programs vary considerably in length and in the types of courses offered. Many technical institutes also offer associate’s degree programs.

Community colleges offer programs similar to those in technical institutes but typically include more classes in drafting theory and often require general

education classes. Courses taken at community colleges are more likely to be accepted for credit at colleges or universities. After completing an associate’s

degree program, graduates may get jobs as drafters or continue their education in a related field at a 4-year college. Most 4-year colleges do not offer training in

drafting, but they do offer classes in engineering, architecture, and mathematics that are useful for obtaining a job as a drafter.

Technical training in the military also can be applied in civilian drafting jobs. Some additional training may be necessary, depending on the technical area or

military specialty.

Important Qualities

Critical-thinking skills. Drafters help the architects and engineers they work for by spotting problems with plans and designs.

Detail oriented. Drafters must pay attention to details so that the plans they are helping to build are technically accurate to all detailed specifications.

Interpersonal skills. Drafters must work closely with architects, engineers, and other designers to make sure that final plans are accurate. This requires the

ability to take advice and constructive criticism, as well as to offer it.

Technical skills. Drafters in all specialties must be able to use computer software, such as CADD, and to work with database tools, such as BIM.

Time-management skills. Drafters often work under deadlines. They must be able to produce their output according to set schedules and so must plan their

time well.

Certification

The American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) offers a certification program for drafters. Although employers usually do not require drafters to be

certified, certification shows drafters’ knowledge and an understanding of nationally recognized practices. The test does not cover software, which is specific to

CADD or graphic production

Pay

Drafters

Median annual wages, May 2010

Drafters, Engineering Technicians, and Mapping Technicians

$49,600

Drafters

$47,880

Total, All Occupations

$33,840

Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics

The median annual wage of drafters was $47,880 in May 2010. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that

amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $30,950, and the top 10 percent earned more than $74,820.

The median wages for detailed drafting occupations in May 2010 were as follows:

$53,020 for architectural and civil drafters

$48,810 for mechanical drafters

$46,430 for electrical and electronics drafters

$45,100 for drafters, all other

Job Outlook

Drafters

Percent change in employment, projected 2010-20

Total, All Occupations

14%

Drafters, Engineering Technicians, and Mapping Technicians

6%

Drafters

6%

Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program

Overall, employment of all drafters is expected to grow 6 percent from 2010 to 2020, slower than the average for all occupations. However, growth will vary by

specialty.

Work from construction projects will likely continue to create demand for architectural and civil drafters, and because this work should be kept in the United

States, employment is expected to grow by 3 percent, slower than average growth. Because new technology reduces costs, architectural and civil drafters who

can master new software programs, such as BIM and PDM, also should find opportunities in various industries

Employment of mechanical drafters is expected to experience about as fast as average growth, and electronic and electrical drafters is expected to experience

slower than average growth from 2010 to 2020. Most of these workers are employed in declining or slow-growing manufacturing industries, offering few

opportunities for growth from industry expansion. Demand for mechanical and electrical and electronic drafters is expected to be notably high in engineering

and drafting service firms because of more complex problems associated with new products and manufacturing processes.

CADD systems that are easier to use and more powerful than current systems will allow other technical professionals to perform many tasks previously done

only by drafters. This development should curb demand for all specialties. Also, some drafting work may be sent to other countries at lower wages.

Job Prospects

New software, such as PDM and BIM, will require drafters to work in collaboration with other professionals on projects, whether constructing a new building or

manufacturing a new product. This new software, however, requires that someone build and maintain large databases. Workers with knowledge of drafting and

of the software will be needed to oversee these databases.

Many drafting jobs are in construction and manufacturing, so they are subject to the ups and downs of those industries. Demand for particular drafting

specialties varies across the country because jobs depend on the needs of local industries.

Employment projections data for drafters, 2010-20

Occupational Title SOC Code Employment, 2010 Projected Employment, 2020

Change, 2010-20

Employment by Industry Percent Numeric

SOURCE: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program

Drafters 17-3010 205,100 216,500 6 11,400 [XLS]

Architectural and Civil Drafters 17-3011 92,700 95,700 3 3,000 [XLS]

Electrical and Electronics Drafters 17-3012 29,200 30,800 5 1,600 [XLS]

Mechanical Drafters 17-3013 67,400 74,900 11 7,500 [XLS]

Drafters, All Other 17-3019 15,800 15,200 -4 -600 [XLS]

Similar Occupations

This table shows a list of occupations with job duties that are similar to those of drafters.

OCCUPATION JOB DUTIES ENTRY-LEVEL EDUCATION 2010 MEDIAN PAY

Architects

Architects plan and design buildings and other structures. Bachelor’s degree $72,550

Cartographers and Photogrammetrists

Cartographers and photogrammetrists measure, analyze,

and interpret geographic information to create maps and

charts for political, cultural, educational, and other

purposes. Cartographers are general mapmakers, and

photogrammetrists are specialized mapmakers who use

aerial photographs to create maps.

Bachelor’s degree $54,510

Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians

Electrical and electronic engineering technicians help

engineers design and develop computers, communications

equipment, medical monitoring devices, navigational

equipment, and other electrical and electronic equipment.

They often work in product evaluation and testing, using

measuring and diagnostic devices to adjust, test, and

repair equipment.

Associate’s degree $56,040

Electrical and Electronics Engineers

Electrical engineers design, develop, test, and supervise

the manufacturing of electrical equipment such as electric

motors, radar and navigation systems, communications

systems, and power generation equipment. Electronics

engineers design and develop electronic equipment, such

as broadcast and communications systems—from portable

music players to global positioning systems (GPS).

Bachelor’s degree $87,180

OCCUPATION JOB DUTIES ENTRY-LEVEL EDUCATION 2010 MEDIAN PAY

Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers

Electrical and electronics installers and repairers install,

repair, or replace a variety of electrical equipment in

telecommunications, transportation, utilities, and other

industries.

Postsecondary non-degree award $49,170

Electro-mechanical Technicians

Electro-mechanical technicians combine knowledge of

mechanical technology with knowledge of electrical and

electronic circuits. They install, troubleshoot, repair, and

upgrade electronic and computer-controlled mechanical

systems, such as robotic assembly machines.

Associate’s degree $49,550

Industrial Designers

Industrial designers develop the concepts for

manufactured products, such as cars, home appliances,

and toys. They combine art, business, and engineering to

make products that people use every day.

Bachelor’s degree $58,230

Landscape Architects

Landscape architects plan and design land areas for parks,

recreational facilities, highways, airports, and other

properties. Projects include subdivisions and commercial,

industrial, and residential sites.

Bachelor’s degree $62,090

Mechanical Engineering Technicians

Mechanical engineering technicians help mechanical

engineers design, develop, test, and manufacture industrial

machinery, consumer products, and other equipment.

They may make sketches and rough layouts, record and

analyze data, make calculations and estimates, and report

their findings.

Associate’s degree $50,110

Mechanical Engineers

Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest engineering

disciplines. Mechanical engineers design, develop, build,

and test mechanical devices, including tools, engines, and

machines.

Bachelor’s degree $78,160

OCCUPATION JOB DUTIES ENTRY-LEVEL EDUCATION 2010 MEDIAN PAY

Surveying and Mapping Technicians

Surveying and mapping technicians assist surveyors and

cartographers in collecting data and making maps of the

earth’s surface. Surveying technicians visit sites to take

measurements of the land. Mapping technicians use

geographic data to create maps.

High school diploma or

equivalent $37,900

Surveyors

Surveyors establish official land, airspace, and water

boundaries. Surveyors work with civil engineers, landscape

architects, and urban and regional planners to develop

comprehensive design documents.

Bachelor’s degree $54,880

Contacts for More Information

For more information on schools offering programs in drafting and related fields, visit

Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges

For more information on certification, visit

American Design Drafting Association

Suggested citation:

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition, Drafters,

on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/drafters.htm (visited October 18, 2013).

Publish Date: Tuesday, June 26, 2012