Old-School Drafting Gets an Overhaul
by Kelly Richardson
kelly.richardson@careerschooldirectory.com
Career School Directory Columnist
The traditional stereotype of the drafting profession brings to mind images of tilted design tables, charcoal pencils, and a collection of compasses and protractors. But in the digital age, career training for drafters is powered by microchips and delivered online.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the drafting industry and its professionals have an exciting future ahead. Industrial growth and increasingly complex designs will considerably increase the demand for drafting services. And the salary potential for these new-age drafters is attractive. Median annual earnings for electrical and electronics drafters were $43,180 in May 2004, with the middle 50% earning between $33,920 and $56,110. Here's a rundown of the drafting sectors that will explode in the next decade.
Hot Drafting Careers
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Drafter. While the old ways and means of drafting are still applicable, software technologies, such as CAD (computer-aided drafting), will make the job of the drafter much easier. Drafters are routinely called upon to provide technical drawings and plans used by production and construction workers.
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Engineering Technician. Engineering technicians must be familiar with theories of science, engineering, and mathematics to help solve complex design problems. Career training in this industry includes quality control, research and analysis, and data collection.
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Digital Technician. Distance education programs for digital technicians primarily revolve around the communications field. Digital techs are experts at using pictures, diagrams, and messaging to communicate ideas and solve problems in virtually every commercial sector.
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Technical Illustrator. Technical illustrators are the go-to professionals for such projects as textbook diagrams, medical illustration, and commercial materials. There is an added artistic element to this drafting skill that suits candidates with training in drawing and sketching.
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Graphic Artist. Marketing and advertising firms regularly use graphic artists to communicate ideas through print and web media. Projects include brochures, web pages, and sales letters. Graphic artists work with software suites such as Adobe and Microsoft Publisher.
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CAD Operator. CAD is an architectural program that assists in creating blueprints for construction. CAD operators work with construction managers to determine the best use of space and resources for buildings.
For a unique fusion of art and technology,
career training in the drafting field is the way to go. Earn your credentials through a distance education program and save yourself time and money as you learn the business.
Sources
About the Author
Kelly Richardson has the inside track on all of the hottest career paths and resources. His articles appear career journals, periodicals, and e-zines.
Posted on February 16, 2007 at 2:12 PM
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