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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a drafter?
2. What is a computer-aided drafter?
3. Where do computer-aided drafters work?
4. What is the current job outlook for drafters?
5. What else should I know?
6. I have more questions about drafting and design at CTC. Where can I find answers?

What is a drafter?[top]

Drafters produce detailed drawings with exact dimensions and specifications. Drafters must translate ideas into drawings, and therefore, they are an integral link between an idea and it's finished product.

Many drafters now use CAD (Computer-Aided Drafting) to make layouts, working plans, assembly drawings, and maps from notes and sketches. They put in written form the plans and designs of architects, engineers, or designers. To show the use or purpose of an object, drafters draw several views of each part in detail. These views enable workers to see the object's application in an assembly and where it fits in the overall design.

What is a computer-aided drafter? [top]

Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Technicians use computers to draft layouts, line drawings, and designs. They may work on an architectural design from a single arch to an entire building. They may draw or change the design of a car, airplane, or bridge. They select the appropriate computer file for the design program on which they are working, and then type commands in order to get the appropriate display on the screen. They type commands on a keyboard, use a light pen on the screen, or use a digitizer to move, rotate, and zoom in on the display to draw, redraw, make changes to, or delete parts of the design. When the drawing is finished, a graphics printer produes a completed blueprint.

Computer-Aided Design Technicians work with computers and computer printouts, graphics printers and plotters, keyboards, light pens, and digitizers, drawings, schematics, and blueprints.

Where do computer-aided drafters work? [top]

Drafters work in construction, petroleum, transportation, automobile, manufacturing, machinery, aircraft, and shipbuilding industries. They work for government agencies, contractors, utilities, consulting engineers, architects, and in electronics and missile programs. In making almost every product, toolmakers, diemakers, and machinists need detailed working drawings. To supply these plans, drafters work in industries that make everything from toys to spacecraft.

Drafters usually work in pleasant, heated and air conditioned areas. In some companies, there may be a number of drafters working in a large office. In others, there may be only one drafter who works alone.

Drafters usually work forty hours per week during normal daytime hours, and are usually paid for all overtime. Most companies have insurance and pension plans as well as vacation and sick leave for their employees.

Advancement for Drafters is based on their productive ability. They may be promoted to Senior Drafter or head of the drafting section. They may become Design Drafters who work closely with engineers in the creation and design of new products. Some Drafters are promoted to supervisory or administrative positions.

What is the job outlook for drafters? [top]

According to the U.S. Department of Labor (http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos111.htm#outlook):

"Employment of drafters is expected to grow more slowly than the average for all occupations through 2012. Industrial growth and increasingly complex design problems associated with new products and manufacturing processes will increase the demand for drafting services. Further, drafters are beginning to break out of the traditional drafting role and increasingly do work traditionally performed by engineers and architects, thus also increasing demand for drafters. However, the greater use of CADD equipment by drafters, as well as by architects and engineers, should limit demand for lesser skilled drafters, resulting in slower-than-average overall employment growth. Most job openings are expected to arise from the need to replace drafters who transfer to other occupations, leave the labor force, or retire. Opportunities should be best for individuals with at least 2 years of postsecondary training in a drafting program that provides strong technical skills, as well as considerable experience with CADD systems. CADD has increased the complexity of drafting applications while enhancing the productivity of drafters. It also has enhanced the nature of drafting by creating more possibilities for design and drafting. As technology continues to advance, employers will look for drafters with a strong background in fundamental drafting principles, a higher level of technical sophistication, and an ability to apply their knowledge to a broader range of responsibilities.

Demand for particular drafting specialties varies throughout the country because employment usually is contingent upon the needs of local industry. Employment of drafters remains highly concentrated in industries that are sensitive to cyclical changes in the economy, such as manufacturing and architectural and engineering services. During recessions, drafters may be laid off. However, a growing number of drafters should continue to find employment on a temporary or contract basis as more companies turn to the employment services industry to meet their changing needs."

What else should I know? [top]

I have more questions about drafting and design at CTC. Where can I find answers? [top]

Contact the Computer-Aided Drafting and Design office at 254-526-1233, email the Department Chair, Mr. Herb Maglietta, at herb.maglietta@ctcd.edu, or stop by Bldg 118, Room 9A. We will be happy to answer your questions.