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