A drafter is someone who creates detailed drawings of structures, roads, machinery, and other items. While traditional drafting was done by hand, most modern drafting professionals now use computer software to complete their drawings. CADD stands for Computer Animated Drafting and Design, and it is used by drafters. CADD software is made by a variety of companies and can vary slightly depending on the brand name and application.
The drafter is in charge of creating a visual representation of an object based on the designer’s or creator’s details and information. He or she not only depicts the item in the drawing, but also provides written information about it. This information could include the size or physical characteristics of the object, as well as the materials and methods used to install or construct it.
Architects are one of the most common types of drafters. The interior and exterior areas of a building are drawn by these professionals in collaboration with architects, engineers, builders, and homeowners. They design floor plans and elevations, which show how the building will look in real life. Elevations usually show details about the building and are much easier to understand for a casual observer.
Engineers and architects create designs for roads, tunnels, and bridges, which are then drawn by civil drafters. They may also work directly for municipal or government agencies to assist in the design of public works projects of this nature. Civil drafters can also work as consultants or for independent design firms.
Aeronautical projects, such as planes, space shuttles, and satellites, may be a specialty for some drafting professionals. Individuals with these skills can work for aircraft manufacturers as well as government agencies. This type of drafting is quite specialized, and it may necessitate advanced mechanical system training.
Drawings of machines, tools, cars, pipelines, and wiring systems are created by electrical and mechanical drafters. They could work for manufacturers, research institutions, or even architectural and engineering firms. Some specialized training in mechanical and electrical principles may be required for this type of drafting.
Most people who want to work as a drafter will need more education than they received in high school. Although there are few four-year degrees available in this field, many schools offer two-year undergraduate degrees in various disciplines for drafters. Many technical schools also offer drafting programs, though these may lack the same level of credibility as those offered by colleges and universities.