Drafters, All Other

Drafters have the unique opportunity of combining artistic, technical, and even engineering skills. They create drawings and plans that manufacturers and construction workers use to make things like computer parts, machinery, buildings, bridges and so much more.

Usually drafters are detail-oriented people because their drawings are very specific and include things like measurements, dimensions, materials and processes. As a drafter you will most likely use computer aided design and drafting (CADD) programs.

There are several different kinds of drafters that focus on specific industries:

Aeronautical drafters create drawings of aircraft and missiles.

Architectural drafters help with the construction residential or commercial buildings.

Civil drafters create drawings for things like bridges, roads and sewage systems.

Electrical drafters are responsible for planning how electrical equipment and wiring will work in buildings

Electronics drafters specialize in wiring, circuit board assembly and installation.

Mechanical drafters design machines and process piping drafters help oil and gas fields, chemical plants and refineries develop their systems and run smoothly.

Most drafters have a bachelor’s degree and some are certified by the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA). The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects an increase in employment opportunities. Compensation depends on the industry you decide to focus on but the average hourly wage of drafters is about $21 and the average annual income is about $45,000. Check out the programs offered in many locations.