Drafting Photo by Dawid Małecki on Unsplash

Drafting is the way engineers communicate complex plans and layouts to other individuals involved in the projects.

Many engineering companies employ drafters or drafting engineers on their teams to create and design, even before they start any project. A draftsman is a person who makes these detailed and technical drawings or plans. These drawings or plans are called blueprints and display an array of technical and design aspects.

Not just anyone can create blueprints.

Drafting engineers need special education as they typically rely on mastering different technical applications, drafting kits, and other building-related software. Colleges and universities have programs such as Associate of Applied Science in Drafting Technology, Associate of Applied Science in Computer-Aided Drafting or CAD, as well as certificate programs in similar areas of focus. AutoCAD is an entirely online program through AutoDesk, that allows students to start and complete a certificate course all online. All these courses may take a year or two to complete, depending on the program. 

When most people think of drafting, they think of the old-fashioned pencil and grid sheet paper, using tools like protractors and such.

Though these are still in use, they are not the main method most drafting engineers use. There are still drafting tables and drafting kits (compasses, calibers, stencils, etc.) though CADs have changed the way of the industry. A CAD creates a 2D and 3D version of a blueprint and project before it becomes real. Thanks to file sharing and collaboration, drafting engineers can adapt their drawings quickly while involving multiple construction agencies like plumbers, electricians, builders, etc. to create and complete the project. 

Learn more about CAD software HERE

Call us here at Icarus Engineering today so we can help you with all your drafting needs.