The many technologies that make modern life so convenient wouldn't be possible
without mechanical drafters or designers.
Using technical information gathered from engineers, mechanical drafters
design and prepare drawings of machinery and components. Their diagrams show
the structure of the design from all sides and specify the technical details
of the product. That includes the exact dimensions, specific materials to
be used and procedures to be followed. Manufacturers, production workers and
construction workers follow the instructions on the drawings to create a product.
These days, however, it's all about CAD (computer-aided design). CADD,
which stands for computer-aided design and drafting, is also growing in use.
CADD systems have additional drafting features so that even more information
can be added to designs.
Those interested in mechanical drafting should try their hand at the software
tools used by drafters.
"The most common CAD programs today are SolidWorks, Pro/E, and AutoCad,
so get really familiar with these software packages," advises Tom Martin,
a freelance mechanical drafter-designer in California. "Educational versions
are very inexpensive."
Designers and draftspersons work in heating, ventilating and air conditioning
(HVAC), machinery design and building services like plumbing. They help create
everything from oil and gas pipelines, mechanical components and manufactured
products to spacecraft or industrial machinery. Some mechanical drafters even
design parking meters!
Many mechanical draftspersons work in manufacturing or fabricating companies
and engineering firms that design construction projects or other contracts.
"For a young person to get started today, I would say learn as much as
you can, educate yourself," says Martin. "Get yourself familiar with what
qualities and knowledge employers are looking for.
"Experience is the most important of all," Martin adds. "Getting your first
drafting job can be difficult sometimes because of the lack of experience.
I would say be an intern for free, assuming you have completed a minimum college
[certificate or degree] in mechanical drafting."
Drafting isn't a physically demanding job. Because drafters spend most
of their time sitting at drawing boards or computer terminals, the only danger
is back strain. But keep in mind that some mechanical drafters do work around
machinery, where a little danger is always involved.
Drafting isn't a physically demanding job. Because drafters spend most
of their time sitting at drawing boards or computer terminals, the only danger
is back strain. But keep in mind that some mechanical drafters do work around
machinery, where a little danger is always involved.
A 40-hour workweek is the norm for most mechanical draftspersons. Extra
hours are required when deadlines are approaching on projects.
"If they're working on a specific project, a drafter can plug in a lot
of extra hours all at once and then have no work when it is finished. Temporary
work does put them in a tough position, because they always have to try to
keep their contacts open," says Lawler.
Charles Bales, a professor of mechanical drafting and design, says mechanical
drafters should have these personal qualities:
- Work well independently
- Attention to detail
- Work quickly but accurately
- Work well in a team
- Good at following directions
A 40-hour workweek is the norm for most mechanical draftspersons. Extra
hours are required when project deadlines are approaching.