Drafting & Design Engineering Technology, located on the Senatobia campus, is the process of turning ideas of how things should be constructed into technical drawings. These drawings, which are based upon sketches and calculations made by engineers, surveyors, architects or scientists, provide visual guidelines such as dimensions, materials to be used, and procedures to be followed to build everything from spacecraft, automobiles, and industrial machinery to structures such as homes, office buildings, and oil and gas pipelines.
Click here for course listings and details (Major 6050 & 6052).
What does your program offer me?
Our program offers you the opportunity to learn computer-aided drafting using the latest release of Autodesk software.
In our basic, intermediate, and advanced courses, you will learn to create two-dimensional and three-dimensional drawings. Additional coursework will include machine drafting, architectural drafting, and structural drafting to name a few.
Where Do I Start?
High school students planning careers in drafting should take courses in math, science, computer technology, design or computer graphics, and any high school drafting courses available. Mechanical and visual aptitudes are also important.
What about employment?
Employment opportunities should be best for individuals who have at least 2 years of postsecondary training in a drafting program that provides strong technical skills, and who have considerable skill and experience using CAD systems. CAD has increased the complexity of drafting applications while enhancing the productivity of drafters. It has also enhanced the nature of drafting by creating more possibilities for design and drafting. As technology continues to advance, employers will look for drafters having a strong background in fundamental drafting principles with a higher level of technical sophistication and an ability to apply this knowledge to a broader range of responsibilities. Keep in mind that earnings for drafters vary by specialty and level of responsibility.
What career choices are available to graduates?
Upon graduation, you will be working under the supervision of a senior designer or an engineer as an entry-level or junior drafter doing routine work under close supervision in fields such as Electronics, Manufacturing, Architectural Design, Construction, Government, and Engineering. After gaining experience, you will progress to more difficult work with less supervision. You may be required to exercise more judgment and perform calculations when preparing and modifying drawings. Drafters may eventually advance to senior drafter, designer, or supervisor. Additionally, many employers pay for continuing education, and with appropriate college degrees, drafters may go on to become engineering technicians, engineers, or architects.
Instructor: Tim Chavez
Phone: 662-562-3367
Office location: Technical Building I
Instructor: Shelly Tims
Phone: 662-562-3985
Office location: Technical Building I
How much can I earn?
Drafters' earnings vary by specialty, location, and level of responsibility. Median annual wages of architectural and civil drafters were $44,490 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent earned between $35,290 and $55,740. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $28,220, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $67,110. Median annual wages for architectural and civil drafters in architectural, engineering, and related services were $44,390.
Reference:
Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Last Updated Monday, August 01 2011 @ 04:14 PM CDT|1,181 Hits 