Structural designers create technical drawings for buildings and structures, requiring strong analytical, artistic, mathematical, and computer skills. An associate’s degree in applied science is required, and professional certification is advantageous. They work in various industries and spend time producing detailed drawings, flowcharts, and cost estimates.
Structural designers create technical drawings used in the construction of bridges, buildings and other structures. You must have strong artistic and analytical thinking skills, as well as mathematical and computer skills to become a structural draftsman. The minimum education required for this occupation is an Associate of Applied Science degree with specific training in drafting and computer-aided design. Once you become a structural designer, you can find employment in a variety of industries, including engineering, manufacturing, and architecture. These professionals usually spend their time preparing construction drawings from technical specifications, sketches and mathematical calculations.
To become a structural designer, you must possess excellent analytical thinking skills to produce detailed building drawings from complex mathematical calculations. You should also have a certain artistic ability to create elaborate plans from sketches and notes. Excellent mathematical ability is required to calculate and draw the exact dimensions of various structural components. These professionals rely heavily on many different computer software applications and a good working knowledge of computers is essential. You must also have good communication skills and be able to work independently or as part of a team.
Typically, an associate’s degree in applied science is required to become a structural designer, although some employers may prefer a bachelor’s degree in engineering design and structural drafting. Any college training should include instruction on using computer-aided drafting and drafting equipment. Courses in advanced mathematics and architectural terminology will also be helpful for this career. While not required, professional certification in this field often provides a significant hiring advantage over other job seekers. The American Design Drafting Association offers an internationally recognized professional certification to show potential employers that your knowledge and skills are up to date with current technologies and practices.
Framework drafters work in a variety of industries, including engineering and architecture. They produce construction drawings for bridges, buildings and railways, as well as fabrication and processing facilities. Many of these professionals work in teaching or research institutions, while others are employed by consulting firms. It is also possible to find employment in various government agencies such as departments of transportation and public works.
Once you become a structural draftsman, you will spend most of your time producing detailed drawings of existing and proposed structures. You will likely use computer-aided drafting equipment to produce many of these drawings. A certain amount of time will also be spent with other professionals such as engineers or contractors. In addition to producing construction drawings, you’ll also create flowcharts, calculate materials, and prepare cost estimates. You may also be asked to analyze or simulate potential design flaws.
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