Drafting and design technicians often assist engineers with design and development work by making freehand sketches and layouts of machinery and other equipment. Using engineering data, specifications and other available equipment, drafting technicians assist in determining design changes and production costs. They may also be required to apply their knowledge to solve particular design problems such as those involving tolerance, stress, strain, bending and compression.
Most drafters work from rough sketches, specifications and technical data furnished by engineers.
Their job is to transform these ideas into precise drawings. Drafters use handbooks and tables for computations concerning strength, reliability and cost of materials. The Design Drafting program of Linn State Technical College is thorough and comprehensive, with a balanced mix of mechanical, structural and architectural drafting. Students work on traditional drawing boards, PC s or mainframe terminals in small classes that ensure individual instruction. Students also complete course work in civil engineering.