Industrial Drawing & Drafting
The Industrial Drawing Associates program from Bakersfield College prepares students to use computer-aided drafting (CAD) software tools to create the technical drawings required in modern industrial and engineering fields.
Students develop technical communication skills as they develop graphic solutions and design in both two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) formats. The program emphasizes industry standards and software customization for productivity. Training in this area covers the spectrum of fields requiring CAD technicians and designers, including architecture, construction, civil engineering, surveying, electrical and electronics, industrial and mechanical design, process piping, cadastral and GIS, as well as manufacturing and fabrication.
What is Industrial Drawing & Drafting?
Industrial Drawing & Drafting is a discipline that involves creating technical drawings and schematics used in the manufacturing and production of various products. It is a critical part of the design and engineering process, allowing designers and engineers to communicate their ideas and specifications to manufacturers and fabricators. Industrial drawing requires a deep understanding of drafting principles, including geometric construction, projection, and visualization, as well as knowledge of the materials and manufacturing processes involved in producing the final product. With the rise of computer-aided design (CAD) software, industrial drawing has evolved to incorporate digital tools and techniques, making it a highly specialized field with a wide range of career opportunities.
Is Industrial Drawing & Drafting Right for Me?
Industrial Drawing & Drafting may be right for you if you are interested in technical drawing and design and enjoy problem-solving and critical thinking. Those who pursue this degree can go on to become drafters, engineering technicians, design assistants, or pursue further education in engineering or design.
Some key traits and skills that would make someone successful in Industrial Drawing & Drafting:
- Ability to visualize objects in three dimensions
- Comfortable working with computers
- Quick at learning new software and technology
- Strong attention to detail
- Creative
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Math skills
- Communication skills
- Time-management skills
- Patience
Degrees/Certificates
Students who complete the Industrial Technology degree with the Industrial Drawing option will acquire information, skills, and training in a variety of fields that will enable them to apply their knowledge in an array of situations, including engineering and manufacturing settings. Students will acquire the practical knowledge and skills to successfully enter industry employment or to advance within their organization.
The Industrial Drawing Certificate of Achievement prepares students for entry-level employment in the various specialized fields of Industrial Drawing. Students will grow in their use of use Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) skills in addition to acquiring the industry specific knowledge used across the spectrum of major industries employing CAD technicians and designers.
This certificate covers the principles of industrial drawing/ CAD with the emphasis on using the AutoCAD software package from basic 2D principles through 3D solid modeling to obtain graphic solutions, design refinements, modifications and delineations.
You may also be interested in Architectural Drafting.
You CAN Afford BC
Careers
Graduates with an Industrial Drawing Certificate of Achievement or an Associate in Science degree can pursue various careers in industries such as manufacturing, engineering, and design. Here are a few examples of common careers:
- Industrial Designer: Designing and developing products, using computer-aided design (CAD) software and other tools to create technical drawings and 3D models.
- Mechanical Drafter: Preparing detailed drawings of mechanical parts and assemblies, using CAD software and other tools.
- Manufacturing Technician: Operating and maintaining machinery and equipment used in the production of goods; using technical drawings to ensure accuracy and quality control.
- Quality Control Inspector: Inspecting and testing products and parts to ensure that they meet quality standards, using technical drawings and specifications as a reference.
- Engineering Technician: Assisting engineers in the development and testing of products and systems, using technical drawings and other tools.
- Technical Illustrator: Creating visual representations of technical information, such as assembly instructions or product manuals, using technical drawings and illustrations.
- Architectural Drafter: Creating detailed drawings and plans for buildings and structures, using CAD software and other tools.
- Graphic Designer: Creating visual designs for advertising, marketing, and other communications, using software and tools that incorporate technical drawing skills.
These are just a few examples of the career paths that graduates with an Industrial Drawing Certificate of Achievement or Associate in Science degree can pursue. For more information about specific courses and career information, please visit the Industrial Pathways Program Mapper page:
Industrial Drawing Program Mapper
Transfer to a University
Academic Department: Industrial Technology
Career & Learning Pathway: Industrial Technology and Transportation Pathway
Courses: Industrial Drawing (INDR)
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