Industrial 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?
Industrial drawing 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 Right for Me?
Industrial Drawing 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:
- Ability to visualize objects in three demnsions
- 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
You may also be interested in Architecture Drafting.
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, and 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.

Transfer to a University
Department and Pathway
Academic Department: Industrial Technology
Career & Learning Pathway: Industrial Technology and Transportation Pathway
Courses
See the entire list of Industrial Drawing (INDR) courses available at BC in the catalog.
Not sure where to start? Let us help.
Meet with a CTE Advisor
Call (661) 395-4402 for an appointment.