Albany Technical College has changed the name of a program, Drafting Technology, to Engineering Graphics, to better define what is being taught and to keep up with changes in technology in the industry. A “refreshed” Engineering Graphics Program will be rolled out on Tuesday, February 26, 2019, 10 a.m., Center for Excellence in Information Technology and Electronics (CEIT), Room 132.

Dr. Emmett Griswold and employers from the community such as Metro Power, RHC, SRJ Architects, Dougherty County School System, and Technical Associates will be on hand to discuss the need for these
skilled workers and the future of the industry.

Drafting was traditionally a paper and pencil profession, with workers sitting at drafting desks drawing
technical plans using drafting tools. Today, though some workers still draw by hand, most workers use
computer-aided design and drafting software.

The Engineering Graphics program, formerly known as Drafting Technology, prepares students for employment in a variety of positions in the drafting field, such as drafter, CAD operator, or Civil Technician, based on the specialization area a student chooses to complete. Graduates use CAD software to convert the designs of engineers and architects into technical drawings. Most workers specialize in architectural, civil, electrical, or mechanical drafting and use technical drawings to help design everything from microchips to skyscrapers.

Computer-aided design (CAD) is the use of computer systems to aid in the creation, modification, analysis, or optimization of a design.  This “refreshed” program at Albany Tech includes initiatives that will encourage easy access for new students by providing low cost tuition and books (Hope Grant Eligible and part of the Governor’s High Demand Career Initiative); a high placement rate; new industry driven equipment; timely completion of the program (12-18 months); high career demand; and flexible scheduling (day and evening classes).

Engineering Graphics jobs are available in the following areas: aeronautical drafting, architectural drafting, civil drafting, electrical drafting, electronics drafting, mechanical drafting, and pipeline drafting. AutoCAD drafters are typically hired into industries such as architecture, engineering, machinery, electronics and computer products, metal fabrication and transportation.

Dr. Emmett Griswold, Vice-President for Academic Affairs, stated, “Albany Technical College is committed to the process of training and placing employees in careers with salaries and benefits at or above a living wage.

Working relationships with employers is a very important part of the process. Albany Technical College is very proud to hold an average job placement of more than 98% throughout all industry programs on campus.”

Employment of Engineering Graphics graduates is projected to grow 7 percent from 2016 to 2026. In 2017, the median annual Georgia wage for drafters was $45,448.