Drafting Technology and Engineering
The Drafting Technology and Engineering program prepares individuals to enter several areas of the technology. The curriculum emphasis is the universal language used in industrial, technical, and engineering applications. Students develop the skills needed to produce and interpret technical drawings, using industry level 2D and 3D computer software. Laboratory experiences include working on many different types of basic and advanced drafting and design problems designed to refine the student's abilities to interpret, analyze and transmit specifications graphically.
The program is designed to prepare students for employment within the broad spectrum of the drafting and design field. Various options are available to meet both short- and long-range educational goals. Students may select the technically specific certificate program or the broad-based associate degree program. 
Drafting Technology Certificate Course Guide
Drafting Technology Certificate Program Guide
COURSE GUIDE
Drafting Technology & Engineering (DR & ENGR) Certificate
Drafting Technology – 24 units
Drafting Technology Certificate of Achievement
| DR 50 |
Introduction to Computer-Aided Drafting |
3 |
| DR 100 |
Fundamentals of Drafting and Design |
3 |
| DR 101 |
Engineering Drawing and Design |
3 |
| ENGR 21 |
Introduction to Engineering and Technology |
1 |
| ENGR 23 |
Engineering Graphics and Descriptive Geometry |
3 |
| ENGR 183 |
Computer-Aided Design Techniques |
3 |
| MATH 124 |
Trigonometry |
3 |
| MATH 253 |
Intermediate Algebra |
5 |
Requirements:Certificates of Achievement are granted for the completion of a specified program, or specified courses, whose total requirement is 18 units or more. These state-approved certificates acknowledge workplace competencies and job readiness. The courses that comprise the Drafting Technology Certificate of Achievement are the same as those that comprise the major for the Associate in Science Degree. Course descriptions are listed in the IVC catalog.
Students must complete all courses in the certificate program with a grade of “A,” “B,” “C,” “CR,” or “P.” A minimum of 12 units in the certificate program must be completed at Irvine Valley College.
Waiver of Certificate Requirements: Students with previous educational or vocational experience who wish to waive a required course in a certificate program will be expected to verify equivalency by examination. Petitions for course waivers or substitutions are available in the Counseling Center.
Application for Evaluation: Certificates are not awarded automatically. Students who expect to earn a certificate from the college must file an application for evaluation with the Office of Admission and Records. Responsibility for filing this application rests with the student, and transcripts for all college work attempted must be on file for the application to be considered. Filing deadlines for each semester are posted in the IVC catalog and class schedule.
PROGRAM GUIDE
Drafting Technology & Engineering (DR & ENGR) Certificate
Drafting Technology – 24 units
Description: Students majoring in drafting technology prepare to enter several areas of technology, including mechanical, electrical, and aeronautical/aerospace technology and their various research and development fields. The curriculum emphasizes the universal language used in industrial, technical, and engineering applications. Students develop the skills needed to produce and interpret technical drawings, using traditional as well as multi-axis computer-based graphics generation. Laboratory experiences include working on many different types of basic and advanced drafting and design problems designed to refine the students’ abilities to interpret, analyze and transmit specifications graphically. Courses in the major and recommended electives stress the development of basic skills in mathematics, communication, and the sciences.
Prerequisites/Preparation: The math courses required for the certificates carry prerequisites to meet prior to enrollment. Math 253 (Intermediate Algebra) has a prerequisite of Elementary Algebra which can be met by passing Math 251 with a “C” or better or by placing in Math 253 by an assessment exam. Math 124 (Trigonometry) has a prerequisite of Math 253 which can be met by passing the class with a “C” or better or by placing in Math 124 by an assessment exam.
Preparation for Career Related Exams/Certification: The American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) has established a certification program for drafters. Although employers usually do not require drafters to be certified, certification demonstrates knowledge of and an understanding of nationally recognized practices. Individuals who wish to become certified must pass the Drafter Certification Test, administered periodically at ADDA-authorized sites. Applicants are tested on basic drafting concepts, such as geometric construction, working drawings, and architectural terms and standards.
Associate of Science Degree: A student may earn an A.S. degree in Drafting Technology from IVC if, in addition to certificate requirements, he/she also meets general education requirements posted in the IVC catalog, class schedule, and www.ivc.edu. See a counselor for more information.
*Four Year Institutions Offering Degrees/Programs in This Field:
- California State Polytechnic University, Pomona – Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
- California State University, Fullerton – Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering emphasis
- University of California, Irvine – Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science specialization and in Aerospace Engineering
- California State University, Chico – Bachelor of Science in Mechatronic Engineering
- University of Southern California – Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and in Aerospace Engineering
*See counselor or transfer center for specific transfer requirements
Scholarships/Financial Aid: Students may contact the IVC Financial Aid office for more information and additional opportunities.
Work Experience/Internships: Students are encouraged to visit the Job Placement office for information on employment opportunities in the field.
Career Options: Examples of industry segments hiring drafters include the following:
- Automotive design and manufacturing
- Biomedical and healthcare manufacturing
- Computer product manufacturing
- Construction
- Environmental design
- Machinery manufacturing
- Metal manufacturing
- Military and aerospace
- Professional and scientific technical services
- Robotics and automation
- Telecommunications
- Utilities and local government
Job Description: Computer-aided drafters translate the ideas and rough sketches of professional engineers and architects into detailed drawings and specifications utilizing industry-specific 2D and 3D computer software. These drawings enable other workers to build or manufacture the product according to the designer’s concept. Drafters are usually involved in the initial phases of new projects and play a major role throughout their development.
Employment Opportunities: Although growth is expected to be greatest for mechanical, architectural, and civil drafters, demand for particular drafting specialties varies throughout the country because employment usually is contingent on the needs of local industry. Opportunities should be best for individuals with at least 2 years of postsecondary training in a drafting program that provides strong technical skills and considerable experience with CADD systems. CADD has increased the complexity of drafting applications while enhancing the productivity of drafters. It also has enhanced the nature of drafting by creating more possibilities for design and drafting. As technology continues to advance, employers will look for drafters with a strong background in fundamental drafting principles, a high level of technical sophistication, and the ability to apply their knowledge to a broader range of responsibilities.
Occupational Outlook for Orange County, CA: It is predicted that between 2002 and 2014, employment in the field of Mechanical Drafting will increase 17.1%, Architectural and Civil Drafting will increase15.3%, Mechanical Engineering Technicians will see an increase of 21.9%, and Industrial Engineering Technicians will enjoy a 21.5% increase in employment in Orange County. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov/oco )
| Mechanical Drafters |
$24.31 |
$50,578 |
| Architectural & Civil Drafters |
$24.32 |
$50,588 |
| Mechanical Engineering Technicians |
$23.35 |
$49,845 |
| Industrial Engineering Technicians |
$28.17 |
$58,600 |
(Source: California Occupational Guides,
www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/occguides )
Job Related Skills in Coursework: The IVC classroom laboratory consists of 25 fiber-networked workstations. CAD, CAM, and modeling/animation software, both 2D and 3D, is selected from applications most used throughout industry which includes AutoCAD and SolidWorks. Students receive instruction and view demonstrations via a ClassNet connection, enabling the instructor to provide individual help expediently. Students will find learning in this classroom environment to be highly efficient and time effective.
Personal Traits Desired for This Field:
- Possess an above-average ability to visualize spatial relationships of plane and solid objects, and to notice detail
- Can create precise drawings according to set standards
- Able to make numerical calculations to check work for accuracy
- Self-motivated and willing to work with others in a team effort
- Enjoy applying artistic and creative abilities to projects
Professional Organizations/Websites/Publications in Field:
American Design Drafting Association: www.adda.org
-offers a student membership
-offers drafting certification
Society of Mechanical Engineers: www.asme.org
-offers a student membership
-lists internship opportunities
-on-line career center
CLUB ON CAMPUS:
The Young Engineers Club
Website: http://www.ivc.edu/engineersclub
E-Mail: young.engineers.club@gmail.com
Club Advisor: Ilknur Erbas-White
IVC Contacts:
Drafting Program Questions:
Professor Matthew Wolken
School of Mathematics, Computer Science and Engineering
949/451-5316
mwolken@ivc.edu
More Information:
Melody Harper, Academic & Career Counselor
IVC & OC One-Stop Center, Irvine
949/451-5375
mharper7@ivc.edu
Sharon M. Kennedy, Sr. Administrative Assistant
IVC CTE&WD & College Contact for WIB/One-Stop Centers
949/451-5224
skennedy@ivc.edu
Last updated 2/18/2010
This IVC Career Technical Education Program Guide was made possible by funds from the Carl D. Perkins Career Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006, awarded to Irvine Valley College by the Chancellor's Office, California Community Colleges.
For more information, see the Drafting Technology and Engineering web page (School of Mathematics, Computer Science and Engineering).