draftsman

A draftsman, or draughtsman, is a technical professional who prepares detailed drawings and plans used in construction, manufacturing, and product development. Working from specifications, sketches, and data from engineers or architects, draftsmen translate concepts into precise documents that guide fabrication and assembly.

Historically, draftsmen produced drawings by hand with pencils, ink, and drafting tools. The rise of computer-aided design (CAD) in the late 20th century shifted most work to software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and SolidWorks, though some contexts still value hand drafting for fundamentals.

Duties commonly include creating plans, elevations, sections, and detail drawings; preparing bills of materials and material specifications; applying dimensioning, tolerances, and finishes; ensuring compliance with codes and standards; and coordinating with engineers, architects, and fabricators.

Education requirements vary by region and discipline but commonly include a two-year associate degree or technical diploma in drafting or design technology; many positions accept on-the-job training. Certification or professional registration may be pursued through industry bodies. Key skills include spatial reasoning, attention to detail, and proficiency with CAD and BIM.

Differences in terminology: draftsman is common in the United States, while draughtsman is the British variant; job titles include draftsman, drafter, or CAD technician. The role centers on producing accurate working drawings used by contractors, fabricators, and inspectors.