draughtsmen

A draughtsman is a tradesperson who prepares technical drawings and plans used in architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and construction. Their drawings communicate geometry, dimensions, tolerances, materials, and finishes to builders, fabricators, and clients.

Historically, draughtsmen drew by hand on paper using instruments such as the T-square, drawing board, compasses, and rulers. They translated concepts created by architects and engineers into precise drawings. With the advent of computer-aided design (CAD) in the late 20th century, many draughtsmen now produce drawings digitally; traditional hand drafting remains taught in some programs and used for concept work or in environments with limited software access.

Specializations include architectural draughtsmanship, which produces floor plans and elevations; civil or structural draughting, focusing on foundations, members, and details; mechanical or industrial draughting for machinery, assemblies, and parts; and electrical or instrumentation drafting for wiring and schematics. Some professionals perform detailing and labeling, while others focus on coordination and modeling.

Training typically combines formal education in architectural technology or engineering technology with practical experience. Competencies include geometric construction, interpretation of specifications, dimensioning and tolerancing, and proficiency with CAD and digital drawing tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, SolidWorks, MicroStation). Attention to accuracy, standard drawing conventions, and revision control are essential.

Draughtsmen work closely with architects, engineers, designers, fabricators, and clients to ensure drawings reflect requirements and constraints. Deliverables may include floor plans, sections and elevations, detail drawings, assembly drawings, and lists such as bill of materials. The role supports the design-to-build process and has evolved into a key position in many technologically driven industries.