A drafting certification can be a valuable asset for anyone seeking a career in the drafting or design field. It demonstrates your knowledge and skills, making you a more attractive candidate to potential employers. Here's a breakdown of how to get certified:
1. Choose the Right Certification for You
The first step is to research and choose the certification that best aligns with your career goals and the type of drafting you want to pursue. Some common drafting certifications include:
- Certified Drafter (CD): Offered by the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA), this certification covers general drafting principles and practices.
- Certified Architectural Drafter (CAD): This certification focuses on architectural drafting and is offered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB).
- Certified Engineering Drafter (CED): This certification focuses on engineering drafting and is offered by the National Institute of Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET).
- AutoCAD Certified Professional (ACP): This certification is specific to the AutoCAD software and is offered by Autodesk.
2. Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Each certification program has specific eligibility requirements, such as education level, experience, and possibly an exam fee. Make sure you understand the requirements before you begin the process.
3. Prepare for the Exam
Once you're eligible, you'll need to prepare for the exam. This may involve:
- Reviewing relevant drafting principles and practices.
- Taking practice exams.
- Attending review courses or workshops.
4. Take and Pass the Exam
The exam will test your knowledge of drafting principles, practices, and software. The format and content of the exam will vary depending on the certification you're pursuing.
5. Maintain Your Certification
Most certifications require periodic renewal to ensure you remain up-to-date with industry standards. This often involves continuing education units (CEUs) or re-examination.
Benefits of Drafting Certification
- Enhanced Credibility: A certification shows employers that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a drafting role.
- Increased Earning Potential: Certified drafters often earn higher salaries than their uncertified counterparts.
- Career Advancement Opportunities: Certification can open doors to more advanced positions and career opportunities.
- Improved Job Security: In a competitive job market, certification can give you an edge over other candidates.
Conclusion
Earning a drafting certification is a worthwhile investment in your career. It takes time and effort, but the rewards can be significant. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of success in obtaining the certification that best suits your needs.