Architectural CAD drafters are an important part of a team developing architects’ schematic designs into construction documents from which homes and commercial buildings are built. They need a well-rounded education that includes manual sketching, CAD drafting experience, and building construction knowledge. Problem solving, three dimensional visualization, and technical math skills prepare the students for a challenging career in architecture. AutoCAD, the preferred software in the architectural industry, is used throughout the coursework.

Program Overview

• Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Degree Awarded
• 4 semesters-2 academic years
• 60 weeks-65 Semester Credits

The Architectural Building Technology program is designed to provide the technical background required of an architectural CAD drafter in both the residential and commercial drafting fields. It combines the necessary skill training, mathematics, and technical knowledge to prepare students for an entry-level architectural CAD position and gives them a strong base to enable advancement in the industry.

This program is designed to simulate architectural office experiences. First semester begins with learning AutoCAD drawing, editing and plotting commands and developing drafting efficiencies while focusing on two types of residential construction materials and methods.

Second semester expands the residential focus from first semester into multi-family residential construction drawings, residential codes and estimating for the residential market sector. This semester also transitions into commercial construction materials and methods to begin laying the foundation for the remainder of the program.

Learning to create sets of commercial architectural construction drawings to industry standards builds on prior experience and prepares students for commercial job opportunities. Building design and space planning based on written programs provide the opportunity for 3rd semester students to gain a rudimentary understanding of presentation/design drawings. Commercial estimating and building code review further deepen the students’ knowledge and skills in preparing for work in the commercial sector.

The bulk of the 4th semester work develops building documentation note-taking and advanced construction drawings skills. An independent study Capstone project encourages the student to pursue an architectural topic in depth and develop her/his individual potential and interest.

Courses emphasize the development of drafting skills, building materials, construction knowledge, teamwork, communication, and career professionalism. The skills and knowledge gained provide graduates with an advantage in the competitive work environment and significantly contribute to their career growth potential.

Instructors

Glenn Geissinger
Mr. Geissinger has been an NTI instructor since 1990. Prior to joining the staff at NTI, Mr. Geissinger worked for four years as a CAD Drafter with Sirny Architects and EOS Architects developing commercial construction documents and as-built drawings. Before entering the architectural field, Mr. Geissinger worked for 12 years as a counselor in the human services field.

Education Credentials: Diploma, Architectural Drafting, Minneapolis Technical College; BA, Psychology, Goshen College, Indiana; MA, United Theological Seminary. Allied Member, MN Society - American Institute of Architects.

Tim Cooney
Mr. Cooney has been an Instructor at NTI since 1999. After graduating from NTI, Mr. Cooney worked for three years at Robert Rippe & Assoc. where he was a Project Coordinator working on commercial kitchens. Mr. Cooney then worked for two years at TKDA & Assoc. as a Technician II working on commercial architectural, structural, and civil projects. Mr. Cooney also has three years of construction experience. Mr. Cooney is a veteran of the Gulf War.

Education Credentials: AS, General studies from Mt. Aloysius College, Cresson, PA; AS, Architectural Drafting & Design Technology, NTI. Allied Member, MN Society - American Institute of Architects. Continuing studies, BS, Information Technology, Saint Mary’s University, Twin Cities Campus.

John Hartman
Mr. Hartman is a graduate of NTI and has been with the college since 1993. While in school, Mr. Hartman worked for GE Capital as an Architectural Facility Drafter. Upon graduation, Mr. Hartman worked for NU-Way in Wausau, WI as an Architectural & Engineering CAD Technician.

Education Credentials: MS, Project Management, Saint Mary’s University, Twin Cities Campus; BS, Psychology, Northwestern College; AS, Architectural Drafting & Design Technology, NTI; General courses, University of Wisconsin Stout.

Our Unique Approach

• Experienced Instructors: all instructors have worked in the Architectural field in various capacities.
• Each student has an AutoCAD station.
• Four semesters of AutoCAD (including Architectural Desktop): the architectural industry leader in CAD software
• High Placement: check out our Placement Information.
• Occupational Associate of Science Degree Awarded
• 4 semesters, two academic years, 16 month program