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.
• Third semester focuses on commercial building construction, commercial estimating and building codes, and introduces the student to LEED certification.
• Fourth semester builds upon third semester, add a field documentation experience, and allows the student to pursue an architectural topic of his or her choosing in depth.

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

Lynn Langen
Ms. Langen has 10+ years of experience teaching architectural drafting and design at NTI and returned to us in 2008 after 9 years as Director of Operations at Leonard Lampert Architects, PA., where she managed client relations, staffing levels, project quality and budgets. Prior to teaching at NTI, she designed and developed tenant spaces for B. Dalton bookseller (Barnes and Noble).

Education Credentials: BA, Management and Education, Metropolitan State University; AAS, Architectural Design and Construction Methodology, Hennepin Technical College; Allied Member, MN Society – American Institute of Architects.

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.

Stacy Connolly
Ms. Connolly returned to NTI after working for the Cunningham Group for more than 7 years. She acted as their CAD drawing manager, technical trainer and Revit expert. She is also active in her community and is director of the 6th Grade Ministry at her church.

Education Credentials: AS, Architectural Building Technology, NTI.

Our Unique Approach

• Experienced Instructors: All instructors have worked in the Architectural field in various capacities.
• Each student has a workstation with AutoCAD and Revit.
• 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