Also called: Marine Drafter, 3D Ship Modeler
Turns engineers' designs into the detailed 3D models and drawings shipyards build from.
Drafters model every pipe, cable tray, and steel plate in software like ShipConstructor, and fix clashes before steel is cut.
Associate's degree (2-year), about 2 years after high school. Associate degree or certificate in drafting/CAD; shipyards also train in-house.
Ways in: 2-year college, Trade school, On-the-job training. Training cost: Under $15k.
Majors to look at: Drafting and Design Technology, CAD Technology.
Shrinking (about -2% over 10 years).
Medium risk in 5 years, high in 10. Automated 3D modeling and clash detection cut routine drafting; fewer drafters will check and fix AI-built models.
Classes: CAD or drafting CTE class, Geometry, Computer applications.
Official data: O*NET occupation 17-3013.
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