Architecture hits a balance between art and science. It takes a strong sense of design, practicality, creativity, and knowledge to become successful in this field. This makes architecture one of the best jobs for a career change if you’re tired of mundane work.
There are many sectors within the industry that are versatile and challenging. With these challenging aspects also come rewards. Technology has overtaken every existing industry, meaning architecture has been no different. This is where being in architecture tech comes in.
What is Architecture Technology?
Let’s first understand what architecture itself is. Architecture is simply the design and construction of buildings and places. This includes conceiving, sketching, planning, and constructing the building. In other words, designing it to completion.
There are many different types of architects, such as urban, commercial, residential, and so on. The main goal of architecture is to build and tell a story for history to remember. It is a creation of culture and estate. Architecture technology is the side of architecture that is focused on technology and advancement, something a technician would also find themselves working with.
With diversity comes opportunity, here are the best career opportunities for you in architecture technologies.
Digital Engineer
Digital engineering is the capturing and integration of data to create designs in architecture. The digital side of this line of work allows easy error correction and in-depth exploration of concepts that architects would otherwise struggle to create.
The line of work ranges from making simulations to digital models, offering a variety of sub-specializations that include artificial intelligence, DevSecOps, digital transformation, and so on. Data is the prime component of digital engineering since, without the correct data, not even the software could compile correct renders.
Building Information Management
Building Information Management focuses on building information modeling from a managerial perspective. What this process allows is for engineers, construction workers, designers, and managers to conveniently be organized equally and have fair work distribution.
This branch of architecture combines 3D modeling, management, analysis, scheduling, and cost estimation all into one smooth process thanks to the software, making its use and understanding key in architecture technologies.
Civil Engineer
Civil engineers work with what their title suggests: civil sectors. This means they work in both the private and public sectors regarding the designing and construction of buildings, estates, and areas.
Civil engineers essentially build cities and their functions, such as ports and harbors, railroads, airports, and so on. There are different specializations in civil engineering depending on what you choose, making it a versatile and stable career choice. If you pursue civil engineering, you may find yourself having multiple specializations to excel at your chosen one.
Architectural Drafter/CAD Drafter
An architectural drafter is an individual who uses technical software to realize the designs of architects and creations of engineers into technical drawings. These drawings can then be passed on to companies and construction.
A drafter is essentially a simpler architect who uses CAD software and translates the work of others into these drawings. Architects also tend to need more academic years under their belt compared to architectural drafters.
Chief Technology Officer
A Chief Technology Officer, or a CTO, is an individual who overlooks all designers, drafters, and other workers at an architecture firm whose jobs are technology-centered. These managers of tech essentially coordinate the team and ensure their quality of work as well as the quality of the software and tech being used.
A CTO’s focus is on innovation, speed, and adaptability regarding digital design, making these positions essential for smooth workflow at architecture firms.
Haptic Interface Designer
Virtual reality has been on the rise in recent years and has been introduced to many different sectors, including architecture. These VR models for designs allow customers to feel and see their future space without it needing to be built yet, allowing for more successful projects. Haptic technology focuses on 3D feedback, something that is essential with VR.
Summary
Architecture firms are heavily invested in innovation and modernity, which is why we’ve been seeing increasing amounts of tech job openings as well as new positions being created. The smoother, faster workflow technology allows architects the freedom to do their best.