What Do Architectural Engineering Technology Graduates Do? Are you fascinated by the principles of architectural design and structural mechanics?

Do you have a knack for building models, drawing plans, and writing reports?

Would you like to be part of a rewarding field where you can apply your engineering skills to help design new technology for the construction and operation of building sites?

Architectural Engineering Technology Graduates

  • Work in architectural offices and assist in building planning, operation, and maintenance.
  • Synthesize the aesthetic and technical elements of design and construction to ensure engineered systems within buildings operate correctly.
  • Produce and use basic construction documents, analyze the design of systems, specify materials, perform cost estimates, and manage technical activities on architectural projects.
  • Convert the draft or preliminary designs of architects and engineers into working drawings and specifications.
  • Utilize 2-D and 3-D computer graphic and planning software, and provide expertise to architectural and engineering firms, construction companies, or suppliers of building materials.

Famous Architectural Engineers

  • Emily Warren Roebling – female chief engineer of building the Brooklyn Bridge
  • Antoine Predock – American architect whose work includes the Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College, as well as a new ballpark for the San Diego Padres
  • Santiago Calatrava – Spanish architect, artist, and engineer known for his large-scale public works including the Athens Olympic Sports Complex
  • Sir Norman Foster – England-born Pritzker Prize winner whose most notable works include the 30 St Mary Axe in London, Willis Faber and Dumas Headquarters in Ipswich, and Wembley Stadium in London
  • Renzo Piano – Italian architect whose most famous buildings are the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, The New York Times building in New York City, and the Shard London Bridge
  • Cesar Pelli – Argentine architect who worked as a project designer for the famous TWA terminal at JFK Airport, as well as the World Financial Center in New York City, Circa Center in Philadelphia, and the Petronas Twin Towers
  • Ludwig Mies van der Rohe – Considered to be a father of modern architecture for his works including the Barcelona Pavilion at the International Exposition in Barcelona, the Seagram Building in New York City, and the twin towers in Chicago

Areas of Employment

  • Architectural and engineering firms
    • Fire and safety systems
    • Electrical systems
    • Foundations
  • Construction companies
  • Planning and development agencies
  • Technical sales
  • Government agencies
  • Design firms
  • Drafter
  • Cost estimator
  • Fieldwork inspector
  • Project manager
  • Contractor (design/build)
  • Civil engineering technician

Career Guidance Suggestions for Pre-University Students

Coursework to Consider
  • Pre-algebra
  • Geometry
  • Advanced algebra
  • Engineering fundamentals
  • Architectural design
  • Computer-aided design
  • Construction design
  • Statistics
  • Chemistry
  • Calculus
  • Trigonometry
  • Physics
  • Robotics
  • Programming
  • Physical geology
  • History of architecture
  • Heat transfer
  • Fluid mechanics
  • Thermodynamics
  • Electrical circuits
  • Structural analysis
  • Technical writing
Suggested Extracurricular Activities
  • Competitions
  • Summer programs
  • Afterschool programs
  • Clubs
  • Internships
  • Online puzzles and games
  • Online courses
  • Maker faires
  • Design projects
Local Programs Offered by:
  • Science centers and museums
  • Professional societies like IEEE
  • Universities
Important Skills:
  • Analytical skills: identify appropriate design elements for building construction.
  • Communication skills: convey information effectively with other architects and engineers through detailed reports and presentations.
  • Critical thinking skills: order information clearly and logically to design complex systems.
  • Problem-solving skills: identify and analyze engineering technology problems before they occur and implement solutions in a timely manner.
  • Design skills: make visual guidelines and prepare drawings for construction, incorporating the building’s systems into the design plan.
  • Detail-oriented: pay close attention in order to ensure that design and construction activities comply with relevant codes and regulations.
  • Operations analysis: analyze needs and product requirements to develop designs.

Links and Resources