Model maker may not sound like an official profession but, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were over 11,000 model makers employed in May 2004. One of those professionals, Duane Martinez, creates models of everything from computers and gas pumps to MP3 players. When asked to describe his work for the Occupational Outlook Quarterly he stated, “It’s a little like magic.”
A Typical Day in the Life of a Model Maker
Martinez begins the modeling process when a designer presents an idea sketched on a piece of paper. He then uses Computer Aided Design (CAD) software to help him create a three-dimensional drawing from the original two-dimensional sketch. Using his Auto CAD training, he directs specialized tools to produce basic parts for a realistic model.
Initially, Martinez makes only a foam model until the designer has expressed approval with the shape. He then goes on to create a more realistic model made out of materials like aluminum, wood, plastic, leather, rubber, stone, and titanium. For the final touches, Martinez adds paint to imitate the desired texture of the model and sometimes even reproduces mini logos.
Essential Characteristics for Success as a Model Maker
According to Martinez, a successful model maker must be able to think spatially. Model makers have to look at a two-dimensional drawing and imagine it in a three- dimensional form from any angle. A steady hand and good eyesight are also essential as the work tends to be very small and detailed. A brief overview of Martinez’s work-life reveals that model makers must have perseverance in order to finish models on time. Martinez stated that he once stayed awake for thirty-six hours just to meet a deadline.
Education and Training for Model Makers
Martinez never completed a college degree in model making. However, he has a passion for his work, which he combined with a few college courses to help him land his first job as a model maker. Another possible way to become a model maker is to complete an Associate’s Degree in Architectural Drafting such as the program offered by Westwood College. Westwood College students receive training in the latest versions of Auto CAD software and go on to be eligible for any number of Auto CAD jobs.
Additional Types of Model Makers
There are actually many types of model makers currently in the industry. Martinez designs models of consumer products. Other model makers create models to be used in the special effects of movies. Still others construct museum displays or unique awards and trophies. A professional with an Associate’s Degree in Architectural Drafting are often sought after by employers for work on small-scale models of apartment buildings or amusement parks before the real versions are built.
Where to Find More Information
More information about the profession of model making is available through the Association of Professional Model Makers. For those interested in learning more about how Auto CAD software works, there are many samples available on the internet simply by typing “Auto CAD download free software” into any search engine. Students can also contact Westwood College or visit College-Pages.com, the education and career resource, for a complete list of available programs that provide Auto CAD training.
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Tags: architectural drafting, bureau of labor statistics, Computer Aided Drawing (CAD), training, Westwood College
This entry was posted
on Saturday, January 24th, 2009 at 2:44 am and is filed under Science and Engineering, Westwood College.
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