Architectural Millwork Academic Skills Guide
High School Courses
Computer Aided Drafting
Woodworking or Cabinetmaking
* Courses available in the Academic Achievement Center or High School Completion Center
Basic Skills in the Program and on the Job
Reading
In the program students learn to access the same kinds of materials they will use on the job: equipment and software manuals, plans, cutting lists, and the Architectural Woodwork Institute Quality Standards. Because much of the equipment is imported, manuals are translated into English; therefore, reading these materials may pose a special challenge. Diagrams and tables are frequently used in occupational literature. Workplace documents will also include forms such as time sheets and work orders, which may be computerized.
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Language
Teamwork skills are particularly important in the Architectural Millwork program. Shop workers must interact with the job foreman and with office drafting personnel, as well as with one another. For maximum efficiency, students must learn to ask questions about procedures or the location of equipment they need. To prevent costly errors, they must be willing to voice concerns about discrepancies they discover in project plans.
Writing activities include creating checklists for procedures and filling out job tickets to document work done and time spent. Communication Skills, COM 703, is required in this program.
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Math
Since a great deal of the modern European-made shop equipment uses metric measurements and American architects use the English system, students must become proficient in English-metric conversions. They will measure extensively, read angles, and use arcs to lay out rooms, pieces, and parts. They will also create vector drawings using xyz coordinates.
The required math course for the program is Applied Math I, MAT 772.
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Learning
Students must be able to visualize three-dimensionally and learn procedures by observation. Memorization, application, and problem solving are important skills for Architectural Millwork. To become an effective troubleshooter, a worker must understand the whole process from design to installation well enough to see how his/her part fits in.
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Computer
In addition to computer-aided drafting, students will learn to use manufacturing software like Router-CIM and Pattern Systems, which program machines to make the desired cuts. Keyboard proficiency is helpful while programming and operating much of the equipment.
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Ankeny