Elevating Millwork Drafting: Our Training Excellence
In the millwork design and construction world, the quality of your drafting team can truly make or break a project. Unfortunately, there often aren’t enough skilled drafters to meet the high demand, which puts immense pressure on current staff and can lead to burnout. This situation not only risks project timelines but also creates a talent gap that’s difficult to fill.
In this article, we’ll explain our training process designed to equip DuckWorks new drafters with the skills they need to be productive from day one. When clients choose to outsource their drafting to us, they can expect smooth integration and top-notch results right from the start.
Understanding the Challenges
With very few educational programs focused on custom millwork drafting, many potential hires don’t have the specific skills needed for the job. This skills gap can lead to rushed work and costly revisions. However, a well-trained drafter can be a valuable asset, helping companies improve project timelines, reduce errors, and scale effectively.
We are dedicated to developing a drafting team that helps bridge this skill gap. Growth is a key part of our company culture, and training is essential for every new and current team member.
Overview of the Onboarding Training Program
Our team includes a Training Coordinator who has extensive experience in drafting and education. We’ve developed an intensive 6-week training program tailored to meet the needs of the industry. After the recruitment process, only the most suitable candidates are accepted into this paid program, ensuring a strong foundation from the start.
Phases of the Training Program
- Introduction to Training
The first phase familiarizes trainees with Millwork Construction and Architectural Documentation Standards. They create shop drawings in a standardized millwork format using AutoCAD. This stage also assesses each drafter’s learning pace, allowing only the most proficient to advance. - Software Training
The second phase of our onboarding training program focuses on mastering Microvellum while building on existing AutoCAD skills. Trainees who are already familiar with AutoCAD can deepen their understanding, ensuring they are well-prepared to apply it in real world projects. Additionally, we introduce important tools like Bluebeam and Cabinet Vision, which enhance collaboration and broaden their design software knowledge, providing our new hires with a solid foundation for success in their roles. - Practical Project Experience
In the third phase, trainees engage in practical projects that challenge them to apply what they’ve learned. This phase is crucial as it prepares them for the common challenges faced in millwork drafting and solidifies their skills through real experience. Trainees are evaluated based on the quality of their drawings and other relevant dimensions like, reference accuracy, architectural accuracy, millwork construction accuracy, client standards, and drafting standards, communication, adaptability, feedback response and time management.
Key Components of the Training Program
- AutoCAD Skills
Our comprehensive AutoCAD training combines theoretical lessons with hands-on practice, culminating in creating detailed shop drawings for commercial & residential spaces - Microvellum Mastery
Trainees learn to optimize millwork workflows through practical applications, such as designing custom cabinetry. - Millwork Knowledge
The training covers both commercial and residential millwork, emphasizing industry standards and best practices to ensure drafters understand design and functionality. They learn to recognize and apply general AWI guidelines as well as our clients’ specific standards.
Continuous Learning and Development
After completing the Training Program, selected trainees become Drafters. However, training doesn’t stop there. For the first three months, they continue to receive close guidance from Team Leaders and the Training Coordinator. Regular feedback sessions help ensure continuous improvement, providing new team members with the support they need to thrive.
We believe in fostering a culture of continuous learning. Each drafter has a clearly defined learning path, allowing them to take ownership of their professional development.
We conduct quarterly performance reviews to track individual growth and set specific development goals. Our leaders are committed to helping each drafter reach their full potential by acquiring new skills and expanding their expertise. Additionally, we gather client feedback on individual performance twice a year and incorporate this input into each drafter’s growth plan.
Become a Partner
In today’s competitive millwork landscape, the quality of your drafting team is a key factor in the success of your projects. By outsourcing your drafting needs to our highly trained professionals, you can relieve some pressure from your current staff and ensure your projects are executed flawlessly.
Don’t let a skills gap hold you back. Partner with us to access a skilled team ready to enhance your operations and move your projects forward. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your drafting needs.
Alejandra Lopez