EXPLORING THE ROLE OF AN ARCHITECTURAL TECHNICIAN
Within our firm, teamwork and collaboration are our bread and butter, or rather, our brick and mortar! Each of our employees support one another, and celebrate each other’s success, embodying Rossmann Architecture’s company motto of “one win, all win.”
At RAI, when we think of the word “architecture,” we think of our team – the talented individuals that support every project’s progress and completion. Today we shine the spotlight on Jade Killeen, one of our incredible architectural technicians.
Jade joined RAI in April of 2019 and up until recently was part of Erick Soulière’s team, where she worked on mostly multi-residential projects. She recently transferred to Michael-John Bailie’s team, where she now works on private/commercial and government projects. Jade enjoys working in a wide variety of sectors as it taps into her creative spirit, though architectural technicians do have the option to specialize in a specific sector.
“I’ve always been someone who is artistic, loves drawing, and likes paying attention to small details so I knew that going into the architecture field would be perfect for me and would give me some type of freedom to be creative.” – Jade Killeen
So, what do architectural technicians do?
Architectural technicians are an essential part of the building industry, working closely with architects to bring their designs to life and providing technical support throughout the design and construction process to ensure that every structure is built to the highest standards. The work of an architectural technician involves turning designs into detailed and accurate technical drawings and specifications. These documents are then used by builders, engineers, and other parties to construct the building.
In addition to producing technical drawings, architectural technicians also have a critical role in ensuring that the building meets all necessary regulations and standards. They are well-versed in building codes such as the Quebec Building Codes (QBC), Ontario Building Codes (OBC), National Building Codes (NBC), and municipal by-laws. They also provide ongoing support during the construction phase, including site visits, inspections and surveys.
Technicians are required to work with a wide range of stakeholders including providing administrative support to the project manager and attending meetings to communicate with clients and other stakeholders.
An essential part of the success of each project, not only do technicians ensure that the building is aesthetically pleasing, they also ensure that it’s safe, functional and meets all necessary standards. They’re responsible for making sure that every building project is completed on time and within budget.
A wide range of skills …
Trained in drafting and technical drawing, technicians are proficient in computer-aided design (CAD) software, such as AutoCAD and Revit, which is essential in the modern building industry. These programs provide a critical link between the design and construction phases of a project.
Architectural technicians are problem solvers who think critically and creatively to find solutions to complex building problems. Jade is fully bilingual which is an asset to our firm as we serve clients in both Ontario and Quebec.
Career path options …
“I always wondered what the steps were in the construction of a building, which perfectly matched the aspect of my personality that likes challenges. So, when I had to make a career choice after high school, I chose architecture and fell in love with it.” – Jade Killeen
A career in architectural technology begins with the role of a junior technician. Junior technicians assist senior technicians and architects in the production of technical drawings and specifications. As they gain experience and pass the five-year mark, they may advance to the role of intermediate technician, taking on more responsibility for producing technical documents and being involved in project coordination.
From there, technicians with over 10 years of experience may choose to take a step in their career and become a project lead, responsible for overseeing a team of technicians and coordinating all aspects of the design and construction process. Alternatively, they may choose to take on a role as a senior technician or project coordinator before eventually taking on the project lead position.
As someone who notices small details, enjoys drawing and thrives on a challenge, becoming an architectural technician was a perfect choice for Jade to apply both her creative and strategic mind-set.
Pursuing a career as an architectural technician can be an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling experience whether it’s developing your skills or the opportunity to work on exciting projects and contribute to shaping the world we live in.
Whether you’re just starting out in your career or looking for a new challenge, we encourage you to explore the many possibilities that architecture has to offer. If you have a passion for excellence and our commitment to making a positive impact, a role as an architectural technician may be right for you and we encourage you to join our team.
