The American Institute of Building Design (AIBD) is partnering with SkillsUSA on something that directly impacts you: a comprehensive revamp of the Architectural Drafting Standards and Competencies that guide the SkillsUSA competition and shape how the next generation of professionals is trained.

The standards students learn by shape what they can do when they arrive at your firm. Right now, SkillsUSA is redesigning these standards around a three-tier framework—foundational skills, entry-level readiness, and advanced proficiency. And they're asking industry professionals like you:

Are these standards actually preparing students for the real work you need them to do?

We've published a blog post diving into the new framework and the questions SkillsUSA is asking. If you've ever felt frustrated that a new hire was missing critical skills, or if you've thought "I wish schools taught this"—this is your moment to speak up.

​Read the full blog post and learn what's changing →​

The short version: SkillsUSA wants to know:

• What should a new architectural drafter actually be able to do on day one?
• Are the three-tier competencies realistic and aligned with practice?
• What's missing from the standards?
• What soft skills matter most—communication, collaboration, problem-solving?
• How is your firm changing, and what new capabilities do you expect from entry-level professionals?

Two ways to share your input:

1. Comment on the Google Sheet (best for detailed, specific feedback): Access the full standards and add comments directly where they're most relevant.
2. Comment on the blog post: Share your perspective in the comments section, and we'll compile your input for the SkillsUSA review team.

Timeline: The final standards are due December 16, 2025. The sooner your feedback arrives, the more it can be considered and incorporated.

The standards SkillsUSA sets today determine what students learn for the next two years—and ultimately, what kind of professionals enter our industry. Your voice matters.

Read the blog and share your thoughts. Let's make sure the next generation arrives ready.

​Read the blog post →​

Best regards,
The American Institute of Building Design (AIBD)

P.S. — If you've hired a junior drafter in the past year, you know exactly what we're talking about. Share that experience in the comments. It's the kind of real-world insight that shapes better standards.