Additional Information
When she started, illustrator Rosemary Gardner received training on the
job. Now, that course of training is not really an option.
"I don't think today employers are willing to put the time in to train
someone," she says. "They took me as a green slate, and there were people
there on the job willing to train me."
If you have an artistic eye as well as a good sense of mechanics and perspective,
this may be a great career choice for you. The first step is to begin taking
art courses and developing your drawing talents. You may find extra projects
in school or in the community where you can practice your skills. Talk with
technical illustrators on the job to learn more about their experiences.
Although you can learn a lot from your art classes, don't limit yourself
to pen and paper. You'll need both an artistic and technical background.
"If you're coming from a background in art, take some CAD [computer-aided
design] classes," says illustrator Ruth Leftwich. "If you're coming from a
drafting background, take some art and design classes."
Increasingly in this profession, you'll be drawing on computer. You'll
need to learn advanced computer programs in order to compete.
Illustrator Chris Ceccarelli warns against neglecting your oral and writing
skills. "It's important to be able to communicate your ideas with a client,
and be able to visualize their concept."
Most illustrators study art or illustration at the two-year college level,
or fine arts at the four-year university level. To get accepted into these
programs, you'll have to compile drawings and submit them as a portfolio.