Why I Started My Own Drafting Firm

Starting your own business is never a decision you make lightly—especially in an industry as demanding and detail-oriented as architecture and drafting. The complexities of this field require not only a keen eye for design but also an understanding of structural integrity, regulatory compliance, and client needs.  For me, I didn’t start my drafting firm because everything lined up perfectly—I started it because no one would give me a shot.

After stepping away from college, I found myself immersed in the world of welding and factory work for several years. While these jobs provided a stable income, they were far from my passion, and I soon encountered health problems that prompted a reevaluation of my career path. This period of reflection reignited my long-standing passion for architecture—a field I had always been drawn to and one that had captivated my imagination since childhood. I possessed the educational background necessary for this profession, having studied architecture and engaged in various one-off projects for friends and acquaintances. However, the harsh reality was that I lacked the “real-world” experience that employers sought. Without a degree in hand or a resume full of office-based experience, I found myself facing a daunting wall of closed doors.

Despite these challenges, I have always been the type of person who is determined to figure things out. When people tell me I can’t do something, it ignites a fire within me to prove them wrong. Stubborn? Perhaps. But I knew I had the skills and the passion to succeed—and if there were gaps in my knowledge, I was more than willing to learn quickly and adapt. Early in my adult life, I was thrusted into a management role without any formal training, and I emerged stronger and more capable. And in almost every job I have had, I became the go-to person, the one others relied on for solutions and guidance. I was confident that I could navigate the challenges of this business—if only I was allowed that opportunity.

So, I took matter into my own hands and created my own path.

I began by digging up my old projects and polished them to the best of my ability. I understood the importance of a strong portfolio in attracting potential clients, so I dedicated time to curating a selection of my best work. With my portfolio in hand, I turned to social media as a powerful tool for marketing myself, hoping to reach an audience that might recognize my potential. It was during this phase that I received a pivotal message from Jeff, a contractor who was in need of a draftsman. We had a conversation about his needs and my capabilities, and he was gracious enough to take a chance on me.

That one opportunity was all I needed to kickstart my journey. Jeff became my first real client, and our collaboration marked the beginning of what would become a fruitful partnership. Years later, we continue to work together, and our relationship has only strengthened over time. Since that initial project, I have expanded my client base, collaborating with several more contractors and steadily building my reputation. Each project not only contributed to my business growth but also bolstered my confidence, allowing me to refine my skills further and explore new avenues within the architecture and drafting realm.

Starting my firm wasn’t easy. It took grit, patience, and a lot of self-belief. But looking back, it’s the best decision I could have made. No one else gave me the opportunity—so I made my own.