"You can't build anything without a drawing," says Ark, and if he can draw it, he can probably build it.

Ark is self-employed, a rare thing among architectural technologists. Usually, they work for architects or construction companies. But like most of his colleagues, he designs buildings to meet a client's needs. He meets with the client to discuss planned projects, does site inspections, and prepares all of the necessary blueprints. Sometimes a contractor will call him to ask for a clarification of exactly what was intended at a certain place in a drawing. Ark sends many messages and drawings by e-mail, fax and, occasionally, courier.

As an Architectural Technologist, Ark has developed skills in computer-aided design (CAD), and the ability to visualize in three dimensions. He keeps up-to-date in his field with the help of magazines, new computer programs, and the Internet. But these aren't the only skills required. "Hands-on experience in construction is very useful," Ark insists. "If you don't know what a two-by-four is, it's hard to design using one. Or, if you don't know how the connections work, you can't use them effectively."