The NAWIC Education Foundation 2026–2027 Design Drafting Competition offers high school and college undergraduate students an exciting opportunity to explore architectural design, drafting, and the construction industry. Designed to inspire creativity and innovation, the competition encourages students to strengthen technical skills while building confidence through hands-on problem solving and design experience.
Participants are challenged to create architectural drawings that demonstrate accuracy, originality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. Required project drawings include a floor plan, exterior elevation, site plan, and placement of the structure, providing students with valuable exposure to real-world industry expectations.
The competition also utilizes Procore, a leading construction management software platform used throughout the industry. Students will gain exposure to modern construction technology, digital collaboration, and project coordination tools that are essential in today’s construction environment. Learning how technology integrates with design and construction helps prepare participants for future educational and career opportunities.
The Design Drafting Competition is designed to introduce students to the construction industry in a positive and encouraging way while fostering self-worth, leadership, and confidence. Mentoring relationships between students, educators, and industry professionals are strongly encouraged, helping participants connect classroom learning with real-world experience.
The competition may be sponsored locally by a NAWIC chapter, school, or individual sponsor. Each sponsor receives a professionally developed “Design Problem” created by a licensed Architect or Engineer and designed to meet the needs of participants across the United States and international affiliates. The 2026-2027 “Design Problem” will be issued in June 2026.
Whether students are experienced in drafting or participating for the first time, the competition offers an excellent opportunity to learn, grow, and showcase their talents. National winners receive prizes and recognition for their outstanding work and achievements.
Join us for the 2026–2027 Design Drafting Competition and become part of a program that celebrates creativity, technology, education, and the future of the construction industry.
– Karen Weatherford, ESP
NEF Trustee
