Computer Aided Design Careers

CAD/Computer Aided Drafting Overview

CAD, or Computer Aided Drafting, professionals use their skills to create two- and three-dimensional drawings on the computer. These drawings are used to visually represent buildings, bridges, canals and houses, as well as many other consumer-related items.

CAD is also extensively used in designing tools and machinery used in manufacturing components. Computer Aided Drafting operators (also called technicians) receive sketches from an engineer, architect or designer and produce a set of technical drawings. There are many different types of CAD software, and many employers want prospective employees who are skilled in at least one CAD software package, which includes:

• AutoCAD
• MicroStation
• Pro/E
• ArchiCAD

CAD has become increasingly important as a technology because it helps to lower development costs and it also helps to shorten design cycles. CAD engineers are able to develop a project on the screen, print it and save it for future editing, saving a lot of time on their drawings.

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CAD/Computer Aided Drafting Training

Training to work with Computer Aided Drafting software can take place in a number of different ways. Additionally, some CAD change from being CAD operators to becoming Architects, or some students take the reverse route. Other students choose to take what they learn from being a CAD designer to becoming a CAD/Network Administrator.

Regardless, though, the most important aspect to becoming a CAD professional is learning about the various CAD software which exists. Students can enroll in technical schools and colleges which train students to be CAD engineers, or take supplemental courses about CAD if they already have training as an architect.

The larger number of CAD software programs a student is familiar with, the greater the chances of being hired are. Certificates for CAD are enough for students to get jobs in entry-level computer-aided drafting positions in engineering technology environments, and Associate’s and Bachelor’s are necessary for higher level positions.

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CAD/Computer Aided Drafting Salary

CAD, or Computer Aided Drafting, professionals use their skills to create two- and three-dimensional drawings on the computer. These drawings are used to visually represent buildings, bridges, canals and houses, as well as many other consumer-related items.

CAD is also extensively used in designing tools and machinery used in manufacturing components. Computer Aided Drafting operators (also called technicians) receive sketches from an engineer, architect or designer and produce a set of technical drawings. Computer Aided Drafting is one of the fastest growing in the whole field of design.

According to reports published by the US Department of Labor, www.bls.gov, someone who has earned a Computer Aided Drafting Associate's Degree can earn a much higher salary than someone who simply has a certificate. Also, on average, an architectural and civil drafter earns a starting salary of $39,190 per year.

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