COMPUTER AIDED DRAFTING & DESIGN

Grades 11 - 12
Computer Aided Drafting and Design is a two year program which provides a working knowledge of drafting fundamentals for students planning a career in mechanical, structural, electrical, or architectural drafting. This program also provides a sound background for various related construction and manufacturing occupations. First year instruction stresses basic drafting fundamentals, orthographic projection, dimensioning, pictorial sketching, architectural drafting and basic CAD. Second year instruction will expand on instruction in the areas of technical drawing, machine drawing, and intensified CAD skills. Second year students also have the opportunity to take college level courses for dual credit.

Recommended Preparation
The student needs to be self motivated and enjoy working individually. He/she needs to perform activities involving visualization and spatial relations. A comprehension of basic algebra, geometry, and trigonometry is beneficial. *

* CCTEC complies with the Americans with Disability Act of 1990.

Articulated Credit
If a student completes the two year program and meets the specific criteria required for articulation, he/she may be able to articulate up to twelve hours of course work taken at the high school level and apply them toward college credit hours in the same field. This would be the equivalent of one full-time semester of college credit. Second year students also have the opportunity to take college level courses for dual credit.

Job Outlook
Opportunities should be best for individuals who have at least 2 years of post-secondary training in a drafting program that provides strong technical skills, and who have considerable skill and experience using CAD systems. CAD has increased the complexity of drafting applications while enhancing the productivity of drafters. It has also enhanced the nature of drafting by creating more possibilities for design and drafting. As technology continues to advance, employers will look for drafters having a strong background in fundamental drafting principles with a higher level of technical sophistication and an ability to apply this knowledge to a broader range of responsibilities.

Employment Growth
Demand for particular drafting specializations varies throughout the country because employment is usually contingent upon the needs of local industry. Employment of drafters remains highly concentrated in industries that are sensitive to cyclical changes in the economy, such as engineering and architectural services and durable goods manufacturing.

Instructor
Kevin Newby