CAD

What is CAD?

CAD stands for Computer Aided Design. CAD was first utilized in 1957, when Dr. Patrick Hanratty developed a program called PRONTO, the first commercial numerical-control programming system.

In the beginning, CAD was nothing more than a replacement for drawing boards. The CAD programs worked in 2D to create technical drawings consisting of 2D wire frames. A wire frame is a model which only shows the outside and inside lines of an object. The early days of CAD increased productivity of design, but only a small amount and the overhead (the cost) was high. Companies had to pay for the engineers to learn the new system, a long process.

In the early 1960's, program developers began to experiment with 3D design, and in 1969, MAGI released a program called Syntha Vision, the first commercially available solid modeler program.

A solid modeler program is a program that allows the user to see the item from all angles.

In modern days, CAD systems are now widely accepted and used throughout the industry. These systems moved from costly workstations based mainly on UNIX to off-the-shelf PCs. 3D modeling has become a norm, and it can be found even in applications for the wider public, like 3D buildings modeling in Google Maps, house furnishing, or garden planning.

What professions use CAD?

Career options for CAD drawers are plentiful. A 2-year degree in CADD from a community college or technical school typically qualifies graduates for the following common job titles:

  • Electrical drafters - create diagrams that lay out wiring setups. These diagrams are used by professionals who repair and install electrical equipment and wiring.

  • Aeronautical drafters - create plans and drawings that detail engineering specifications for use in the manufacturing of airplanes, missiles and the like.

  • Mechanical drafters - prepare detailed assembly drafts for use with mechanical devices and machines. These drawings include methods of fastening, dimensions and other specifications.

  • Civil drafters - create topography and relief maps for use in civil engineering projects. These projects include bridges, water and sewage systems, highways and flood control setups.

  • Architectural drafters - diagram features of buildings, both structural and architectural, used in construction jobs. Diagrams may include materials needed to complete the job for both commercial and residential buildings.

  • Process drafters - create diagrams that are used in gas and oil refineries, piping systems and chemical plants, emphasizing both the construction and layout of plans.

  • Electronics drafters - diagram schematics for assembling circuit boards and wiring for use in electronic device manufacturing and repair.

Drafters looking to advance their careers can pursue positions as architects or engineering technicians after earning a 4-year college degree. Other job titles that might be attainable beyond the entry level include designer, supervisor and senior drafter.

Salary Information

While the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not report on all of these types of drafters individually, it does collect data on some of them. In 2015, the BLS reported that electrical and electronics drafters made a median average salary of $59,520 that year, as listed by the BLS, while mechanical drafters brought in a median salary of $53,520. The median yearly salary for architectural and civil drafters in 2015 was $50,710, according to BLS data.

Education Requirements for CAD Drawing Careers

Prospective drafters can start their career preparation in high school by developing their artistic ability and taking classes in science, math, computer technology, design and of course, drafting. After high school graduation, students may enter any number of technical schools or community colleges that feature drafting education. Most 4-year institutions don't offer education specifically in drafting, but earning a bachelor's degree in a related field such as engineering, math, computer technology or architecture, can be useful to gain employment, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, or BLS (www.bls.gov).

At community colleges and technical schools, associate's degrees or certificate programs focused specifically on drafting are widely available. An associate's degree in CAD technology is the most common education prerequisite for entry into computer-aided design and drawing careers. Common classes taught these degree programs include:

  • Engineering drawing

  • Technical drafting

  • Composition

  • Dimensioning

  • Manufacturing design

These 2-year degrees prove a graduate's value to employers and offer the best chance for career success in this competitive field, which is declining as compared to the national average according to the BLS as of December 2015.

The American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) offers a certification test that is designed to prove drafting knowledge; students may use it as a potential tool for career advancement. Their Drafters Certification Test tackles basic drafting concepts, such as working drawings, architectural terms and geometric construction ideas.

Computer aided design and drafting skills can be applied to a wide range of fields and specializations, depending on what you like to draw and what your other skills are. An associate's degree can open most entry-level opportunities to you, but further education could allow you to advance in this competitive sector.