The Computer Aided Design & Drafting (CADD) Diploma program is designed to develop and enhance practical skills; increasing students' knowledge for a successful CADD career. Throughout the program students will design and draft various projects that are produced in digital and physical models. Students will obtain extensive experience utilizing AutoCAD and BIM software.

This program offers students two unique ways to approach their learning. First, students may choose from several specialties including:

• Architectural
• Structural
• Mechanical

Second, the program offers students three options for their studies:

• Diploma in Computer Aided Design and Drafting
• Certificate in Computer Aided Design and Drafting
• Citation in Computer Aided Design and Drafting

The Certificate, and Citation are embedded within the Diploma. They allow students who do not wish to pursue a diploma in CADD to have an optional exit point after two or one semester of coursework.

Specialties

After successful completion of the Introductory Core (first semester, Citation) students will choose their Specialty. Specialties are not offered every semester, therefore students are asked to consult with the CADD Program Chair through the Specialty selection planning process.

Architectural

Normally offered in the Fall semester, students prepare sets of drawings to graphically convey design and dimensional information to meet the qualifications for a building permit in residential, commercial and institutional applications.

Architectural CADD/Drafting graduates create 3D models and 2D drawings for residential, commercial and government buildings. They may pursue an entry level position in a variety of employment situations such as an Architectural design office, a manufacturing company of prefabricated buildings or trusses, a construction company, a kitchen/cabinet design company, a municipal office, or a company that specializes in single and multi-family residential plans.

Structural

Normally offered in the Spring semester, students prepare sets of drawings to graphically convey design and dimensional information for concrete, steel and timber structures, site preparation and precast concrete. Structural CADD/Drafting graduates create 3D models and 2D drawings for steel, concrete, and wood structures. They also prepare site drawings. Graduates may pursue an entry level position in a variety of employment situations such as an engineering office, a municipal office, or a steel fabrication shop. Structural graduates work on structures for Architectural, Industrial, Highway, Railway and Marine facilities.

Mechanical

Normally offered in the Summer semester, Mechanical CADD/Drafting graduate students create 3D models and 2D drawings that detail industrial layouts such as conveyors and process piping, and manufacturing information for component assemblies and details. Graduates may pursue entry-level positions in a variety of engineering firms, product design companies, construction companies or in fabrication shops. Graduates may work closely with machinists and fabricators to perfect the design, and to establish efficient production and installation procedures.

Career Opportunities

CADD/Drafting graduates may pursue a career in a variety of employment situations in architectural, engineering, manufacturing or municipal offices, or in a production /construction setting.

After a few years in CADD/Drafting many of our graduates move on to positions in sales, customer service, production management, estimating, CADD and network management and contract services (self-employment). Responsibilities can include design team management, project management of small projects, and production scheduling.