CAD Training (Computer Aided Drafting)
Computer Aided or Computer Assisted Design (CAD, also called CADD—computer aided design and drafting) relates to the use of a computer and graphics technology in industrial design applications. CAD programs typically offer courses in drafting, building mechanical and electrical systems, 3-D modeling, mechanical and architectural design, and commercial construction methods, among others.
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Drafting Professions
Drafters prepare technical drawings and plans used by production and construction workers to build everything from manufactured products such as toys, toasters, industrial machinery and spacecraft, to structures such as houses, office buildings, and oil and gas pipelines.
Their drawings provide visual guidelines, show the technical details of the products and structures, and specify dimensions, materials and procedures. Drafters fill in technical details, using drawings, rough sketches, specifications, codes and calculations previously made by engineers, surveyors, architects or scientists.
Traditionally, drafters sat at drawing boards and used pencils, pens, compasses, protractors and triangles to prepare a drawing manually. Most drafters now use computer-aided drafting (CAD) systems to prepare drawings. CAD systems employ computer workstations to create a drawing on a video screen.
Professions that use computer-aided drafting systems:
- Architecture
- Civil Drafting
- Electrical and Electronics Drafting
- Interior Design
- Mechanical Drafting
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Drafting: Salaries
Salaries for drafters vary by specialty and level of responsibility. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2006:
- The median annual salary of architectural and civil drafters was $43,900.
- The median annual salary of mechanical drafters in architectural, engineering and related services was $45,960.
- The median annual salary of electrical and electronics drafters was $49,610.