Computer Aided Design & Drafting (CADD) Technology
www.linnbenton.edu/cadd
The two-year CADD Technology program is a technical curriculum designed to assist students in acquiring basic attitudes, skills and knowledge necessary to successfully enter drafting occupations. The first year of study provides a sound general background, while the second year provides more specific coverage of major occupational areas, such as civil, mechanical, schematics, architectural and technical illustration.
Skilled CADD operators find careers in engineering, architecture, construction, manufacturing, 3-D graphics and many other exciting fields. This career often is an entry point into design, engineering, management and other related areas with salary increases commensurate with skills.
CADD techs make detailed drawings of objects that will be manufactured or built. Many CADD techs specialize in one area. For example, architectural CADD techs draw features of buildings and other structures. Aeronautical CADD techs prepare drawings of aircraft and missiles. Civil CADD techs prepare drawings and maps of highways, pipelines and water systems. Electrical CADD techs draw wiring and layout diagrams. These are used by workers who install and repair electrical equipment and wiring in buildings. Electronic CADD techs draw wiring diagrams, circuit board assembly diagrams and layout drawings. Workers who assemble, install and repair electronic equipment use these. Mechanical CADD techs make detailed drawings of machinery, factories, aircraft, automobiles, other consumer and mechanical devices.
CADD techs need knowledge in the following areas: making and using plans, blueprints, drawing, and models; how to build machines, buildings, and other things; how to use computers, machines, and tools to do work more usefully; mathematics, including algebra, geometry, and statistics; computer hardware and software; physics; and use of the English language.
Program Requirements
Core CADD coursework is rigorous and sequential. Careful scheduling and dedicated effort are required to complete the program in two years. Entering students should have a ninth-grade reading level and be prepared to register for math classes as needed. Students are required to complete MTH 111 College Algebra and several CADD courses that require math skills. Entry into the CADD program is possible any term, starting with non-sequential related instruction classes.
Most class sequences begin in the fall. Working students should consider completing the program in three years or more. Students may attend on a part-time basis with little difficulty. Students may take Related Instruction courses at night, but most technical courses are offered only during the day. Individuals seeking to learn AutoCAD® for personal use or to update AutoCAD® skills may enroll in evening classes. Students are required to purchase basic drafting equipment at an approximate cost of $40.