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All phases of industry require the conversion of new ideas and design concepts into the basic line language of graphics. There are many areas in which the skills of the CAD designer/drafter play major roles in the design and development of new products or construction. Students master skills in the production of mechanical, architectural, electrical, and industrial drawings using both traditional drafting machines and 2D and 3D computer-aided drafting (CAD) systems; and the selection and design of structural and mechanical systems.

Duties

Graduates working in this field may be required to:

  • prepare working plans and mechanical drawings from information supplied by scientist, engineers, architects and other professionals

  • create solid models of designs using CAD

  • write specifications on the type, strength, size and quality of materials needed

  • estimate quantity and cost of materials

  • check accuracy of completed drawings

  • determine work procedures

  • use engineering tables and manuals to determine strength of materials, gear ratios, sizes of bolts or other fasteners to use

  • may operate CAD/CAM equipment or other devices

  • read blueprints and prepare blueprints

Working Conditions

Graduates working in this field commonly experience:

  • clean; air conditioned office settings

  • computer room environment

  • traditional day shift hours with occasional overtime

  • working in a team environment

  • working under direct supervision or little or no supervision

Physical Demands

  • great deal of sitting (in computer rooms/offices)

  • light lifting (up to 20 lbs.)

Characteristics & Temperament

Graduates in this field should have:

  • problem-solving skills

  • good communication skills

  • good social skills (essential for career advancement)

  • ability to work with numbers, symbols, concepts

  • preciseness; attention to detail

  • excellent spatial aptitude (comprehend two and three-dimensional objects; recognize relationships resulting from the movement of objects)

  • mechanical reasoning (understand mechanical principles and devices; understand how things work and how to fix them)

  • fait motor movement (hand/eye coordination, manual dexterity)

  • ability to make generalizations, evaluations, decisions based on verifiable data

Employment Outlook

Employment statistics for 2003-2008 PTC graduates, who found jobs in this field, are as follows:

  • salary average: $28,250

  • salary range: $15,000-45,000 per year  

  • 86% placement rate

  • possible entry level positions: surveyor, CAD/CAM operator, drafter, designer, associate engineer

  • advancement possible with experience and further education

  • employment in cities and towns of all sizes

Employers

Some recent graduates have found work at: