The Drafting and Design Technology program will provide you with an opportunity to develop essential skills used in engineering graphics by using real-world disciplines in drawing mechanical and architectural drawings using the latest CAD technology. Creating drawings representing ideas, concepts, and real objects including assembly and detail drawings, along with associated material specifications is included in the program. The technology and presentation method in this field changes rapidly, therefore, you will be exposed to the latest advances in technology. You will learn basic drawing board drafting skills along with intensive use of Computer Aided Drafting (CAD). Choose between either Architectural or Mechanical design in their your senior year. The course specializes in CAD software packages such as Mastercam, AutoDesk Inventor, AutoDesk Architectural Desktop, and 3D Max animation. With these CAD packages you create 3D models of machine parts or floor plans with 3D visual walk thru in a building. You will be exposed to applied mathematical operations in problem solving in a technical working environment. The program aims to develop strong attitudes and good work habits as required for employment as a technician.
Qualities and Characteristics of the Program
If you are
· practical
· precise
· ambitious
· systematic
· persistent
If you have
- good eyesight
- the ability to work cooperatively with others
- good eye, hand coordination
- the ability to follow oral and written directions
- average math and reading ability
- mechanical aptitude
- good measuring skills
- the ability to visualize objects abstractly
- build models
- sketch or draw
- work on a computer
- work indoors and outdoors
You will need
- a good attitude
If you think
- these qualities and characteristics describe YOU
This may be the program you are looking for!
Nature of the Program: Most drafters now use computer-aided drafting (CAD) systems to prepare drawings. CAD is only a tool so a person entering the drafting profession still needs the knowledge of traditional drafting skills and standards. Drafters usually work in comfortable offices that contain the equipment needed to complete their job (an adjustable drawing board for manual drawings or a computer terminal). Most of the drafting work today is done on a computer using the latest CAD software technology. A large percentage of drafters work for architectural or engineering firms or for durable goods manufacturing industries such as machinery, electrical equipment or fabricated metals.
Completion of the Program: Upon completion of the drafting and design technology program, students should have the qualifications to seek employment as a CAD operator, drafting technician, layout person, map maker, technical illustrator, mechanical designer, electrical draftsperson, structural draftsperson, cost estimator, or industrial technician. This course will also provide a sound foundation for those students who will be continuing their formal post-secondary education. Some local colleges give advanced college credits in drafting for those students completing this program. Most students attend college to obtain a two-year Engineering Technology degree or may decide to pursue a four-year Engineering degree.
Related Occupations: Mechanical, electrical, civil, or structural engineers, architect, prototype designer, landscape designer, design drafter, senior drafter, surveyor, CAD operator, technical illustrator, or estimator.
