CAD: The Future of Drafting and Design

Yesterday's drafting industry was all about a compass, a protractor, and charcoal pencils. The process took time and left very little room for even simple changes. But with the advent of computer aided drafting (CAD) and other high-tech drafting tools, engineers and architects are entering a brave new world in design. Here's how to get the drafting and CAD training you need to launch a fantastic design career!

Computer aided drafting is breaking the mold of the traditional drafting industry. The drawing board of yesteryear has been replaced by intuitive computerized desktops, increasing the capabilities of drafters and designers exponentially. Now, teams of drafters from across the globe can conference-plan the next generation of products using Web cams and instant messaging, and that's not even the tip of the iceberg. Computer technology changes the way they do their jobs, too. It's a phenomenon that offers a unique fusion of art and engineering for those looking to enter a solid career field.

CAD in Action

Suite of Solutions. CAD is comprised of a host of software and specialty hardware applications that are used to design and optimize a variety of sellable goods, high-end machines, and futuristic building designs.
CAD Benefits. Drafting pros who use CAD rely on it to reduce the amount of time it takes to reproduce complex blueprints, lower product development costs, and share production concepts through all stages of the project.
Case in Point. CAD is being used in high-tech search engines that will allow drafters and designers to search the web for similar designs based on simple sketches.

The growth of our cities combined with the demand for well designed goods at a lower cost has created a need for candidates with CAD savvy. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for drafting professionals will absolutely explode in the coming decade.

The Drafting Career Profile

Get Educated. Successful professionals in the drafting field have postsecondary educations in mechanical drawing, drafting standards, mathematics, science, and engineering technology.
Develop an Edge. The American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) has established a certification program for drafters that you should consider.
Earn More. Median annual salary of architectural and civil drafters was nearly $40,000 in May 2004, though those with the right training can earn considerably more.

With all of the exciting changes taking place in the drafting field, why not jump on board and ride the wave of technology to a career with limitless possibilities? Find drafting and CAD programs today!

Sources
American Design Drafting Association
Drafters
Researchers develop 3-D search engine

About the Author
Kelly Richardson covers the local education and technology scenes in major cities across the country. His articles appear in a variety of respected educational journals, periodicals, and e-zines.

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