How to Learn CAD Programs

Many industries look for employees who know CAD software.

CAD stands for Computer Aided Design, and learning CAD programs is a frequent job requirement for many industries, including architecture, engineering, construction, automotive, aerospace and manufacturing. Media and telecommunications, utilities, education and government are other industries who require CAD employees. Platforms that support CAD software include Windows, UNIX, Mac OS X and Linix. CAD programs can be learned through online courses, attending classes at a either a community college or four-year university, or interning at a business where it is used.

Instructions

1. Take an online course.

   CAD Institute offers scheduled, eight-week courses covering the basic fundamentals of CAD software, in addition to optional mechanical, electrical and architecture specifications. The course requires a minimum time commitment of 10 hours a week.

   CADLearning offers daily, monthly and annual subscriptions. The course covers covers basic concepts like simple drawings to more complex drawings of 2D and 3D objects. More than 35 hours of training and 500 video tutorials are among the course's features.

2. Enroll in a traditional school for CAD courses.

   Schools, including the University of Chicago - Urbana/Champlain and Purdue University, offer CAD with their architecture/engineering programs. Many community colleges offer CAD classes in their curriculum. Course typically run eight to 12 weeks.

   Other schools, such as DeVry University, University of Phoenix, ITT Tech and American Intercontinental University, offer CAD classes. The Las Vegas, NV and Minneapolis MN locations of the Art Institutes Schools also offer CAD programs.

3. Intern at a local firm that utilizes CAD in their daily operations.

   Inquire if your school offers internship programs. To approach a company about a possible internship, contact its human-resources department with a resume and a cover letter stating your desire to intern.

   Use the resource of the American Institute or Architects (AIA) and the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) to locate local professionals.

   Construction management firms across the country often hire student interns. Many interns are able to find employment once they have graduated from school.

4. Get free CAD software online. Some companies, including Autodesk, offer free or discounted CAD software to students from accredited schools. As some programs require increased RAM capacity, ascertain which software works best.

References

• Purdue University: School of Aeronautics and Astronautics: Computer Aided Design
• CAD Institute: Fundaments of AutoCAD
• American Institute of Architects: AIA rchitect Finder
• National Society of Professional Engineers: Firm Finder
• Autodesk: How to Buy