Computer Aided Design
Technical designers use Computer Aided Design (CAD) in industry for a number of purposes and may do this in the traditional two-dimensional world or in the more revealing three-dimensional world. For example, the floor layout of a manufacturing plant might be made from a bird's eye view perspective, which might be best served with a 2-D plan view. Or, the swing path of a curved door might be best modeled in 3-D so the opening and closing path can be viewed from many perspectives - to more clearly see potential interferences. Beginning salaries in CAD range from $30,000 to $45,000 per year, while more experienced technical designers will receive salaries from $45,000 to $60,000 per year.
The technical core classes at EvCC have been structured to offer instruction in both 2D and 3D perspectives. Two classes in AutoCAD are currently offered 
for lessons in two dimensional representations, and include instruction in the way in which engineering drawings are laid out, as well as instruction in the basic and some of the more advanced design tools contained in the software. Three classes are offered in Solid Works, the first examining the basics involved in three dimensional representation, and the second exploring the use of dimensions, tolerances, and geometric tolerances. The third course examines certain industry specific protocols like flat patterns and weldments, and incorporates a module creating 3D models to build something on a 3-axis bench mill available at the college.
Two courses are also offered in CATIA, version 5, for those students seeking instruction on this popular CAD software. And finally, a course is offered in general computer literacy, to ensure that students are familiar with the Microsoft Office Suite.
These classes along with the other classes listed in the curriculum guide are designed so that students successfully completing the entire program will be able to:
- Solve technical mathematical problems
- Utilize basic engineering graphics with 2D CAD
- Create multi-view drawings using 2D and 3D CAD
- Create assembly drawings from 3D models
- Create complex surfaced part models using 3D CAD
- Design for producability and manufacturing ease
- Document technical activities in written and verbal reports
- Be prepared for successful employment
A Certificate Program and a 2-year ATA Degree are available. EvCC, however, is an open college, and some students may not choose to participate in the full program, but rather just take certain individual skills enhancing classes, which is all right. Most students entering the program are already familiar with the computer through their use of the internet, email, and so on. If you are not already comfortable with general computer use and file management, it is strongly recommended that you take a class like DEVED 096 before enrolling in any of the computer based classes in this program.
If you are not certain that CAD is the career for you, you might start by taking ENG T 100, ENG T 101 and perhaps another general education class selected from the curriculum guide - these classes may help you answer this question. And, certainly feel free to consult with an adviser!
If you have more questions or want to get started in the program, consult the CAD curriculum guide or the CAD instructor/adviser links in the right bar.
Student Email
