If you can dream it, you can design it! CAD careers are great for people who like to design, develop and help make existing products even better.
Getting a background in computer-aided design will prepare you to start a career as a CAD Designer, CAD Technician, CAD Operator, CAD Detailer or Technical Illustrator. From there, you can expect to advance to careers in a number of industries including aerospace, architecture, civil, electrical, engineering, fire protection, marine, mechanical, process piping or structural.
Students with a background in computer-aided design can be prepared to start careers as CAD Designers, CAD Technicians, CAD Operators, CAD Detailers or Technical Illustrators. From there, they can expect to advance to careers in a number of industries including Aerospace, Architecture, Civil, Electrical, Engineering, Fire Protection, Marine, Mechanical, Process Piping or Structural. NCC provides the tools needed for career success by offering a curriculum that utilizes the latest software and technology including digital manufacturing and 3D Printing. Students are guided through problem-solving activities and design projects that promote individual and team effort, as well as creativity.
Your Career in Computer Aided Design
Like other workers who primarily use computers to do their work, CAD personnel usually work indoors and full time, although overtime is not uncommon. A CAD Drafter or CAD Designer's main duty is to assist in maintaining a company's product development needs. He or she will mainly be responsible for the creation and improvement of assembly drawings, subassembly and component design, detail drawings, etc. A mechanical designer must work in harmony with product development engineers in performing tasks such as making the necessary changes in designs, models or drawings, or engaging in meetings that focus on design reviews.
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) at NCC
The NCC computer-aided design program provides you with exceptional hands-on experience to prepare you for the professional world. Teaching you necessary skills to gain an entry-level position, our curriculum covers theoretical topics such as algebra and trigonometry, as well as practical matters such as engineering graphics and electrical fundamentals.
If you're interested in CAD school and prefer one-on-one interactions with faculty, we've got you covered.
Our computer-aided design program has a small professor to student ratio, allowing them to build relationships and experience a more personal touch on our interactive classes.
Our 2-year CAD program also entails computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) concepts. With both CAD and CADD courses, you'll learn how to create mechanical designs for product parts, assemblies and system configurations.
NCC students and graduates of the CAD and CADD programs have access to our career placement and counseling services. Find out how you can begin your computer-aided design and drafting degree at Northampton Community College.
Computer Aided Design Career Paths
- Mechanical Designer
- CAD Draftsperson
- CAD Designer
- CAD Technician
- CAD Operator
- CAD Detailer
Degrees We Offer
- Associate in Applied Science | 2 years
