Career Major in CAD: Computer-aid Design

Engineers, architects, and other types of designers need help when they design their products. The often look to CAD professionals for help. CAD stands for Computer-aided design and relates to the use of a wide range of computer-based geometry authoring tools that involves both software and occasionally special-purpose hardware. CAD packages can range from 3D solid and surface modelers to 2D vector-based drafting systems. The acronyms CADD (Computer-aided design and drafting), CAID (Computer-aided Industrial Design) and CAAD (Computer-aided architectural design) can be found in this industry as well. Additionally, CAM, or CAD/CAM (Computer-aided manufacturing) is generally used for graphical design, while KBE (Knowledge-based engineering) is applied to non-graphical computer-aided design.

CAD professionals use their skills to help with the design, development and optimization of products that can be either used by an end user or incorporated into other products. There is extensive used of CAD in the design of tools and machinery used for manufacturing components, and in the design of architecture, HVAC systems, transportation systems, apparel and textiles, wastewater systems, aerospace, manufacturing process planning, and much more.

In addition to providing final detailed drawings about the design of some of the things mentioned above, CAD is used through out the engineering process - beginning with the conceptual design and progressing through the states of product layout, strength and dynamic analysis of assemblies, and finally to the definition of methods of manufacturing.

In a time where so many companies are looking to cut costs, the role of CAD professionals has become especially important. Having well qualified CAD designers allows companies to lower their product development costs. typically the design cycle is greatly reduced and this results in a lowering of product development costs.

If you are interested in a career in technical design and CAD operation, technical institutes are considered to be the best for offering the most advanced and thorough training.

Technical schools offering Computer-aided drafting work with you to learn the latest drafting software tools (such as AutoCAD).

Classes typically include learning how to work with conventional drafting tools - such as drafting boards, compasses, protractors, rulers, and pencils on the supposition that if you understand these skills, then your knowledge will easily translate to use of the same types of implements in a computer-based system.

Additionally, you'll be taught the terminology of the profession that you wish to concentrate on (architecture, mechanical engineering, industrial production, etc.).

Schools offering CAD training can be found at CAD Training Schools and associations for CAD professionals can be found at TenLinks.com - Directory of CAD, CAM and CAE. You'd be wise to contact these professional associations as they are good sources to investigate when considering the quality of a school that you are interested in.