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Why should you become a CAD Operator or a Drafter?

Employment of drafters is expected to increase 10 to 20% between 2000 and 2010.

What does a CAD Operator or a Drafter do?

Drafting is the process of turning ideas of how things should be constructed into drawings. These drawings, which are based upon sketches and calculations made by engineers, surveyors, architects or scientists, provide visual guidelines such as dimensions, materials to be used, and procedures to be followed.

Before CAD (Computer Aided Drafting), drafters sat at drawing boards and used pencils, pens, compasses, protractors, triangles, and other drafting devices to prepare a drawing manually. Now, most drafters use CAD to create drawings on a screen. This way, drafters can make revisions quickly and easily.

CAD drawings are used to build everything from manufactured products, such as toys, toasters, industrial machinery, or spacecraft, to structures, such as houses, office buildings, or oil and gas pipelines. Today, the mainstream 3D CAD tool is SolidWorks. Over 350,000 CAD professionals use SolidWorks worldwide. The best of those have earned the designation of CSWP (Certified SolidWorks Professional).

The job market is a fierce and competitive arena where valued credentials are a distinct advantage over the competition. Becoming a CSWP will give you the edge required to compete and win placement in the top ranked industry positions. Earning the CSWP status will allow hiring managers to discern the level of commitment to your career along with the knowledge that you as a professional, have the proven abilities and experience they require to meet their goals. You will be recognized as one of the top SolidWorks MCAD designers in the country.

The SolidWorks Complete Program is a vehicle of instructor led training designed to give participants the skills to become certified in SolidWorks 3D CAD Training. The expected demand for mechanical drafting services continues to be strong. This may be the career you’ve been looking for!

Job Outlook & Earnings Potential (from US Dept. of Labor)

Industrial growth and increasingly complex design problems associated with new products and manufacturing processes will increase the demand for drafting services. Further, drafters are beginning to break out of the traditional drafting role and increasingly do work traditionally performed by engineers and architects, thus increasing the need for drafters.

Opportunities should be best for individuals who have at least 2 years of postsecondary training in a drafting program that provides strong technical skills, and who have considerable skill and experience using CAD systems. CAD has increased the complexity of drafting applications while enhancing the productivity of drafters. It also has enhanced the nature of drafting by creating more possibilities for design and drafting. As technology continues to advance, employers will look for drafters with a strong background in fundamental drafting principles, a higher level of technical sophistication, and an ability to apply this knowledge to a broader range of responsibilities.

Drafters prepare technical drawings and plans used by production and construction workers to build everything from manufactured products, such as toys, toasters, industrial machinery, and spacecraft, to structures, such as houses, office buildings, and oil and gas pipelines. Their drawings provide visual guidelines, show the technical details of the products and structures, and specify dimensions, materials, and procedures. Drafters fill in technical details, using drawings, rough sketches, specifications, codes, and calculations previously made by engineers, surveyors, architects, or scientists. For example, they use their knowledge of standardized building techniques to draw in the details of a structure. Some drafters use their knowledge of engineering and manufacturing theory and standards to draw the parts of a machine in order to determine design elements, such as the numbers and kinds of fasteners needed to assemble the machine. Drafters use technical handbooks, tables, calculators, and computers to complete their work.

Employers prefer applicants who have completed postsecondary school training in drafting, which is offered by technical institutes, community colleges, and some 4-year colleges and universities. Employers are most interested in applicants with well-developed drafting and mechanical-drawing skills; knowledge of drafting standards, mathematics, science, and engineering technology; and a solid background in computer-aided design and drafting techniques. In addition, communication and problem-solving skills are important.

Training and course work differ somewhat within the drafting specialties. The initial training for each specialty is similar. All incorporate math and communication skills, for example, but course work relating to the specialty varies. In an electronics drafting program, for example, students learn how to depict electronic components and circuits in drawings.

Many types of publicly and privately operated schools provide some form of training in drafting. The kind and quality of programs vary considerably; therefore, prospective students should be careful in selecting a program. They should contact prospective employers regarding their preferences and ask schools to provide information about the kinds of jobs that are obtained by the school’s graduates, the types and conditions of the instructional facilities and equipment, and the faculty’s qualifications.

Technical institutes offer intensive technical training, but less general education than do junior and community colleges. Certificates or diplomas based on the completion of a certain number of course hours may be awarded. Many technical institutes offer 2-year associate degree programs, which are similar to, or part of, the programs offered by community colleges or State university systems. Their programs vary considerably in both length and type of courses offered. Some area vocational-technical schools are postsecondary public institutions that serve local students and emphasize the type of training preferred by local employers. Many offer introductory drafting instruction. Most require a high school diploma or its equivalent for admission. Other technical institutes are run by private, often for-profit, organizations, sometimes called proprietary schools.

Community colleges offer curricula similar to those in technical institutes, but include more courses on theory and liberal arts. Often, there is little or no difference between technical institute and community college programs. However, courses taken at community colleges are more likely than those given at technical institutes to be accepted for credit at 4-year colleges. After completing a 2-year associate degree program, graduates may obtain jobs as drafters or continue their education in a related field at 4-year colleges. Most 4-year colleges usually do not offer training in drafting, but college courses in engineering, architecture, and mathematics are useful for obtaining a job as a drafter.

Technical training obtained in the Armed Forces also can be applied in civilian drafting jobs. Some additional training may be necessary, depending on the technical area or military specialty.

The American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) has established a certification program for drafters. Although employers usually do not require drafters to be certified, certification demonstrates an understanding of nationally recognized practices and standards of knowledge. Individuals who wish to become certified must pass the Drafter Certification Test, which is administered periodically at ADDA-authorized sites. Applicants are tested on their knowledge and understanding of basic drafting concepts, such as geometric construction, working drawings, and architectural terms and standards.

Individuals planning careers in drafting should take courses in mathematics, science, computer technology, design, and computer graphics, as well as any high school drafting courses available. Mechanical ability and visual aptitude also are important. Prospective drafters should be able to draw well and perform detailed work accurately and neatly. Artistic ability is helpful in some specialized fields, as is knowledge of manufacturing and construction methods. In addition, prospective drafters should have good interpersonal skills, because they work closely with engineers, surveyors, architects, other professionals, and, sometimes, customers.

Entry-level or junior drafters usually do routine work under close supervision. After gaining experience, they may become intermediate-level drafters and progress to more difficult work with less supervision. At the intermediate level, they may need to exercise more judgment and perform calculations when preparing and modifying drawings. Drafters may eventually advance to senior drafter, designer, or supervisor. Many employers pay for continuing education, and, with appropriate college degrees, drafters may go on to become engineering technicians, engineers, or architects.

Ohio Employment Projections
For: 17-3013 Mechanical Drafters

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What does the program consist of?

In today’s dynamic job market, only the most qualified and advanced professionals will succeed. With an increasingly complex technical environment, standards are necessary to measure the competencies of mechanical design professionals. The CSWP Program sets these standards and ensures that 3D CAD users have the necessary skills and capabilities to deliver the highest quality work possible.

Whether one is a designer, engineering manager or simply looking to change their skill sets, they can benefit from the CSWP Program. By earning CSWP status, one clearly indicates that they are highly qualified and competent in 3D mechanical design, as well as being valued and highly marketable. Certification also allows hiring managers to discern one’s level of commitment to their career and lets them know they have the proven abilities and experience to help them meet their goals.

What sets the CSWP Program apart?

To date, the CSWP Program is the only comprehensive certification program to address the mainstream 3D mechanical design market. The SolidWorks program uses both objective questions and hands –on approach to evaluate one’s knowledge of SolidWorks software as well as one’s skills in capturing design intent. Using these two testing methods together provides a better indication of one’s knowledge and abilities.

SolidWorks training gives job seekers a distinct advantage.

Proper training in SolidWorks gives job seekers a distinct advantage. With over 300,000 seats in production, SolidWorks has become the standard in mainstream mechanical design. On posting sites such as monster.com, requests for individuals with SolidWorks experience outnumber other CAD offerings by over 4 to 1.

The SolidWorks training program is designed to expose individuals to as many aspects of SolidWorks as possible. The knowledge gained through training can provide one with a strong foundation and preparation for testing.

What does the certification test include?

The CSWP exam is an all-day event that consists of a general knowledge exam and a performance based modeling test. The general knowledge exam reviews competencies gained from instructor led training and includes multiple choice, true/false, matching and fill in the blank questions.

The performance based portion of the test requires students to demonstrate mastery in basic models, assemblies and drawings. Students must also demonstrate mastery of two advanced topics such as sheet metal, mold creation and freeform shapes.

Students must receive a score of at least 80% to pass the test. The test is weighed as follows:

• Written Exam – 20%
• Basic Skills – 60%
• Advanced Topics – 20%

Once students receive a passing grade, they will receive a “Certified SolidWorks Professional” certificate. In addition, they will be allowed to utilize the CSWP logo to use in marketing their skills more effectively. SolidWorks will also add their name to a web-based directory of CSWP professionals, which serves as a reference to instantly establish one’s credentials.

The Courses

The focus of each SolidWorks training course is on the fundamental skills and concepts central to the successful use of the SolidWorks mechanical design software.

Once the fundamentals of SolidWorks use are achieved, test your skills by taking the Certified SolidWorks Professional (CSWP) exam and join a growing community of proven SolidWorks talent. 

SolidWorks Certified Training Courses

1. Essentials: Parts and Assemblies
2. Essentials: Drawings
3. Advanced Part Modeling
4. Advanced Assembly Modeling
5. Sheet Metal
6. SolidWorks File Management
7. PDMWorks
8. API Fundamentals
9. CAD Productivity Tools
10. Animator
11. Photoworks
12. Routing

Learning Labs

Reinforcement of instructor-led classes is accomplished through our Integrated Teaching and Learning Laboratory, a six station hands on learning room. Each Student is encouraged to spend 3 to 4 days in Learning Lab for each day of instructor-led training. This provides students with an interdisciplinary learning area that allows them to utilize principles of design with hands-on real world products. The goal is for students to seeks out living examples that apply to design.

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CADVenture SolidWorks Course Offerings & Pricing — Retraining Program

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Financing Options

If you are out of work, or looking for a better job, or job skillsets, Lake County’s One Stop Program working in conjunction with the Workforce Investment Act (WIA), may provide a vehicle to help you realize your goals. To explore SolidWorks 3D CAD training or other careers of interest, contact One Stop:

How and where do I start?

Employment & Training Division 

Lake County Job & Family Services
177 Main Street
Painesville, OH 44077
(440) 350-4000 Main
(440) 918-4000 Lake County West
(440) 298-3357 Madison Area

What job search and skill building services are available for me?

• Job Search Assistance
• Browse Local Job Opportunities
• Interest & Skill Review
• Local Labor Market Information
• Computer Skills Training
• Modern Computer Lab
• Use our Phones, Copiers & Fax
• Electronic Business Directories
• Resume Assistance
• Learn & Practice Interviewing
• Tap into the "Hidden Job Market"
• Post "Work Wanted" Ads or your Resume
• They'll help determine your eligibility for additional skill training that may lead to FREE scholarships.

Lake County One Stop provides:

• Job search assistance
  • Helpful Employment Service Counselors are available for guidance
  • Their website www.lake1stop.org has many tools to help you
    • Browse a list of local job openings that is updated several times each day
    • Browse hundreds of other job boards by clicking on a link in the Job Seekers section
      • Click on More Job Boards to find a list of job boards that are categorized by industry and interest

Additionally, you may use their career center for:

• Resume assistance
  • Use WinWay Resume software in the career center for help with your resume
  • An Employment Service Counselor will help you as you write an effective resume
  • There are several links to free sample resumes and resume tutorials on our website in the Self-Help & Assessment section

You may also use the center for:

• Finding a career or occupation that interests you
  • OCIS (Ohio Career Information System) software is available in the career center to provide:
    • Descriptions of occupations that might interest you
    • Ohio employment potential for each occupation
    • Educational requirements for each occupation and the schools that offer training
    • Advice on where to find scholarships and financial aid for this training
    • Multimedia videos showing people working in specific occupations

Frequently Asked Questions

This program sounds too good to be true, what's the catch?

This is a federally funded program designed to assist people in gaining employment.  It is a great opportunity for you to utilize, there is no catch.

What is the first thing I need to do if I think I may need training?

Come in and use their learning lab for job search and speak with a professional career advisor.

Other financing options:

• CADVenture Payment Plan
• Bank Financing
• Cash
• Credit Card

Request Additional Information

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