The Engineering CAD Technology (EN) curriculum prepares graduates for mechanical and engineering drafting positions in manufacturing- and engineering-based industries using advanced 2D and 3D CAD applications. Additionally, students broaden their drafting skills with course work in civil, structural, electrical, electronic, piping, architectural, and tool and die drafting, providing employment opportunity in related work areas. Specialized topics in geometric dimensioning and tolerancing and CAD customization and management provide further opportunity for the graduate. Students are introduced to product design and manufacturing processes where problem solving and analytical skills are enhanced through projects often involving team collaboration. Cutting-edge CAD instruction within state-of-the-art computer and 3D printing labs prepares the graduate for today’s work environment with a focus on parametric CAD and digital prototyping applications. AutoCAD®, Autodesk Inventor®, SolidWorks®, and Creo Parametric (formerly Pro/E) ® are used extensively in the program. In addition to course work specific to the major, mathematics, science, metallurgy, manufacturing materials, communications, and computer applications prepare the graduate for the drafting and design field. The Engineering CAD Technology (EN) program serves as the foundation for the Engineering Design Technology (BEN) baccalaureate degree, in which advanced topics in product design and manufacturing process are emphasized.

Career Opportunities

Engineering drafter or detailer, mechanical drafter or detailer, drafter, detailer, CAD technician, mechanical design technician, CAD operator, CAD operator in gas/petroleum industry, CAD manager, estimator, drafting manager, drafting supervisor; employment opportunities are also available in related industries such as civil, structural, electrical, electronic, piping, architectural, and tool and die drafting.

Recommended High School Subjects

Algebra II, geometry, art and science (physics) courses are recommended. Drafting and CAD skills are helpful but not required. Computer experience is desirable. Following a Career and Technical program of study curriculum would be a distinct advantage.

Special Equipment Needs

See the tools section of the program website for information about downloading CAD Software and necessary computer specifications.

Remediation Strategies

All entering students will be tested for English, math, and reading proficiency. Students are expected to remediate any deficiencies as explained in the Placement Testing page of this Catalog. Students with single or double deficiencies are permitted to enroll in the major while remediating their deficiencies.

Transfer Procedures

This major is subject to the transfer standards established by the College and explained on the Transferring Credits page of this Catalog. Exceptions must be approved by the school dean.

Program Goals

A graduate of this major should be able to:

• produce working drawings such as details, subassemblies, and assemblies in compliance with industrial standards utilizing 2D and 3D computer-aided drafting techniques.
• design and calculate data for gears, cams, and mechanisms and analyze them using 2D and 3D CAD simulation techniques.
• calculate dimensioning and tolerancing, and apply these calculations to working drawings.
• produce technical drawings with a focus on the following categories: civil, structural, architectural, electrical, electronic, piping, welding, sheet metal, and jig/fixture applications in compliance with industrial standards utilizing 2D and 3D computer-aided drafting techniques.
• demonstrate techniques and practices associated with advanced 2D and 3D CAD, including customization and CAD management.
• demonstrate research and data-collection skills necessary to obtain and apply technical information, such as the use of manufacturers' catalogs to select standard parts.
• apply math, English, science, and machine technology principles and practices to drafting and design industrial applications.
• demonstrate an understanding of professional behaviors associated with the drafting and design occupation.

Curriculum

Additional Information

Endorsed by the American Design Drafting Association.