Computer Aided Design & Drafting

Designing the Future

Designed to provide students with the skills and technical knowledge requested by employers using Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD) in a variety of disciplines. This program focuses on the development of CADD skills and problem-solving strategies in the development of two- and three-dimensional models. Additional engineering options allow students to acquire advanced CADD skills in areas of special interest.

The CADD technology associate in science degree prepares the student for various job opportunities in a wide variety of disciplines. There is an increasing demand for competent engineering technicians knowledgeable in the use and application of CADD software. Students planning to enroll in a four-year college engineering program will benefit greatly by developing CADD skills used in most engineering departments.

Program Awards

Our Computer Aided Design and Drafting programs are included in the Arts, Communication, Design, and Media field of study and offer these awards:

Award	Location	Estimated Completion	Program Map
Computer Aided Design and Drafting, Associate in Science Degree: Career/Technical	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Design Technology, Associate in Science Degree: Career/Technical	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Computer Aided Design and Drafting---Advanced, Certificate of Achievement	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Design Technology, Certificate of Achievement	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Computer Aided Design and Drafting---Basic, Certificate of Proficiency	Chula Vista	# Semesters

Common Careers

Below is a sample of the career options available for the computer aided design major. Some require a certificate of achievement and most require an associate in science degree: mechanical, aeronautical, structural, and civil engineering. New areas of use can be found in animation, simulation, and theatrical departments. While drafting boards are still in use, a large number of companies have integrated drafting boards with monitors and computers, requiring that today’s engineers, designers, and draftsmen possess both essential drafting and CADD competencies.

The average annual salary in this field is $81,140 for occupations like Mechanical Drafter.

Typical Duties

• Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment
  Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
• Working with Computers
  Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
• Getting Information
  Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
• Thinking Creatively
  Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
• Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
  Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
• Making Decisions and Solving Problems
  Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
• Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
  Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
• Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge 
  Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
• Documenting/Recording Information
  Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
• Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
  Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
• Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
  Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
• Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
  Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
• Processing Information
  Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
• Analyzing Data or Information
  Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
• Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
  Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
• Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information
  Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
• Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others
  Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
• Communicating with People Outside the Organization
  Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
• Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
  Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.