How to get started as a CAD Operator

by Barry Morton
(USA)

This is not a technical question, but more of a professional question. I'm looking at changing careers and getting in something I love to do, drawing/drafting and design.

I've looked at many training sites and online universities that offer a drafting/CAD course, but I'm not sure which is the best way to go.

I currently live and work (IT) overseas and I wish to remain working overseas, maybe as a CAD Operator Contractor or something along those lines.

Can you guide/inform/tell me, in your professional opinion, what would be the best school/course/training to take for CAD? What level of certification and type would I need to have a opportunity to work in this field?

I know I would lack experience in the beginning, but that will come over time. At the moment I need to increase my knowledge with CAD.

Any assistance you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

v/r
Barry Morton

Answer

Hi Barry,

I think the first thing you need to decide is what field you want to get into, with respect to CAD.

You enjoy drawing, so what types of things do you like to draw? I ask this so you can narrow down your preferred field.

After all, it is better to end up working doing something you LOVE, than just to collect a paycheck.

If you want to get into Architectural drafting, the requirements and training will be different than Aviation drafting.

If I were you, I would call up a few firms related to the field of drafting you would like to get into. Talk to them a bit on their requirements.

This may end up saving you time. If most of the firms indicate they use Pro-E software, and you've gone and taken a bunch of AutoCAD courses... well, I think you get the picture.

With that said, if AutoCAD was the area of CAD drafting you wanted to get into, I would locate an Authorized Autodesk Training facility first.

I know you are over seas, but they are located all over the world.

We did an article a while back here on computer aided drafting career information.

In that article is a link to Autodesk training facilities. That would be my first stop for AutoCAD training because you know you are getting solid training straight from an approved facility.

If they do not have a facility near you, call the nearest one and ask to talk to one of the instructors.

Tell them what field you want to get into and ask them what is the best way to get certified training, based on your location.

Hope that helps and good luck with getting started as a CAD operator.

Warm regards,

RJ
The Cadtech Design Team
icadtec.com