Overview
COMPUTER AIDED DRAFTING & DESIGN
The Venango Technology Center provides the latest and most up-to-date CAD equipment. Students are introduced to drafting through basic sketching and drafting board exercises. At about eight weeks into the program, they begin their training on one of the 18 Gateway 4500D flat screen computer systems.
Students are trained with cutting edge technology programs which are in use in major corporations around the country. Instructors receive continued education in the newest versions to ensure students are ready to enter the job market or higher educational programs.
The Autodesk programs students receive training on include:
- AutoDesk Architecture 2025
- Inventor Professional 2025
- Revit Architecture 2025
- OSHA-10 General Industry
Methods of Student Evaluation:
- Basic Math Tests
- Daily Drawing Evaluations
- Fraction/Decimal Equivalents
Students in their senior year undergo NOCTI testing, but also become eligible for co-op positions. These are internships with local businesses where students are able to assist the company in actual drafting and design projects. Students who perform well and impress the organization are often offered permanent positions upon graduation. Some of the organizations that have previously offered co-op positions include:
- Penn DOT
- Forest Scientific Inc.
- DJA Inspection
- Komatsu
Career Opportunities
Students in the CAD program can pursue a number of careers following graduation. Some students graduate and immediately enter the workforce. However, the majority of students use their vocational education as an introductory program and continue on a secondary education at either a technical 2 year college or a four year college. Some career opportunities for CAD students include:
- Draftsman/designer for manufacturing applications
- Architectural Draftsman
- Engineer
Salary projection:
- Mechanical CAD draftsman - $35,000 to $50, 000/yr.
- Architectural draftsman - $35,000 to $55,000/yr.
- Engineer - $55,000 to $75,000/yr.
Teacher Information:
Mr. Eric Smith
(814) 677-3097 x1115
esmith@vtc1.org
Industry Recognized Certifications Available:
CareerSafe - OSHA Certification - General Industry
More Information:
Competency Task Grid
SOAR Articulations site Look for 15.1301 Drafting And Design Technology/Technician, General in the dropdown menu
Skills Taught
The Basics:
- Basic Math Skills
- The Graphic Language
- Geometric Construction
- Instrament Drawing
- Skeching and Shape Description
- Multi-View Projection
Mechanical:
- Auxiliary View Drawings
- Sectional View Drawings
- Threads and Fasteners
- Dimensioning
- Assembly & Sub Assembalyu Drawings
- Detrail Drawing
- Bill of Material
- 3-D Modeling
Architectural:
- Floor Plans
- Foundation Plans
- Electrical Plans
- Roof/Floor Farming Drawings
- Elevation Drawings
Topics Covered:
- Sketching, Basic Orthographic Projection
- Assembly and Sub-Assembly Drawings
- Screw Thread Terminology
- Sectioning
- Architectural Floor Plans, Foundation Plans, Front/Side Elevations, Floor and Roof Framing
- Structural Drafting
- Welding/Piping Symbols
- 3D Solid Modeling