Program Summary (
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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.
Today, most drafters use computer-aided design and drafting (CAD) systems to prepare drawings. Persons who produce technical drawings with CAD, however, still function as drafters and need the knowledge of traditional drafters, in addition to CAD skills.
Employment Trends
Opportunities should be best for individuals with some postsecondary training in drafting and experience using computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) systems.
Demand for particular drafting specialties varies geographically, depending on the needs of local industry.
Program Objectives (
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Successful completion of each course earns a Certificate of Completion
Please check the
Schedule of Courses for courses currently offered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the courses cover?
CST 394,
Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting using AutoCAD, gives students the background needed to make a complex, dimensioned, two-dimensional drawing, such as for architectural plans or machine parts. The second course, CST 395,
Three-dimensional CAD with AutoCAD, covers wireframe, surface, and solid models. Then, CST 312,
Customizing AutoCAD, covers how to create menus, scripts, macros, and AutoLISP.
What version of AutoCAD will I learn?
Students always learn on the current, production version of AutoCAD software for which the college as a site license.
Will I have access to the AutoCAD software outside of class?
Registered students can use AutoCAD software in the open labs in the High Technology Center on the Largo Campus -- open 8 am -10 pm M-F and 8 am – 5 pm on Saturday.
What equipment does the AutoCAD lab have?
The college’s AutoCAD lab, in the High Technology Center, Room 313, offers 24 computers for student use, an instructor station with a projection system, and large-format color printers for output of student work.
Can I get a copy of AutoCAD to use on my home computer?
Registered students can purchase a six-month license for the student version of AutoCAD for approximately $50 or for a one-year license for approximately $100. These licenses are available only through the college bookstore and are non-renewable. The student version of the software includes the same functionality as the full version, except that all files and printouts are labeled "student version," as they are for learning, and not for commercial purposes.
Are these courses available for credit?
All of the AutoCAD courses are taught simultaneously for both credit and noncredit. In fact, the classes will include a mix of both credit and noncredit students. Credit students will receive a certificate in Computer-Aided Drafting, which can be used towards an Associate’s D egree in Engineering Technology. Noncredit students will receive a Certificate of Completion, but are still qualified to apply for professional certification.
Is there an AutoCAD certification exam?
Yes.
AutoDesk , the parent company of AutoCAD, has a certification for the "AutoCAD Certified User." Students completing the first course should be ready to pass this examination. More information is available on their website.
Are all the courses offered each semester?
No. Typically the introductory course is offered in the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. The advanced courses are offered only once per year. The 3D course is usually offered in the Fall, and the Customizing course is offered in the Spring. These schedules are subject to change, however, so please see the
Schedule of Courses to confirm these offerings.
Who can I contact for additional information?
Mr. William Lauffer
PGCC Department Chair for Engineering Technology, Cisco Academy Lead Instructor
301-322-0774,
wlauffer@pgcc.edu