Career questions tagged computer-aided-drafting
What careers would be possible with a Mechatronics degree vs Mechanical Drafting degree through a trade school.?
I am considering two different paths after graduating from high school. One would be a traditional college route with a four year degree in Mechatronics. The other would be a nearby trade school that offers an Associate degree in Drafting/Design and provides job placement assistance. For the past few years I have been on my school's robotics team and really enjoy designing the robot in CAD then 3-D printing all the parts to build it. I think both pathways lead to a similar career, but one is quicker and a fraction of the cost. Am I correct in this?
How Does the Colorado Opportunity Fund (COF) Work? #2025
I’m an in-state student planning to enroll in the Architectural Drafting Certificate program at Front Range Community College (FRCC). I’m trying to understand how the Colorado Opportunity Fund (COF) applies to my tuition. FRCC’s website lists tuition as $285 per credit hour for in-state students and $169 per credit hour after the COF stipend is applied. However, when I check my COF account, it shows that I’m awarded $145 and that $145 remains. I’ve already been approved for COF and selected to apply the stipend toward eligible courses. I’m planning to enroll in 6 credit hours for my first semester and want to understand how this amount will impact my tuition. Could someone please explain how the $145 COF amount is calculated and applied to tuition? Also, why does the actual reduction on FRCC’s website show only $116 per credit hour instead of $145? I’d appreciate any clarification or advice to help me make an informed decision. #2025
Is AutoCAD 3D still necessary in #2025, with tools like SketchUp and 3ds Max available?
I’m an interior designer from Thailand with over 5 years of experience. I’m now based in Denver, CO and currently applying for drafting/interior-related jobs in the U.S. I’ve mostly worked with SketchUp for 3D modeling and rendering, and I’m also familiar with tools like 3ds Max and Revit. But recently, I’ve seen some job listings that still mention AutoCAD 3D. So I’m wondering — is AutoCAD 3D still considered necessary in #2025? And if yes, in what kind of jobs or industries is it most commonly used? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Thanks in advance!
What is the best portfolio layout for 2025 – portrait, landscape, or square? #2025
I’m an interior designer from Thailand with 5+ years of experience. I’ve been living in Denver, CO, and currently looking for drafting/interior-related positions in the U.S. I’m updating my portfolio this year and wondering: what’s the best layout in 2025—portrait, landscape, or square? I’d like my portfolio to work well across different formats: - Sending as a PDF - Uploading to websites or job platforms - Presenting during interviews (online or in person) - Possibly printing it If anyone has advice or has seen what works best lately, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Thanks in advance! #2025
Thai Interior Designer is trying to get a drafting job in Denver for 1 year. What should I improve? #2025
I’m an interior designer from Thailand with 5+ years of experience in commercial projects like retail stores, restaurants, and department stores. I moved to Denver, CO, about a year ago and have been actively applying for CAD drafter or entry-level architecture/drafting jobs ever since. I have a U.S. Green Card and full work authorization, so I’m legally allowed to work in the country. I’ve had a few interviews, but I haven’t been hired yet. I’m starting to wonder: does my international experience not count for much here in the U.S.? Or is there something I’m missing that would make me a stronger candidate? I’m currently self-studying Revit and AutoCAD, and I’m considering joining a certificate program at a community college. I’m also trying to improve my portfolio and resume. I’d love your advice on: - How can I make my background more appealing to U.S. employers? - What should I focus on learning or improving right now? - Are there common mistakes that international professionals like me should avoid when job-hunting in the U.S.? Any tips or feedback would be truly appreciated. Thank you! #2025
Comparing In-State Tuition in Denver vs. Moving to LA for CAD/Drafting Programs? #2025
Hi, I live in Denver, Colorado, and am exploring options to study CAD/Drafting. I have over 5 years of experience working as an Interior Designer in Thailand, and now I’m looking to enhance my technical drafting skills to better align with U.S. industry standards. I’m debating whether it would be more cost-effective to: Stay in Denver and study as an In-State Resident at a community college like Arapahoe Community College (ACC) or Move to Los Angeles to attend a CAD/Drafting program, even though I’m currently not a California Resident Here are my main questions: How does the cost and value of studying in-state at ACC in Denver compare with non-resident tuition in LA (e.g., at LATTC or ELAC)? Are there any affordable CAD/Drafting programs in LA for non-residents, including private schools or bootcamps? How long would it take to become a California resident and qualify for in-state tuition? Based on my experience, would it be better to stay in Denver or move to LA for career opportunities and education in this field? Any advice or insights from people who’ve gone through something similar would be greatly appreciated! Thank you! #2025
Is "drafter" a still-used position at engineering firms? What skills does a drafter need?
For example, if you were going to a college with vocational courses, would it make sense to try to pursue something that prepares you to become a drafter? Are engineering firms still looking for people to handle just drafting, or do they only want engineers? If they are, what are the necessary drafting programs to learn that make you more employable? #engineering #civil-engineering #drafting #computer-aided-drafting #architectural-drafting #structural-drafting #vocational-school #vocational-planning #vocationalprograms
Are the jobs for CADD Drafters common or in high demand?
I am planning on getting a 2 year degree in CADD Drafting, because it's something I am very interested in, and I would like to know if I would be able to get a job after I get my degree. #design #computer-aided-drafting #drafting
I like computer drafting and architecture. I would like a 2 year degree. Would I have a disadvantage over someone with a four or five year degree?
People are telling me a master's degree is better than an associate's. #or #someone #with #year #either #five #two #architecture #computer-aided-drafting #drafting #architecture-and-planning #architect #career
Where in the U.S. are drafting jobs needed?
Drafting has a -3 percent outlook within the next 5 years. Job numbers are declining. #cad #drafting #computer-aided-drafting