CAD specialists are required to use software that helps them produce precise, accurate computer images of complicated or difficult-to-analyze processes, so they may spend hours on end working through intricate designs, testing and implementing computer software. They should be comfortable using computers to draw out plans, specifications, or blueprints, and should be able to quickly and easily communicate their ideas to their engineers or other personnel in their department. These are skills and capabilities that you can gain by completing a bachelor’s degree program in engineering management or a similar course.
Once you have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher, there are a number of companies that offer opportunities to get hired as an engineer technician. The process is similar to how you would apply for work as an engineer. Companies often conduct a background check, conduct interviews, and interview potential employees at job fairs. If you have a good educational record, a good job history, and the necessary computer skills, you can be hired as an engineer technician by one or several companies.
Before you get hired as an engineer technician, you’ll need to complete a bachelor’s degree or higher. This will put you on the fast track to becoming a CAD designer. Depending on your major, you’ll need to choose between a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE) and a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering (BSAE). For those who want to work as a CAD specialist as a drafter, you’ll need to earn a Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MSCE). To learn about job outlook for engineers, check with the National Center for Engineering Career Information (NCCI).
While your bachelor’s degree is in hand, you’ll be able to work as an engineer technician by taking online classes at local colleges and technical schools. There are a number of accredited online schools and universities that offer engineering classes designed to teach students about the ins and outs of CAD. If you’re interested in a career that can help you find employment with NASA, for example, you can enroll in a four-year degree program at one of the state colleges that offer a certificate program in aerospace engineering.
After completing your degree, you’ll be able to sit for the national certification exam that will help qualify you for your job as an engineer technician. The exam consists of two parts: an exam covering theoretical and practical subjects, and a written exam covering both subjects.
If you pass both exams, you’ll qualify for the certification, and you’ll be given the opportunity to work with NASA to qualify for the job of a certified engineer technician. Because your education in engineering is still ongoing, your ability to carry out tasks in the field will stay current. As an engineer technician, you will work directly with NASA, the Department of Defense, aerospace companies, and other organizations that use CAD programs.
The cost of a four-year program in engineering management or related fields may not be financially affordable for many college graduates. For this reason, many engineering students choose to study a shorter program, such as associate degrees or bachelor’s degrees. In some cases, you can earn your degree faster and save money. To become certified as an engineer technician, you’ll need a high school diploma or a GED and an acceptable high school diploma or GED score.
