Architectural Designs

CAD / CAM career path?

I am a Master's student in a field not relevant to CAD/CAM. But I now feel CAD shoud be field I should be in. But I was not sure of the career path in ths field, still not devating from the CAD. Will I able to have a career path, like an Engineer has? Will I be paid equal to an Engineer with same amount of experience as me (draftsperson)?

Public Comments

1. CAD is usually for drafters, which requires a 2-year associates degree or sometimes less. Most engineers know how to use CAD, but don't do it as their primary job function. Engineers usually make at least twice as much as a drafter. One field you might want to look into is finite element analysis. It uses CAD with engineering data to analyze complex engineering designs. People who do finite element analysis all day usually have engineering degrees. You could also work on the software development side of it.
2. Most engineers are doing their own CAD drafting these days. I seriously advise some practical engineering or design schooling in addition to the computer side of things. Especially if you want a "career path".
3. You could look at a career as a mechanical design engineer. Quite often draughters can progress into this role. A mechanical engineering qualification is usually required. This can be gained via additional study. In this role you get to design components /assemblies using 3D solid modeling CAD software. If you work for yourself or as part of a small team you will probably have to generate the 2D drawings of your own 3D designs. If you work as a design engineer in a larger team, other draughters may generate the 2D detailed drawings of your designs. You should get payed an engineers rate