Professionals with CAD careers training provide crucial computer-aided drafting and mapping services to support the building, maintenance and construction initiatives of many types of companies. There are numerous CAD-related careers in this field, from fleshing out and maintaining plans to facilitate the construction and development of buildings to creating and maintaining databases related to CAD.
CAD professionals are expected to possess a strong attention to detail and be meticulous. They must be able to deliver projects on time and according to specific requirements. A project, for example, can demand the creation of a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a facility, which then allows leaders to make informed decisions regarding the maintenance of a facility during its operational life, or even its demolition.
To be successful in his or her role, a CAD professional must be customer-focused, proactive, self-motivated and possess good communication and coordination skills. He or she will look for ways to rethink current design conventions or standards to reduce costs and improve efficiency. A key part of their role is the ability to make judgments in regards to the key issues that affect the efficiency, safety, and reliability of their designs and their implementations. Lastly, strong problem-solving skills are very much an asset.
Depending on his or her position, the responsibilities of a professional with CAD training from a CAD school can include:
- 2D Drawing & Drafting
- 3D Modeling & Visualisation
- Schematics
- Coordination with outsourced services
- Fire Zone & Fire Escape Plans
- Consultancy on CAD Management & Standards
- Training on CAD Standards and Solutions
- Re-modeling existing buildings
- Providing checks and feedback for models during design and construction
- Updating facilities-related documents
- Putting together reports
- Creating detailed manuals for specific aspects of construction
Outsourcing
Since CAD requires a specific skill set and specialized training, a lot of companies outsource their CAD needs to agencies who maintain an in-house team of dedicated professionals. There are many benefits to outsourcing a CAD project, such as instantly gaining access to expert and skilled services, not having to hire CAD staff members on short-term contracts, and saving money on expensive software licenses, hardware, training and office space infrastructure. More importantly, agencies often strive to make use of the latest software and solutions to maintain a high standard in their designs, which greatly reduces possible on-site issues.
When working with an agency, the CAD process can be completed electronically, with several iterations taking place over time. Most agencies allow a client to mark up his or her changes electronically, which is easy to do and simplifies the design process. CAD professionals must keep in mind that some clients do not possess any Computer Aided Drafter knowledge, and therefore that they will have to explain or demystify some terms or aspects of the trade to them.
