| Drafters make detailed drawings of buildings, products, and machinery from sketches and specifications conceived by engineers, architects and designers.
Internships with local firms are available for students enrolled in MECC's Computer-Aided Drafting and Design program.
Employers want Computer-Aided Drafting and Design employees who:
- Possess an interest in computer operations.
- Possess an ability to become involved in complex and interesting CAD software programs.
- Possess an ability to analyze a problem and logically design a solution.
- Possess communication and people skills.
Employment Outlook
- Employment availability is excellent.
- Employment projections for the next ten years show a major increase due to highway construction and bridge building.
- Employment may involve mechanical, civil, or architectural design.
- Positions on survey crews or as inspectors for highway and bridge construction are additional employment opportunities.
Advancement
Your ability and willingness to work, coupled with a desire to continue training, will provide you with opportunities for advancement.
Salary
Entry-level CAD operators can expect a beginning wage of $7.00 to $9.00 per hour, depending on location and the type of company.
An increase to $13.00 to $20.00 per hour within the first three years can be expected.
Graduates in the Workforce
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Jennifer Steffey, a graduate of MECC's Computer-Aided Drafting & Design Program, is a Stereocompiler at Tuck Engineering in Big Stone Gap. |
Other MECC graduates have worked at Maxim Engineering, Thompson + Litton, Fraley's Enterprises, Tennessee Eastman, and the Virginia Department of Transportation.
Computer-Aided Drafting & Design Program
Requirements & Information |
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Computer-Aided Drafting & Design Faculty |
Mr. Shuler Ringley
276-523-2400, ext. 260
sringley@me.vccs.edu |
Professional Organizations
National Association of Industrial Technology
American Design Drafting Association
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Contact MECC 
