Western Technical College
Published on Western Technical College (https://www.westerntc.edu)

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Computer Aided Design (CAD) Technician

  • Technical Diploma
Computer Aided Design (CAD) Technician Image

Program Number: 

316062

Program Credits: 

31.00

Estimated Total Cost: 

$5,088.65

Typical Start: 

Fall
Financial Aid Eligible

You can have a hand in designing products with your education in Computer Aided Design (CAD). CAD technicians work closely with engineers as they prepare and revise technical drawings and documentation used to build products for a variety of industries.

Courses include instruction in 2D and 3D CAD software, Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software, and other technical tools used in the field. You might find this a rewarding field if you are strong in algebra and have an interest in manufacturing processes and engineering materials. Also important are good communication skills and an eye for details. Hands-on experiences complement classroom learning.

Computer Aided Design (CAD) Technician 2021, 2022, & 2023 Graduation Employment Stats

Graduates7
Graduates Responding7
Employed in Related Occupation2
Employed in Non-related Occupations0
Seeking Employment0
Continuing Education5
Not in Labor Market5

Salary Data - Related Employment

Part TimeFull Time
Responding11
Average Hours Per Week3040
Average Hourly Wage$18.00 $19.00
Hourly Wage Range$18.00 $19.00
Average Annual Salary

Respondents in Related Occupations

  • CAD Designer

Career Opportunities

CAD Drafter
AutoCAD Operator/Drafter/Designer
CAD Technician
Mechanical Drafter
CAD Design
Detailer
Structural Drafter

Program Outcomes

  • Prepare detail and assembly drawings for documentation of mechanical components and products
  • Create CAD geometry, parts and assemblies

Admission Requirements:

College Requirements

Application: 

Yes

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Software and Technology

Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.

If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form [1].

Computer/Laptop Hardware

  • Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
  • Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
  • Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.

Software Needs

  • Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools [2].
  • Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
  • Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox

For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes [3] on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.

Campus Resources

  • Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus [4]. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page [5].
  • The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu [6] or call 608-785-9198.

Need Assistance?

  • Contact the Learning Commons [7]! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.

Career Pathways: 

Computer Aided Design (CAD) Technician

Prior Learning: 

Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more [8] about what may apply to this program.

Technical Diploma: 

Computer Aided Design (CAD) Technician

Associate Degree: 

Mechanical Design Technology

Courses

Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks [9] for more information.

This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern [10] self-service portal for academic planning.

First Term

Applied Calculations in Engineering
Course Number: 10606140
Credits: 2.00
AutoCAD
Course Number: 10606163
Credits: 2.00
College Technical Math 1A
Course Number: 10804113
Credits: 3.00
English Composition 1
Course Number: 10801136
Credits: 3.00
Geometric Dim & Tolerance
Course Number: 10606165
Credits: 3.00
Solidworks
Course Number: 10606184
Credits: 2.00
Strengths Seminar
Course Number: 10890106
Credits: 1.00

Second Term

Fund Of Elecs&Fabrication
Course Number: 10605138
Credits: 2.00
Mfg and Eng Materials
Course Number: 10420119
Credits: 3.00
Mfg Processes/Machining CAM
Course Number: 10420120
Credits: 3.00
Parametric Design 1
Course Number: 10606115
Credits: 3.00
Parametric Design 2
Course Number: 10606133
Credits: 4.00

Western Technical College
400 7th Street North
La Crosse, Wisconsin
54601

608-785-9200
800-322-9982


Links
[1] https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=DniDXv9HckGZ5BpZ1xtAINzEPDqm29RGnADqdoibRwxUM0ZIV0tLRE1OS0NaOTY5U01aOFNVNDdVUS4u
[2] https://westerntc.libguides.com/blackboardforstudents/
[3] https://kb.westerntc.edu/112380
[4] https://www.westerntc.edu/computer-labs
[5] https://www.westerntc.edu/regional-locations
[6] mailto:LearningCommons@westerntc.edu
[7] https://www.westerntc.edu/learning-commons
[8] https://www.westerntc.edu/credit-prior-learning
[9] https://www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks
[10] https://mywestern.westerntc.edu/