At one time, an inventor would think something up, then hire a person called a draftsman to help him draw up an initial blue print. This continues in the STEM (science, technical, engineering, math) fields, however, is now aided by computer technology. Computer Aided Design (CAD) is a constantly evolving field, with inherent stability from its advancing nature, and those who get a computer science degree online are entering into a growing field.
Yes, many scientists could draft themselves, but draftsmen – with their artist’s easels, slide rules and mechanical pencils – could make the design look not only like a work of art, but render an incredible dimensional realization of whatever was created. If you are interested in getting more information about apply for a pell grant online research the internet.
Then came the introduction of the personal computer. Suddenly many of the draftsmen’s tools weren’t needed. A computer could be every bit as precise, if not more so, than doing it by hand. Also, it could do all the minute calculations without the need of a slide rule or pocket calculator. It was an incredibly labor saving device, but it meant a whole new set of job skills.
The main professional society, the American Design Drafting Association, requires a practitioner to have excellent visual/artistic and computer skills. There are a wide number of places one can go to refine these skills, including technical institutes, community or online college. A two-year degree is usually enough for a start. Then one must be tested by the Association for certification. It is recommended that one eventually move on for a full Bachelor’s for more fine tuning, but an initial syllabus in drafting theory and related classes are still what is needed when it’s time to advance.
Scholarships and grants go beyond the usual Pell and state grants, but also from professional societies and private corporations, so hitting a search engine for additional funding is a good idea. For instance, the Association holds regular contests, with awards of cash and recognition. Another source is the National Science Foundation for S-STEM grants as CAD techs are one of their recognized professions. For any additional information about online computer science degree check the internet.
From there, the number of avenues a CAD tech can find employment are pretty impressive. Nearly fifty percent of those in this field are hired by architectural and engineering firms. Then again there are other companies that can use these skills, from advertising and other media-related firms, to manufacturers and advanced research laboratories.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects expansion in the field will pretty much keep with the national average of 9-11% between now and 2018. Advancement within the field is heavily dependent on furthering one’s education. Median salaries tend to be in the mid-40’s, although it’s possible to go into the mid-50s with experience and the specialty one pursues. Benefit packages usually include a fairly white collar package of health insurance, retirement/savings options and educational perks. For an abundance of information about online college grants check out the web.
The key thing is with the advent of computerized drafting, there will be a steady need for CAD Technicians. Getting a computer science degree online would put the student in the position to get into a great career. From the look of society advancements, inventors aren’t about to stop coming up with new devices and technology, meaning there will be a need for people to draw up the plans. Those interested should definitely explore funding sources, such as scholarships and Pell grants.