Computer Assisted Design (CAD)
Career opportunities in the fields of mechanical design, architectural design and computer animation require designers that are competent, knowledgeable and highly-skilled in the use of the latest software and methods. The CAD department trains students utilizing the latest software including AutoCAD, OnShape, PTC Creo, SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Inventor, Floorplanner, Sweet Home 3D, RevIt, Maya, Blender, Mudbox, Unreal Engine, and Unity. CAD students utilize the design process to solve real world projects. With the help of high-end software, hands-on DFM and DFA studies and a variety of virtual and augmented reality rigs, 3D printers, and other additive and subtractive manufacturing technologies, students are able to take the design process through all of its stages by brainstorming, designing, creating a working prototype, troubleshooting, and eventually manufacturing. Creating 3D models, technical drawings, floor plans, computer animations, video games, simulations, visualizations, and working prototypes prepares students to pursue careers in engineering, design, manufacturing, construction, interior design, and animation or further their CAD education at the college level.
CAD Teacher of the Year Award
Congratulations to CAD instructor Greg King for being recognized as AET Labs CAD Teacher of the Year.
Department Faculty
CAD Student News
My employer was very impressed with McCann’s ability to prepare students for the working world. Thanks to McCann I have been at General Dynamics for 3 years, was able to buy a home 1 year after graduation and I continue to look forward to more related education and career advancement opportunities.Michelle Briggs
CAD 2013
General Dynamics
3D Printing Lab
CAD is outfitted with a state-of-the-art "3D Printing Lab" for students to evaluate their designs. Through different projects, CAD students learn to design for and use a variety of additive manufacturing technologies. These technologies include Polyjet, FDM, SLA, and DLP. Additive Manufacturing is invaluable for saving time and money regarding prototyping designs and ensuring they work before they are sent to the manufacturer.
Unity Student Demonstration
Class of 2023 student Jeremy Patterson is designing a "looter shooter" in the style of the game series Borderlands using Unity as his game engine. Unity is a popular engine used for many popular games on all platforms. Jeremy has spent the majority of his senior year designing the animation assets you see in this video as well as coding them and the game physics to work seamlessly within the game environment he has designed.
