Mechanical Drafting and Design
Advanced CAD Drafting Gainful Employment Report
Basic CAD Drafting Certificate Gainful Employment Report
Mechanical Drafting and Design Gainful Employment Report
Program Description
The Mechanical Drafting and Design Technology program consists of technical courses to develop skills in mechanical drafting, design and related fields. In addition to drafting and detailing skills, the student will receive training in related areas, such as industrial materials, manufacturing methods, machining, and industrial relations. Students will receive hands-on training in Anoka Technical College's computer-aided drafting (AutoCAD and Solidworks) lab. Although no prior knowledge or experience is necessary to succeed in this program, prospective students should have a high school diploma or G.E.D. A background in algebra/trigonometry, drafting, metalworking or computers can be helpful.
Industry Description
The Mechanical Drafting and Design Technology program provides the necessary knowledge and background to mechanical drafters who normally start their careers working in the engineering departments of companies that design and manufacture hard goods products of every description. Most mechanical drafters begin as detail drafters making the drawings required for the manufacture of products and can advance to supervisory positions within the department or may advance to assistant engineer as they gain experience. Other areas of advancement include purchasing and sales. Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) is an important part of the Mechanical Drafting program. CAD training opens up an entirely new area of job advancement, especially in large companies. Our graduates have found employment with manufacturing companies, big and small, engineering firms, electro-mechanical companies, and contract firms.
Wages/Outlook/Advancement
Wage information is available from the Minnesota Department of Education and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development
ACCUPLACER Test Requirement: ACCUPLACER testing in math, reading and writing. Any needed developmental courses must be completed before receiving a diploma or an AAS award.
After completing the Mechanical Drafting program with either a diploma or AAS degree, the student can take classes at the University of Minnesota/Crookston for a four-year "Bachelor of Manufacturing Management" degree which has almost all of its classes offered at a nearby technical college. The program is often completed within two or three years. Classes are offered in the evenings so as t to conflict with work schedules. A four-year degree is often required to advance to a drafting management position. Other advancement opportunities include: design, illustration. Because of the student's product knowledge, continuing education after graduation is vitally important.
Length of Program
Basic CAD Drafting Certificate 20 credits
Advanced CAD Drafting Certificate 30 credits
CAD Drafter Diploma 58 credits
Mechanical CAD Drafting and Design Associate of Applied Science 69 credits
Start Dates
Fall Semester August
Spring Semester January (with instructor approval)
AutoCAD and Solidworks evening classes are available
Program Contact
For information on how to apply or to schedule a campus tour, contact the Admissions Office.
Phone (763) 576-4700
E-mail info@anokatech.edu
