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Computer aided drafting and design

What is it?

A CAD drafter, also known as a computer-aided design (CAD) drafter, is a technician who utilizes specialized software to create technical drawings used in various industries, such as:

  • Architecture: Generating blueprints for buildings, including floor plans, elevations, and sections.
  • Civil engineering: Creating plans for roads, bridges, dams, and other infrastructure projects.
  • Mechanical engineering: Drafting designs for machinery, tools, and other mechanical components.
  • Manufacturing: Developing production drawings for products, including specifications for materials, dimensions, and tolerances.
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Here are some of the key responsibilities of a CAD drafter:

They transform initial ideas and rough drafts created by engineers, architects, or designers into detailed and precise technical drawings using CAD software.

The drawings need to be accurate and meet specific industry standards and engineering principles to ensure the functionality and safety of the final product or structure.

They incorporate essential details like dimensions, materials, tolerances, and assembly instructions into the drawings.

They work closely with engineers, architects, and other stakeholders to understand project requirements, address technical issues, and ensure the drawings meet everyone’s expectations.

The field constantly evolves, so continuously learning and adapting to new software and technologies is crucial.

Length of Training

14 weeks

Type of Training

Online (self-paced)

* Salary Range

$46,400 - $74,200

(entry level – experienced)

* Regional Jobs Available

237

(3 year forecast)

A person wearing glasses and a plaid shirt is seated at a desk, intently working on detailed technical drawings displayed on a large computer monitor in the dimly lit room, diligently focused as if it were their dream job.

Is it Right For You?

Here are some essential skills and qualities for a successful CAD drafter:

  • Proficiency in CAD software: Mastering software like AutoCAD, Revit, or SolidWorks is essential for creating accurate and efficient drawings.
  • Strong understanding of drafting principles: Knowledge of drafting conventions, symbols, and technical drawing standards is necessary.
  • Attention to detail: A meticulous mindset is crucial for ensuring accuracy in measurements, calculations, and overall drawing representation.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills: Effectively communicating with engineers, architects, and other professionals is vital for understanding project requirements and ensuring collaboration throughout the design process.
  • Problem-solving skills: Identifying and resolving issues that arise during the drafting process is essential.
  • Visual and spatial reasoning skills: The ability to visualize 3D objects from 2D drawings and understand spatial relationships is necessary.

Overall, a CAD drafter plays a vital role in translating ideas and concepts into technical drawings, serving as the bridge between design and manufacturing or construction.

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A group of graduates in caps and gowns celebrating outdoors. Text on the image reads "Over $12 million in scholarships being awarded." These scholarships are paving the way for promising careers.
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Stephanie underwood - Chief financial Officer

Stephanie Underwood serves as Chief Financial Officer at Great Jobs KC, where she leads the organization’s financial strategy in support of its mission to create economic mobility through education and workforce opportunities. With more than 17 years of experience in nonprofit finance, Stephanie brings deep expertise in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and compliance. She is passionate about using her career as a platform to serve and support mission-driven organizations, helping them maximize impact through strong financial stewardship.

Prior to joining Great Jobs KC, Stephanie served as Chief Financial Officer for Griffith Centers, a behavioral and mental health organization, where she oversaw financial operations for a multi-million-dollar organization spanning residential, educational, and community-based programs. She also spent nearly a decade as Vice President of Accounting Services at NFP Partners, providing CFO-level leadership to nonprofit organizations across the country, with a focus on strategic growth, audit readiness, and governance.

Outside of her professional role, Stephanie volunteers her time at her church and serves on the board of a local nonprofit. She is known for her collaborative leadership style and her commitment to aligning financial strategy with mission impact. She holds a Master of Science in Accounting and is proud to be a first-generation college graduate.

 

 

 

Adult Learner College Scholarship

The Adult Learner Scholarship application is closed. Please click GET STARTED to be added to communication reminders on when to apply during the next open cycle.

Program offers:

  • Up to $25,000 paid directly to the college over the course of up to six years.
  • Once awarded, the Scholar can enroll full or part-time the fall semester following awarding.
  • Scholarship can be used at any of our college partners. See our current list of partners HERE.
  • Scholarship can be used towards an associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree, or a credit-bearing credential. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Be a high school graduate or GED holder (24 years or older).
  • Live in one of the six eligible counties. (Kansas: Wyandotte, Johnson; Missouri: Cass, Clay, Jackson, Platte)
  • Be income eligible. (FASFA Student Aid Index of 12,000 or less)
  • Have not previously earned a bachelor’s degree.
  • Have not previously been awarded a KC Scholars Scholarship (Traditional or Adult Learner).
  • Is not currently enrolled in a Great Jobs KC Skills Training Program.
  • US Citizenship/Residency is not required to apply.

If you need more information on program details, please find our FAQs HERE

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Jimmy Swift - Chief Operating Officer

As the Chief Operating Officer, Jimmy Swift is responsible for overseeing our core programs, our adult workforce development program, Great Jobs KC tuition-free job training, and our KC Scholars Scholarship Program, which includes 11th Grade Traditional Scholarships and Adult Learner Scholarships. 

Jimmy has a career in education that spans more than 25 years and is built around supporting and improving the performance of career training programs and leading the operations of degree-granting institutions. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in management and has served as Campus President, Vice President of Career Services, and Executive Director of various career schools.  

Most recently, Jimmy served as the Vice President of PLA University at Phalen Leadership Academies, bringing access to job skill training to the parents and families of the Scholars served by Phalen Leadership schools across the country.  Beyond his higher education experience, Jimmy serves as the Executive Board Chairman for Project Safety Net NY, a nonprofit community-based agency delivering a broad range of health, education, and prevention services to the New York Community. As the Chief Operating Officer for Great Jobs KC, he and his team are poised to make a substantial impact on the economic stability and future of Kansas City.

Great Jobs KC
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