CAD drafters draw plans and technical drawings using computer aided design. Traditional draftsman utilized pens, compasses, and pencils to create plans and drawings and present industry demands training using Computer Animated Drawing systems.CAD schools help to train students with using a variety of programs and applications for drafting and sketching.The three dimensional images drawn by CAD drafters provide visual guidelines for a wide range of products. CAD Drafters make plans and technical drawings allow that can be programmed into automated manufacturing systems which can construct a variety of objects, from toys and cabinets to aircraft and office buildings. CAD Drafters also create structural blueprints and site plans for commercial buildings and private homes and for a wide range of applications.

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High school students interested in becoming CAD drafters must be computer literate and have strong communication skills. Future CAD drafters must have strong problem solving skills and be tremendously detail oriented. High school students may prepare for future careers as CAD drafters by taking courses like: algebra, trigonometry, English, keyboarding, and even elective courses in basic drafting, computer science, and design where available. High school students may advance to certificate level training programs or college degrees offered through trade, technical, traditional, and online schools.

A certificate program offered through trade, technical or online schools allow students to learn the fundamentals of drafting and developing. Students can use computer aided drafting and design to convert sketches and specifications into plans used to produce products and buildings. A certificate program in AutoCAD drafting requires a 6 to 12 month training program focused on: architecture, machinery, electronics, or aeronautics. Students participate in courses like: manual drafting, computer aided drafting, technical drawing, applied AutoCAD, drafting and print reading, technical writing, computer graphics, and college algebra to learn skills necessary to sketch structures, develop documentation, and create 2 and/or 3 dimensional drawings and models. Graduates from a certificate program may advance to college level degree programs or gain employment as entry level CAD drafters upon meeting licensing requirements determined by state and facility regulations. Licensing is available through the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA). The ADDA allows professional drafters to demonstrate proficiencies in geometric construction, architectural terminology, and drawing skills.

Students who advance to an associates degree in CAD drafting offered through trade, vocational, traditional, or online colleges, allows students to advance educational and career goals. Students enhance basic drafting skills and have the opportunity to begin specializing training in electronics, engineering, architecture, aeronautics, and electrical drafting. Intensive technical training offered through two year degree programs provide general education and drafting skills with courses like: autoCAD, commercial drafting, structural drafting, 3-D CAD, mechanical engineering, engineering principles, building design and materials, architectural drafting, and Microstation. Students who complete a two year degree learn to utilize innovative technology, principles, and techniques necessary to prepare plans, technical drawings, and construction blueprints for buildings, structures, and mechanical designs. Students may advance to higher degree programs or gain employment as entry level CAD drafters upon meeting licensing requirements determined by state or facility of employment. Licensing exams are offered through the American Design Drafting Association and allow professional drafters to demonstrate skills in geometric construction, architectural terminology, and drawing.

A bachelor degree offered through a traditional or online college or university expands educational and career opportunities. Students learn to refine skills using CAD software. Students participate in courses like: general drafting, design, architecture, engineering, drawing, technical mathematics, AutoCAD and MicroCAD, computer programming, industrial design, computer keyboarding, basic and advanced design, structural design, and computer graphics. Many bachelor degree students specialize training in an area of drafting like: aeronautical drafting, architectural drafting, civil drafting, electrical drafting, electronic drafting, mechanical drafting, and pipeline drafting. Students who complete bachelor degree programs may advance to attain masters or doctoral degrees in drafting and design engineering or a related discipline as well as advance to employment as CAD drafters upon meeting licensing requirements. Licensing is offered through the American Design Drafting Association and tests individuals on geometric construction, architectural terminology, and drawing skills.

A masters degree in drafting and design engineering offers students to specialize educational background and expand career opportunities. Students participate in courses like: design theory and history, statistics for design, mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, interactive design studio, collaborative design studio, building and design strategies, and human social factors. Students within a master degree program must complete an internship under the supervision of a qualified drafting and design engineer before completing a masters thesis. Students may then advance to employment as drafting and design engineers upon meeting licensing requirements.Certification exams offered through the American Design Drafting Association allow students to demonstrate proficiencies learned in classroom and internship experiences. Students participate in exams testing skills in geometric construction, architectural terminology, and drawing. Students may also advance to doctoral degrees to become experts in the field of drafting and design engineering.

A doctoral degree in civil engineering or mechanical engineering offers students the opportunity to become experts in the chosen discipline. Students must complete intensive course work combined with an internship under the supervision of a qualified engineer as well as publish a dissertation. Students participate in courses like: quantitive research, theory, organizational behavior, and specialized courses pertaining to course of study to advance to an internship program. Doctoral candidates also must publish and defend a dissertation before graduating as experts in the field of engineering. Graduates may gain employment as researchers or professors within a college or university.