CAD Programming/Management
Certificate
Curriculum code 1437
Course Requirements                    CAD Program Web site

The CAD Programming/Management Certificate is a short-term program that offers an opportunity to focus your studies in CAD programming and management of CAD software and networks. Subjects for study include CAD drawing, computer programming and network management. Additional electives in the Management Information Systems Department provide an opportunity for further study in computer programming with C++ or Visual BASIC languages.

Nature of Work—CAD programmers and managers can work in a variety of fields and disciplines. Companies that regularly use CAD as a design tool include architectural firms, manufacturing companies, engineering design firms and other engineering firms (civil, electrical, aeronautical, etc). CAD programmers/managers will be responsible for maintaining the existing CAD software, hardware and network. They will be in charge of reviewing, selecting and installing new software and hardware. They also will look to increase design productivity by creating CAD programs in a variety of computer languages that will aid the designers in working more efficiently and effectively. Related Job Titles—CAD programmer, CAD manager, CAD network administrator, CAD network technician, CAD network manager, CAD network programmer.

Related Programs—Mechanical Design and Drafting/CAD A.A.S. (66-69 credit hours), Mechanical Design and Drafting Certificate (32 credit hours), Mechanical Design CAD Certificate (23 credit hours), Architectural CAD Certificate (17 credit hours), and Computer Animation Certificate (20 credit hours)

Employment Outlook—Employment of computer and information systems managers is expected to grow much faster than the average (increase 36 percent or more) for all occupations through the year 2012. Technological advancements will boost the employment of computer-related workers; as a result, the demand for managers to direct these workers also will increase. In addition, job openings will result from the need to replace managers who retire or move into other occupations. Opportunities for obtaining a management position will be best for workers possessing an M.B.A. with technology as a core component, or a management information systems degree, advanced technical knowledge, and strong communication and administrative skills.

Earnings for computer and information systems managers vary by specialty and level of responsibility. Median annual earnings for these managers in 2004 were $92,570. The middle 50 percent earned between $71,650 and $118,330.

According to the Job and internship Report from Moraine Valley’s Community College Job Placement Center, from July 2004 to June 2005 the average salary offer for full-time CAD positions was $13.50/hour ($27,000/year), with a maximum salary of $21/hour ($43,680/year) and a minimum salary of $10/hour ($20,000/year).

For job and internship listings and job search assistance, contact the Job Placement Center in the Center for Contemporary Technology, T904, (708) 974-5737, www.morainevalley.edu/jpc.