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Question for the experts: Degree? Certification? Private lessons?

Anonymous

Question for the experts: Degree? Certification? Private lessons?

Anonymous
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I'm trying to make the switch from designing in Illustrator to a CAD software. Currently, I design simple clicker press dies for my manufacturing company. I'd like to start creating them using a CAD software because my designs have been getting more technical. I'm a quick study and have a knack for computers. I think learning my way around CAD may expand my potential. I am aware that AutoCAD is extremely expensive. I am just seeking advice on what resources there are to learn. It doesn't have to be on AutoCAD but I figured people on this forum are pretty advanced and might have good advice for someone wanting to learn.

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TheCADnoob
Mentor
Mentor

As far as the degree certification  or private lessons, i would base that on your employer and the demand for your skillset in your area. I needed a Cert where i am so that my abilities could stand out. There were a lot of available operators and the certification made the difference. I think its worth picking up a certification, but some people differ. Ability is the biggest thing and a certification proves that. 

 

Given that you already have experience doing some design you could probably get up quick with a brief primer on the software. I would check with your local reseller and see if they have any classes. 

https://www.autodesk.com/training-and-certification/authorized-training-centers

 

You can do it on your own with sources from the internet as well.

 

As far as getting a copy of the software, just for learning you can get a trial version of AutoCAD thats good for a month. https://www.autodesk.com/products/autocad/free-trial

 

If you are only doing 2D stuff you can pick up LT for less than the cost of fancy coffee habit (round $50 a month) https://www.autodesk.com/products/autocad-lt/subscribe?plc=ACDLT&term=1-YEAR&support=ADVANCED&quanti...

CADnoob

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RobDraw
Mentor
Mentor

@TheCADnoob wrote:

Ability is the biggest thing and a certification proves that. 


I totally disagree. A certification only proves that one can pass a test. Take the Certified Professional certification offered by Autodesk. Students/recent graduates can get it without any real world experience.


Rob

Drafting is a breeze and Revit doesn't always work the way you think it should.

TheCADnoob
Mentor
Mentor

@RobDraw wrote:

@TheCADnoob wrote:

Ability is the biggest thing and a certification proves that. 


I totally disagree. A certification only proves that one can pass a test. Take the Certified Professional certification offered by Autodesk. Students/recent graduates can get it without any real world experience.


The test proves ability to operate the program, not necessarily create technical drawings of X discipline. The individuals work history proves their ability in a discipline. When it comes to the test, it is not like most other tests i've taken. You have to be able to use the program to pass the test (at least the last iteration i took). I dont think it can be passed by some one who is just good at tests, its not a multiple choice kind of thing.

 

That said i am now curious how far one could get having never used the program and trying to pass the test. 

CADnoob

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beyoungjr
Advisor
Advisor

I'll add to the thoughts given on Certification...  It's absolutely proves a user can operate the software pretty thoroughly.  Mastery in discipline has to be presented through experience or other training for the specific field.

 

I'll also suggest that the OP consider his/her desire to train.  If he/she can work in a class at a reseller or Junior College then consider Inventor.  Once you are a student you can register on the Autodesk Education Community and download AutoCAD, Inventor, and any other product for a 3-year student license.  That would give ample time to self train on AutoCAD if desired.

 

Just my thoughts,

Blaine

 


Blaine Young
Senior Engineering Technician, US Army

dgorsman
Consultant
Consultant

Although there is some credit to a certification, there are so many diploma mills and photoshop (or Illustrator - pick your tool) pro's that they're pretty much worthless without references and experience.

 

Classes and certification typically teach to the software, sometimes with a discipline or design field in mind.  A few teach rigorously (JDMather comes to mind...) but most courses will be strictly about the parts of the software in a "click this, then that, then here" type method, which isn't entirely helpful.  More abstract but equally important concepts like drawing layout get left out.

----------------------------------
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"I don't know" is the beginning of knowledge, not the end.


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