Calling CAD Designers

[MK1_Oz]

Totally non-car question.......

Are there any career CAD designers on this forum? I need some careers type information and thought somebody might like to PM me to discuss?

[ozstang65]

Ya, me.

[Scott Morton]

me too.......

[jpayne]

what do you want to know?
what sort of designer, one who uses CAD or one who designs CAD systems,
Architectural, electrical, mechanical, component, 2D,3D?
I might be able to help too, how about over a beer as Im also local.

JP

[MK1_Oz]

Yes we should catch up Justin being so local!

This is for my 16 yo lad who is thinking careers and school subjects. He seems to have narrowed things down to mechanical design (ie parts and systems using CAD). Seems like 3D is the go in that area. He is not interested in CAD computer programme design.

[jpayne]

I know a few guys working on Defence projects doing exactly that, documenting mechanical components. the question is does he want to design or draw or both. an engineer may design the part a draughtsman will draw it and of course someone will programme the CNC to make it or something like that. Of course some draughtspeople will design better then an engineer and CNC opperators will draw better etc but Ill leave that argument behind.
From what I have seen lately the amount of work in this field is thinning out, rolling 2 week contracts etc. though we are getting new submarines or somethingh and as a 16 year old he might be ready when they begin.
for pure drawing Tafe might be a good starting point, for engineering its university for sure.
cheers

JP

[jpayne]

How you get on with the advice you were after?

JP

[MK1_Oz]

Hi Justin. I spoke with three or four forum members and got their opinions and advice which was fantastic. The lad says that this is an area that he has on his short list of possible careers. At this stage he thinks electrical/electronic engineering may be what he aims at although he understands the rigors of obtaining a uni position and then maintaining it! CAD drawing or design/drawing via TAFE will be his secondary aim. I have no doubt that things may change over the next year or two but at least the info obtained has given him some info and direction.

Thanks to all.

PS - will ring for a beer as time permits. During the daytime any good for you?

[jpayne]

self employed mate, any time is usually good

JP