Drafting Technology

The Program

Using AutoCAD and Drafting is a communication skill. It is the language of technology and is used in all areas of industry. The general drafting program at Merced College encompasses hand drafting, engineering drafting, architectural drafting, and electronic drafting and computer graphics. The program is for drafting majors and is also a supportive area for engineering, other technologies, and general education. In addition, these vocational classes are also available for the individual who desires to update trade skills.

Previous exposure to drafting or computers is not required. Entry-level courses are planned with the beginner in mind while the student with prior drafting background can enroll in such courses as Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) using AutoCAD software, a solid modeling program using Inventor software, and Descriptive Geometry.

Classes utilizes an open laboratory concept. The facility is open approximately 55 hours a week with an instructor available to students at all times during these labs. The laboratory facility is a spacious room equipped with traditional drafting tables and CAD stations. The traditional stations consist of traditional drafting tables. The CAD stations are equipped with computers and the latest version of CAD software.

The student planning a drafting career should be neat in work habits and mechanical in nature; should have had high school math through trigonometry or plan on taking it at Merced College. High school drafting and art would be most helpful in visualization aspects of drafting.

Students are required to furnish textbooks and basic drafting equipment for traditional drafting classes, and floppy discs or removable drives for the computer aided courses.

Certificate Programs

• Computer-Aided Drafting-Architectural - Level I
• Computer-Aided Drafting-Architectural - Level II
• Computer-Aided Drafting-Mechnical - Level I
• Computer-Aided Drafting-Mechnical - Level II

• Course Descriptions, Degree & Certificate Programs

Career Opportunities

The Drafting Technology Program services several career fields. The student completing an AA degree program or certificate of completion can be employed in various businesses as a drafting technician or CAD operator, with such employment requiring either AutoCAD graphics or traditional drawing skills.

A student who transfers to a university and earns a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering or Industrial Technology is in high demand and qualified for a wide variety of positions in industry and government.

The employment picture is encouraging in a field where working conditions are good to excellent. Past experience has shown that there are more jobs offered for the drafting technology graduate than Merced College has been able to fill.

Additional Information

Full Time Instructional Staff - Jay Mayhue

For information regarding the AutoCAD Drafting Technology Program, call (209) 384-6161, or schedule an appointment with an Industrial Technology Counselor by calling the Guidance Division in the Administration Building at (209) 381-6478 or (209) 384-6314.