Mechanical and Computer Drafting
Technical Diploma — Downtown Milwaukee Campus

Program code: 31-421-2

This curriculum goes into effect starting with the summer 2008 semester.

This page was last updated in July 2007.

Overview — Mechanical and Computer Drafting  is a one-year technical diploma program directed toward preparing you for employment as a detail drafter in the mechanical drafting field. For a new product to become a reality, it must exist in the mind of the engineer, designer or drafter. It is the detail drafter, working from design layouts, sketches, handbooks and catalogs, who creates working drawings that are used in the manufacturing of the product.

Career Outlook — The employment outlook is favorable for mechanical drafters having current training involving computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) systems. Manufacturing environments, contract engineers and engineering consulting firms employ mechanical drafters. CADD systems will be used to create two- and three-dimensional orthographic and pictorial multiview drawings of mechanical engineering detail, assembly and tooling. Positions typically available to program graduates include detail drafter, junior drafter and CAD operator.

Career Preparation and Expected Learning Outcomes — Employers expect you as a program graduate to be knowledgeable in the following areas:

• Orthographic projection, including primary and secondary auxiliary views
• Drawing format and dimensioning
• Use of a CAD system
• Use of handbooks, catalogs and ANSI standards
• Mathematical applications, including algebra and trigonometry
• Manufacturing processes

Preparation for Admission — The following is required for admission to the program:

• Demonstration of proficiency in basic skills through a course placement assessment
  
  Skills necessary for success in this program include the ability to read technical data and solve math problems. Average or better mechanical aptitude and a grasp of spatial relationships are important. A high school diploma or GED is recommended.

Future Opportunities — In addition to employment opportunities, successful completion of this one-year program qualifies you to enter the second year of the Mechanical Design Technician associate degree program.

Possible Careers:

CAD Operator
Detail Drafter

Related Programs:

Mechanical Design Technician
Architectural Technology
Civil Engineering

For more information, call 414-297-MATC.

Curriculum effective 2008-2009. 

Hours per Week: r = related, s = shop

Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.

For course descriptions, times and locations of classes, visit INFOnline.