3 answers
David
Student
Colonial Heights, Virginia
2
Questions
Updated
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Which 3D modeling careers involve Autodesk Inventor, Fusion 360, or Solidworks How do I go about looking for these jobs?
I love modeling, and have been on this career path since high school. But searching for jobs like this always brings up CAD, and that's not something I care about unfortunately.
I also do not know how to use sheet metal, or make electrical plans. None of this was ever taught to me. So now I feel completely lost searching for jobs that fall within my skillset (Modeling, and making technical drawings from existing blueprints)
If it helps, I recently earned my CSC (Career Studies Certificate) in computer aided drafting and design, and was hoping that would be enough to find a job.
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3 answers
Brian Swain
Mechanical Engineer
24
Answers
Modesto, California
Updated
Brian’s Answer
Hi David,
I totally understand the frustration you feel, I've been in the same boat.
CAD could either be a shorthand for "Autocad" or it could mean "computer aided design" in general, so some job posting that list CAD as a required skill set may just mean they want someone who can draft/model things with whatever program they have.
If you're searching for a career in manufacturing, I'd recommend jobs you should search for would include tittles/works like "Drafter" or "Design drafter" or "Mechanical Drafter" . However a lot of places do still use programs like AutoCAD ( which is all 2D drafting). If you are opne to being trained in AutoCAD, you may have more success in finding a job.
Also, one company I recommend you looking into is "American Buildings Company" or their parent company "Nucor". They make steel frame building and use their own proprietary 3D modeling software which they train their detailers to use.
I wish you the best of luck.
I totally understand the frustration you feel, I've been in the same boat.
CAD could either be a shorthand for "Autocad" or it could mean "computer aided design" in general, so some job posting that list CAD as a required skill set may just mean they want someone who can draft/model things with whatever program they have.
If you're searching for a career in manufacturing, I'd recommend jobs you should search for would include tittles/works like "Drafter" or "Design drafter" or "Mechanical Drafter" . However a lot of places do still use programs like AutoCAD ( which is all 2D drafting). If you are opne to being trained in AutoCAD, you may have more success in finding a job.
Also, one company I recommend you looking into is "American Buildings Company" or their parent company "Nucor". They make steel frame building and use their own proprietary 3D modeling software which they train their detailers to use.
I wish you the best of luck.
I really appreciate the detailed response! I have been trained on how to use autocad, but that is very much not what I enjoy doing. It's honestly kinda it's own skill entirely, since it's almost entirely floor plans.
I'm gonna look more heavily into the drafting angle into my searches. That's hopefully lean things more into my wheelhouse.
I am 100% looking into the companies you suggested as well! If they use their own proprietary software, that means I start at the same level as anyone else.
Thank you for your answer!
David
Sean James
I manage a team of consultants
7
Answers
O'Fallon, Missouri
Updated
Sean’s Answer
My journey in the CAD industry has been quite exciting, starting from designing car parts to working with some of the top-notch CAD software firms.
If you have a passion for modeling but aren't too keen on design limitations, why not think about a career in animation or video game design? The tools used are quite similar, and you'll have the chance to create some truly amazing 3D models.
If you have a passion for modeling but aren't too keen on design limitations, why not think about a career in animation or video game design? The tools used are quite similar, and you'll have the chance to create some truly amazing 3D models.
Marshall Main
Director, Manager, Videographer
75
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Marshall’s Answer
David
CAD is a file type. Many engineering roles use CAD, The tool used (software) will vary depending on the industry.
Mechanical engineers use it to define new products or rework existing ones. You will also see this in aerospace and some of the practical sciences. It's also used in construction/ architecture as well as any business that does 3D printing.
If there is a skill set that you are missing off the job posts, I might suggest researching it, and even if there is no certification specifically, you can learn what is needed to give you a leg up.
If you are wanting to go more into the art side of things, then you might look for roles in the graphic design world they will use 2d and 3d drafting tools. This can also branch into video editing type roles for motion graphics.
CAD is a file type. Many engineering roles use CAD, The tool used (software) will vary depending on the industry.
Mechanical engineers use it to define new products or rework existing ones. You will also see this in aerospace and some of the practical sciences. It's also used in construction/ architecture as well as any business that does 3D printing.
If there is a skill set that you are missing off the job posts, I might suggest researching it, and even if there is no certification specifically, you can learn what is needed to give you a leg up.
If you are wanting to go more into the art side of things, then you might look for roles in the graphic design world they will use 2d and 3d drafting tools. This can also branch into video editing type roles for motion graphics.