Best AutoCAD Classes Chicago, IL: Find Courses & Onsite Training

Learn More About Chicago AutoCAD Courses

AutoCAD is computer-aided design software Autodesk developed and initially released as early as 1982. It brought design capabilities to desktop computers (the first version ran on the then state-of-the-art and now ancient M-80). Although AutoCAD capabilities have increased by predictable leaps and bounds, it was and remains the standard computer-aided design program across numerous industries.

Among the newer and most exciting AutoCAD features is its ability to create 3D designs for 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing. Thus, while it is very much tried and true, AutoCAD is also cutting-edge and a standard tool for design professionals of all expertise levels.

If you want to learn AutoCAD for a career, consider the type of industry and skill set you need to prepare. Drafters, architects, and designers are among the many tech professionals who need AutoCAD expertise for their careers. Though few people learn CAD software as a hobby or activity, AutoCAD roles may require credentials like Autodesk Certified Professional in AutoCAD or Certified Associate in CAD for Mechanical Design to compete in an ever-evolving job market. Read on to learn more about AutoCAD-centered industries and positions.

Who Specializes in AutoCAD?

The Autodesk product line includes AutoCAD within different packages designed to meet the needs of varying industries. Many types of designers and drafters use AutoCAD. So do engineers, product managers, and even city planners. Consider how Autodesk structures its product and service offerings when you review who uses them.

Architecture, Engineering & Construction: The Architecture, Engineering & Construction (AEC) package from Autodesk is for structural, civil, and MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) engineers and architects. Organizations using Autodesk software can pick and choose from several additional products in the AEC collection, including everything from Revit BIM (Building Information Modeling) to AutoCAD, Navisworks Manage, and the Autodesk Civil 3D design and documentation software.

Product Design & Manufacturing: The Product Design & Manufacturing package features many software offerings, as in the AEC collection. However, because this line focuses more on products, it can include Autodesk programs like AutoCAD, Inventor, Inventor Nastran, Inventor Tolerance Analysis, Fusion for 2D, and 3D CAD. Depending on what an organization needs, they can also select among additional tools like 3ds Max and Vault Basic.

While you can find many unique positions that require AutoCAD skills, consider some of the primary categories of tech professionals who specialize in this essential software:

Architects: Most people think of architects as professionals who design and plan buildings for commercial use. However, architects can also design houses, help restore older structures, and design and plan parks, college campuses, playgrounds, and other structures. Architects use AutoCAD and related Autodesk products for everything from design and analysis to 3D model creation, collaboration with other team members via the cloud, and streamlining workflows. Check job postings for architecture positions to learn more about their typical job requirements.

CAD/CAM Designers: CAD/CAM stands for computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing, and AutoCAD is the default software for many CAD/CAM pros. Those who do 2D geometry and 3D models can use AutoCAD for both functions. The software comes with toolsets for several industries, including electrical, mechanical, and plant design, to name a few. CAD/CAM Designers may also use other Autodesk tools like Civil 3D for their projects.

MEP Engineers: Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Engineers are big fans of Autodesk, too, and many work with the AEC Collection. Mechanical Engineers can expand their workflows with tools like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Revit, and Navisworks Manage, to name a few. Mechanical Engineers must apply their considerable knowledge and skills to develop, test, and improve designs. While they typically design and develop electrical systems or components, Electrical Engineers sometimes must oversee projects and collaborate with other professionals through a cloud-based data environment like the AEC Collection.

Drafters: Drafting is one of the essential skills for converting original designs into schematics, layouts, or workflow diagrams. Many Drafters sit at the crossroads of idea and execution, taking designs from engineers or architects and making them into workable real-life plans. Drafters often specialize in electrical or mechanical drafting, but AutoCAD is typically a standard requirement for their jobs—whether they work in architecture, construction, manufacturing, or product design.

Product Designers: You might not think of product design first when considering AutoCAD careers, but Product Designers are a popular position today. The Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection includes AutoCAD, Fusion, Inventor, and 3ds Max. AutoCAD is an essential tool in customized manufacturing, design, and engineering packages among many organizations. An AutoCAD subscription includes numerous specialized toolsets and apps for every step of the design and manufacturing process.

Are There Prerequisites to Learning AutoCAD?

If you work in design, engineering, or manufacturing, you should learn AutoCAD on the job. However, many employers require AutoCAD as a basic skill like MS Office or Adobe software. You should know more about what you must learn before determining whether you need AutoCAD expertise.

Still, you might not need to have a specialized skill set under your belt before you start learning AutoCAD. The interface and basic commands are simple, and anyone with basic computer literacy should be able to start AutoCAD training. Depending on your career goals, industry, and current abilities, you may choose to watch a free online video or two about AutoCAD before you begin learning the software.

Do you plan to get an AutoCAD certification through Autodesk or another provider? If so, you may need basic knowledge of the AutoCAD interface, technical drawing, and design principles before you sit for a credentialing exam. Other requirements for training can include an updated browser and standard software from Microsoft and Adobe, including the MS Office Suite and Adobe Creative Cloud).

Is It Difficult to Learn AutoCAD?

Learning AutoCAD is a fairly straightforward process. Although the platform provides subscription plans and periodic software updates, it will take you only a short time to learn this essential platform. You can master AutoCAD in weeks if you take a masterclass, immersive bootcamp, or certificate program.

Before starting an AutoCAD class, you should better understand the software's capabilities and what system requirements you need to meet. If you use AutoCAD LT or AutoCAD for Mac, the system requirements can differ from those for standard AutoCAD products.

Check the Autodesk website for more about the AEC and Product Design & Manufacturing collections, specialized tool sets, and other products and services. You can also explore the online Autodesk community and learn about additional training options, including certification exams, events, and coaching.

What Will You Learn in an AutoCAD Course?

What you learn in an AutoCAD course depends on multiple factors: where and how you train, whether you take a single beginner-level class, and how you need to apply your training, to name a few. Some companies provide AutoCAD training for their employees, but you may need to get AutoCAD skills and knowledge through a course provider before you apply them to a career.

Most beginner-level AutoCAD training requires you to have only basic computer skills before enrolling. However, you should prepare for intermediate and advanced training, especially if you enroll in an intensive bootcamp or a course that prepares you to sit for an AutoCAD certification credential.

Before enrolling in an AutoCAD class, consider reviewing the Autodesk website to familiarize yourself with the various Autodesk collections: AEC (Architecture, Engineering & Construction), Product Design & Manufacturing, and Media & Entertainment. (The Media package does not include CAD design software.) You can also find many videos on YouTube or other platforms that give you an overview of some of the most common AutoCAD drawing and editing commands.

The curriculum in an AutoCAD course typically covers basics like the software interface, basic drawing and commands, and creating layouts or schematics. However, a class with beginner, intermediate, and advanced modules may delve into more complex topics like layer techniques, data tables, and macros. Check course listings to ensure you know what you are getting into and that your training will meet your needs.

Chicago Industries That Need AutoCAD

The Windy City is one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the Midwest. Chicago proper is in Chicagoland, which includes parts of Indiana and Wisconsin. This metropolitan statistical area (MSA) encompasses over nine million people. With some 62% of the population between 18 and 64, it’s no surprise that Chicago retains the nickname “the city that works.”

Detailers, designers, drafters, and technicians with AutoCAD skills are all part of the Chicago employment landscape. However, to get a better idea of where the jobs are, consider the largest industries in Chicago.

Manufacturing: With an estimated GDP of over $100 billion and nearly half a million manufacturing jobs, the third highest in the nation, Chicago is a business powerhouse. Only NYC ranks higher. Manufacturing has been a historically essential sector in Chicago and looks to continue that way for the foreseeable future. Times change, though, and manufacturing changes along with them. Today, Chicago manufacturing relies on sub-sectors like plastics, railroad vehicles, and the area's massive transportation, distribution, and logistics industry (see below). Top employers here include Mondelez International, Kraft Heinz, and Medline Industries.

Healthcare & Life Sciences: AutoCAD might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of healthcare. However, you might be surprised to learn that tech tools like data visualization, CAD/CAM, and Python are all transforming the healthcare landscape. The medical field benefits from computer-aided design: orthopedic implants, revolutionary machines like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computer tomography (CT) scanners. You might not have to know AutoCAD to get a job in healthcare, but you can be sure you benefit from some of its essential applications.

Transportation, Distribution & Logistics (TD&L): Transportation, Distribution & Logistics, or TD&L in the trade, is a massive part of Chicago’s industry. With over 17,000 such businesses, Chicago was the number one TD&L market in the country in 2022. The Windy City’s central location means it sits at the crossroads of transportation of both goods and people, and primary hubs here include O’Hare International Airport, six of the nation’s seven Class I railroads, and ten interstate highways that connect Chicagoland to as many as 25% of the country’s population within 500 miles.

Although Chicago industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and transportation can all require AutoCAD workers, many others do as well. Food processing, real estate, finance, and even retail can all benefit from AutoCAD and related Autodesk tools. For more information, check local job listings to determine which sectors are currently in the most demand.

AutoCAD Careers in Chicago

AutoCAD can be one of the most essential building blocks for starting a career in design or drafting. The software is crucial for everything from interior design to construction, where an AutoCAD-generated drawing can illustrate much more than a mere set of blueprints can.

Although Chicago is known more as a financial hub than a center for design, any city as vibrant as Chicago needs a constant flow of new urban design ideas. Companies need more AutoCAD-literate workers than there are available qualified candidates. Where AutoCAD is concerned, Chicago is a worker’s job market.

While an AutoCAD Drafter in Chicago can expect to earn about $53,000 annually, an AutoCAD Designer typically makes a higher salary, averaging around $65,000 in annual compensation. Interior Designers earn slightly more, with an average salary of around $66,000 annually in the Chicago metro area.

Chicagoland Civil Engineers do even better, as they can expect to earn around $97,000 annually here. Architects are among the highest-paid workers with AutoCAD expertise, commanding an average annual salary as high as $104,000 in Chicago.

Salaries at these elevated levels often demand years of experience, and the highest-paying roles may go to candidates with a particular degree or years of experience. However, getting into the AutoCAD field through an immersive bootcamp can launch a successful career in this exciting field.

In-Person AutoCAD Classes in Chicago

Students wishing to learn AutoCAD in Chicago can find several options, including in-person and live online instruction. Although many learners today opt for live online training, others still prefer a traditional classroom setting. These students can find multiple AutoCAD training classes in the Chicago metro area.

Ledet Training offers beginner, intermediate, and advanced AutoCAD classes. Their Autodesk AutoCAD 101 is a beginner-level course open to students with no experience. Attendees learn to create and edit 2D drawings with the AutoCAD software, then move on to how to insert reusable symbols. There are no prerequisites, but applicants should have basic computer literacy and a working knowledge of the Windows OS. Drafting, design, or engineering experience is helpful but not required.

New Horizons hosts similar class offerings. Their AutoCAD Level 1: Essentials course teaches novices across 20 lessons in a project-based curriculum. You'll learn how to navigate the AutoCAD interface, use essential features, and create mechanical, civil, and architectural projects. AutoCAD Level 1: Essentials focuses on 2D and 3D modeling for new learners. While available live online, New Horizons offers it in person for private groups.

Another option for in-person training is using a course provider's computer labs if it makes them available for local students. In Chicago, two such providers offer the use of its labs—ONLC Training Centers and Certstaffix Training.

ONLC Training Centers provides multiple AutoCAD classes, including a 3D advanced study. Their AutoCAD Level 1: Essentials course offers basics for students ages 18 and older who will use AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT in their work. Topics include the AutoCAD workspace and interface, precision drawing in AutoCAD, and working with objects. The project-based program includes student creation of schematic, architectural, and mechanical projects. The course prerequisites include basic knowledge of design/drafting procedures and terminology.

Certstaffix Training also offers live online courses with access to their computer labs for those who want it. As with ONLC Training Centers, students at Certstaffix Training can also attend these courses in their homes or offices using their personal computers. Certstaffix Training provides beginner and advanced AutoCAD courses with three training methods: team onsite and online, individual live online, and self-paced or on-demand online. Their AutoCAD/AutoCAD LT Essentials class covers basics like layers, reusable symbols, and hatching, to name a few. You can take the Essentials class separately and go on to AutoCAD Advanced, or take them in tandem as a combo at a discount.

AutoCAD Classes from Noble Desktop

Noble Desktop is a respected course provider headquartered in New York City. They offer in-person training at their Manhattan location, live online from anywhere via teleconferencing, and customized programs for organizations.

Among the many design classes available from Noble, AutoCAD training comes in the following options:

AutoCAD Level I - Beginners can learn AutoCAD fundamentals in a PC-friendly environment, from basic drawing and editing to layers, blocks, hatching, and other essential topics. Those who take AutoCAD Level I as a standalone can then continue with Levels II and III, which require Level I-II training as prerequisites. There are no prerequisites for AutoCAD Level I, but students can save on tuition by taking it as part of the AutoCAD Bootcamp, Masterclass, or Certification Program.

AutoCAD Bootcamp - The AutoCAD Bootcamp from Noble Desktop combines their Level I and Level II classes into a single tuition-saving unit. Participants learn AutoCAD basics, then move on to more advanced lessons in the Level II unit. Topics include advanced layouts, annotation styles, and utilities, to name a few. If you need beginner and intermediate AutoCAD training, you can save by taking Levels I and II in this bootcamp format.

AutoCAD Masterclass - Beginner-level students who want to learn advanced AutoCAD as part of a comprehensive program can combine the Noble Desktop Levels I, II, and III AutoCAD classes in the AutoCAD Masterclass. Beyond the beginner and intermediate training from the first two levels, AutoCAD Level III provides advanced training in topics like collaboration tools, sheet sets, and macros. Graduates can also upgrade to receive AutoCAD certification (see below).

AutoCAD Certification Program - One of the more prestigious Autodesk credentials is their Autodesk Certified Professional in AutoCAD for Design and Drafting. Students who want to sit for this certification can get training through the AutoCAD Certification Program from Noble Desktop. This course includes the three levels offered in the AutoCAD Masterclass plus private tutoring and proctoring for the exam. As in other Noble certificate programs, graduates can retake the group class for up to one year at no additional charge.

Before you enroll in an AutoCAD course, check job listings in your industry for more information on typical hiring standards. Entry-level positions may only require beginner or intermediate training from a bootcamp or certification program. Whether you have college-level design or drafting training, you may qualify based on the AutoCAD skills and knowledge you gain from creating a project-based portfolio through a private course provider.

Best Live Online AutoCAD Classes & Schools

One compelling alternative to in-person learning is virtual instruction that makes the world your campus by making it possible to study in your home, office, or anywhere that a stable internet connection is available. The advantages of online learning are considerable and include convenience, comfort, and the elimination of wasted commuting time to and from a computer school. What was a necessity during the pandemic year of 2020 is now embraced by many adult students as their first choice for learning new skills.

One of the better-known technical training course providers, the New York-based Technical Institute of America, offers beginner, intermediate, advanced, and certification programs. Their AutoCAD Level 1 (Virtual) class is a 10-lesson program for beginners who want to master AutoCAD fundamentals from an Autodesk-certified instructor. Topics include Object Snaps (OSNAP), text commands, and Hatch patterns, to name a few. Check course listings for more detailed information.

NetCom Learning in Chicago is another respected course provider that provides numerous live online Autodesk-authorized programs from its headquarters at the ILC Training Center. Among the many offerings is Autodesk AutoCAD 2024: Essentials, an immersive Windows-based introductory course. The program begins with 2D drawing basics and then moves into more advanced topics like dimensions, hatching, and tables. Prerequisites include access to the 2024 version of AutoCAD, and NetCom Learning recommends knowledge of basic design/drafting processes and terms.

Team D3 offers training options in multiple areas, including manufacturing and architecture, engineering, construction, and operations (AECO), as well as numerous Autodesk courses. Their AutoCAD: User Interface & Basic Drawing (ACD-001) class is a beginner-friendly introduction to this essential platform for students with general mechanical industry knowledge of design and drafting. Topics include the Cartesian workspace and basic drawing and editing commands.

Noble Desktop affiliate NYC Career Centers hosts many novice-friendly AutoCAD live classes you can take online from anywhere, Chicago included. Their Beginner AutoCAD course introduces 2D design fundamentals, featuring topics like layers, styles, symbols, and editing. Participants create multiple projects as they build a professional-level portfolio. Please note that this class is for PC users and does not include cross-training for Mac users.

The Knowledge Academy is another respected course provider that offers courses to Chicago-area residents. Their curricula include everything from cloud computing to digital marketing. Among the many Autodesk programs they host is an AutoCAD Masterclass. This immersive course consists of eight modules and includes training on blocks, viewports, documentation, and other AutoCAD essentials. Although there are no prerequisites, The Knowledge Academy recommends applicants be familiar with CAD concepts like objects and layers.

Is It Worth It to Learn AutoCAD?

Whether or not AutoCAD is for you depends on your career goals and motivations. Many positions at all levels in several industries require AutoCAD skills, from beginner-level to expert. Architects, Civil Engineers, Drafters, and Designers are a few of the numerous roles that can require expertise in a range of Autodesk software programs, and AutoCAD is one of them.

Consider the possibilities of entry-level positions that demand basic AutoCAD skills. A CAD Designer role might depend mainly on your ability to use AutoCAD and expand your proficiency on the job. Some positions at this level require only a high school diploma, not a college degree. However, many organizations will also give preferential consideration to candidates with an associate degree or higher.

Moving up the ladder from entry-level roles, you will find numerous careers where AutoCAD is a requirement, not an option. Here, candidates will get no on-the-job training. Expect to see online postings with titles like AutoCAD Drafter or CAD Drafter. An organization may expect applicants to have multiple years of experience, including AutoCAD and other Autodesk software like Revit, Navisworks, and Inventor. Many such positions also require candidates to have experience with Autodesk competitors’ software like SolidWorks, CATIA, or Creo.

Finally, consider senior roles where AutoCAD expertise is assumed. For example, a Senior CAD Designer position can have requirements as high as 15 years of experience, extensive industry-specific knowledge, and proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, and Civil 3D. Roles at this level may require management experience, one or more certifications, and even an advanced degree. However, some senior-level positions allow for expertise in AutoCAD or a competitor like Microstation. Check listings to determine where you want to go in the future, even if you are starting as a novice.

How Long Will It Take You to Learn AutoCAD?

The time it takes to learn AutoCAD depends on your current experience level, skill set, and what type of CAD training you need to meet your goals, budget, and scheduling needs. For example, if you are a student planning a career as a Drafter or Designer, you might need to master some design or drawing fundamentals before you enroll in an AutoCAD course. Many beginner-level AutoCAD classes start with the basics before participants level up to more complex commands and tools.

However, if you plan to be an Architect, Mechanical Engineer, or Civil Designer, you must learn a substantial amount of related knowledge, skills, and regulations. Say you want to become a Building Information Modeling (BIM) Manager. The career track for senior roles at this level can begin with a position as a BIM Technician, then progress through other roles to the management level. Learning AutoCAD, Navisworks, and Revit, among other tools, may come through varying sources, like courses that include all of them together.

If your career goal requires an AutoCAD certification, like the Autodesk Certified Professional in AutoCAD for Design and Drafting, you may take a different tack. Most candidates for these credentials have hundreds of hours of on-the-job AutoCAD experience, so their initial approach to learning the software may differ from that of an entry-level Drafter or Designer. To pass the certification exam, ACP candidates must demonstrate skills like drawing management, design annotation, and collaboration, to name a few.

Read on to learn more about related skills you might need besides AutoCAD.

What Related or Complementary Skills Do You Need to Learn Besides AutoCAD?

AutoCAD is a complex software with features that can benefit design, engineering, drafting, and other professionals. While you can learn AutoCAD basics in a few months, mastering all its tools and commands can take much longer. Remember that AutoCAD, for all its complexity, is typically one among many skills you will need in a role like Architect, Civil Engineer, or Product Designer.

Related or complementary skills besides AutoCAD depend on how and where you plan to use the software. Consider the following positions and their standard requirements when evaluating what else you need to learn.

Architect: Starting a career as an architect can be a demanding, challenging process. This field is so wide-ranging that a comprehensive list of tools and skills for architects is beyond the scope of this article. An architect can specialize in commercial buildings, residential properties, or landscapes, but some work for firms that design all these and more. Many architectural professionals obtain degrees, specialized certifications, and other credentials. Architects must be well versed in AutoCAD, building information modeling (BIM), Revit, and math, to name a few of the most essential. Soft skills for architects include problem-solving, teamwork/collaboration, and leadership skills.

CAD Designer: A CAD Designer typically needs to know many of the same tools as an Architect, like AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM. CAD design emphasizes drawing and sketching, so many CAD Designers need to master a variety of designs and diagrams, including:

Assembly drawings
Construction drawings
Design drawings
Engineering drawings
Mechanical drawings

Additionally, a CAD Designer may need to master skills like computer numerical control (CNC), geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), and geographic information systems (GIS). These technologies ensure that specifications are correct, facilitate communications among key players, and aid in data analysis and visualizations.

CAD Drafter: Whereas CAD Designers usually create essential technical drawings, the work of CAD Drafters can often be more of a preliminary nature. There are many types of CAD Drafters, including:

Architectural
Civil
Construction
Electrical
Mechanical

A CAD Drafter may need various skills and abilities, depending on their industry or sector. For example, a Mechanical Drafter may need to know AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and CADWorx, an Architectural Drafter may need Revit expertise, and an Electrical Drafter may need to know local codes, standards, and regulations.

Civil Engineer: Civil engineering roles often come with different titles, like Aviation Staff Engineer, Branch Manager (Principal Civil Engineer), or Field Engineer. Their tasks differ among industries, too. Contractors in public infrastructure may differ from commercial sites. While AutoCAD is often crucial for these positions, so are other Autodesk programs in the AEC Collection, like Revit, Navisworks, and 3ds Max. Civil Engineers may need to perform computations for everything from storm pipe systems to airport terminal designs. Consider researching your industry before determining what programs besides AutoCAD you must master.

Electrical Drafter: An Electrical Drafter can play a pivotal role on an engineering team, and AutoCAD is among their highest priorities. However, there can be much more to the position than AutoCAD. Some companies hire Electrical Drafters with the expectation that they will want to learn to become Electrical Designers. Others require their Drafters to know Solidworks as well as AutoCAD. Responsibilities vary by industry, sector, or organization. Additional skills often include geographic information systems (GIS), mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) design, and standard MS Office software like Word and Excel.

Interior Designer: Many non-technical people confuse Interior Designers with Interior Decorators, but these roles could not be more different. An Interior Designer typically works with clients and team members to create visually appealing industrial, residential, or commercial spaces. Their responsibilities include creating floor plans, renderings, and other visualizations with CAD software, often in 3D. An Interior Designer must also typically know Adobe Creative Cloud software, including Photoshop, InDesign, or Illustrator. They may also have to be familiar with other Autodesk programs like 3ds Max and Revit and multiple tools from the Microsoft Office Suite like Word and Excel.

Mechanical Engineer: A Mechanical Engineer often must be highly qualified for any position, including entry-level. For example, a Mechanical Engineer tasked with working on infrastructure projects may need a degree, one to two years of experience, and be able to conduct reviews of 3D models. They may also need to be familiar with numerous coding standards. Requirements for Mechanical Engineer roles can include (but are not limited to) Autodesk proficiency, Microsoft Office tools, and other mechanical engineering design and analysis software. Check job postings for Mechanical Engineers in your field to see other typical requirements.

Plumbing Engineer: Plumbing Engineers are among the most in-demand specialized engineering professionals. Many organizations combine the role with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), so it’s common to see job postings like Plumbing/HVAC Engineer or even HVAC/Plumbing - Hybrid. Because mechanical, plumbing, and HVAC design can overlap, some plumbing engineering titles include both, as in Mechanical/Plumbing Engineer. These roles require varying skills and knowledge, including BIM expertise, AutoCAD, and Revit. Many senior- or mid-level positions also require a license, certification, or both.

Project Manager: The Project Manager designation can be challenging to define. If you're looking for AutoCAD-centered roles and want to work towards a Project Manager position, look for job listings with additional information. Examples include Construction Project Manager, Senior Engineering Project Manager, and Roadway Project Manager, to name a few. Otherwise, you will be sorting through risk management, IT, marketing, and other non-engineering roles. Project Managers who use AutoCAD must also typically know other industry-standard design software like Civil 3D, Microstation, and Open Roads. Many have degrees, certifications, or both. Your best bet is to scan job postings in your industry and learn what roles can lead you to a project management career.

Remember that these are a small sampling of the numerous AutoCAD roles in the job market. Electrical Engineers, Civil Drafters, and other roles abound, and the possibility of remote or onsite/remote hybrid positions makes the field more dynamic than ever. Some organizations offer fully remote roles for AutoCAD Drafters, CAD Operators, and even Senior CAD Technicians. Read through online listings for AutoCAD-centered jobs in Chicago, and you may be surprised at the many paths you can take.

Self-guided AutoCAD programs

Students who are looking to make a career out of using AutoCAD might also be interested in their options for career focused, self guided classes. These courses allow students to learn at their own pace (with guidance and assistance from a professional mentor) and they provide students with career-focused training and job placement support. While many students find it desirable to learn from a live instructor, these self-paced classes are the perfect fit for self-motivated students looking to make a career out of their AutoCAD training.

AutoCAD Certificate Program

The Visual Design and Construction Institute (VDCI) offers an immersive AutoCAD certificate program that aims to help students become career ready within only a few weeks of training. This program provides students with hands-on, job-focused training in the use of AutoCAD and the course is designed with new students in mind, meaning that you’ll move from your first construction draft to a capstone project to add to your professional portfolio over the course of the certificate program. This program also offers students the opportunity to take up to 80 hours of electives to help them specialize in subjects including Revit, Sketchup and Civil 3D Pro. With this option for specialization and the focus on career development training, this certificate program is an ideal entry point for aspiring designers, architects and engineers looking to learn how to use AutoCAD in a professional capacity.

AutoCAD Fundamentals

Students looking for an accelerated introduction to AutoCAD and computer-aided design generally may be interested in taking this introductory course offered by VDCI. Students will learn the basics of using AutoCAD and practical skills that they can bring back to their current jobs or use as the baseline for future CAD training (including some of the other advanced classes offered through VDCI). In this class, students will get live, hands-on instruction in the use of AutoCAD, including exercises in which they create drafting symbols, kitchens and bath fixtures, a floor plan, and deliverable file sheets. While you’ll need more training if you want to make a career out of your AutoCAD skills, this course is an excellent introduction to the kinds of projects that AutoCAD professionals will need to utilize.

AutoCAD Professional

If you have already taken the AutoCAD fundamentals program or you have experience with AutoCAD from another source, you may be interested in moving towards professional level training in this advanced AutoCAD program. In this program, students will learn how to create 2D designs for construction documents that meet all of the necessary and legal standards that they are expected to follow. This course offers practical skills training and is designed to ensure that experienced AutoCAD users are able to get the accelerated training that they need in order to start using the application in more complex professional capacities. This course is built to help students learn at their own pace and class scheduling is incredibly flexible for professionals looking to develop new skills while still working.

Corporate & Onsite AutoCAD Training in Chicago

Suppose you are looking to instruct or upskill your existing staff in AutoCAD. In that case, Noble Desktop has multiple corporate and onsite AutoCAD training options, one of which is sure to suit your organization. Noble can send expert instructors to your location to take your employees' AutoCAD skills to the next level. They can also set up remote classes using one of several teleconferencing programs, including Zoom.

Would you like your team to have more flexibility in when and where they get AutoCAD training? Noble also offers discounted vouchers for its open enrollment programs. Employers get a discount when they purchase these vouchers in bulk. Featured courses include AutoCAD Levels I, II, and III and Introduction to AutoCAD. Noble Desktop can also customize a package to meet your needs.

If you would like to learn more about the different AutoCAD training options Noble Desktop can provide for your team, contact a corporate sales specialist at Noble for further information and a free consultation.

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Key Insights

Learn More About Chicago AutoCAD Courses

Who Specializes in AutoCAD?

Are There Prerequisites to Learning AutoCAD?

Is It Difficult to Learn AutoCAD?

What Will You Learn in an AutoCAD Course?

Chicago Industries That Need AutoCAD

AutoCAD Careers in Chicago

In-Person AutoCAD Classes in Chicago

AutoCAD Classes from Noble Desktop

Best Live Online AutoCAD Classes & Schools

Is It Worth It to Learn AutoCAD?

How Long Will It Take You to Learn AutoCAD?

What Related or Complementary Skills Do You Need to Learn Besides AutoCAD?

Self-guided AutoCAD programs

Corporate & Onsite AutoCAD Training in Chicago

Chicago AutoCAD Courses by School

AutoCAD Certification Course (Self-Paced)

CAD Certificate Program (Self-Paced)

Autodesk AutoCAD 101 - Beginner

Autodesk AutoCAD 201 - Professional layout techniques

Autodesk AutoCAD 301 Advanced

Autodesk AutoCAD 302 - 3D Drawing & Modeling

Beginner AutoCAD

AutoCAD Bootcamp

AutoCAD in a Day

Beginner AutoCAD

Intermediate AutoCAD

AutoCAD Level 1 Essentials

AutoCAD Level 2 - Intermediate

AutoCAD Level 3 - Creating & Presenting 3D Models

AutoCAD Advanced

AutoCAD Essentials

AutoCAD 3D Drawing and Modeling

AutoCAD Level 1: Essentials

AutoCAD for Novice Users

Chicago AutoCAD Corporate & Onsite Training Noble Desktop

AutoCAD Training Locations in or Near Chicago

Chicago Careers & Salaries Related to AutoCAD

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