AutoCAD is a computer-aided design and drafting software developed by Autodesk that can run on both PCs and Macs. There are both web and mobile versions of AutoCAD. AutoCAD is primarily used to draft electrical and plumbing plans and to create technical drawings for complex projects. AutoCAD Designers also use the software, as the niche industry grows, to create complex designs for 3D printed objects. One of AutoCAD’s most useful features is its collaborative tool for designing blueprints and prototypes. AutoCAD integrates with other design and drafting software and supports vertical programs for other specific industries such as LA’s aerospace and fast-growing tech industries.
AutoCAD Careers in Los Angeles
Jobs that require AutoCAD are expected to grow by 13% in the US over the next several years. In Los Angeles, with one of the world’s most dynamic economies—Hollywood, Silicon Valley, manufacturing, and agriculture—there are many career opportunities for Designers with AutoCAD skills. AutoCAD is used by Engineers, Architects, Interior Designers, and manufacturers to create models, schematics, and blueprints.
Knowledge of AutoCAD also provides opportunities for jobs in 3D design since 3D printing relies on CAD models that are used to guide the printer. This is especially useful in LA’s manufacturing and aerospace industries. AutoCAD is also used in the healthcare industry for biomedical research. Design job salaries vary depending on the industry. However, a beginner CAD Designer in Los Angeles can start around $58,000 per year while other Designers can earn over 6% more than the national average, starting at $72,000 per year.
In-Person AutoCAD Classes in Los Angeles
AutoCAD classes can be taken in-person or online. In-person classes are a good choice for learners who benefit from the structure of a live class with the added benefit of a live instructor who can answer questions as they come up. There are several schools in and around Los Angeles that offer in-person AutoCAD classes.
Ledet Training offers two 3-day options: Autodesk AutoCAD 101—Beginner and Autodesk AutoCAD 301 Advanced. For those looking to develop more specific skills, they also offer two 2-day options: Autodesk AutoCAD 201—Professional Layout Techniques and Autodesk AutoCAD 302—3D Drawing & Modeling.
New Horizons offers three AutoCAD classes. AutoCAD Level 1: Essentials is a 3-day beginner class that provides an introduction to AutoCAD. AutoCAD Level 2: Intermediate is a 2-day project-based course that focuses on more advanced skills, and AutoCAD Level 3: Creating and Presenting 3D Models is intended for experienced users of AutoCAD. It is a 2-day course that focuses on the advanced capabilities of AutoCAD, in which participants create 3D models.
ONLC and Certstaffix Training have a slightly different format. While SQL classes are offered at their Los Angeles locations, the class is led by a remote instructor who is not in the same room as the class participants. However, at both of these locations, students have the benefit of using the school’s computer lab.
Virtual AutoCAD Classes
Virtual AutoCAD classes are a great alternative for those who would like the flexibility of learning from home. Noble Desktop, the creator of this tool, offers several live online AutoCAD courses through NYC Career Centers and NYIM Training. Live online classes are similar to in-person classes in that they are interactive, hands-on, instructor-led classes that take place in real-time. Students can participate from anywhere they choose. The instructor can share their screens and answer questions as they come up.
AutoCAD Level 1 is a 3-day course designed to introduce participants to basic techniques for drawing and modifying in AutoCAD. AutoCAD Level 1 is a 24-hour course in which participants learn to use AutoCAD’s basic drawing and editing tools to create drawings that can be used to build architectural and mechanical objects.
In AutoCAD Level 2, a 16-hour course, students learn how to create templates by setting units, drawing limits, and scales, and how to use the interface to complete advanced layer and block techniques. The 8-hour AutoCAD Level 3 advanced course provides students with instruction in annotation, dynamic blocks and attributes, collaboration and publishing, and customization. Students will learn to execute advanced AutoCAD projects from start to finish as well as how to use the program’s tools to increase efficiency.
Students looking for a more specialized course and who are already familiar with the commands for 2D drawing in AutoCAD might be interested in the 3D Modeling in AutoCAD, in which they learn best practices in 3D modeling and learn to complete drawings of advanced 3D models.
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.
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.
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, kitchen 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.
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 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 they need 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 and Onsite AutoCAD Classes
Corporate training can help your employees work better and more efficiently, and investing in your employees promotes company growth as well. Do you have employees who would benefit from learning AutoCAD? Or perhaps your employees are already familiar with AutoCAD basics but you’d like them to learn more specialized skills such as creating 3D models. Noble Desktop’s corporate AutoCAD classes are led by experienced instructors who are prepared to adapt their lesson plans to your needs. Noble Desktop offers companies the option to purchase vouchers for scheduled open enrollment group AutoCAD classes. Discounts are available if you purchase multiple vouchers. Noble Desktop offers free consultations. If you’re interested in offering AutoCAD classes at your company, contact Noble Desktop for more information at hello@nobledesktop.com.