What qualifications do i need for a career as AutoCAD operator? Do I have to go to uni? Other places to study?

Question

no im in australia,, but thank u anyway!

Answer 1

You don't want a career as an AutoCAD operator... there isn't such a thing. Let me explain, I've been a draftsman and designer using AutoCAD in various fields for 17 years and for the past 2 years I've worked as an instructor for the program at an Autodesk reseller.  I can tell you that AutoCAD is just a software program and you won't get a job just because you use AutoCAD... you'll get a job that utilizes your knowledge that you communicate using AutoCAD software.

In other words you need to ask yourself a bigger question: what do you want to do in your career? From Architecture to Facilities Management, from Civil Engineering to Manufacturing... MANY different fields/careers require an understanding of AutoCAD... which field do you want to be in?  Now a "drafting" degree can get you in the door, but even then it's not AutoCAD knowledge that's getting you hired, it's your knowledge of design communication.  So I ask again... or actually you need to ask yourself this question... what do you REALLY want to do?  The answer to this is really what you want the answer for. AutoCAD is just a program I could teach you the basics of in 2-3 days...and I could teach anyone else looking for that same job in 3 days.

Now you arguements sake you might say "but YOU have a job because you know AutoCAD"... but that's not entirely true. I also have my degree in Architecture; worked for several firms, builders, companies; have a knack for understanding how to fix computers and understand/teach others how businesses utilize technology... the fact I've used AutoCAD for a total of 19 years is just a corner of the big picture...and ultimately it will be for you as well.

Answer 2

You could send an e-mail to autodesk, the manufacturers, or go to one of their traning courses. Here's a list of people offering AutoCAD training in the UK (if that's where you live)

http://www.autodesk.co.uk/adsk/servlet/p...