Not much if a candidate fails an employer’s CAD test at a job interview. No-one would be expected to reel off dates if they have a degree in history. Yet some employers have an expectation of basic CAD skills, because they distrust CAD training certificates.
Take the example of a “Fully qualified” agency worker in a major construction company. He was gone by lunch time because he wasn’t able to achieve anything worthwhile.
The problem is that CAD skills naturally decline if the software is not used or practiced after a training course.
Here’s an opportunity for some. Job applicants who can impress an employer with reasonable CAD skills, naturally have a head start. They are more likely to be selected to attend a training course during their probationary period of employment. More likely to sail through that course and reap the rewards of a well paid and respected job.
One aspect of CAD software is that it’s widely used in many different industries. In the construction industry for example, contractors have to produce “As fitted” CAD drawings of work carried out for invoice approval. Look up the next time you are in a supermarket or your office. Note ventilation ducting, fire detectors, different types of lighting etc. All will have been specified and fitted as per a CAD drawing.
CAD drafting technicians are typically better paid, because they carry out an essential task for an employer. Indeed It’s not so easy to replace an employee who has good skills and knowledge of company CAD work.
If you know someone who might not have other qualifications, but is capable of detailed and exacting work on a computer, get them to check out CAD job opportunities. Some jobs could even be local with lower commuting costs.
For those who might be interested, I have been training employees of companies for over 20 years and can provide free to practice CAD software. I would be happy to assist with a low cost CAD practice service. Even a 5 day CAD summer school for adults, at a special low price for those unemployed.
Peter Jones – [email protected] www.inhousecadtraining.com