At Northeast Community College, our CADD Technology program is designed with flexibility in mind—allowing you to choose the path that aligns with your interests, timeline, and career goals. Whether you're just starting out or ready to specialize, you can pursue a certificate, diploma, or associate degree. Throughout the program, you'll learn to create detailed working drawings used across various industries, while building proficiency in a range of CAD software. Core instruction focuses on essential drafting techniques, including print reading, quality standards, and problem-solving skills. Once successfully completing the program, students will know a variety of CAD programs that will help them not only with their focused concentration, but all trades of drafting. Students will have the knowledge and confidence to bring new skills to industry.
Why Students Choose This Program
Students can choose how far they want to go—certificate, diploma, or associate degree. Whether students want to enter the workforce quickly or pursue more in-depth training, the programs are designed to help students meet their goals.
Northeast’s CADD Technology program gives students direct experience with the latest tools and technologies used in today’s design and engineering industries. You'll train with six industry-recognized CAD programs—AutoCAD, Revit, Tekla, SDS/2, Inventor, and SolidWorks—giving you a competitive edge in a wide range of drafting careers. The program also includes hands-on work with 3D printing and scanning, as well as Bluebeam Revu to deepen your understanding of print reading and digital workflows.
Small class sizes and expert instructors provide personalized attention. Students benefit from faculty with real-world experience who guide them with foundational knowledge and hands-on learning opportunities. The CADD Technology program is set up for all levels of CAD experience coming into the program. No matter the level of knowledge a student may have entering in the program, instructors guide and challenge them every step of the way. The primary goal is student success.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities and Courses
Hands-on learning is core to the CADD Technology program. In the first semester, you’ll learn the fundamentals of drafting and CAD software in state-of-the-art labs using the latest versions of AutoCAD and other industry-recognized design tools. As you progress, you’ll take on real-world projects that involve precise measurement and critical thinking—such as field measuring homes, taking elevation points, and using calipers to measure parts. These projects help you master scales, tolerances, and codes, all while creating professional-quality models and working drawings.
You’ll also collaborate with students in other technical programs—like welding, construction, criminal justice, and manufacturing—building the soft skills and teamwork experience valued by employers.
Hands-on projects vary by concentration, but some examples include:
- Designing walk-throughs, drawings, and 3D models for Building Construction Auction Homes
- Creating layouts for the Criminal Justice Crime House and Drafting Student Houses
- Producing working drawings of weldments for the Welding Department
- Participating in the Popsicle Bridge Competition, SkillsUSA, and a collaborative Corn Maze Project
- Using surveying equipment, 3D printers, and 3D scanners
- Creating DXF files and cutting metal signs in collaboration with the Diversified Manufacturing Technology program
Plus, you can join the SkillsUSA team which is a great way to get involved, expand your skills, and take part in special projects that showcase your creativity and teamwork.
The program includes a diverse range of courses designed to provide students with both foundational knowledge and specialized skills, including:
- Materials of Construction
- Architectural Drafting
- Structural Drafting
- Estimating for Construction
Program Details
- Certificate: The Computer Assisted Drafting and Design (CADD) Technology certificate provides interactive training in basic drafting technique, plan reading and CAD in order to gain the entry-level skills necessary to begin a career in the drafting field - with these skills, they will be able to begin employment as a drafting clerk or as a junior drafter.
All coursework in the CADD Technology Certificate program will apply as full credit towards the CADD Technology Associate of Applied Science Degree, the Associate of Arts Degree, or the Associate of Science Degree. - Diploma: The Computer Assisted Drafting and Design (CADD) Technology diploma develops an understanding of materials used in construction, understanding of construction documents and an increased proficiency in CAD. Graduates of the program are prepared for entry level employment with architectural and engineering firms, general contractors, material suppliers, structural fabricators, or modular and component manufactures of buildings.
All coursework in the CADD Technology Diploma program will apply as full credit towards the CADD Technology Associate of Applied Science Degree, the Associate of Arts Degree, or the Associate of Science Degree. - Associate of Applied Science Degree: The Computer Assisted Drafting and Design (CADD) Technology program will teach students how to develop detailed working drawings for use in the construction of residential, maintenance, and commercial facilities. The program centers on the basic techniques of drafting – quality, print reading, and problem solving. Students will be introduced to the principles of Building Information Management (BIM) utilizing computer-aided design processes to produce detailed working drawings. Successful graduates may find employment with architectural and engineering firms, general contractors, material suppliers, structural fabricators, or modular and component manufacturers. Along with a variety of other manufacturers and industries.
Certificate: 1 semester (17 credits)
Diploma: 1 year (32 credits)
Associate of Applied Science Degree: 2 years (68 credits)
Courses are offered in-person.
Enrollment in this program is limited and based on the date of completed requirements for acceptance into this program. Complete your application for admission.
Melanie McManigal, Timberlyne
Josh Harrell, PDM Precast
Chad Hoeppner, Homestead Homes
Anthony Fehringer, Vulcraft
Jake Hunke, Schnackel Engineers
Andy Benesch, Heritage Homes
Brett McCarthy, Alvine Engineering
Nicole Postello, Empirical Foods, Inc.
Leanne Ritter, Advanced Consulting Engineering Services
Les Swanson, Bullseye Fire Sprinkler, Inc.
Brandon Hamilton, Nucor Detailing Center
Seth Lange, Olsson Associates
Kimm Klute, Klute Inc.
Kelli Bisson, Interstates
Kira Buol, NIM
Ben Hoffmann, Central Confinement Service LLC
Doug Burkink, Davis Design
Rebecca Munson, Norfolk Public High School
