2D Draftsman Needs 3D Training | How to Choose Software?

An experienced 2D CAD draftsman; asked this question in the LinkedIn Group, 2D and or 3D Top CAD Experts

"I have been caught in the 2-D world of drafting. I am self-taught and my last job was for a glass company, where I did only two-dimensional drafting. I know that I have to expand my horizons and pick up some 3-D training somewhere. I have contacted the local community college and they seem to be promoting two different learning tracks.

1) Autodesk 3-D Studio Max and/or
2) Form-Z

I have heard of the 3-D studio Max but have never heard of Form-Z. I am trying to decide what to do? I know that I need some sort of training but can not reach a decision on my own."


Here's my contribution to his discussion

I agree with Brian, determine your field first AND review your potential client base AND "what 3D applications they are they using?"

Look beyond "the community college"; I would think there are a few other schools providing 3D classes; that are best suited to transition from 2D production drafting; especially night classes.

I taught part-time, 19 semesters at 2 local (40 mile radius) tech colleges. We always did market analysis of what classes the local companies needed and what other schools were providing.

Max and FormZ have a limited niche market base. Max has equipment costs and immense training requirements.

Always interview your instructors-trainers (tech school or consultants) and their "real world" background.

My students always completed my classes with a working portfolio of projects; that they could show their employers. I taught night classes for 4 hours/night. 95% of my students were coming back to school; to transition their careers with their current employer or looking for jobs.

I worked closely with our Campuses Academic Advisers and the outlying tech/community colleges. So stop and meet these people in your area. They are also connected with the school's job placement office and the local job force network. They will know "Who is hiring and what software they using?"

Even as Columbus is a big area, you may need to consider relocation, attending better schools at a distance or you may be able to provide remote 2D/3D CAD services to several companies. Look who can use your services and what software- training positions you to meet the broadest market.

2D CAD is not dead, but its market value is fading. That's why Autodesk offers their 3D products (i.e. Revit) as Suite Bundles. You get their 3D product (i.e. Revit) and AutoCAD for a fraction of the price. this allows you to learn and earn at the same time.

Since 1987, I've taught 2D/3D CAD/BIM to more than 3,000 students (architects, engineers, & technical folk) in markets all over the United States.

Your software training choice and training should complement your application experience; manufacturing, building & construction, civil engineering, surveying or mapping.

When I provide commercial software (Revit) training, I always encourage companies to have a project(s) ready to apply the software training. Make sure you have a project to apply your training.

"If you don't use it, you lose it."

I transition software, training and implementation into their schedule over a 5-7 week period of time; which provides them more time to absorb/apply the new 3D processes.

Typically, an employer/client will assess your application skills equal or greater to your software background. That's value you've earned by field experience; which is value you bring to your employer or clients.

Cheers!