Drafting Technology

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CWI Drafting Technology

As I was sitting in another emergency room, with another nail shot into my hand from a framing nail gun, I thought ‘I am way too old for this, I have got to find something else to do’. Greg Tate, former CWI Drafting Technology student
“A few years ago I got a job in manufacturing and started seeing AutoCAD [computer software] drawings. I started wondering if I could do that. Fabian Pacheco, Structural BIM Designer Lochsa Engineering Boise, ID
“In the spring of 2010 my long time career ended, but I qualified for retraining by the federal government. Going back to school was the last thing I ever thought I would do at age 55. Marc D. Girard, Instructor, CWI Workforce Development Tutor, CWI Nampa, ID

Does designing and creating with computer models interest you? Well, look no further than College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Drafting Technology program to get on track to your new career. In this program, you will learn to design a variety of practical projects using the latest 3-D modeling software and 3-D printers. Our outstanding instructors will provide you with an enjoyable environment to develop and hone your skills. 

NEW STUDENTS

Complete the following steps to get started in the Drafting Technology program:

  • Apply to CWI selecting Drafting Technology as your planned major. 
  • Attend a Program Exploration event to learn about the program, register for classes, and prepare for success.

Mission

CWI’s Drafting Technology program prepares students to design practical architectural and engineering-based projects with the latest 3D-modeling software.

Why This Program

The Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) is a two year degree designed to prepare drafters for the workplace. Embedded into the curriculum is an industry-certified exam which acts as a testament to the competent skill set students have achieved as they enter into the workforce.
The Advanced Technical Certificate (ATC) takes approximately 16 months to complete. This curriculum provides students experience in beginning-to-intermediate level drafting software.
The Intermediate Technical Certificate (ITC) takes approximately 12 months to complete and introduces the basics of computer-aided drafting.

What You Will Learn to Do

  • Translate ideas and designs into complete and accurate working plans
  • Prepare mechanical, architectural, civil, and structural drawing using both conventional and computer-assisted techniques
  • Understand general engineering and architectural procedures
  • Design and “draw” in the latest AutoCAD, SolidWorks and Revit software
  • Develop and understand the integration of communications, physics, and math-related skills in the workplace
  • Use reference catalogs and codes to appropriately specify means and methods into projects
  • Write a resume, search for a job, and interview effectively

Clubs

Graphic of tool with purple and gold flare like symbol

College of Western Idaho is proud to compete in SkillsUSA, a nationwide organization seeking to improve the quality of our nation's future skilled workforce through personal, workplace, and technical skills training. Students join thousands from...

Additional Opportunities

Along with the general drafting curriculum, students in the CWI Drafting Technology program have opportunities for integrated field trips, internships, tutoring programs, and extra-curricular activities. Recent field trips have included tours to LEED-certified buildings, construction sites, straw-bale homes, and local engineering firms that incorporate Building Information Modeling. An example of a drafting internship would be to assist in the installation of a solar thermal system in an area residence. The Drafting program avidly participates in extra-curricular activities such as Skills U.S.A., STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and a number of regional career fairs.

Respectful Community

College of Western Idaho is committed to maintaining a Respectful Community by providing equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate in services, benefits, or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability status, veteran status, age, or any other legally protected status.  More on Title IX

News and Blogs

Chris Sinsel

College of Western Idaho Drafting Technology program graduate, Chris Sinsel, is making a name for himself in the landscaping technology world.

John F. Nagel Foundation check presentation to CWI Foundation

The Nagel Foundation scholarship empowers second-year career and technical education students to complete their education.

2020-2021 Emerging Professional, Manuel Orozco

Ten Career Technical Education students, nominated by their instructors, selected to receive $1,000 scholarships.

Bradley Dougal, a 2019-2020 Nagel Foundation scholarship recipient.

Congratulations to Bradley Dougal, a 2019-2020 Nagel Foundation scholarship recipient.

2018 graduate, Audrey C.

"Because of CWI, I was able to start my career."

After spending 15 years raising children, Crystal decided to focus on her education.

"Because of CWI, I am able to work in a field that I love!”