A Financial Aid Source

A new source of financial aid is available for training programs offered at VDCI. A scholarship fund was created to help those looking to advance their career in the design and construction industry and can be applied toward any program offered at VDCI.

The Al Whitley Memorial Scholarship

The Al Whitley Memorial Scholarship was created in honor of Al Whitley, the founder of Virtual Design & Construction Institute. Al, a licensed architect, was a leader in technology in architecture and was one of the first architectural interns to use AutoCAD Version 1.0 in San Diego. He developed the AutoCAD curriculum for the University of California San Diego in the early 90s and eventually opened his own institution named cadteacher (now VDCI). Throughout his career spanning almost 40 years, Al was dedicated to empowering people to pursue their careers in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) industry through affordable training programs, unique software skill resources, and mentorship. This scholarship was established to continue Al’s contributions through VDCI’s mission – providing career education for the advancement and employment of AEC professionals.  

Scholarship Fund Details

The scholarship fund can be applied toward any of the VDCI Nationally Accredited Programs – Fast-Track Programs and Certificate Programs. These programs range from 3-10 months to complete and feature fast-paced, asynchronous online learning to prepare students for a job in the AEC industry. The programs offered include training in CAD, BIM, and Digital Design software, such as Autodesk AutoCAD, Revit, Civil 3D, SketchUp, Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.

The scholarship award is a tuition reduction scholarship totaling up to $2,000.00 for the specified program. Cash funds are not distributed to the student as a part of this scholarship. Prospective students and active students can apply for the Al Whitley Memorial Scholarship all throughout the year. Apply for the scholarship here!

Scholarship Awardee Spotlight

We are happy to announce that after the first round of applications in the first quarter, a qualified candidate was awarded the first scholarship fund award towards the CAD/BIM Technology Certificate Program. Fernando S. is the first in his family to receive formal education and after a history of financial hardship, he’s excited to transition his career into the AEC field with this training.