# CAD Certificate Program

Online certificate program with job support, software, and portfolio project

Canonical URL: <https://vdci.edu/certificates/cad-certificate-program>

## Overview

Develop CAD skills for a career in construction design by mastering the industry-standard tools used across architecture, engineering, and construction. This hands-on certificate program builds AutoCAD expertise from foundational tools through advanced construction documentation while reinforcing realistic standards for accuracy and organization. You can further expand your capabilities by specializing in Revit Fundamentals or SketchUp, preparing you to produce professional technical drawings and work confidently in modern CAD environments.

Through practical, project-based training, you will strengthen 2D drafting and technical design skills, learn efficient workflows, and apply best practices for managing layers, annotations, and files. Real-world scenarios emphasize precision, consistency, and productivity while helping you build a polished portfolio. One-on-one feedback from an AEC industry professional and targeted career guidance support your resume and portfolio development, positioning you to stand out in a competitive job market.

## Curriculum
1. **Intro to AutoCAD Course Online**
2. **Intermediate AutoCAD Course Online**
3. **AutoCAD Construction Documents I Course Online**
4. **AutoCAD Construction Documents II Course Online**
5. **CAD Detailing Course Online**
6. **CAD Project Management Course Online**
7. **CAD Certificate Elective Courses**
8. **CAD Capstone Project**

## Instructors

### John Menvielle — Instructor

John has been working in the Multimedia World for more than 15 years but has had an interest in it ever since he was a child. He moved to San Diego to attend the University of California, San Diego, and upon graduating, decided to stick around “because of the weather.” He joined the VDCI Team in 2019 and has since come to appreciate a multitude of VDC Software.

**Credentials:**

- Autodesk Certified Instructor (ACI)
- Bluebeam Professional

### David Nguyen — Instructor

David is the AEC Software Specialist at VDCI, with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management and an Associate’s degree of science in Drafting and General Design from ITT Technical Institute. A San Diego native with over 12 years working in the Design Industry and construction industry, David brings his construction and design expertise to help all students achieve their goals in the field. Outside of his professional life, David loves attending concerts, festivals, playing his guitar and restoring and repairing all types of vehicles.

**Credentials:**

- OSHA 30 hr. Construction Safety Certified
- Construction Software: SketchUp, Bluebeam Revu, Autodesk Suite (AutoCAD, Fusion, Revit)
- Mechanical Software: PTC Creo Parametric, SOLIDWORKS, Mastercam

### Reid Johnson — Instructor

Reid isn't just someone who knows CAD and BIM; he's a licensed architect and contractor who deeply integrates these technologies into every facet of his career. His hands-on experience as a practitioner building real-world projects provides him with an invaluable understanding of how BIM and CAD streamline workflows and enhance design. This practical foundation led him to Autodesk, where he shared his expertise, helping others effectively leverage these powerful tools. Throughout his professional journey, Reid also dedicates himself to education, consistently teaching university courses and shaping the next generation of design professionals by equipping them with essential CAD skills. His unique blend of practical experience, industry knowledge gained at Autodesk, and passion for teaching positions Reid as a true specialist in BIM and CAD technology, capable of bridging the gap between theory and real-world application.

**Credentials:**

- Autodesk Fusion Certified User
- Autodesk Revit Certified Professional
- Autodesk Certified Instructor
- Licensed Architect
- Licensed General Contractor

### Marc Mucciaccio — Instructor

Marc is an Architectural Designer and Educator at VDCI, holding a Bachelor of Architecture from the Bernard & Anne Spitzer School of Architecture at CCNY, with a Minor in Art. A New York local with years of experience at prestigious NYC firms — including Douglas Wright Architects, Groves & Co., Joseph Vance Architects, and Studio SFW — Marc brings deep expertise in technical precision and architectural representation to help students excel in the field. Outside of work, he enjoys cycling along the West Side Highway, exploring Central Park, and visiting historic architectural sites.

Credentials:

- NAAB-Accredited 5-Year B.Arch, City College of New York (CUNY)
- Design Software: ArchiCAD, AutoCAD, Revit, Civil 3D, SketchUp, Rhinoceros, Vectorworks
- Rendering Software: Enscape, Twinmotion, V-Ray, Redshift
- Specializations: High-End Residential Design, Construction Documentation, BIM Management

## FAQ

### Who is the target audience for this course?

This program is designed for professionals and students in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry who want to build strong, job-ready skills in 2D drafting and technical design using industry-standard CAD tools. Architects, engineers, and construction professionals looking to strengthen AutoCAD and technical drafting skills Students and recent graduates seeking practical CAD experience and portfolio-ready projects Those seeking a career change, transitioning into CAD and AEC drafting roles CAD users who want to improve their construction documentation skills and professional workflows

### Does this certificate include job support?

In addition to 280 hours of interactive training, you will receive six 1-on-1 mentoring sessions that can be used for career and job support, including polishing your resume, preparing for interviews, and reviewing best practices for applying to jobs. Note, however, that we don’t provide job placement (i.e. reaching out to companies on your behalf).

### Is this course open to beginners?

Yes, this course is open to beginners. Students must be comfortable using a computer. No other prior knowledge is required.

### Do you offer payment plans or student financing for this course?

Yes, this course is eligible for our installment plan. Learn more in the Tuition section above.

### How long is this course?

This course is 280 clock hours. Clock hours is the total estimated course time including watching the course videos and completing the projects. The time varies by student. Assuming that you work approximately 10 hours per week, you will complete this course in about 8 months.

### What’s included with my tuition?

A hands-on learning experience working on projects and exercises, which is proven to boost comprehension, retention, and engagement Expert instructors who are industry professionals and experienced educators that are driven to help you succeed A comprehensive program with 8 in-depth course modules designed to build your skills progressively Extensive video training resources to support your learning journey Access to AutoCAD software (1 year) during your training Expert support with answers to your questions from real instructors throughout your learning journey Professional feedback on your final project from an industry expert to help improve your skills Valuable 1-on-1 mentoring sessions outside of class to address your specific needs and career goals Top-notch curricula that have been tried and tested over many years and are consistently improved for an optimal learning experience A certificate of completion to verify your accomplishment The confidence of learning at an accredited institution Assessment tools including quizzes to reinforce your learning and track your progress

### Are there any additional fees or expenses?

There are no hidden fees or taxes for our courses. This course requires a non-refundable registration fee of $150 . The price you see on this page, $5,470 , is the maximum you’ll pay us.

### Do you offer any discounts for this course?

This program has a single package price. Additional discounts do not apply.

## Pricing

**Tuition:** $5470

Payment options: equal installment plan and GI Bill accepted.
