# 3D Modeling in AutoCAD Course Online

Canonical URL: <https://vdci.edu/courses/3d-modeling-in-autocad-course-online>

## Overview

AutoCAD is one of the most powerful tools available for building detailed, precise 3D models, and this course shows you how to get the most out of it. You'll work with a wide range of tools and features to create complex 3D shapes, add intricate details, and manipulate models by rotating, scaling, and moving individual components, all while applying colors, textures, and lighting effects that bring your designs to life.

This course is built for students who are already comfortable with AutoCAD's 2D drawing commands and are ready to take their skills to the next level. You'll follow best practices in 3D modeling throughout, building on your existing knowledge of the interface to tackle increasingly advanced models with confidence.

## What you'll learn

- Create solids and surfaces by extruding, revolving, and lofting 2D objects into 3D forms
- Modify and edit objects in 3D space using tools like rotate and mirror
- Navigate and refine 3D views with visual styles, orbit tools, and viewport configurations
- Work with point clouds to reference and model from real-world scan data
- Render and visualize 3D models with materials, lighting, and camera settings for professional presentations

## Prerequisites

Participants should be proficient in using commands for 2D drawings in AutoCAD, with knowledge equivalent to the AutoCAD Bootcamp.

## Curriculum

#### 3D Foundations

#### Simple Solids

#### Working with the User Coordinate System

#### Creating Solids & Surfaces from 2D Objects

#### Modifying in 3D Space

#### Advanced Solid Editing

#### Additional Editing Tools

#### Refining the View

#### Point Clouds

#### Visualization

#### Working Drawings from 3D Models

## Instructors

### John O’Malley — Instructor

John O’Malley is a Registered Architect based in San Diego with over a decade of experience delivering projects across many different sectors. He leads multidisciplinary teams through all phases of design and construction.

Known for his technical expertise and leadership in project delivery, John holds a California architecture license, is LEED AP BD+C certified, and is an Autodesk Certified Instructor. He is also dedicated to supporting future design professionals through his volunteer work with the ACE Mentor Program. 

**Credentials:**

- Autodesk Certified Instructor (ACI SILVER – Certified \> 5 Years)
- Autodesk Certified AutoCAD Professional
- Autodesk Certified Revit Professional
- AutoCAD

### David Sellers — Instructor

David, the Chief Academic Officer, has a Bachelor of Architecture Degree from Penn State University and an MBA from Point Loma Nazarene University. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects. He has been teaching Autodesk programs for over 10 years and enjoys working and teaching in the architectural industry. In addition to working with the Autodesk suite, he has significant experience in 3D modeling, the Adobe Creative Suite, Bluebeam Revu, and SketchUp. David enjoys spending his free time with his wife, biking, hanging out with his kids, and listening to audiobooks by the fire. 

**Credentials:**

- Licensed Architect
- Autodesk Certified Instructor (ACI SILVER – Certified \> 5 Years)
- Autodesk Certified Professional: AutoCAD, Revit, Fusion 360
- Adobe Visual Design Specialist
- SketchUp Certified 3D Warehouse Content Developer

### 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

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

## Pricing

**Tuition:** $895
