# AutoCAD Fundamentals Fast-Track Program

100% online with software, live support, and industry-recognized certificate

Canonical URL: <https://vdci.edu/courses/autocad-fundamentals>

## Overview

This program will introduce you to the basics of using AutoCAD for Computer-Aided Design (CAD). You will start at the very beginning. Create drafting symbols, kitchen and bath fixtures, a floor plan and bring everything together on a deliverable sheet which is printed. You will also create an abbreviated set of construction documents - a floor plan, roof plan, structural foundation plan, electrical plan and building elevations. Learn about paper/model space. Create deliverable sheet files.

- **Master the Basics of AutoCAD** : Learn foundational CAD concepts, including drafting symbols, kitchen and bath fixtures, and floor plan creation, all compiled into a deliverable sheet file
- **Develop Construction Documentation Skills** : Create an abbreviated set of construction documents, including a floor plan, roof plan, structural foundation plan, electrical plan, and building elevations.
- **Understand Paper & Model Space** : Learn how to navigate between paper space and model space to create professional deliverable sheet files.
- **Advance to Intermediate AutoCAD** : Work on a residential project by inserting and linking drawings while learning best practices for CAD workflows.
- **Engage in Hands-on, Project-Based Learning** : Gain practical experience with real-world AutoCAD applications in an instructor-led, interactive online environment.
- **Earn a Verified Digital Credentia** l:  Successfully complete the course with a 70% or higher to receive an Accredible verified micro-credential.

## What you'll learn

- AutoCAD Interface & Navigation: Familiarize yourself with the AutoCAD user interface and basic navigation tools.
- Drafting Techniques: Learn to create and modify 2D geometry, including lines, circles, and rectangles.
- Layer Management: Understand how to use layers to organize your drawing for clarity and efficiency.
- Annotation Tools: Apply text, dimensions, and hatching to annotate your drawings accurately.
- Plotting & Printing: Set up layouts and plot your drawings to scale for presentation.
- Construction Documentation: Develop floor plans, elevations, and other essential construction documents.
- File Management: Learn best practices for saving, organizing, and sharing AutoCAD files.

## Curriculum
1. **Intro to AutoCAD Course Online**
2. **Intermediate AutoCAD Course Online**

## 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:** $1350

Payment options: equal installment plan.
