SPC student takes drawing to next level in CADD program
LEVELLAND – For South Plains College student Natalia Trejo, the computer-aided drafting and design (CADD) program has allowed her to apply her drawing skills in a new scenario.
The CADD program at SPC consists of technical drawing courses that provide a basic and advanced study of the major areas of engineering drawing. Trejo, a third-semester student from Gruver, said getting the opportunity to draw on the computer was one aspect of the program that intrigued her.
When learning about the program, Trejo said some people incorrectly assume the coursework is easy due to it being digital. Despite juggling many challenging assignments in and outside of the classroom, she said the coursework has been engaging.
“You get to learn to prioritize the many assignments and work on your time management,” she said. “It can be a lot sometimes when you get assigned multiple drawings, but it gets easier to manage.”
During her time in the program, Trejo said she has overcome procrastination and the stress of managing a heavy workload. With the help of her peers, she said there are also many opportunities to improve one’s craft.
“Sometimes, we’re all struggling, so we can work with and help each other,” she said. “I like the collaboration because it’s good to know that you’re not the only one struggling.”
The CADD program was not the only reason Trejo said she considered SPC the next step in her educational journey. She followed in the footsteps of her older siblings who attended the college before her.
Since arriving at the college, Trejo said the campus community has been very welcoming and supportive. In the CADD program, instructors Terry Stucker and Jason Bush have helped her overcome many challenges.
“I always like to give credit to the professors, who are really nice and helpful,” she said. “They’re always there to get us through any obstacle.”
With experienced faculty and an equipped facility in the Technical Arts Building on the Levelland campus, SPC offers CADD students the hands-on experience necessary to excel in the industry. Trejo, who is graduating in Spring 2025, said she is excited to use her skills outside of college.
“I’m leaning more toward the architecture side,” she said regarding her plans after her education. “I like drawing in this space because you get to be really creative.”
CADD career fields include architecture, mechanics, process piping, electronics, aeronautics, aerospace and technical illustration. For anyone considering the CADD program or a similar discipline, Trejo said one must acknowledge the time commitment.
“You have to mentally prepare yourself for how much work there is in the program,” she said. “It can be stressful at times, but you’ll learn to get the work done efficiently.”
Computer-Aided Drafting and Design
The computer-aided drafting and design program at SPC trains students in engineering and architectural drawing and design. Located on the college’s Levelland campus, this comprehensive technical program prepares students for an entry-level position in machine design, architectural design, structural design, topography, technical illustration and more. Students learn the application of engineering drawing and technical knowledge in solving practical industrial problems.
Students also gain valuable hands-on training using equipment and facilities parallel to that found in the industry. To ensure graduates achieve a competitive skill level for the job market, an advisory committee of engineers and experienced technicians studies current trends in the industry and periodically recommends program upgrades and changes.
Upon completion of either the Associate of Applied Science degree or certificate, students may choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Selected courses from the curriculum will transfer to certain universities and four-year colleges toward a major in industrial technology, engineering technology, various areas of engineering and teacher education.
