What are the best ways to update your CAD skills?

1 Learn from online courses

One of the most convenient and affordable ways to update your CAD skills is to enroll in online courses that cover the topics and software you need. There are many platforms that offer high-quality, self-paced, and interactive courses for various levels of expertise, such as Coursera, Udemy, Lynda, and Skillshare. You can choose from courses that focus on specific CAD software, such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or Fusion 360, or courses that teach general CAD principles, such as 3D modeling, rendering, or simulation. Online courses can help you learn new skills, refresh your existing knowledge, and earn certificates that can enhance your resume and portfolio.

2 Practice with projects

Another effective way to update your CAD skills is to practice with projects that challenge you to apply what you have learned and solve real-world problems. You can find projects that suit your interests and goals on websites such as GrabCAD, Instructables, or Thingiverse, or you can create your own projects based on your needs and inspiration. Projects can help you improve your technical skills, as well as your creativity, problem-solving, and communication skills. You can also share your projects with other designers and get feedback, tips, and suggestions that can help you improve your work.

3 Follow industry trends

A third way to update your CAD skills is to follow the latest trends and developments in the industrial design industry and the CAD software market. You can stay informed and inspired by reading blogs, magazines, newsletters, and podcasts that cover the latest news, tips, tricks, and best practices in CAD and industrial design. Some examples are Design World, Core77, SolidSmack, and The Engineering Commons. You can also follow social media accounts, forums, and groups that showcase the work of other designers and provide opportunities for networking, learning, and collaboration. Some examples are Reddit, LinkedIn, Behance, and Dribbble.

4 Join online communities

A fourth way to update your CAD skills is to join online communities that connect you with other designers who share your passion and experience in CAD and industrial design. You can find communities that match your interests, goals, and level of expertise on platforms such as Meetup, Discord, Slack, or Facebook. Online communities can offer you support, advice, feedback, and resources that can help you learn new skills, overcome challenges, and grow as a designer. You can also participate in events, challenges, contests, and webinars that can help you showcase your skills, learn from experts, and win prizes.

5 Explore new software

A fifth way to update your CAD skills is to explore new software that can offer you new features, functions, and possibilities in your design process. You can try out different CAD software that suit your needs, preferences, and budget, such as free, open-source, cloud-based, or specialized software. You can compare the pros and cons of different software, and learn how to use them effectively and efficiently. You can also experiment with software that complement your CAD software, such as sketching, animation, or prototyping software. Exploring new software can help you expand your toolkit, diversify your skills, and discover new ways to express your ideas.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?