CAD/CAM
CAD/CAM stands for Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing. It's a combination of software tools that engineers use to design and make parts or products. Think of CAD as digital drawing and 3D modeling - instead of using paper and pencil, engineers create detailed designs on computers. CAM then takes these digital designs and helps control the machines that actually make the parts. This technology is essential in aerospace because it allows engineers to design complex aircraft parts with high precision and then manufacture them accurately. Similar systems include tools like CATIA, Siemens NX, and SolidWorks.
Examples in Resumes
Created complex aircraft components using CAD/CAM systems
Reduced manufacturing time by 30% through optimized CAD/CAM programming
Led team training on advanced CAD/CAM software
Developed tooling designs using Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing
Typical job title: "CAD/CAM Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find CAD/CAM Engineers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you manage a large-scale CAD/CAM implementation project?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience leading teams, software rollouts, training programs, establishing design standards, and ensuring smooth integration with existing manufacturing processes.
Q: How do you ensure design quality and manufacturability in complex aerospace components?
Expected Answer: Should explain review processes, design for manufacturing principles, cost considerations, and experience with aerospace industry standards and requirements.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What methods do you use to optimize CAM programs for efficiency?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with toolpath optimization, cycle time reduction, and understanding of manufacturing processes and machine capabilities.
Q: How do you handle design changes and version control in CAD projects?
Expected Answer: Should explain file management systems, change documentation processes, and coordination with team members on design updates.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What CAD/CAM software have you used and what are their basic functions?
Expected Answer: Should be able to name common software packages and explain basic modeling, drafting, and manufacturing programming capabilities.
Q: How do you ensure accuracy in your CAD drawings?
Expected Answer: Should discuss measuring tools, dimension checking, and basic quality control processes in design work.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic 3D modeling and drafting
- Simple part programming
- Understanding of manufacturing processes
- Basic blueprint reading
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex part modeling and assembly
- Advanced manufacturing programming
- Design optimization
- Technical documentation
Senior (5+ years)
- Project management
- Advanced system implementation
- Team leadership
- Process optimization
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with CAD/CAM software
- Lack of understanding of basic manufacturing processes
- No knowledge of industry standards and tolerances
- Unable to read technical drawings or blueprints
- No experience with quality control procedures
