Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Certifications: Are They Ualuable to Undergraduate Engineering and Engineering Technology Students?

摘要

The acceptance of computer-aided design (CAD) certifications in industry has emerged over the last decade. As a result, instructors are beginning to incorporate certification exams into engineering and engineering technology (ET) curricula. Unfortunately, minimal evidence-based research has been conducted to explore the value gained front obtaining such certifications. The claims made by the CAD software vendors and resellers are that their certifications are, in general, valuable and beneficial to students. The purpose of this research is twofold: 1) to explore the perceived general value of the SOLIDWORKS certification program, the general benefits of obtaining SOLIDWORKS certifications for students, and the justifications for being SOLIDWORKS certified during a typical hiring process; and 2) publish empirical data. This study involved an online survey given to a cross-sectional sample of certified SOLIDWORKS users located in the Midwest region of the United States. LinkedIn InMail messages containing the survey link were sent to 156 individuals, of which 58 (37.18%) responded. Results show respondents generally perceive SOLIDWORKS certifications as valuable, and the benefits of obtaining certifications outweigh costs. Being SOLIDWORKS certified will help students get an interview and gain a competitive advantage over non-certified candidates. Finally, a ranked list pertaining to the value of being SOLIDWORKS certified during the hiring process is revealed. In general, this paper sheds lights on an emerging trend in engineering and ET curricula and, more specifically, calls for additional research studies investigating the impact of vendor controlled certification programs.