Becoming familiar with CAD: General Industry Coverage

CNC machining takes a blend of computer skills and machining skills. Some competent machinists, especially old-timers, lack the computer skills needed to go from print to part using CNC machines. I previously lacked the computer skills, but couldn’t tolerate not having complete control of the jobs I was running. Therefore, I taught myself the computer side of CNC machining so I could create my own programs.

My approach to learning was inspired about 20 years ago by my then-12-year-old daughter. I was reluctant to have anything to do with computers, but Joanna was already having great fun and was doing what seemed like complex tasks with ours at home.

One day I asked if she would teach me word processing. After she had me click on the Microsoft Word icon, I had a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach, envisioning a myriad of complex menus and computer lingo that would take me a decade or so to master.

This adapter plate is a simple part, but once you can make one using a CAD/CAM system, you’ll have a good foundation for producing more complex parts. Image courtesy J. Harvey.

I reluctantly asked what to do next. Her answer just about floored me—”Just start typing.” That day taught me two things about computers: While you need an interest in learning, sometimes you must “just do it.”

And even if you can’t work at blinding speeds, that may actually be an advantage. You’ll compensate by focusing on details and by methodically checking your work.

My daughter, by the way, couldn’t stand to watch me slog along with a computer. I believe it’s a generational thing. Still, with all her innate computer ability, she may be the last person I’d trust to engrave expensive mold cavities.