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Engineering CAD Technology

Are you looking for a career that mixes creativity and technology? Enroll in Hennepin Tech's Engineering CAD program to prepare for a career in mechanical drafting and manufacturing.

In this two-year program, you’ll learn to use software to make detailed drawings from rough sketches, layouts, and written instructions. You'll turn your ideas into precise designs and professional drawings used in manufacturing.

Our courses teach you the basics of 3D printing with Bambu Labs machines, so you can make your designs real. As a skilled CAD engineer, you'll be important in the design and production process.

With a two-year associate's degree, you'll be ready to start a successful career in design and development. Students with an A.A.S. or diploma in Engineering CAD Technology from Hennepin Tech can transfer credits to a Bachelor of Science in Operations Management at MSU Moorhead.

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Design-to-Production Skills

Learn to create precise 2D and 3D engineering drawings, solid models, and assembly designs that bring ideas to life for manufacturing.
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Hands-On 3D Printing Experience

Gain practical skills in additive manufacturing, including 3D scanning, prototype building, and maintaining 3D printing systems.
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Career & Transfer Pathways

Prepare for careers in mechanical drafting, product design, or 3D printing technology, or transfer credits toward a bachelor’s degree in operations management.
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Overview
Class Time Day | Evening
Semester Fall | Spring | Summer
Campus Brooklyn Park | Eden Prairie
Awards

3D Printing System Maintenance Certificate

Additive manufacturing Designer Certificate

AutoCAD Operator Certificate

Creo Parametric Operator Certificate

SOLIDWORKS Operator Certificate

Engineering CAD Technology Diploma

Engineering CAD Technology Associate of Applied Science

New Mechanical Drafting Associate of Applied Science Award starting Fall 2025!

Tuition & Learning

Planning your investment is easy. Our program provides comprehensive training that prepares you for immediate entry into your chosen field. Below you'll find detailed information about program costs and required materials.

Tuition Estimates by Award

Costs below apply to each specific award option:

Certificates

3D Printing System Maintenance
$3,356
Advanced Technical Certificate
Additive Manufacturing Designer
$3,565
Advanced Technical Certificate
AutoCAD Operator
$3,565
Advanced Technical Certificate
Creo Parametric Operator
$3,565
Advanced Technical Certificate
SOLIDWORKS Operator
$3,565
Advanced Technical Certificate

Diplomas

Engineering CAD Technology
$13,423
Diploma

Associates Degrees

Engineering CAD Technology
$15,101
Associate of Applied Science
Mechanical Drafting
$13,443
Associate of Applied Science
The tuition rate for 2025-2026 academic year is
$209.73 per credit

Scholarships & Savings

Ready to turn your dreams into reality? At Hennepin Tech, we believe that nothing should stand in the way of your education. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate the ins and outs of paying for college, so you can focus on what really matters – your future.

FAFSA

Your key to financial aid. The first step to unlocking financial assistance for college is filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). By completing this form, you’ll qualify for a variety of federal grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study opportunities that can help offset the cost of tuition, books, and other expenses.

Not sure if you’re eligible? Don’t worry, our financial aid advisors are here to help, even if you have unique circumstances or are an undocumented individual.

Check out your first step to funding college

North Star Promise

If you’re a Minnesota resident who meets certain income criteria, you may also qualify for the North Star Promise, which provides additional financial support to cover the cost of tuition and fees. It’s another way we’re making college more accessible and affordable for students like you.

See if you qualify for free tuition

Foundation Scholarships

The Hennepin Tech Foundation offers a variety of scholarships to help students offset the cost of tuition, textbooks, and other expenses. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and other criteria. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to reduce your college expenses!

Explore scholarships just for our students

PSEO & Concurrent Enrollment

High school students can jumpstart their college education by participating in our Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) or Concurrent Enrollment programs. Earn college credits while still in high school and save on future tuition costs!

Discover how you can earn college credit in high school

VA Benefits

Veterans and their dependents may be eligible for education benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These benefits can help cover tuition, housing, and other costs associated with attending college. Contact our veterans services office for assistance in accessing and maximizing your VA benefits.

Maximize your military education benefits

Third-Party Payments

Did you know that some employers, organizations, or government agencies offer tuition assistance programs? If you’re eligible, you can use these funds to help cover your college expenses. Be sure to check with your employer or inquire about any available benefits.

Let a sponsor help fund your education

Transfer Credits

Transfer the credits you’ve already earned from previous colleges or programs to reduce the classes you need, helping you finish your degree faster and at a lower cost.

Make your hard work count twice

To maximize your savings, apply for FAFSA early, explore scholarships, and review your potential for credit through prior learning and transfer evaluations.

Accreditation & Recognition

Articulations

An articulation agreement between Hennepin Technical College and Minnesota State University Moorhead will facilitate credit transfer of Hennepin Tech 's Engineering CAD Technology A.A.S. or diploma toward a Bachelor of Science in Operations Management at MSU-Moorhead.

Industry Partners

We are currently seeking advisory board members. A member of the board would provide input into the direction of the program. If you are interested, please contact Rick.Montzka@HennepinTech.edu.

How to Apply

Ready to start your journey at Hennepin Tech? Learn the skills you’ll need to succeed and follow our simple application process to take the first step toward your career goals.

Skills Required

Since a mechanical designer is responsible for developing and maintaining product documentation with solid models, assemblies, assembly drawings, detail drawings, and prototype assemblies. Mechanical aptitude and attention to detail are two of the best indicators for success in this industry.

Blueprint reading should be taken early in your studies to determine your ability to understand two-dimensional representation of three-dimensional objects. Because this industry relies heavily on Computer-Aided Design software to develop products, familiarity with computers and computer software is helpful.

Application Process

Applying to Hennepin Tech is easy and straightforward. Follow these simple steps to get started on your educational journey:

  1. Submit Your Application
    Visit our Get Started page to complete your application online. As part of the application process, you will need to pay the application fee. This helps us process your materials quickly.

  2. Submit Transfer Requests (If Applicable)
    If you have previously completed college courses or earned a degree, you can save time and money by transferring your credits. Be sure to submit official transcripts or transfer requests from any previous colleges or high schools you attended. This allows us to evaluate your credits and apply them toward your new program.

  3. Receive Your Admission Decision
    Once your application is reviewed and accepted, you will receive an official admission decision.

  4. Placement Testing for New Students
    If you are new to college, you will need to take a placement test after you have been accepted. The placement test helps identify your current skills in reading, writing, and math. It is used to determine if developmental courses are necessary before you start certain college-level classes. Please note that the placement test does not affect your admission status.

  5. Plan Your Courses
    Based on your placement test results and transfer credit evaluation, you will work with an advisor to select the right courses to ensure your success.

Special Admissions Processes

  • If you are an international student, please visit our international admissions page for specific instructions.

  • If you are a PSEO (Postsecondary Enrollment Options) student, please visit our PSEO admissions webpage for details on the application process.

If you have questions or need help during the application process, our admissions team is here to support you every step of the way.

Faculty & Staff

Peg Armstrong-Larsen Engineering CAD Technology Phone: 952-995-1565 E-mail: Peggy.Armstrong-Larsen@HennepinTech.edu
David Spangler Adjunct Engineering CAD Faculty Phone: 952-995-1565 E-mail: David.Spangler@HennepinTech.edu
Rick Montzka Faculty Phone: 763-488-2501 E-mail: Rick.Montzka@HennepinTech.edu

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Burrows Named Outstanding Educator by MinnState

Monday, March 9, 2026

An image of Jason Burrows on a gray background. The text on the image reads "2026 Outstanding Educator - Jason Burrows"
Philosophy instructor, Jason Burrows will be honored by MinnState as a 2026 Outstanding Educator in a ceremony in April.

Cyber Challenge Draws High Schoolers to Campus

Friday, March 6, 2026

A blue and red circular crest reading "Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity" is featured prominently on the left of the image. In the background, a group of blurred students work on computers
Nearly 70 students competed at Hennepin Tech’s first Minnesota High School Cyber Challenge on Feb. 27.

Culinary Student Named Student Chef of the Year

Monday, March 2, 2026

Joni Mack (center) is pictured with other Chef of the Year award winners.
The American Culinary Federation Minnesota Chefs Chapter names Joni Mack as Student Chef of the Year.

ARET Students Flip the Script

Friday, February 20, 2026

Students from the IOPP club gather around their group assignment, a pick and pack robot and PLC unit.
The ARET Reverse Career Fair and IOPP club activities help bridge classroom learning and career readiness.