Course Description

The TMA School of Design is a CAD-based, two-year, four-semester program consisting of 160 to 170 classroom contact hours per year. Depending on which curriculum is selected, students will utilize AutoCAD 2000 or higher version, CADKEY 99, or Mastercam software to design tooling in the classroom and at home or on the job. Therefore, all students must have access to a PC to complete homework assignments. Student editions of AutoCAD and CADKEY are available at a reasonable student price. Order forms will be distributed at an orientation meeting which will be scheduled for all new enrollees this summer. There will also be some required textbooks in both classes. NOTE: TMA offers training classes on all the software listed. Call the Education Department for dates and times.

Course Objectives

• Learned and practiced the procedures and techniques used in basic tool design from the inception of a piece part drawing to the finished drawing used to manufacture a tool capable of producing the part.
• Developed the necessary skills to communicate the functions and construction concepts required by designers to construct the tool.
• Learned basic and advanced functions of popular, well-practiced application programs to assist in tool design.
• All graduates of the TMA School of Design will receive TMA certification and will be recognized at the association's annual graduation ceremonies.

Prerequisites

Candidates for admission to TMA's School of Design must:

• Have completed a TMA recognized related theory program as a tool & die maker or mold maker; or possess equivalent on-the-job experience
• Be proficient in AutoCAD 2000-Level I or higher for Die Design; AutoCAD 2000-Level I or higher, CADKEY 99 or Mastercam for Mold Design
• Possess basic drafting skills
• Attend a mandatory orientation/testing meeting at TMA to be scheduled in early August.

Location and Meeting Times

The School of Design classes are held at the TMA Conference Center Computer Lab in Park Ridge, IL.

Class size

Each program will be limited to seventeen (17) students.

Cost and Payment Schedule:

Members-$2,200 per year; non-members-$2,860 per year, plus required supplies and texts. $1,000 per student must accompany the registration form to guarantee a seat. Payment in full must be received before classes begin in September.

Cancellation Policy

Any student who officially withdraws from the design course within the first week will receive a 100% refund. No refunds after the first week of class.

For more information jbending@tmanet.com or call 847/825-1120, ext. 338.