Using “Expert Employees” to identify Duties and Tasks for CADD Technicians in North Central Idaho: Lessons Learned from a Modified DACUM Process

Objective: We conducted a job analysis to identify the competency profile of an entry level CADD technician in North central Idaho. Background: In 2011, the Clearwater Economic Development Association and NIMA collaborated with Lewis-Clark State College and the University of Idaho in a project to strengthen the capacity of Career and Technology Education (CTE) teachers to teach computer aided drafting and designing (CADD). An application to the National Science Foundation, Advanced Technology Education (NSF ATE) program was made and funding began July of 2011. Method: A modified DACUM was used. A total of seven expert workers from six companies participated. Results: The DACUM research chart created consisted of 8 duty statements and 54 task statements. Conclusions: Effective facilitation helps to reduce self-serving biases. The panel of experts believed the modified DACUM expedited the development of a new DACUM Research Chart that is reflective of what is done in the region