InspiHER{CADMastery} - Session 02
December 20, 2024 · 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM @ Online event
Description
The InspiHER{Tech} V3.0 project, an ambitious initiative led by the IEEE Women in Engineering (WIE) Student Branch Affinity Group of SLTC, represents a landmark effort to empower, inspire, and uplift female undergraduates pursuing careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and IT fields. This transformative program is rooted in the mission of bridging the gender gap in technology by fostering creativity, confidence, and technical expertise among young women. As part of the InspiHER{CADMastery} series, Session 02 marked the second day of this impactful project. The session welcomed the dynamic and accomplished Senior Lecturer Ms. Shavindya Herath as the guest speaker, whose expertise and approachable teaching style ensured a truly memorable learning experience for all participants. Ms. Herath began the session with an insightful introduction to engineering drawing, emphasizing its role as the universal language of technical design and communication. She broke down the key components of engineering drawings, including: Projections and Views: The importance of orthographic and isometric projections in visualizing three-dimensional objects on a two-dimensional plane. Dimensions and Annotations: How accurate dimensioning and annotations ensure clarity and precision in designs. Symbols and Standards: The significance of adhering to standardized symbols and conventions to maintain consistency across industries. Through her engaging explanation, participants gained a clear understanding of how engineering drawing forms the backbone of various technical fields, from mechanical design to civil engineering. One of the highlights of the session was Ms. Herath’s step-by-step guidance on downloading and setting up CAD software. Recognizing that accessibility can often be a barrier for beginners, she provided detailed instructions, ensuring that all participants were equipped with the necessary tools to embark on their CAD learning journey. The process included: Choosing the Right Software: An overview of popular CAD tools like AutoCAD and SolidWorks, along with their unique features and use cases. Installation Walkthrough: Clear instructions for downloading, installing, and activating CAD software on participants’ devices. User Interface Basics: Familiarize attendees with the software’s interface, including menus, toolbars, and workspaces. This segment was particularly appreciated by participants, many of whom were new to CAD. The session’s centerpiece was a hands-on tutorial on creating angle projection drawings, a fundamental skill in engineering design. Under Ms. Herath’s guidance, participants worked on simple yet instructive exercises, including: Drawing orthographic projections to represent 3D objects in two dimensions. Understanding the principles of first-angle and third-angle projections. Practicing basic sketching techniques to enhance precision and clarity. Ms. Herath’s step-by-step approach ensured that participants could follow along seamlessly, regardless of their prior experience. Her ability to simplify complex concepts and encourage active participation made the session both informative and engaging. The session concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where participants had the opportunity to seek clarification, share their thoughts, and delve deeper into topics of interest. Questions ranged from specific challenges in CAD to broader discussions about career opportunities in design and engineering. Ms. Herath’s thoughtful responses further enriched the learning experience, leaving participants motivated and informed. Session 02 of InspiHER{CADMastery} was a resounding success, blending technical rigor with personal inspiration. The session equipped participants with a strong foundation in engineering drawing and CAD, while also fostering a supportive and empowering environment. As the participants move forward in their journey, the skills and confidence gained from this session will undoubtedly serve them well. They are not just learning how to use CAD software—they are becoming part of a movement that celebrates innovation, collaboration, and the limitless potential of women in STEM and IT. InspiHER{Tech}V3.0 continues to uphold its mission of empowering the next generation of women, proving that with the right opportunities and mentorship, they can break barriers, lead innovations, and shape the future of technology. Finally, we were pleased to capture the perfect photograph, creating a lasting memory.
Agenda
7.30 p.m - 7.45 p.m -Welcome speech 7.45 p.m - 9.00 p.m -Session by Ms.Shavindya Herath 9.00 p.m - 9.15 p.m -Q and A session 9.15 p.m - 9.25 p.m -Token of appreciation 9.25 p.m – 9.30 p.m -End of the program