Digital Sculptor
Developed with input from industry experts, this four class certificate in Digital Sculpting with Autodesk® Alias® can put successful students on the path to a great career.
Companies seeking Digital Sculptors include Ford, General Motors, Nissan, BMW, Hyundai KIA, Navistar, Apple, Oakley, Polaris, Intel, Fitbit, and many more.
Learn to create beautiful 3D surfaces.
Required Classes for Certification
- Digital Sculpting with Autodesk® Alias®
- Digital Sculpting with Autodesk® Alias® – Level 2
- Digital Sculpting with Autodesk® Alias® – Level 3
- Digital Sculpting with Autodesk® Alias® – Level 4
Want to pursue this certificate and gain specialized knowledge to elevate your career? Fill out our Declaration Form to get started.
Introduction to Digital Sculpting with Autodesk Alias
Everything produced needs to be designed. Autodesk Alias is the industry standard for creating conceptual and production surface design. In this short, 3-minute video, the instructor will discuss the curriculum, job outlook, software and more. Find out what doors this training might open for you!
About the Instructor
Soochan Lee is a Lead Digital Modeler with 10 years of industry experience in both concept and Class-A surfacing.
He started his career at GM after graduating from the College for Creative Studies in Transportation Design. His work includes several high-profile projects, such as the first mid-engine C8 Chevrolet Corvette and the Cruise Origin autonomous shuttle. After a 9 year stint, he joined Canoo as a Lead Digital Modeler, working on various vehicles, including the Lifestyle Vehicle, Pickup Truck, and the Multi-Purpose Delivery Vehicle. Now, Soochan is back at GM as a Lead Digital Sculptor for the Branded Advanced Team, working on future designs for the GMC Exterior Studio.
Having taught Alias classes at the College for Creative Studies as an Adjunct Faculty, Soochan brings an abundant knowledge of surfacing and industry experience. He also teaches Alias through 3DdesignAcademy.com. Many of his students now work at various OEMs including GM and Rivian.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Autodesk® Alias®?
Autodesk is a leader in 3D design, engineering and entertainment software. Alias is industrial design and Class-A surfacing software. It provides concept modeling, surfacing, and visualization tools for industrial, product, and automotive design.
Do the classes need to be taken in order?
Yes. Regardless of previous experience, students need to begin with the first class as each class builds on the previous.
When are the classes offered?
Classes are offered as follows:
Fall: Level 1 & 3
Winter : Level 2 & 4
However, demand will drive class scheduling.
What are the hardware and software requirements?
Classes are held in Schoolcraft College computer labs where students may utilize the PCs and access the Autodesk® Alias® software. Students are welcome to bring a personal laptop to class. In order to successfully complete required assignments, students must have access to a 64-bit OS PC or Mac with high speed Internet connection outside of class. On the first day of class, students will be shown how to download the student version of Autodesk® software at no cost.
How much time do students devote to each class?
Classes typically meet one night per week for three hours. Level 1 meets for eight weeks. Levels 2, 3, and 4 meet for ten weeks each. Students should anticipate spending 5-20 hours each week outside of class on assignments.
What do students get out of the Digital Sculptor Certificate?
This certificate program will provide successful students an initial footing toward a successful and lucrative career. The Digital Sculptor Certificate will build good habits and provide knowledge of foundational techniques utilizing Autodesk® Alias® to create esthetic surfaces.
Students receive a detailed, personalized grade report. Successful completion of each level is required for enrollment in the next class. Students are given a 3D print of their final class project in each class. The Level 4 class will include presentations from Schoolcraft’s Career Services office and Business Development Center regarding resume writing, interviewing, and business services. Throughout the classes, students will be encouraged to network with companies in need of digital sculptors. Potential employers will be invited to a Student Showcase at the conclusion of each Level 4 class where students may demonstrate their skills.
The program is run out of Schoolcraft’s Personal & Professional Learning department. Students are awarded Continuing Education Units (CEUs) indicated on an official Schoolcraft College transcript. Upon successful completion of all four classes, students are awarded a certificate.
What is the current job market for Digital Sculptors?
Industry experts and Autodesk® representatives indicate there is a strong and growing demand for Digital Sculptors in the United States and internationally including many openings in the metro-Detroit area. Anything designed or packaged may first be sculpted using software such as Alias®. Companies seeking Digital Sculptors include Ford, General Motors, Nissan, BMW, Hyundai KIA, Navistar, Apple, Oakley, Polaris, Intel, Fitbit, and many more. When searching on job web sites, use terms such as sculptor, modeler, Class A Surface Designer, or Alias®.
Who should register?
Anyone who has an affinity for computers and design, art, clay sculpting or modeling, drafting, and the like. Those interested in exploring a viable career where success can lead to excellent wages are encouraged to attend the free Information Sessions to learn more. High school seniors are also welcome in this program.
What is the cost?
Class costs are indicated with the class descriptions in each term schedule as well as on this site under Digital Sculptor Class Offerings.
How can I find out more?
A Free Information Session is held prior to the Fall class start. Visit the PPL events page for session listings, or call 734-462-4448 or email [email protected] for more information.