Martin Andaya: Pioneering Paths in Computer-Aided Design Education

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Martin Andaya had dreams of a career in architecture, but he knew he was unlikely to take a traditional educational route. He was impatient.

“My sister was in school at UCLA, and I noticed she had to go through all these General Education [GE] courses. I hated the thought of GE courses,” says Martin. “I wanted to go right into exactly what I wanted to know.”  

Martin ASo, Martin went to trade school and studied architectural drafting. But he didn’t stop there. He wound up continuing on an educational journey that earned him a master’s degree and eventually a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership. But he didn’t just want to learn. He wanted to teach.

Martin started as a student teacher at ITT Technical Institute. Eventually, he worked up to Academic Dean and Campus Director roles and even won awards for his curriculum over a 15-year career. 

“Opportunities just kept popping up for me,” says Martin. “I never thought I’d take this route starting with trade school. But as I went along, people told me I could keep going, and that advanced my education and my career.”

But all those promotions also moved Martin into roles that weren’t student-facing and he realized that was where his real passion lay.

Building CAD at Charter College

“My work became so much about business, and I was far away from the students now. That’s when I took a step back,” says Martin. “Then Charter College reached out about wanting to start their Computer Aided Design Program.”  

Combining his trade school training and curriculum design experience with his deep knowledge of education, Martin helped build the CAD program. He says that Charter College allowed him to be the expert, build the curriculum, and deliver it to students in his own way. And for all the passion he put into designing the program, he puts even more into its delivery.

Martin teaches the ins and outs of CAD. He teaches students technical skills like how to use software to create 2D drawings and 3D models. But he also incorporates important foundational concepts like the principles of architecture and structural components of buildings. And he shows his students how to apply what they learn to real-world scenarios, by bringing in field projects to his lessons, so students don’t just sit through lectures. He provides real examples. 

But what Martin’s students may appreciate most is that he always seems to be there for them.

“My courses may be taught online, but I want my students to have the convenience of a classroom setting. If you have a question for me, I’ll never let you wait more than 24 hours. You message me, I’ll get back to you,” Martin guarantees.

Martin even records classes in case students need to miss a normal lecture time.

Preparing the Future of CAD

When he’s not teaching, Martin prepares students for the workforce. He collaborates closely with Career Services at Charter and industry stakeholders to ensure that graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in the CAD space. For Martin, the ultimate reward lies in witnessing his students’ triumphs.

“It’s fulfilling to know that I’ve helped shape their futures,” Martin shares with pride.

Martin proves that you do not always need to take the traditional route to achieve your goals. His determination for success led him to a fulfilling life where he can prepare others for the working world. He hopes to continue to grow the CAD program at Charter, as he sees all the potential this program has.

Do you want to hear more about the dedicated instructors of our CAD program and others at Charter College? Call 888-200-9942 or fill out the form.