Newly Promoted Assistant Professor Builds Up CAD Courses at SUNY Canton

SUNY Canton’s expert in computer-aided drafting (CAD) is helping students build their futures.

Robert F. Burnett was recently promoted to Assistant Professor in the college’s Canino School of Engineering Technology. Burnett teaches construction drafting, blueprint reading and is the resident authority on building information modeling (BIM). Technological advancements have presented new ways for students to learn the software necessary to create inventions and design architecture.

“My plans are to continue to grow the BIM, CAD and 3D modeling software courses,” Burnett said. “I’m also planning to write a new textbook and create an online course that will include commercial blue-print reading.”

Designing Success - Robert F. Burnett was recently promoted to Assistant Professor in the college’s Canino School of Engineering Technology. He is the college’s resident expert on computer-aided drafting and building information modeling.

Burnett draws from decades of professional experience as a design consultant, project manager and designer, to present relevant subject matter to his students, who typically enroll in the Civil and Environmental Engineering Technology and Mechanical Engineering Technology programs.

Some of his former students designed and 3D printed models of ATV shock-absorbers. Others designed a model of the proposed Ogdensburg Volunteer Rescue Squad building in 2011. All of their successes give him immense pride.

“My favorite memories are when graduates who have gone on to become successful stop by to visit or message us just to let us know how they are doing,” he said.

As one of the school’s innovative faculty members, Burnett has presented research on integrating virtual reality applications in industry to help people visualize future projects in 3D. Burnett would demonstrate the advanced construction models during the college’s Engineers Week and Women in Engineering Day open houses. He’s also authoring a book on CAD specifically for industry professionals.

Burnett started his SUNY Canton Career in 2006 as an adjunct instructor and was later promoted to a lecturer position.

He’s a 1995 graduate of SUNY Canton, where he established his background in building and drafting. He went on to study at SUNY Potsdam and recently earned his Master’s in Educational Leadership from St. Lawrence University.  Burnett resides in Rensselaer Falls.