The gap between art and engineering is usually filled with an Industrial Designer. I think that is the type of work you are describing, although ID encompasses more than just 3d modeling.

I do ID for a large door hardware company, working with engineers and marketing. The standard 3d software for the industry that I see in job postings are: solidworks, pro-e, alias or Rhino. I use Moi since I run the studio and want to focus more on creativity and exploring different concepts than getting too worried with technical details (I let the engineers have fun with that)

But I think what is important about software is knowing theory. Generally if you understand 3d theory (nurbs, poly, etc...) then you can learn whatever software might be required at whatever company.

Check out coroflot, which is a place you can post portfolios and browse jobs.

Just make sure you are going to do it because you are passionate about design. Regardless if it is considered two or three dimensional geometry, wireframe, surface or solid modeling, parametric history based or direct modeling, just make sure you follow your heart, and not the job market. :-)

Michael T.

""Do the engineers need people who are just good at modeling neat shapes?"""" The engineers dont need ANYBODY!!! lol

They need machinist to make what they draw!!!!! lol

Got me, although surely they can run those silly machines!! :o

"The gap between art and engineering is usually filled with an Industrial Designer" That's what I was looking for! I knew there must be some kind of job title that would help me do more research.

thanks

During the Renaissance period their were schools/apprentice programs for Artist/Engineers under such tutor's as da Vinci etc. If I had the funding, I think a program like they had during the Renaissance period would be a good investment. :-)

Michael T.