3Dmax is a complete toolset for sure, and people who can show you how to work with it are big plus too. I think it's a different beast than Autocad, but there may be similarities.

3Dmax isn't cheap, though. 

A ship in port is safe; but that is not what ships are built for.
Sail out to sea and do new things.
-"Amazing Grace" Hopper

Avatar image of me done by Chidori.