Learn the essentials of Building Information Modeling (BIM) for a career in architecture, engineering, or project management. Discover different BIM classes in Dallas offering in-person or online training to open up career paths as a BIM Coordinator, Architect, Engineer, or 3D Modeler.
Key Insights
- BIM stands for Building Information Modeling, a process used in designing, developing, and managing projects in various industries. It offers tools for efficient planning, designing, and building of constructions, infrastructures, and manufacturing.
- BIM classes in Dallas offer both in-person and online training, catering to different learning preferences. The training covers the use of BIM software and tools, opening up career opportunities in the construction or manufacturing industries.
- VDCI offers a BIM Certificate Program and Revit Fundamentals Course Bundle. These programs provide knowledge in BIM technology, workflows using Revit, and 3D modeling.
- The VDCI CAD/BIM Certificate Program combines training in AutoCAD with learning the BIM software Revit. The program targets new learners and offers hands-on skills through real-world design projects.
- Noble Desktop offers an AutoCAD Bootcamp that complements BIM technology training. The bootcamp covers the fundamentals of technical drawing and advanced drafting techniques.
- BIM training equips learners with tools like Revit, which is used in construction, architecture, engineering, and manufacturing for 3D modeling. This training is essential for roles like BIM Managers or BIM Coordinators who work with construction professionals on various projects.
What is BIM?
BIM stands forBuilding Information Modeling, which is a process for designing, developing, and managing projects in various industries for work involving Architects, Engineers, General Contractors, and Project Managers. BIM technology provides tools for more efficiently controlling planning, designing, building, and managing constructions, infrastructures, and manufacturing. BIM facilitates 3D modeling through a cloud platform that integrates data using digital technology for planning and designing construction and manufacturing projects and operations.
Knowledge in BIM technology provides skills for creating 3D models for working on construction projects with Engineers, Architects, and other construction professionals through a shared database or cloud. These professionals use BIM tools for collaborating on construction documents, infrastructure management, and decision-making.
BIM Classes in Dallas
While many people living in Dallas who are considering learning BIM technology may prefer training inside classrooms, others might opt for online training as an alternative for avoiding traveling after a long day at work with a current job. In-person training allows for personal interaction with instructors and classmates as well as being shielded from outside distractions. On the other hand, live online and on-demand courses allow students to learn from home for the same level of training that they would get from sitting inside a classroom. Whichever method a person chooses, learning BIM software and tools can open up a path for careers in the construction or manufacturing industries for working as a BIM Coordinator, Architect, Engineer, or 3D Modeler for designing and analyzing concepts on construction projects using 3D modeling for developing the look as well as analyzing structural integrity.
VDCI offers the self-paced BIM Certificate Program that will train you for knowledge with BIM technology for workflows using Revit, which is the industry standard software program for creating 3D models for residential and commercial construction projects. This program involves a series of courses where you will learn how to create a 3D model for a commercial project along with construction documents using BIM software. Courses include getting an introduction to Revit followed by intermediate training in the technology. Lessons involve working on BIM construction documents with the goal of gaining expertise.
VDCI also offers the on-demand Revit Fundamentals Course Bundle, which introduces you to 3D modeling, architectural design, and project documentation for applying BIM technology. Training with this bundled program focuses on projects-based learning from expert instructors. Lessons cover leaving fundamental tools with using Revit along with workflows for getting comfortable with the BIM software. Upon completing this program, you will have knowledge in 3D modeling for creating architectural designs, including drawings, floor plans, and elevations.
You might choose to enroll with VDCI for the self-paced CAD/BIM Certificate Program that combines training in AutoCAD with learning the BIM software Revit. This certificate program focuses on providing specialized training for working in construction and architectural design with the goal of using those skills for working as a Designers, 3D Modeler, Architect, or Engineer involved in designing projects. This certificate program aims at training new learners who have no background in CAD or other design tools and procedures. Courses with the program include providing hands-on skills gained through real-world experience from working on design projects that should help you with being able to demonstrate your new skills to potential employers.
Other online education providers like Noble Desktop offer courses like the AutoCAD Bootcamp that should complement training with BIM technology. This bootcamp will teach you the fundamentals of technical drawing for gaining skills with creating 2D drawing using AutoCAD. Lessons cover learning the basics of AutoCAD functions as well as advanced drafting techniques. Training begins at the beginner-level with AutoCAD where you will learn basic drawing and modifying techniques for creating drawings for building physical objects involving structural design on construction projects. The intermediate portion of the class will teach you how to create 2D basic drawings with AutoCAD, starting with learning basic functions for creating and editing simple drawings. Upon completing this bootcamp, you will have a comprehensive understanding for working with AutoCAD that should ease your journey with learning building information modeling.
Students may also want to take advantage of LinkedIn Learning by enrolling for the on-demand Revit 2024 tutorial for learning Autodesk Revit, which is a BIM design software that helps Architects, Engineers, General Contractors, and BIM professionals with working in a variety of capacities on construction projects. Learning Revit facilitated designing and editing 3D models, drawings, and construction documents for creating buildings and other types of structures. This course includes using the functions and features available with Revit that includes parametric modeling for working with BIM technology for designing buildings as well as collaborating with other professionals during construction. This video tutorial will train student in how to use Revit for collaborating on team projects, choosing templates, or for setting up grids and dimensions for adding walls, doors, and windows on construction projects. Lessons for this class include learning how to import files from CAD programs, create construction documens, and make 3D cloud renderings.
What Can You Do with BIM Training?
Training in BIM involves learning tools like Revit, which is a BIM software used in construction, architecture, engineering, and manufacturing for modeling shapes, structures, and systems in 3D. Revit helps for streamlining projects with floor plans, elevations, sheets, schedules, and 3D visualizations.
Revit helps Architects, Engineers, and Designers with modeling shapes, structures, and systems in 3D with parametric accuracy, precision, and ease. Revit also facilitates streamlining project management for instant revisions with planning, evaluating, and scheduling on construction projects using 3D visualizations. Additionally, Revit MEP is another BIM application for working in construction for Engineers with developing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems on projects. Revit MEP helps construction professionals with designing precise and accurate models on building projects.
What Will I Learn in a BIM Class?
Training to become a BIM Managers or BIM Coordinator requires learning how to create 3D models for working on construction projects with Engineers, Architects, and other construction professionals through a shared database or the cloud. These construction professionals use BIM technology to collaborate on projects for construction documents, infrastructure management, and decision-making. BIM Managers and BIM Coordinators use their skills with technology to find careers in construction, architecture, or manufacturing. This type of training can be gained through a variety of online education providers from learning how to design and manage digital modeling concepts for building physical structures.
Training in BIM involves learning tools like Revit, which is a BIM software used by Architects, 3D Modelers, and Engineers in construction design. Revit helps with streamlining construction projects, including structural analysis and clash detection through 3D modeling.
Revit helps BIM Managers, BIM Coordinators, Architects, Engineers, Project Managers, and 3D Modelers. BIM Managers use Revit in project management to help with instantly revising plans, evaluations, and schedules on construction projects.
What Kinds of Training Options Are Available to Learn BIM?
Learning BIM through live online courses can teach anyone interested in architecture, building construction, or structural design with knowledge in the technology for software and procedures that facilitates efficiency and productivity. Training in BIM involves learning Autodesk software like Revit, Revit MEP, and Revit Structure by enrolling in online courses from any number of online education providers.
There are several approaches for learning how to work with BIM-related software, including self-teaching. However, more formal training through live online or on-demand courses is recommended for learning skills with the technology. However, prospective BIM professionals can introduce themselves to training in BIM through places like LinkedIn Learning, which offers several free and reasonably priced tutorials for learning the technology for designing and managing 2D drawing and 3D models that can lead to working in construction or manufacturing.
Although LinkedIn Learning offers a viable option with initial training in BIM software, the most practical approach to learning the technology would be through enrolling in courses that can teach people skills for working in architecture, construction, or structural design through knowledge in 3D modeling that facilitates efficiency and productivity for both aesthetically pleasing designs as well as structural analysis on construction projects. Noble Desktop, for example, offers training in BIM through on-demand courses at VDCI. VDCI stands for the Virtual Design & Construction Institute, which is an authorized Autodesk training center that provides training and certification with the company’s various software and technologies, including BIM. Training in BIM contributes to designing, developing, and managing projects for Architects, Engineers, Interior Designers, Project Managers, and BIM Coordinators and Managers in industries like construction and manufacturing.
Anyone considering certification in BIM can also go through Autodesk, which offers several paths contingent on a person’s career ambitions. The Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) confirms expertise with CAD (computer-aided design) as well as BIM technology. Gaining certification related to BIM can help with expanding career options. Architects working in BIM modeling for the construction industry can become an Autodesk Certified Professional in Revit for creating and managing architectural modeling using Autodesk’s BIM software. Many education providers also offer certificate programs that while not the same as certification can help with eventually passing a certification exam.
Choosing the Right Training Method for You
When people think about digital technology, their minds generally go to video games or streaming media. However, digital technology has become a part of nearly every aspect of life, including business, commerce, and design. This includes BIM technology used in construction and manufacturing that helps Architects, Engineers, and Project Managers to create precise and accurate designs. Learning BIM software like Revit can provide an advantage with finding careers in construction and manufacturing for collaboration with other professions with completing projects on schedule and within budget.
Choosing the right training with BIM can pave a path to careers in architecture, engineering, and construction for automating tasks that had been performed manually in the past. BIM helps with reducing errors and repetition during the development stages of construction projects. Prospective construction professionals can learn BIM through a variety of online education options for training in how to design and manage digital design concepts for building things. This includes LinkedIn Learning, which offers several reasonably priced tutorials for gaining skills in BIM technology. Students may also choose to enroll with VDCI for certification training in BIM. Training or certification in BIM can facilitate streamlining construction projects and workflows by centralizing the design process through enhancing collaboration among BIM Coordinators, BIM Managers, Architects, Engineers, and General Contractors.
Becoming a BIM professional involves implementing BIM processing for improving results on building and infrastructure projects. Working with BIM technology involves creating and maintaining models related to construction projects that require working with precision and detail along following appropriate local codes and standards. Expertise with BIM technology provides skills for quality control on project specifications, including managing data for informing clients and shareholders of a project’s status up to completion.
How Hard is It to Learn BIM?
The difficulty for some people with learning BIM technology might be with getting used to working with 3D modeling or applying design procedures for working on a variety of projects. Being comfortable with computers, especially with technologies like CAD, can also help with understanding BIM. Anyone with previous experience and training in engineering or architecture may have a somewhat easier time learning BIM as they may already have a basic understanding of construction and manufacturing principles for applying BIM technology. And while “practice makes perfect” may be a cliche, practicing skills while training in BIM technology should also help with making the learning process less intimidating.
What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Learning BIM?
Among the biggest challenges with learning BIM might be with getting used to complicated workflows, developing 3D models, and applying modeling to data analysis. Learning the appropriate BIM software for 3D modeling, structural analysis, and data visualization for collaborating with other professionals on projects as well as informing clients may also be challenging for new learners. Previous training and experience with CAD technology may also help with learning BIM technology.
How Long Does It Take to Learn BIM?
Training in BIM can take anywhere from three to six months depending on the software and purpose for using the technology. This includes learning fundamental modeling principles for turning 2D drawings into robust 3D models for presenting both the appearance of a design as well as facilitating structural analysis on construction projects. While learning basic skills with BIM technology can take months, gaining expertise may take a year or longer.
Can I Learn BIM Free Online?
For people interested in learning BIM technology, there are several avenues for picking up skills without having to pay for anything. New learners have free training options such as BIMsmith, which is a cost free platform that offers training in areas related to construction with learning techniques for modeling roofs, ceilings, walls, and floors, including downloads available for software related to Revit. There is also free training from FreeCAD, which is a free 3D design modeling software for working with both CAD or BIM. Additionally, Udemy offers on-demand courses for learning BIM that allows people to train at their own pace and on their own time within the timeframe of a particular course. For example, Udemy offers the BIM—Revit Structure Full Course from Beginner to Advanced that focuses on training in Autodesk’s Revit Structure software through hands-on projects for being able to get right to work in the construction industry. Lessons with this program include designing walls, columns, beams, and floors as well as developing structural designs using Revit Structure.
What Should I Learn Alongside BIM?
Training to learn BIM technology can lead to working in the construction or manufacturing industries with responsibilities for developing 3D models and maintaining quality control in areas like architecture, structural design, and MEP engineering for fitting different elements into a coherent and organized unit. BIM is a relatively new area of technology used mainly in construction and manufacturing with 3D modeling, data analytics, and structural design. Learning BIM can lead to becoming a BIM Manager or BIM Coordinator who works with Engineers, Architects, and Project Managers with responsibilities for ensuring that BIM standards on projects get followed properly.
In addition to training in BIM, learning AutoCAD can complement skills with learning the design technology. Skills with AutoCAD facilitates creating 2D and 3D models for working on a variety of design projects by providing functions similar to BIM. While CAD and BIM are certainly different technologies, knowledge with CAD can help with learning BIM. Becoming a CAD Designer also requires technical skills and expertise with work for designing and drafting.
Industries That Use BIM
BIM technology can be used for working on projects in the construction and manufacturing industries in Dallas with responsibilities for bringing distinct and separate parties together along with developing 3D models and maintaining quality control in areas of architecture, structural design, and MEP engineering for fitting different parts into a coherent and organized unit. Building information modeling is a relatively new area of technology used mainly in construction with 3D modeling, data analytics, and structural design. Knowledge with BIM can lead to careers as BIM Coordinators, who typically work with Architects, Engineers, Project Managers, and General Contractors with responsibilities for ensuring that BIM standards on projects get followed properly. Here are a few industries that use BIM technology.
Construction
The construction industry uses BIM for turning design concepts into reality through applying technology that provides General Contractors, Engineers, and Architects with a vision of a physical structure. BIM software helps for reducing uncertainty with designing buildings, improving safety, or unknotting potential problems by simulating as well as analyzing design concepts. Construction companies benefit from using BIM to create accurate 3D models on building projects before construction ever begins. Engineers and Architects use BIM for improving on existing structures by using collected data in structural analysis. The construction industry also uses BIM as a management tool that facilitates efficiency and productivity among collaborators during the construction process.
Architecture
Architectural firms use BIM software for creating and maintaining designs during the development stage on construction projects. BIM allows Architects to connect various ecosystems, solutions, disciplines, and clients through modeling that provides everyone involved on a project with a roadmap that enhances the collaborative process among Engineers, General Contractors, and Real Estate Developers from the concept stages through completion. Architectural firms use BIM technology for planning, designing, and constructing buildings through applying 2D and 3D modeling.
Engineering
Engineering firms use BIM technology with civil engineering and structural engineering for taking advantage of digital technology that allows them to create 3D models for buildings and infrastructures on construction projects. Engineers work with BIM software along with CAD tools for designing and prototyping on construction projects. BIM allows Engineers to evaluate structural designs for adhering to safety and compliance with local regulations and codes. BIM can help with incorporating detailed data on physical and functional aspects of structural design through helping Engineers visualize and prototype on construction projects by providing 2D and 3D models.
Interior Design
BIM helps in interior design for creating precise and detailed space planning through designing 3D models of interior spaces that give Interior Designers, Architects, and General Contractors a clearer vision about how an interior will look. BIM software facilitates collaboration among professionals and clients on interior construction projects by enhancing communication and understanding among design team members.
BIM Job Titles and Salaries
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment outlook for careers related to architectural and engineering managerial positions such as BIM Coordinators project to increase by six present between 2023 and 2033. Due to society’s growing dependence on digital technology for getting work done in virtually every industry nowadays, skills with 3D modeling are in high demand by construction and manufacturing companies, which could point to a bright future for becoming a BIM Coordinator.
BIM Coordinator
BIM Coordinators work on projects in various capacities for several industries, mainly construction and manufacturing. BIM Coordinators are typically tasked with getting people together, designing building structures or physical products such as tools, and modeling involved with different areas of construction projects with architecture, structural design, and engineering for combining various functions into a coherent and organized unit. The average yearly income for a BIM Coordinator in Dallas ranges from $62,000 to $117,000, depending, of course. Responsibilities as a BIM Coordinator include collaborating with General Contractors, Engineers, Architects, and Project Managers for ensuring that BIM standards related to a project are properly followed. BIM Coordinators also prepare construction documents related to 3D modeling.
Architect
Architects design construction plans based on a client’s specifications, which includes developing designs for structural systems; central air, heating, and ventilation systems; and plumbing. Architects can apply their skills in BIM technology combined with AutoCAD for designing building structures as part of their job for creating construction drawings and blueprints. Working as an Architect requires being able to hand draw as well as digitally design blueprints during the concept stage on construction projects. Architects working in the Dallas area can make between $74,000 and $167,000 a year.
Data Analyst
Skills in data analytics combined with training in BIM software can help in identifying trends, optimizing building models, and generating facilities management reports. Data Analysts must understand and apply historical data for finding patterns within numbers that help with clarifying the current status of a project as well as how problems related to that project might get solved. This can include working on risk assessment and weather forecasting. The yearly salary for a Data Analyst in Dallas ranges from $55,000 to $111,000 for work in gathering data from a variety of sources.
CAD Designer
A CAD Designer has skills with AutoCAD for creating 2D and 3D models to work on a variety of design projects that provide similar functions as BIM technology. While CAD skills and BIM skills are not the same, knowledge with CAD can complement skills for working with BIM. Becoming a CAD Designer requires technical skills and expertise for designing and drafting. People who have skills with AutoCAD can work in industries such as manufacturing, engineering, product development, and construction. A CAD Designer can earn from $52,000 to $92,000 a year in Dallas.
BIM Corporate Training
If you would like to keep your staff on top of cutting-edge design technology, VDCI offers corporate training for staying ahead of the competition. Because the construction and manufacturing industries use BIM design technology, it would seem worthwhile to train company employees with skills to enhance their abilities with drafting and creating blueprints as well as 2D drawings and 3D modeling, especially if your operations involve manufacturing, engineering, or architecture. VDCI offers Corporate BIM Training that you can have conducted at your company’s location or live online through a teleconferencing platform.
You can find more information or get a free consultation by contacting VDCI though partnerships@vdci.edu.