Best BIM Classes in Miami

What is BIM?

BIM stands for Building Information Modeling and is software commonly used for design, modeling, collaboration, documentation, and project management. BIM software will allow users to create multi-dimensional models of buildings, structures, and systems; generate photorealistic 3D design renders; see how a structure will interact with the environment and wear over time in 4D; calculate costs in 5D; and manage facilities in 6D. In addition to modeling, BIM is used to store details of a project, to manage projects, to generate blueprints, and to collaborate with team members and project stakeholders in real time. 

The idea of BIM technology originated in the 1970s, though it would not become a reality until decades later. Autodesk’s acquisition of Revit in 2002 would drive its widespread adoption in the AEC industry, and Revit is still the most widely used BIM software today. Other popular BIM programs include Archicad, which is often used in architecture, and Vectorworks, which is often used in the AEC industry and in entertainment. BIM skills are currently in-demand, and the recent innovations in artificial intelligence and machine learning are making it easier to use BIM to create and manage designs and to work with other professionals across departments.

BIM Classes in Miami

Virtual Design & Construction Institute (VDCI) offers hands-on, project-based BIM training for learners at all levels. VDCI is nationally accredited, meaning its courses and certificate programs meet rigorous national education standards for quality. All VDCI courses are online and self-directed, allowing students to start their preferred course immediately upon enrollment. As self-directed training, students will have access to an expert instructor or mentor to guide them through their training and access to VDCI’s Student Lounge, where they can meet with other students, instructors, and program alumni to network or receive additional guidance. 

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Career-oriented learners should consider one of VDCI’s certificate programs. Certificate programs are comprehensive and aim to provide enough instruction so that learners can take their skills from the classroom into the workplace. VDCI’s BIM Certificate Program is a project-based program of study that includes eight courses and 290 hours of learning material. Over the course of about eight months, students will learn how to go from navigating Revit’s interface to designing detailed, accurate 3D models and producing professional blueprints for project construction. Students will receive 1-on-1 instructor guidance in this course, and their final project will be evaluated by an industry expert. Those looking to learn AutoCAD and Revit simultaneously can sign up for VDCI’s CAD/BIM Certificate Program, which is a great way to learn drafting, modeling, and document generation in about ten months time. 

Certificate programs are not the only training option available through VDCI. Beginners looking to get started learning Revit can take the Revit Fundamentals Course. Revit Fundamentals bundles an introductory and intermediate Revit course into one so that learners receive instruction on completing a 3D model in Revit and generating the necessary construction documentation over the course of about six weeks. VDCI also offers individual BIM courses like BIM Construction Documents I or BIM Detailing. These courses are a great way to slowly learn BIM features or to supplement your skill set by learning the targeted skills you need without having to spend time in a full program of study. 

Miami-based students can also learn Revit through the University of Miami’s Toppel Career Center. Their Learn Revit 2024 course is taught by an Architectural Consultant who will guide students by using the basic features of Revit. The course covers everything from the interface to creating basic models, working collaboratively, producing construction documents, and creating 3D renders. Those looking to enter the AEC industry will also learn the difference between different Revit versions, making this a good course for beginners looking for a basic Revit introduction prior to moving on to more comprehensive BIM training. 

Learners in Miami looking for self-paced Revit training can consider Florida International University’s Revit Basics course. This project-based course provides instruction on using Revit to design real-world 3D building models with features like ceilings, doors, and walls and generating vital project documents like floor plans and elevations. Students will learn how to use BIM software for collaborative work and strategies to make their work more efficient and productive. This on-demand course allows students to enroll at any time, and they will immediately receive access to 60 hours of introductory to intermediate-level Revit course material. 

Certstaffix Training also has a self-paced, bundled course for those in Miami looking to learn BIM. Their Autodesk, Drafting & Building Design e-learning Bundle Course combines content from 136 courses into one bundle. Enrolling in this course provides six months of access to courses on Autodesk software like Revit and AutoCAD and 19 different BIM courses covering industry- and role-specific BIM protocols, using BIM collaboratively, and executing specific functions like document generation using BIM. As a self-paced course bundle, students will have the ability to start and stop their studies based on their own schedules, and course content will primarily be delivered through video lectures. This course bundle does not include any practice material or access to software. 

What Can You Do with BIM Training?

BIM training allows you to create complex models of buildings, structures, and systems. What you will actually design and visualize using BIM software depends on your industry. Those in architecture, for instance, use BIM to model and render buildings and landscapes for clients. MEP engineering professionals, by contrast, might work more on designing electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems in BIM. This software can also be used by interior design professionals to organize the layout and furnishings of interior spaces and add materials and paint to surfaces, while those in landscape architecture can use BIM software to work on designing parks, outdoor community spaces, or gardens. 

In addition to design and modeling features, construction professionals use BIM software during all phases of the construction process. BIM software is often used to generate construction documents like blueprints, which will be used to estimate the cost of materials and labor for a project in the pre-construction phase. These blueprints are essential during the actual construction phase, and BIM software can allow you to simulate the construction process so that you can identify and correct mistakes or errors before beginning to build a project physically. 

Professionals also rely on BIM software for project management and collaboration. You can store detailed information about projects in the software and use it to track the progress of a project and manage your workforce. Multiple team members can use this software simultaneously, allowing for instant feedback and sharing of plans and corrections. Professionals also use BIM software’s visualization capabilities to share photorealistic renderings to projects with team members, clients, and stakeholders to ensure all parties are on the same page about how a project will look and function once built. 

What Will I Learn in a BIM Class?

BIM classes will often teach the necessary technical skills, strategies, and concepts that learners need to use BIM software professionally. The most common BIM software is Autodesk’s Revit, and many BIM courses will cover how to use this program. This will mean familiarizing students with the interface and how to design 3D models of residential or commercial building projects. BIM courses will strengthen your 3D modeling skills while also showing you how to generate blueprints and create walkthroughs and visualizations of projects. BIM software allows you to track and manage projects, as you can detail everything from construction schedules to planning for future renovations and building maintenance. 

Some of the advantages of BIM software are that it is cloud-based and collaborative. As such, BIM courses will enhance your ability to work and communicate with others. Using BIM in the AEC industry allows professionals from different sectors of architecture, engineering, and construction to work on projects simultaneously and to communicate with each other about project models, documentation, and other needs. Using BIM allows you to keep everyone up-to-date on any changes, issues, or other necessities while projects move through the various design and construction phases. 

What Kinds of Training Options Are Available to Learn BIM?

You can learn BIM by enrolling in a variety of training classes, including in-person, live online, self-directed, and on-demand. In-person learning involves attending regularly scheduled classes alongside other students. Expert instructors will guide students through BIM course material and can offer individualized feedback in real time to enrolled students. Students can often access the training facility’s computers and software when taking an in-person course. This kind of training is often offered by universities, colleges, vocational schools, and reputable skills training providers. 

Live online training is similar to in-person training in that you will attend regularly scheduled class sessions to learn BIM along with other students. Courses, however, occur over video streaming platforms like Zoom and often involve other means of online engagement like discussion boards, weekly group meetings, or direct messaging with instructors and students. Many training providers are moving their BIM courses online, so live online BIM courses are relatively easy to find these days. 

Self-directed and on-demand courses are two types of asynchronous online training formats. Instead of attending classes with other students, both types of courses provide access to course materials that students can work through at their own pace. Course materials are often textbooks, video lectures, practice materials, quizzes, and individual or group projects. When you can start these programs and how long you have to complete them will depend upon the training provider, but most self-directed and on-demand classes can be started immediately upon enrollment. 

The main thing that distinguishes self-directed classes from on-demand ones is that self-directed training usually comes with guidance from an expert instructor or mentor. Students will be able to receive 1-on-1 training from an instructor or be able to message an instructor for clarity or additional guidance. Self-directed courses are also more likely to offer other forms of student engagement or career support opportunities, like access to an alumni network or aid in navigating the job market. On-demand training will usually mean that students must teach themselves the material, and students are rarely able to engage with others taking the class, program alumni, or any instructor or mentor. 

Choosing the Right Training Method for You

In order to choose the right training method, you will want to consider a course’s cost, curriculum, and schedule alongside your own learning needs. Some prefer to learn in-person because of the high level of instructor-student and student-student engagement. In-person training is best for those who need to learn course material in an environment dedicated to learning and who value receiving real-time feedback and aid when learning new skills. Enrolling in an in-person course, however, can be difficult for those who work full-time or have busy schedules, and this kind of training tends to be less cost-effective than online options. 

Online learning is known for being a convenient, reliable way to learn software and new skills. Online classes should allow you to learn from home or another quiet location of your choice. Live online training means that you’ll have access to a live instructor, making it a good option for someone who wants to learn from home while also engaging with others learning the same content. Though you’ll still need to attend regularly scheduled classes with live online learning, this kind of training is more likely to be scheduled part-time or in the evenings and on weekends, making it more accessible for those who can’t take classes during the workweek. 

While both self-directed and on-demand training are asynchronous online options, self-directed is best for those wanting professional training. Self-directed training provides students with instructor guidance or mentorship, and these courses will offer professional skill development that will move individuals from the classroom into the workforce. On-demand training, by contrast, can be a great, cheap way to learn the basics of BIM software before undertaking more comprehensive or industry-specific training. On-demand classes will not often provide enough training for you to get started in your career, though you can learn the fundamentals of BIM software.

The main disadvantage of online learning is that some do find it harder to engage and remain focused when learning material on their own or over a video streaming platform. While some will learn material quickly by doing remote coursework, others may feel like there is no pressure or motivation pushing them to move through the course material. Online learning, especially in on-demand classes, is best for dedicated, self-motivated individuals who can learn and study effectively on their own. When looking for online training, make sure to carefully vet training programs so that you can find quality online BIM training that will suit your needs. 

How Hard is It to Learn BIM?

BIM software can be challenging to learn, though most can become proficient in using this software with sustained effort and practice. Beginners can at first struggle to master the software interface and its features, though over time these will become easier to navigate and master. BIM software also has a host of features and uses that can make it harder to learn at first. One of the best ways to set yourself up for success when learning BIM is to have a solid understanding of how your field uses this software so that you will know which tools to learn, why they are necessary, and how real-world projects use BIM. 

What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Learning BIM?

Some challenging aspects of learning BIM include becoming comfortable with the interface, learning the software features, and learning parametric modeling. Similar to learning any new software, it will take time and effort to learn how to navigate a BIM interface and which toolsets and features you will need for your own work. Additionally, some who start by learning AutoCAD or other 2D drafting programs will initially struggle to learn 3D modeling in software like Revit. Revit’s parametric modeling is less intuitive than 2D drafting and relies on thinking about the relationships between different elements and surfaces. It is best to think of BIM software as unique so that you can understand and learn the specific technical skills necessary to use it professionally. 

How Long Does It Take to Learn BIM?

How long it will take you to learn BIM can depend on your previous training and how much time and effort you’re willing to put into learning this software. Most beginners can expect to take three to six months to become proficient. This is enough time to learn the software’s features and be able to use it on real-world projects. Mastery can take one year or more. Generally, to master the software, you will want to use it consistently and also use it on-the-job to test and refine your skills. 

Can I Learn BIM Free Online?

There are a variety of free, online resources that can help you learn BIM software fundamentals. Noble Desktop offers a free comprehensive guide to getting started learning BIM, and there are other online tutorials, workshops, courses, and guides available for BIM as well. Autodesk offers short tutorials for its software, including Revit, and many people find video tutorials through YouTube to be a great way to learn about BIM software. Additionally, LinkedIn Learning has on-demand BIM courses that those with a public library card can often take for free. You can learn the basics of BIM for free online, but these free resources will not be enough to provide career-oriented training. Instead, look for comprehensive training that offers professional skill development through expert guidance, mentorship, hands-on projects, and other career supports. 

What Should I Learn Alongside BIM?

Along with BIM, many people will need to learn CAD software. The most popular CAD software is AutoCAD, which is another software that, like Revit, is released by Autodesk. AutoCAD and Revit work together, and AEC professionals will often need to learn both for design, construction documentation, and collaboration between different departments or fields. Learning AutoCAD often involves getting a handle on how to create 2D drawings and how to generate construction documentation through this program. 

You will find that rarely is it enough to just learn particular software to launch a career in the AEC industry; you will also need to know about construction as well as standard design principles and protocols for your specific industry. Taking a class in construction fundamentals will provide training in the construction process and how buildings are designed and constructed from start to finish. Those interested in more senior-level BIM roles should also consider taking a project management course to learn about how to plan and execute projects, lead teams, and collaborate with others more effectively. 

Industries That Use BIM

The main industry that uses BIM is the AEC industry. This industry is central to Miami, which is known for having a thriving construction sector and a long history of supporting innovative architectural designs. Each sector of the AEC industry will use BIM software to track and manage projects, generate necessary blueprints, and work collaboratively, though each sector might also be tasked with using different toolsets and features of common BIM software like Revit. 

Architects, for instance, will use Revit for its 3D modeling capabilities as they design commercial, residential, or industrial buildings or structures. Engineering professionals will find themselves creating different types of models than Architects. They might be tasked with designing an electrical system or maintaining an HVAC system in software like Revit. Construction professionals use BIM to collaborate, generate quantity takeoffs, and track and manage the construction phases of a project. 

Outside of the AEC industry, the design industry and the real estate industry also use BIM. There is an overlap between the design industry and the AEC industry as many design professionals work in architecture, but design can extend beyond this industry as well. Someone in interior design, for instance, might need to use BIM to collaborate with their colleagues, manipulate model interiors, or generate photorealistic project renders. The real estate industry might use BIM technology similarly to visualize projects as they move through different phases of construction or development. 

BIM Job Titles and Salaries

Construction Project Manager

Construction Project Managers facilitate the completion of construction projects from start to finish. They will manage and oversee construction plans, designs, budgets, schedules, labor, and the actual physical building of a project. They will need to use BIM software for its project management features and will also need to know how to generate and read construction documents from this software. In Miami, Construction Project Managers earn above the national average at around $98,000 per year. This is a more senior position, and one’s salary will range from between $62,000 to upwards of $142,000 in Miami. 

Construction Estimator

A Construction Estimator calculates all of the costs of a construction project. These professionals use BIM software to generate construction documents that they then use to calculate a detailed budget prior to construction. They are able to read blueprints to ascertain the materials and labor necessary for a job and will need to contact vendors and suppliers to get detailed cost estimates of supplies. Construction Estimators in Miami earn around $81,000 a year, which is on par with the national average for this position. The salary for this profession ranges from around $50,000 at the low end to around $131,000 at the high end and will depend on factors like experience, education, and location. 

BIM Manager

BIM Managers establish a set of standards and protocols for how their organization or business uses BIM. They are BIM experts within their organization or company and will be the go-to professional for training others in using BIM and troubleshooting any issues with the technology, models, or construction plans. In the US, BIM Managers make an average salary of $83,000 annually. In Miami, BIM Managers earn between $66,000 and $100,000 per year. One’s salary depends not only on location but also on education, years of experience, and one’s industry specialization. 

BIM Corporate Training

If your employees need hands-on, expert instruction in BIM software, consider VDCI’s corporate training options. VDCI offers full, comprehensive certificate programs for both BIM and CAD software and shorter classes in using BIM to generate construction documents or learning BIM for project management. All VDCI courses are self-directed and online, which allows learners to receive guidance and mentorship as they move through course material at their own pace. Courses can also be taken in-person at VDCI’s Manhattan training facility or scheduled onsite at your location. 

Discounted bulk vouchers are available for enrollment in VDCI’s regular course offerings. This will allow employers to choose which courses to offer to their team, and it allows team members to handle the logistics and scheduling for themselves. To learn more about VDCI’s corporate training options and to schedule a free consultation for your business, email partnerships@vdci.edu today. Consider asking about how VDCI can customize its curricula to your organization’s needs and your employees’ expertise.