The constant evolution of technology has fundamentally transformed various sectors. The analogy with the evolution of everyday tools, such as WhatsApp, and the obsolescence of old media, such as VHS tapes, shows how technology is rapidly becoming an integral part of our way of life. Construction is no exception and, in a way, human beings are following this technological advance as if it were already part of their DNA. The adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a clear example of how technological innovation can optimize and improve the execution of projects in the construction industry. Want to learn more about
BIM's ability to integrate detailed information on every element of a project, from conception to completion, offers significant economic and sustainable benefits. The ability to digitally model all phases of a project allows for a holistic view, facilitating early detection of problems, reducing waste and increasing overall efficiency.
The growing demand for professionals qualified in BIM reflects the relevance and effectiveness of this technology in the sector. For civil engineering students, acquiring knowledge of BIM is not just an advantage, but essential for standing out in the job market.
Furthermore, by preparing students to use BIM, educational institutions not only contribute to individual training, but also to the advancement of the industry as a whole. Professionals who understand and apply BIM practices can drive innovation, increase efficiency and contribute to building more sustainable structures.
Therefore, preparing civil engineering students in BIM is not just a response to market demands, but an opportunity to shape the future of construction by incorporating technologies that offer tangible benefits in terms of efficiency, sustainability and quality in project delivery.
As a result of so many advantages, it is clear that the demand for qualified BIM professionals is on the rise, which implies an increase in the demand for software, solutions and methodologies to support them.
Given that the rise of BIM is notorious, why not prepare yourself? In this article, you'll find out "Why civil engineering students should learn about BIM", as well as the advantages of doing so.
The continuous evolution of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in the national market, even with challenges in relation to local guidelines, is a clear indication of its importance and acceptance. The search for more economical, sustainable and efficient projects has driven the adoption of BIM by companies of all sizes, including giants such as Sienge and Grant Thornton.
The growing demand for qualified BIM professionals reflects the market's need for specialists capable of dealing with the complexities of this technology. Jayme Montava Miró, in his article, highlights different professional profiles related to BIM, from BIM Modelers to BIM Project Managers. These roles vary according to the level of professional knowledge and experience, reflecting the diversity of skills needed to work effectively with BIM(https://www.archdaily.com.br/br/955709/quais-sao-os-perfis-de-profissionais-bim-mais-demandados-em-grandes-escritorios-de-arquitetura).
It is crucial to emphasize the breadth of knowledge required, as BIM professionals must understand not only the specific tools and technologies, but also the wider context of the construction industry and the processes involved in projects. This multidisciplinary approach is key to ensuring effective implementation of BIM at all stages of a project.
In addition, the constant evolution of BIM highlights the importance of professionals continually updating themselves to keep up with changes in technology and industry practices. The ability to adapt to new software versions, new standards and best practices is essential to staying relevant in the BIM field.
In this scenario, academic training and the pursuit of specific certifications in BIM are becoming increasingly valuable for professionals who want to stand out in this constantly evolving market. This breadth of knowledge not only meets current market demands, but also prepares professionals to face the future challenges of the construction industry. Given all this information, we can reflect:
How prepared are students for the future of BIM?
Assessing the situation on the basis of the aforementioned data reveals a potential lack of preparation on the part of students to meet the future demands associated with Building Information Modeling (BIM). The survey conducted in 2017 by Ródney Silvério and Giuliano Mikael, students at the Salesian Auxilium Catholic University Center, as well as an informal quiz conducted in 2024, indicate that many students, even after a period of seven years, have limited knowledge of BIM. Among the quiz participants, made up of civil and mechanical engineering students, the majority showed little familiarity with this essential construction industry technology, with only two of them knowing precisely what BIM is all about, while 85% said they had no knowledge of the technology at all.
According to Ricardo Arantes - professor and coordinator of the Basic Engineering course (UNIP Campinas, Campus II) - "It's important that civil engineering students take an interest in and learn about BIM. Nowadays, design tools are integrated and much more sophisticated than just CAD".
The lack of awareness and proper training about BIM in universities can result in professionals who are out of date and less competitive in the job market. In the professional environment, BIM technology is becoming increasingly crucial, as evidenced by the creation of positions such as "BIM manager", thus highlighting the need for specialization in this field.
The introduction of BIM in universities is crucial to ensure that future engineers are prepared for the demands of the market. This involves not only knowledge of the tools and software associated with BIM, but also an in-depth understanding of the methods and solutions the technology offers to optimize the construction process.
It is worth noting that the effective adoption of BIM in universities will not only equip students with technical skills, but will also promote a collaborative and data-driven mindset from the very beginning of their careers. This is crucial, since BIM is not just a tool, but an integrated approach that involves the collaboration of various disciplines in the lifecycle of a project, i.e. from the beginning until after its completion.
Teachers and course coordinators play a crucial role in this process, encouraging and incorporating the teaching of BIM into the curriculum. Awareness of the advantages of BIM and its positive impact on efficiency and collaboration in the construction sector must be raised among students.
To promote the continuous development of professionals, training and certification programs in BIM can be implemented in partnership with specialized institutions and organizations, thus bringing academia closer to the demands of the job market. In addition, partnerships with industry, practical workshops and real projects incorporating the use of BIM can be integrated into the academic curriculum, providing students with valuable practical experience and helping them to bridge the gap between the theory learned at university and the practical skills essential in the professional field. These initiatives ensure that the skills acquired are aligned with the expectations and needs of industry.
Consequently, there is an urgent need to review and update academic programs to ensure that future professionals are adequately prepared to face the challenges and take advantage of the opportunities offered by BIM technology.
Awareness of the importance of BIM should not be restricted to engineering courses, but should also be integrated into interdisciplinary subjects and lectures that address the convergence of technology, architecture, engineering and project management. This provides a more comprehensive and contextualized understanding of the role of BIM in the construction industry.
An emphasis on a collaborative, data-driven mindset from the outset of students' education is essential, reflecting the intrinsically collaborative nature of BIM. By promoting the understanding that BIM is not just a tool, but an approach that involves the integration of several disciplines, universities can prepare students to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams, a valuable skill in the job market.
The inclusion of BIM-related topics in interdisciplinary disciplines broadens students' perspective, enriching their understanding and allowing them to see BIM as an interconnected tool in a wider context of the construction industry, which helps to break down traditional silos between different areas of specialization.
In this way, training students in BIM not only meets the demands of the market, but also contributes to a more efficient, sustainable and collaborative approach to the design and execution of projects in the construction industry. These changes in education are essential to ensure the proper preparation of future professionals and to promote innovation and excellence in the construction sector.
What are the advantages of learning about BIM during your academic career?
Although BIM is still considered a new technology in Brazil, mastering this technology is a great differentiator and has a number of advantages such as:
Stand out in the job market; we know that the demand for competent professionals in relation to BIM is growing and having this competence on your CV will undoubtedly make you stand out.
Developing safe and sustainable projects; BIM ensures that your project contains as much information as possible, from the idea to the final delivery, making projects compatible and preventing a series of errors from occurring in the execution and management of the work.
Software competence; The development of BIM projects requires the use of BIM software, and mastery of these tools allows you to get the best out of the software for your projects.
Predisposition to agile methodologies; Technology and agile methodology go hand in hand, since both seek to optimize and facilitate processes. Therefore, learning about BIM becomes a gateway to using agile methodologies.
It is important to know that the sooner you learn about BIM, the more time you will have to explore and develop this technology, whether in research and academic work, in the office or in the field, developing improvements, making more assertive decisions and using reliable methods, software and tools.
Reinforcing the progress made in promoting BIM technology in Brazil, it is worth noting that on January 22, 2024, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva signed the New BIM BR Strategy Decree. The Decree itself shows that efforts to develop BIM in the country are increasing. To better understand the New National Strategy for the Dissemination of Building Information Modeling in Brazil and its objectives, click here.
Interested?
Trimble is a company responsible for spreading innovative technologies in various business areas around the world, and BIM is no different. These include:
Tekla Structures
Tekla Structures is a parametric BIM modeling tool used by structural engineers and construction professionals to create detailed 3D models of steel, concrete and wood structures. Developed by Trimble, it is widely used in the construction industry, especially in projects that require high levels of detail in the technical feasibility, costing and planning phases.
In the academic environment, the use of Tekla Structures can offer many benefits:
Practical Training: Students can apply theoretical concepts learned in class to practical projects, which helps to consolidate knowledge and develop essential practical skills.
Preparation for the job market: Learning this tool in an academic environment prepares students for the demands of the job market, making them more competitive in the sector.
Collaboration and Coordination: Tekla Structures facilitates collaboration between different disciplines involved in a project, allowing students to experience working in multidisciplinary teams as they do in real projects.
Experience in Real Projects: Students can simulate real construction situations by working on realistic virtual projects, gaining practical experience that will be useful in their careers.
Integration with Other BIM Tools: Tekla Structures can be integrated with other BIM tools, allowing for a holistic approach to building information modeling.
Research and Development: In the academic environment, Tekla Structures can be used for research and development, exploring new ways of using technology in construction to improve efficiency and sustainability.
Certifications and Recognition: Some academic institutions offer Tekla certification, which can be an advantage for students when entering the job market.
Therefore, the use of Tekla Structures in the academic world enriches the students' learning experience, preparing them for the challenges of the construction sector and promoting a smoother transition to professional life.
Trimble Connect
Trimble Connect is an online platform that facilitates collaboration and information sharing in construction and design projects. In the academic environment, it can provide benefits for students such as:
Project Collaboration: Teamwork on design and construction projects, sharing 3D models, documents and other relevant information with colleagues and teachers.
Learning BIM Technologies: Using Trimble Connect as part of learning BIM technologies allows students to gain hands-on experience in collaborative virtual environments.
Access from Anywhere: Students can access their projects from anywhere, which is great for collaborating on work off-campus or during online classes.
Online Training: The online training available allows students to quickly and practically develop digital collaboration skills that are essential for the professional environment in the construction industry.
Educational Resources: Access to tutorials and specific information on using Trimble Connect, as well as online training, enhances learning about the software and collaboration on projects.
Integration with Other Tools: Integrating Trimble Connect with other tools and software used in academic courses makes the workflow more integrated and efficient.
In short, Trimble Connect offers an online platform that allows students to collaborate, learn technologies relevant to the construction industry and access educational resources, all remotely and effectively.
Check out our free online training courses for Tekla and Trimble Connect solutions. Activate your educational license at account.tekla.comand download and install the solutions to boost your academic and professional training. For more information, visit the Tekla for students page .
