The AEC industry seems to be ever-evolving, even more in the last five years with the effects of the pandemic creating a new work environment and demonstrating the ability to work remotely. However, there is one aspect that is slow to gain traction, and that is recognizing a new career path that embraces expertise in design software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Revit.
A decade or two ago, the career path for a young engineer or architect seemed to be set before it even began. Once you graduated from university, you started as a junior-level designer learning the industry practice from senior-level designers, advancing to senior-level, then to project engineer/architect before becoming a manager, and on up the corporate ladder. However, the advancement in technology is changing the corporate terrain.
Autodesk software is no longer the equivalent of drafting by hand, but simply utilizing a computer to do it instead. The desired outcome of design is changing from a plan sheet to a model. Historically, a designer/drafter would prepare plans that would eventually be utilized in construction, displaying all the relevant information in a two-dimensional format with text splattered throughout to provide more information. Models, on the other hand, are multi-dimensional computer models that can be used to mimic the built environment. Why multi-dimensional versus three-dimensional? Well, that is also a point of discussion. The model may be drawn in the x, y, and z coordinates, but it also is a database of information. The surfaces in Civil 3D or the walls, columns, and pipes in Revit, each contain information that can be extracted and utilized. These elements are more than just lines on a piece of paper, they are databases of information that can be displayed in various formats.
The models created during design are now being utilized to a higher level of degree than in the past. Models are used to coordinate between project teams, client discussions, public displays, and eventually for construction. The detail of the model can also vary greatly depending on the desired use of the model, such as simple plan creation or realistic visualization. Learning how to utilize this software to create an advanced model takes years to learn and master. I have been utilizing Autodesk software for 20 years and I am still learning new commands, tools, and methods. In addition, working in the software is no longer a regurgitation of information provided to a drafter by an engineer or architect. Those who use the software are now titled designers. Designers are utilizing their knowledge and degrees in engineering or architecture to design the project on their own, consulting the project engineers and managers for input. It is time that the industry begins to recognize the expertise in mastering the design software and the ability to model projects. The engineers and architects who pursue the pathway to project management receive the respect of their peers and coworkers, yet those who prefer to remain in design roles using the software are seen as lesser. Being in a designer role is still viewed as an entry-level position, a mere stepping stone on the pathway to project engineer, project management, and the climb up the corporate ladder. However, with the advancing technologies and push to produce models, those designers with 15, 20, or even 30 years of experience in the software are experts in their own right. So, why are they not viewed as experts and successful individuals within the corporate world?
Let’s begin the conversation now. It is time to change the perspective.
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