Those interested in becoming BIM Managers will need to learn specific software programs used in the AEC and design industries. Revit is the most common BIM software that these BIM professionals need to learn but they will often need to know other CAD and BIM software as well. In addition to software, prospective BIM Managers need to have additional knowledge and skillsets and will need to find the right training to pursue a career in this field. Read on to learn more about the software and skillsets necessary to become a BIM Manager as well as how to receive the career-oriented training to pursue this profession. 

What is a BIM Manager?

BIM Managers are responsible for developing and managing the use of BIM software practices at an organizational level. BIM stands for building information modeling and is becoming an essential part of drafting, modeling, and managing projects in industries like design and Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC). BIM Managers will lead their organization’s use of digital software and construction documentation and are responsible for tasks such as setting standards for creating BIMs, handling BIM software updates or issues, assigning project tasks to team members, managing important construction documents, and interfacing with clients and other important project stakeholders. 

The role of a BIM Manager requires these professionals to oversee an organization’s use of BIM software. To be successful, BIM Managers need to know how to work with BIM software like Revit and need to know how this software interacts with others like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and other BIM and CAD programs depending on their organization’s needs. In addition to knowing how to use BIM software, these professionals will need strong communication and leadership skills, as they will be in charge of a larger team and need to facilitate communication between different project stakeholders. While one can find entry-level BIM jobs after receiving the necessary training, this role will require five to ten years of on-the-job experience, similar to other manager and director roles within an organization. 

What Software Do BIM Managers Use?

BIM Managers need to be familiar with a variety of BIM and CAD software as well as software for project management. This will include Autodesk’s BIM and drafting software programs like Revit, AutoCAD, and Navisworks, which are industry-standard for those working in AEC. Depending on one’s organization, a BIM Manager might need to know how to work with and integrate other design software like SketchUp or Civil 3D or use other BIM software. Working in a managerial position means needing to know project management software, including BIM-specific ones like BIM 360. 

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Revit

Autodesk Revit is the most commonly used BIM software for those in the AEC industry. Revit is 4D modeling software that allows Architects and Engineers to design detailed 2D and 3D models of buildings and infrastructure, generate construction documentation, and visualize one’s project during different phases of design and construction and during a project’s entire lifecycle. Most BIM Managers will need to know Revit, though one’s organization might use additional BIM software, as well. 

Revit has specific toolsets and uses for those working in different industries. While all part of the same software suite, Revit’s different toolsets are Revit Structural, Revit MEP, and Revit Architecture and a BIM Manager will need to know the specific uses of this software within their industry. It is also likely that a BIM Manager will need to know multiple versions to aid design coordination across different departments in one organization or design firm.

AutoCAD

Autodesk AutoCAD is the most used 2D drafting software globally. Not only is it common for those in the AEC and design industries to create 2D models in AutoCAD but AutoCAD also allows you to visualize your project and generate construction documentation. A BIM Manager will likely need to know how to use AutoCAD for modeling and documentation and how this software integrates with Revit and other necessary BIM software. Both Revit and AutoCAD are Autodesk products making it likely that one’s organization will use these for 2D, 3D, and 4D modeling capabilities. 

SketchUp

SketchUp is another commonly used design software that allows users to create 3D models of buildings, interiors, objects, and landscapes. This software is commonly used in architecture, interior design, engineering, and industrial design along with other CAD and BIM software. While a BIM Manager will not necessarily need to create models or assets using SketchUp, they might need to be familiar with this software depending on which industry they work in. A BIM Manager will need to know how the design professionals in their organization use SketchUp and which software SketchUp integrates best with. 

Navisworks

Navisworks is Autodesk’s software for reviewing digital models. This program allows you to combine multiple models and collaborate with others to annotate, navigate, render, and otherwise coordinate design and construction efforts. This software is one of the primary ways a BIM Manager will tackle issues between model versions, resolve software clashes, and coordinate the use of BIM across different departments within an organization. 

BIM 360

BIM 360 is Autodesk’s software for collaboration and project management and is commonly used in the AEC industry. Like Navisworks, this software allows BIM Managers to coordinate different versions of the digital model and address any issues that arise between software programs or model versions. It is also common to use this software as a management system to manage necessary documentation, teams, and project progress. While it might seem like Navisworks and BIM 360 serve the same function, BIM 360 offers a more comprehensive array of features for project management while Navisworks is more geared towards reviewing the digital project models themselves. 

How to Learn BIM Manager Software

Training format matters when thinking about how you can learn the right software to become a BIM Manager. In-person training is still considered the best way to learn and retain information. This training format allows you to receive hands-on training and individualized attention from an expert instructor. Not only do most learners find it easier to focus in a classroom but many training providers allow students to access their technologies and software subscriptions during the run of the course. In-person training is not for everywhere, however, as it can be more difficult to locate and those with full-time jobs or other weekday obligations might not be able to attend regular, in-person training classes. 

An alternative to in-person training is taking a live online class. These classes are still instructor-led and will provide a similar level of expert training while allowing you to take the course from the convenience of your own home. Live online classes often follow similar curricula as in-person courses and students will have the opportunity to gain feedback from instructors and engage with other students. These classes are also more likely to be scheduled part-time, on the weekend, or in the evening. Some people do find it more difficult to remain focused and engaged in an online course, though with some extra effort any disengagement can be overcome. 

A final option to consider is enrolling in a self-paced, asynchronous online course. These courses do not require students to attend regular class sessions, instead, students will receive access to course material they can work through at their own speed. These on-demand classes allow you to learn entirely on your own schedule, making them a very convenient option for those too busy to attend any regularly scheduled class sessions. You have to be very self-motivated to complete one of these classes as many have very few external motivating factors pushing students toward completion. 

Many self-paced classes are not ideal for those who need career-oriented training as they lack professional skill development and career support. If interested in on-demand training, prospective BIM Managers should look for education providers and training facilities that offer comprehensive programs, instructor engagement, and other opportunities like networking, job material development, or help navigating the job market. 

Other Skills Needed to Become a BIM Manager

BIM Managers need more than a detailed understanding of BIM software to succeed in this role. They also need leadership and communication skills and a firm grasp of industry standards and regulations for creating digital models and generating construction documentation. A BIM Manager will be the person in an organization who defines BIM standards and ensures they are being followed. As much, the person in this position needs experience working within their sector of the AEC industry to follow quality-assurance protocols and ensure that the way team members use BIM software is in line with industry standards. 

Communication and leadership skills are also essential for those working as BIM Managers. BIM Managers will need to train and field questions from various groups in the organization, including other BIM professionals, Architects, Engineers, or other project stakeholders. They will need to be able to translate their technical knowledge into a general understanding of how and why to use BIM tool sets in a particular way and for a certain purpose. Along with communication skills, the person in this role needs to have strong problem-solving skills and be able to adapt to the needs of the organization. 

Learn the Skills to Become a BIM Manager at Noble Desktop

The Virtual Design & Construction Institute (VDCI) offers two comprehensive certificate programs for those needing BIM Manager training. VDCI offers nationally accredited training for those pursuing work in the AEC industry and design fields which makes them a great option for those who want accelerated, career-oriented training. Their classes and certificate programs are conveniently online and part-time and provide industry-standard technical skills, software, and professional skill development so that students can easily move from the classroom to the workplace. 

The BIM Certificate Program is a condensed, self-paced online training program that aims to get students job-ready in just eight months. This course of study tasks students with learning introductory and intermediate Revit skills, designing a complex 3D building model, and generating necessary construction documentation. Those enrolled in this program will also take additional electives and have the chance to specialize in Revit MEP, Revit Structure, or SketchUp Pro. Students will have access to software during their course of study. 

Another VDCI program to consider is the CAD/BIM Certificate Program, a ten-month, self-paced training program for those who need both AutoCAD and BIM training. Like the BIM Certificate Program, those in this program will learn how to use Revit and create detailed construction documents through BIM software. This longer course of study will include detailed training in 2D drafting with AutoCAD and how to use this software to create construction documents. Students will have access to any necessary software when taking this course and can specialize through electives in Revit MEP, Revit Structure, or AutoCAD construction documents. 

Noble Desktop also offers top-rated, career-oriented training in AutoCAD. Their 30-hour AutoCAD Bootcamp provides intensive training in using the basic and advanced features of this software’s industry-standard 2D drawing features. Those pursuing Autodesk certification will be interested in the AutoCAD Certification Program, which provides comprehensive training in introductory, intermediate, and advanced AutoCAD drawing tools and technical skillsets. The cost of the Autodesk Certified Professional in AutoCAD for Design & Drafting exam is included in the course’s tuition and enrolled students will also receive six hours of 1-on-1 private tutoring to prepare for this certification exam and enhance their AutoCAD skills. All of Noble Desktop’s classes are taught by expert instructors who will provide students with hands-on training and individualized feedback on their skill levels. Classes can be taken in person at their Manhattan training facility or online from any location.