SketchUp Certifications and Certificates

If you’re looking for a way to demonstrate your skills in SketchUp, you might be overwhelmed by the different certifications and certificate programs available. You might also have a lot of questions, such as, What is the difference between a certificate and a certification? and, Will getting certified help me find a job? This article aims to provide answers to these questions so you can efficiently choose the right path toward a SketchUp certification. Keep reading to find out more.

What is SketchUp?

SketchUp is a 3D modeling application. It can be used to create and manipulate 3D and 2D models for use in a wide variety of design fields including interior design, architecture, video game design, mechanical engineering, and landscaping. It can also be used to create and download models for 3D printers. This application is owned by Trimble Inc. It has a free version and a pro version and is used by both hobbyists and professionals.

Most users say that SketchUp is relatively easy to learn and use. One unique feature of the application is that you can push and pull shapes into 3D models. You can also add textures, colors, and styles to your models to make them look more realistic and appealing. SketchUp has a large library of pre-built models and objects that users can download, and it supports many plug-ins. In addition, it has a large community of users who share models and tips online.

What Can You Do with SketchUp?

SketchUp is a modeling program that can be used to visualize a variety of different types of designs. You start with basic shapes and use the many tools included in this application to create 3D models of buildings, landscapes, furniture, and other objects. You can add details to these models, such as lighting, shadows, and textures, to make them look realistic. SketchUp also provides access to many pre-built models that can speed up your work process, and a variety of extensions that you can use to customize your designs.

As a designer, you can use SketchUp to get a better understanding of what your design will look like. Visualizing your design is also a great way to test its function and look for potential flaws. If you want to make changes to your designs, doing so in SketchUp is relatively easy too. Another benefit of using SketchUp is that you can share your designs with clients and team members. This is important because design is typically a collaborative activity. By creating models, you can help everyone involved gain a clear understanding of the design. You can also collaborate with team members in other locations.

Certifications vs. Certificates: What’s the Difference?

Certifications and certificates sound very similar, however, these two types of qualifications are not the same. A certificate is something you get after finishing a particular program of study. Every school has its own unique certificate programs. Many people pursue certificates as a way to gain a comprehensive education in their desired field. In contrast, a certification is a standardized credential that is the same no matter where you earn it. To earn one, you need to pass an exam administered by a third party or meet specific industry standards. Most people earn certifications as a way to advance within an existing career.

Top Certifications & Certificates for SketchUp

Noble Desktop offers certifications and certificates for many different design skills including SketchUp. Its SketchUp Pro Bootcamp is a multi-day class that is designed to give you hands-on experience using this application and will get you ready to start building 3D models. You’ll receive a certificate upon completion of the course. Noble Desktop also offers certificates and certifications for AutoCAD, which is another application used for 3D modeling. Its AutoCAD Masterclass takes students from beginner to advanced and comes with a certificate of completion. Noble also has an AutoDesk Certification Program that is designed for students who want to earn the Autodesk Certified Professional in AutoCAD for Design & Drafting. This course includes three AutoCAD classes, six hours of private tutoring, the exam, proctoring, and a free exam retake if needed. 

Other schools also offer SketchUp training. ONLC Training offers Level 1, 2, and 3 classes. UCLA Extension runs a hands-on, online SketchUp class, in addition to an Advanced SketchUp class. The Knowledge Academy also offers a live online SketchUp class.

Should I Get Certified in SketchUp?

Some employers might require that you be certified in SketchUp, however, this is uncommon. Even if it isn’t required, though, getting certified can be beneficial to your career. It shows employers and clients that you are proficient in certain skills and that you’re serious about your career. There is evidence that getting certified can help you stand out from your peers, and increase your chances of getting a job, earning a promotion, or receiving a higher salary. Certification provider Certiport says, “Certification provides significant advantages to professionals and job candidates.” For instance, it reports: “IT professionals with certifications have an average salary of $111,334, 7% more than non-certified professionals.” In addition, it says, “91% of hiring managers report certification is an important criterion for hiring.”

Learn SketchUp with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop

If you want to learn SketchUp, you’ll find a comprehensive, beginner-friendly course offered by Noble Desktop. The SketchUp Pro Bootcamp is a multi-day class that is designed to give you hands-on experience using this application and will get you ready to start building 3D models. It covers a wide range of topics including interface navigation, drawing shapes, adding volume, and transforming elements. You’ll also learn to connect and generate forms, generate 3D text, and export models to Google Earth. Noble Desktop is located in New York City, where it offers in-person classes. However, all of its classes also run in a live online format. Students can even access recordings of each class session for up to a month after the session. This school is licensed by the New York State Education Department. Its courses come with a certificate of completion, and students also have the option of a free course retake within one year.

Noble also offers a number of live AutoCAD classes. These include AutoCAD Level 1, which is a short class that covers AutoCAD’s basic drawing and editing tools; AutoCAD Level 2, which covers more advanced and technical projects; and AutoCAD Level 3, which is an advanced course that provides students with instruction in annotation, dynamic blocks and attributes, collaboration and publishing, and customization. Students looking for a more comprehensive class might also consider the AutoCAD Masterclass. This course takes students from beginner to advanced, and students will work on a number of projects that allow them to practice their skills. Noble also has an AutoDesk Certification Program that is designed for students who want to earn the Autodesk Certified Professional in AutoCAD for Design & Drafting. This course includes three AutoCAD classes and six hours of private tutoring. The course fee includes the exam, proctoring, and a free exam retake if needed.