Top Cities for SketchUp Classes & Training

Students interested in learning SketchUp at a dedicated training facility will find that almost all of their options are located in major metropolitan areas. Since this is also where many of the highest-paying jobs are located, it makes sense that students looking for a career change may want to consider looking at the kinds of cities that offer the most robust training options for aspiring Architects, Engineers, or Interior Designers.

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 Skills?

The use of 3D models has become increasingly popular in many types of design because it allows all involved parties to easily visualize the proposed design, find potential flaws, and make any needed changes. SketchUp is used by designers in a wide range of different industries including architecture, interior design, landscape design, engineering, and video game design. 

New York City

New York City--often called “the city that never sleeps” is a diverse city with many different options for restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. It also has a wide range of employment opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for an Architect in New York City is $109,710. For Interior Designers, the average salary is $75,730, and for Civil Engineers, $117,890.

If you want to learn SketchUp in New York City, Noble Desktop runs a SketchUp Pro Bootcamp, which takes place in a spacious, modern classroom in its midtown Manhattan facility. You’ll have access to state-of-the-art computer equipment, a break room, food storage, and free coffee. Noble’s facility is close to public transportation. The New School, the New York Institute of Art & Design, and the City University of New York also offer SketchUp Training.

Los Angeles

According to the Economic & Workforce Development Department, “Los Angeles is a global economic powerhouse, boasting the world's third-largest metropolitan economy.” The organization goes on to state, “For generations, people from around the globe have come to Los Angeles to create the future and in turn, helped build one of the most diverse and dynamic cities in history.” The Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation reports that the leading industries in this city include aerospace, biosciences, entertainment, EV and advanced transportation, design, and IT. BLS reports that the average salary for an Architect in Los Angeles is $113,190. For an Interior Designer, it is $81,060, and for a Civil Engineer, it is $111,390.

UCLA Extension offers a hands-on SketchUp class, where students use an existing floor plan to design a project where they learn a range of different skills including creating textures, creating sections and adding text, and using perspective and isometric views. UCLA Extension also offers an Advanced SketchUp class. Los Angeles Valley College offers a self-paced SketchUp class called SketchUp Pro Basics.

Chicago

According to the City of Chicago government website, Chicago has a population of almost three million people and is the third largest city in the country. This city has a wide range of different employment opportunities. It is also known for its Midwestern friendliness and its relatively low cost of living. BLS reports that the average salary for an Architect in Chicago is $93,510 and for an Interior Designer it is $93,510. A Civil Engineer working in Chicago earns about $102,810 yearly.

If you’re based in Chicago and you want to learn SketchUp, you can take a class through ONLC Training Centers. This school offers Level 1, 2, and 3 SketchUp classes. Another training option is through Chicago State University, which offers an on-demand SketchUp class called SketchUp Pro Basics.

Dallas

Dallas has become a popular city to live in in recent years, attracting residents because of its strong job market, affordable cost of living, and lack of state income tax. For 2024-25, US News & World Report ranked it as the seventh-best place to live in Texas. BLS reports that the average salary for an Architect in Dallas is $94,970. For an Interior Designer, it is $72,590, and for a Civil Engineer, it is $99,110.

The Heritage School of Interior Design in Dallas offers a Master Certificate Program, which includes training in SketchUp. If you’re based in Dallas, you can also take a class through ONLC Training Centers, which offers Level 1, 2, and 3 SketchUp classes. Another option is the live online SketchUp Pro Bootcamp, offered by Noble Desktop--a coding and design school based in New York City.

Houston

Houston is the fourth-largest city in the United States. It is a leading destination for those relocating to another city, popular because it is a competitive place to do business, and has no personal, state, or corporate income tax. The Greater Houston Partnership reports that Houston is the seventh-largest metro economy in the country and says, “Houston offers one of the best business climates in the nation.” This city also has a relatively low cost of living and a high quality of life. 

If you want to learn SketchUp from Houston, you’ll find a few different options. Rice University runs a course called Introduction to SketchUp. Certstaffix Training offers an online self-paced SketchUp class that covers the basics of this application. This course comes with a certificate of completion. The Knowledge Academy also offers a live SketchUp class.

Boston

Boston employment opportunities are plentiful and diverse. Some major employers in this area include Amazon, Raytheon Technologies, and the University of Massachusetts. Glassdoor compiles an annual list of the 100 best places to work, and in 2023 that list included a number of large companies that have a presence in Boston, including Hubspot, Fidelity, McKinsey & Company, Google, Microsoft, and Dell. According to BLS, a Boston Architect earns $106,860, an Interior Designer $79,900, and a Civil Engineer $110,080.

The Boston Society for Architects runs a SketchUp Bootcamp. Noble Desktop also runs a SketchUp Pro Bootcamp in a live online format. Another training option for Boston residents is to take a course through ONLC Training Centers, which offers Level 1, 2, and 3 SketchUp classes. The Knowledge Academy and Certstaffix Training also offer SketchUp classes.

San Francisco

With a progressive and inclusive culture and a thriving job market, San Francisco is a popular place to live. For 2024-25, US News & World Report gave it the number 22 spot on its list of Best Places to Live in the US, saying, “A beautiful region filled with iconic landmarks, independently owned businesses and trendsetting residents, San Francisco has long followed the beat of its own drum.” According to the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, the city’s key sectors are IT and Software, Social and Digital Media, and Life Sciences and Biotech. The average salary for an Architect in San Francisco is $136,770. An Interior Designer earns about $89,760 and a Civil Engineer $125,990.

Options for learning SketchUp in San Francisco ONLC Training Centers, Cerstaffix Training, and the Knowledge Academy. You can also take a live online SketchUp Pro Bootcamp through New York City-based coding and design school Noble Desktop.

Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. has a diverse array of industries. According to a summary of the area job market by US News & World Report, “A large number of D.C.-area residents are employed by the federal and state governments; however, the region also attracts those looking for work in education and health care, with the local public school districts, universities and hospitals employing a large number of residents.” Further, the article explains, “The presence of government and private contractors bodes well for those looking for work in the information technology sector, while the nearby Geico and Capital One headquarters attract those in the business and finance industries. The district also draws people in the leisure and hospitality industries – the area is home to dozens of hotels and tourist attractions.”

If you want to take a SketchUp class in Washington, D.C., Ledet Training offers a SketchUp 101 course, which is a multi-day class intended for beginners. Other training providers in Washington, D.C. include the Knowledge Academy, ONLC Training Centers, and Certstaffix Training.

Atlanta

Atlanta is home to more than 6 million people and more than 150,000 businesses, including many Fortune 500 companies. In an August 11, 2023, Fox News article, Mike Carnathan, who is managing director of Research & Analytics for the Atlanta Regional Commission, reported, “People are moving here for one simple reason: jobs are plentiful.” He explains, “The Atlanta region continues to be an attractive place for businesses to set up shop or expand. It’s a testament to our well-educated population and strong business climate.”

A number of different schools run SketchUp training for Atlanta residents. ONLC Training offers Level 1, 2, and 3 SketchUp classes. Ledet Training runs a multi-day class intended for beginners. You can also learn SketchUp through the Knowledge Academy.

Miami

According to Forbes, Miami has a gross metro product of $151 billion. The Economic Development Council of South Miami-Dade finds that the economy is thriving in this area. It explains that Miami has recently experienced a surge in population due to its warm climate and lack of state taxes. In addition, the council says, “Many businesses are incorporating in Florida and creating new jobs because of the state’s tax structure.” It explains one reason for business growth, stating, “Tax rates are very business friendly compared to other states, allowing for companies to flourish.” The average salary for a Miami Interior Designer is $67,450.

If you’re based in Miami and want to learn SketchUp, you can take a class through Miami Dade College or the University of Miami. Another option is the SketchUp Pro Bootcamp, which is a multi-day class offered by Noble Desktop. The Knowledge Academy and ONLC Training Centers also run SketchUp training.

Learn SketchUp Skills Online

If you don’t live in a major metropolitan area, another option is to learn SketchUp by taking an online class. Online classes have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their accessibility and flexibility. In fact, even students who do have access to in-person classes sometimes choose an online class instead. One type of online learning is the live online format, where you still get real-time instruction, but you attend class remotely, via computer. Another option is an on-demand course, which does not have a live instructor but lets you work through the class material at your own pace.

To learn more about live online SketchUp classes, you can use Noble Desktop’s Classes Near Me Tool, which allows you to search for classes by subject and location.

Learn SketchUp Skills with 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.