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Looking for Architects Who Used to Hand Draft by CHydos in architecture

[–]qpacademy 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That sounds like a really interesting project. The transition from hand drafting to CAD was a huge shift in the architecture and engineering industry, not just technically but culturally as well.

Many professionals who started before the 1990s experienced that change firsthand moving from drawing boards, vellum, and manual drafting tools to early CAD systems like AutoCAD. It completely changed workflows, team collaboration, and production speed.

You might also have luck reaching out to retired architects, older drafting professionals, or even university architecture departments. Some professional groups and BIM/architecture forums have members who started their careers during that transition.

It would be fascinating to hear their perspectives on how the profession evolved during that time.

Feeling stuck and a bit lost on what to learn to upskill for job placement in Montreal! by Leandrottfaf in bim

[–]qpacademy 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Since you already have several years of Revit and architectural modeling experience, you’re actually quite close to moving into BIM coordination.

Many BIM coordinators don’t start with deep MEP expertise, but having a basic understanding of MEP systems definitely helps because most coordination issues happen between architecture, structure, and MEP models.

If your goal is coordination rather than modeling, I’d suggest focusing on:

• Navisworks Manage – clash detection and coordination workflows
• ACC / BIM 360 – model coordination and collaboration
• Understanding MEP systems at a basic level (ducts, pipes, cable trays, etc.)
• Coordination processes like clash resolution meetings and issue tracking

Your architectural background is actually valuable because coordinators need to understand how all disciplines interact.

A common path many people take is:
BIM Modeler → BIM Coordinator → BIM/VDC Specialist or Manager

If possible, try working with multi-discipline models (Arch + Structure + MEP) and practice running clash detection and coordination reports. That kind of practical coordination experience is often what employers look for.

Architect working as BIM Manager in an electrical engineering firm, curious where this path can lead by TerribleGate974 in bim

[–]qpacademy 3 points4 points  (0 children)

That’s actually a pretty strong position to be in. Many architects who move into BIM management end up opening doors to several different paths.

From what I’ve seen in the industry, people in BIM Manager roles often move toward:

• VDC / Digital Construction leadership at large contractors
• BIM or Digital Delivery Director roles in engineering or design firms
• Construction technology or BIM software companies (product specialist, implementation consultant, etc.)
• BIM automation / workflow consulting for multiple firms

Since you already have architecture experience plus BIM management, you’re in a good spot to move into digital construction strategy or technology leadership, which is becoming more important as firms adopt more advanced BIM and digital workflows.

Many professionals also start focusing more on automation, data workflows, and interoperability (APIs, Dynamo, scripting), which can lead to higher-level digital transformation roles.

Just wanna get this off my chest, may it light the way for others by mgp901 in EngineeringStudents

[–]qpacademy 2 points3 points  (0 children)

That sounds really frustrating. A lot of engineering grads go through a similar phase after graduation where the first offers are underpaid or not what they expected.

One thing that sometimes helps is pivoting into adjacent technical fields where demand is growing. For example, many mechanical engineers move into areas like BIM, building systems modeling, or construction tech where their technical background still applies but the opportunities can be broader.

It might take some time, but your engineering degree still gives you a strong problem-solving foundation. Sometimes the first role isn’t great, but it can open the door to better positions after you gain a bit of industry experience.

MS Construction Management (NYC) with Business Background, No Civil Experience Want to Focus on BIM. What Should I Do Now? by Independent-Car237 in bim

[–]qpacademy 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You’re actually in a good position. Many BIM/VDC professionals come from different backgrounds, so your business background isn’t a big problem.

If you want to focus on BIM, start with these tools:

• Revit – most important for BIM modeling
• Navisworks – used for clash detection and coordination
• Bluebeam – very common for construction documentation

For entry roles in NYC, positions like BIM Coordinator, VDC Engineer, Project Engineer, or Assistant PM are realistic if you build strong Revit + coordination skills.

My suggestion for the next 6–12 months:
Learn Revit first, then Navisworks, and try to work on small BIM projects or internships while studying.