AUGIWORLD
Education & Training
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From the President AUGIWORLD
HELLO AUGI MEMBERS!
Ican’t believe we are in the homestretch of 2024. This year, like most years, just seems to fly by so fast with so many things to do with what seems like so little time to do it in as we are pulled in different directions with family and work responsibilities.
Here are AUGI we are also challenged with being pulled in different directions as we work behind the scenes to continue to bring our AUGI members new added-value membership perks like the AUGI Community, AUGIWORLD The Podcast, AUGI CON, and last but not least AUGIWORLD Magazine that you are either holding in your hands right now reading this or via the Online edition. At the end of the day, everyone here at AUGI is passionate about you and the industry, so here’s to finishing the last couple of months of 2024 strong.
This month’s AUGIWORLD Magazine theme is Education and Training. This subject is very close to my heart as I believe this is one of the core pillars to career success and fulfillment. Benjamin Franklin once said… “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”
Think about it…
Every time you learn something new, you invest in yourself, and that’s an investment that never loses value. In a world where things are constantly changing, keeping yourself sharp and curious can make all the difference.
Whether it’s taking that course you’ve been eyeing, picking up a new skill, or just reading a book that sparks your curiosity, each step adds to who you are and what you can achieve.
So, keep going! The time you spend learning today is a gift to your future self, opening doors you may not have expected to open and giving you the confidence to tackle whatever comes next.
Let me ask you this…
What’s one thing you could learn today that your future self would thank you for? Whatever it is, go do it and do it now. Well… maybe after you read the rest of AUGIWORLD Magazine first. I hope you enjoy this month’s issue and big thanks to all of our Authors that have contributed an article this month. AUGIWORLD Magazine wouldn’t be possible without you. Thank you!!!
Until next time…
Eric
www.augi.com
Editor
Editor-in-Chief
Todd Rogers - todd.rogers@augi.com
Copy Editor
Isabella Andresen - isabella.andresen@augi.com
Layout Editor
Debby Gwaltney - debby.gwaltney@augi.com
Content Managers
3ds Max - Brian Chapman
AutoCAD - Matthew Marrero
Civil 3D - Shawn Herring
BIM/CIM - Stephen Walz
BricsCAD - Craig Swearingen
Electrical - Mark Behrens
Manufacturing - Kristina Youngblut
Revit Architecture - Jonathan Massaro
Revit MEP - Jason Peckovitch
Tech Manager - Mark Kiker
Inside Track - Rina Sahay
Advertising/Reprint Sales
Kevin Merritt - salesmanager@augi.com
AUGI Executive Team
President
Eric DeLeon
Vice-President
Frank Mayfield
Treasurer
Todd Rogers
Secretary
Kristina Youngblut
AUGI Board of Directors
Eric DeLeon
KaDe King
Chris Lindner
Frank Mayfield
Todd Rogers Scott Wilcox
Kristina Youngblut
Advisory Board Members
Shaan Hurley
Shelby Smith
Publication Information
AUGIWORLD magazine is a benefit of specific AUGI membership plans. Direct magazine subscriptions are not available. Please visit www.augi.com/account/register to join or upgrade your membership to receive AUGIWORLD magazine in print. To manage your AUGI membership and address, please visit www.augi. com/account. For all other magazine inquires please contact augiworld@augi.com
Published by:
AUGIWORLD is published by AUGI, Inc. AUGI makes no warranty for the use of its products and assumes no responsibility for any errors which may appear in this publication nor does it make a commitment to update the information contained herein.
AUGIWORLD is Copyright ©2024 AUGI. No information in this magazine may be reproduced without expressed written permission from AUGI. All registered trademarks and trademarks included in this magazine are held by their respective companies. Every attempt was made to include all trademarks and registered trademarks where indicated by their companies.
AUGIWORLD (San Francisco, Calif.) ISSN 2163-7547
Stay in the Game
Ihad the chance to interview Vance Smith, a CAD/BIM Project Technologist with Read Jones Christoffersen Ltd. Engineers (RJC). We discussed how technology managers can become disconnected from the “real work” of a project and their skills can soon be outdated. Most tech managers are involved in the training of staff and staying connected to project work can help improve that training process.
Mark: I appreciate you taking some time to discuss training and project related efforts by managers. Before we begin, can you tell me a little about yourself. What is your title and what are your duties?
Vance: Thanks for connecting. I am a Lead Project Technologist and BIM Lead at RJC. I joined RJC in 2015. I lead a team of technologists developing building models that integrate with architects and other design team members, resulting in accurate and coordinated drawings. My responsibilities include maintaining standards, reviewing quality control, and implementing new tools and methods throughout the entire firm.
Mark: Where are you located and what are the firm’s offerings and markets served?
Vance: We are located in Victoria, BC Canada.
RJC specializes in structural engineering, building science, structural restoration, energy modelling, structural glass and façade engineering, and parking facility design and restoration. RJC Engineers is one of North America’s leading engineering firms. It was founded in 1948.
RJC has 16 offices with nearly 700 people, including 70 in our Vancouver Island offices where I am, offering the service and accessibility of a local firm while provides the depth and resources of a large national organization. We are fully owned by our employees.
Mark: What kind of projects has your firm done?
Vance: Well, in marketing language, RJC provides a “holistic approach to high performance building design, construction, operation, and maintenance. As leaders in sustainable design, we are experienced in developments targeting LEED®, Net Zero Energy, and Passive House, among others”. I just know that I
get to work on significant, challenging, high-profile projects in the surrounding area.
One of our projects was Capital Park, a significant mixed-use community development project in the James Bay neighborhood of Victoria. We provided structural engineering working with HDR/Endall Elliot Associates.
Another is 989 Johnson Street. 989 brought “big city living” to Victoria with its two 15 and 17 story glass towers rise from a six-story podium. This building provides 206 homes of varying shapes and sizes plus ground floor retail space.
Mark: Many tech managers have come up through the ranks and advanced into management from the technical side as designers, super users and experts with the tools. When this happens, they tend to stop doing as much project work because they are now leading others. What have you noticed when managers move away from the day-to-day project work?
Vance: As many BIM managers are elevated into their position organically, they are doing less and less production work. Eventually as the firm gets big enough, they are full time manager. This can be a blessing (The team gets someone to do all those tasks that they haven’t had time to do) or a curse (you lose your skills in production that elevated you to this position in the first place!) Revit is constantly changing, and we need to ask ourselves - are the tools and processes I developed even as little as two years ago still effective?
So many times, I’ve gone back to lead a project, only to realize I’ve lost some of the efficiency that I once had. Sometimes it’s like riding a bike, sometimes it’s like forgetting that password to an obscure web site you visited 3 years ago! You can’t be expected to remember everything all the time.
Mark: But as a manager of the tech, aren’t you up to speed on all the new features? You probably know more than most.
Vance: We review the incoming new features and play around with them to advise our teams of their use. But how does that work in practice?
Sometimes there is a big difference between daily use of a tool vs ‘trying it out’
Mark: So, what is your advice for tech managers that have become distant from the “front lines”?
Vance: Stay in the game. Do a project once in a while so you stay current and your suggestions work. Walk a mile in their shoes!
We sometimes develop work arounds to deal with limitations in Revit. Are those work arounds still needed? Has Revit dealt with that issue that required a work around? You may be aware of all the new features but not realize some of your families are still using obsolete parameters.
Working on a project can give you the chance to experiment in a real-life situation and make changes on the fly. It’s a nimble way to develop new families or methods and see how they work.
Mark: So, you just join a project team? How does that work?
Vance: I’ve been dropped into a job to help get it across the finish line only to find processes we had set up for the team were not being followed. When challenged why, the response was “oh that didn’t work in this case, so I just made something up!”
Sometimes I might set up and run with a job from scratch – Maybe you’ll see that the templates need tweaking to incorporate some new ideas that have just been developed.
Maybe you can collaborate with another tech to lead a project? This is a great teaching opportunity. Take a very green tech and walk through the steps as you set things up. Maybe you’ll spot things that need to be in a training program.
Mark: You have time to do project work along with your own leadership demands? Aren’t you too busy to be back in production?
Vance: Maybe you leave half a day a week to help out the team (Friday deadlines can always use more help!). Your team will appreciate the help, and you’ll appreciate what your team is going through.
Your staff will appreciate the fact you are in the trenches with them. Nothing is worse than having a leader throw around edicts and commands that have no clue what the implications of those rules mean!
Humble yourself. I’ve worked on a project similar to a junior’s project, only to discover I took longer to complete it than the junior staff! I was trying to use
my old methods, and the new staff fully embraced the new tech and weren’t encumbered by prior release methods. It gave me an opportunity to learn new things from someone.
Mark: How can this help others?
Vance: If you do some productions still, don’t just do the challenging jobs that you think no one else can do. Give the hard job to an up-and-coming tech and mentor them along the way. This is a win for both of you – you are not the only one now that can do that type of job, and your coworker has new skills!
Doing a ‘simple’ project that you would normally think is beneath you, gives you a chance to demonstrate that you still have ‘it’, and you might be surprised how your skills may have slid!
Mark: What is the final takeaway from jumping back into projects?
Vance: Working on projects not only affects you but also the designers that you interact with. You may find designers respond by “oh you can do that for me? I don’t have to spell everything out for you to understand?” This can show you how the dynamics of the team are working and identify training opportunities. Your success is not just how well you perform, but how well the whole team performs together. This is a whole topic on its own!
Mark: Thanks again for your insights and suggestions. Staying connected and in the game helps sharpen your training programs and everyone wins.
Mark Kiker has more than 35 years of hands-on experience with technology. He is fully versed in every area of management from deployment planning, installation, and configuration to training and strategic planning. He is an internationally known speaker, writer and former AUGI Board member and president. He oversees two web sites, www.caddmanager.com and www.bimmanager. com. He can be reached at mark.kiker@augi.com and would love to hear your questions, comments and perspectives.
An Inquisitive Mind: Driving Innovation Through Continuous Learning
We are constantly faced with challenges, whether in our personal lives or at work—but let’s focus on work. From issues related to design, management, implementation, or coordination, you name it. We often find ourselves in situations where we may lack the knowledge or feel completely overwhelmed. But don’t feel ashamed in these moments. Instead, step back and celebrate the opportunity in front of you: a learning opportunity.
School and formal education are crucial, laying the foundation for understanding whatever field you’re in. But we need more than that. Just as a house’s framework requires walls, wiring, a roof, and more to become a house, our minds, knowledge, and skills need constant upgrades, repairs, and additions. Like our projects, our growth is in continuous flux and evolution. Closing your mind to new knowledge or limiting your interests isn’t sustainable in a constantly changing industry.
Learning can be as simple as mastering a new command in software or figuring out how to format a file. Learning is learning, no matter how small. Each day will bring new opportunities, and the size of those opportunities will depend on what arises. With an inquisitive mind, you don’t see problems—you see potential. Continuous learning is essential for adapting to the dynamic innovations of tomorrow.
HOW DO I KNOW WHERE TO GO FOR HELP? THERE IS A LOT OF JUNK.
Finding the right resources to solve your problem can be tricky. Search engines, ads, and analytics can make it overwhelming. Over time, you’ll develop your own rhythm for navigating these systems and spotting what you need. It’s always a good idea to start with the software’s help section, though that usually covers only the essential functions, like where everything is, how to use it, and what the developers intend you to do with it.
When the solution you need is more unique or complex, you may have to dig deeper into forums, blogs, or community discussions where others have thought beyond the standard “out-of-thebox” solutions. Help guides won’t always provide the answer. Still, if you encounter an issue, there’s always a solution, even if it’s not what you expected.
Online learning platforms and conferences are also excellent opportunities to learn from industry professionals who are passionate about exploring innovative workflows and software. These spaces offer technical knowledge and provide insights into creative problem-solving, emerging trends, and practical tips from real-world experience, allowing you to grow beyond standard practices and stay ahead in a fast-evolving industry.
THE ROLE OF CURIOSITY IN PROBLEMSOLVING
Curiosity is essential in problem-solving. When faced with an issue or situation, curiosity helps you break it down into manageable pieces and seek out creative ways to work through it. Curiosity is asking “how” and “why” when faced with a new problem. This allows you to get to the root of the problem and not resolve things superficially.
Innovation was born from curiosity. Your colleagues,
who constantly faced a similar problem for years and on multiple projects, some of these people went on to develop apps and software that help others and reduce those once-common annoyances.
I love the saying, “See a need, fill a need.” Curiosity drives that saying. To be curious requires continuous learning. You are constantly seeking out features and functions, understanding how they work and how you can manipulate them. We don’t know what we need until we know what we have. Learn what you have in front of you, let your curiosity take charge, and explore the whys.
COLLABORATIVE LEARNING AND KNOWLEDGE SHARING
At conferences like AUGI CON, Autodesk University, BILT, BIM Coordinators Summit, and others, you find passionate and dynamic like-minded professionals who are just as curious and eager for knowledge. Connect with these people, join conversations, and talk about your experiences. That alone is the basis of collaborative learning and knowledge sharing.
We learn from each other. Finding that a lot of us have experienced similar issues. How did they solve it? Did they solve it? Sharing stories and experiences allows you and your peers the opportunity for growth and understanding. Even the simple task of explaining batch plots and defining the page setup for all the sheets.
Don’t forget failure is still winning. This is harder if you are late on a submission and have to get it in. You can’t always take time to solve the problem before you. Push forward, meet your deliverable, but don’t forget your experience. Talk about it with your peers. Reach out to groups and forums. You can still learn and grow even after the experience has passed.
EMBRACING FAILURE AS A LEARNING OPPORTUNITY
It is easy to become discouraged when you fail. You probably worked so hard and did a lot of research, which didn’t solve anything. Frustration and aggravation can leave you feeling deflated. Trust me when I say all that is important, necessary even. Learning requires something to drive it, a fuel that makes it impossible for you to stop thinking.
Something to say to yourself when faced with a problem. There is no such thing as success without failure. Embrace and celebrate the opportunity, as it is an opportunity to learn, to explore, to grow. You can solve problems without failure, but then you probably aren’t learning something. That was previously acquired knowledge, still awesome, it means you already had that learning opportunity.
STAYING AHEAD OF INDUSTRY TRENDS
Read, explore, test, discuss—staying ahead means staying engaged. The AEC industry is evolving rapidly, with new technologies and solutions emerging daily. While it’s impossible to keep up with everything, that’s not the goal. Instead, let your curiosity drive you to explore new discoveries, test innovative workflows, and learn about the solutions shaping the future.
Learning
Focus on what will support you in your daily tasks. What are the most relevant advancements in your field? What are your peers doing to solve similar problems? How are the biggest challenges being addressed, and which trends are gaining traction? Trends are born from necessity, and innovations emerge as solutions to those needs. By staying connected to the issues that matter most to your work, you ensure that you are not just reacting to change but anticipating it.
THE BIRTH OF INNOVATION
As we seek out new knowledge, it’s natural to consider how it will affect our work, tasks, and deliverables. We weigh the potential gains and losses, thinking about how this knowledge could impact our projects. This is where innovation is born. Innovation isn’t just about groundbreaking discoveries—it’s about applying what we’ve learned to improve and refine the way we work.
Learning is not just for children; it’s a lifelong tool that supports and nurtures us. It equips us with the information we need to optimize our workflows, solve problems more effectively, and continuously push the boundaries of what we can achieve. Every new piece of knowledge has the potential to spark innovation if we’re open to applying it in new ways.
AIM TO LEARN SOMETHING DAILY
Learning should inspire you to improve yourself, helping you find ways to reduce limitations and eliminate redundancies in your workflow. Start by addressing your own challenges—chances are, others have faced the same issues. Seek
out existing solutions and see if you can learn from them and implement their approaches. By doing so, you’re not just solving problems but also building on the knowledge of others.
Learning goes beyond problem-solving. It’s about opening your mind to new possibilities, exploring different perspectives, and discovering innovative approaches that can enhance your work in unexpected ways. Each day is an opportunity to grow, whether by learning something small or unlocking a new way of thinking.
FEEDING THAT INQUISITIVE MIND
Go find a problem, something small that bothers you. Take 5 mins, can you fix it? Yes? Fantastic, find another problem. No? Type your problem into a search engine, exactly as you are experiencing it, and explore the possibilities. 2 or 3 of those should do for the first go. Did you learn something you can
attempt to apply? Try it out. If it doesn’t work, rise and repeat.
Solving problems is an innovation. It could have a small impact or a major one, depending on the problem. Innovations can be unique to you or to the greater community. Which is why it is important to collaborate and share knowledge as we acquire it. Help our peers solve problems or provide them with a spark of inspiration for their own innovation. Knowledge doesn’t have to end with you, share it. We can always acquire more knowledge, embrace it. Allow that knowledge to support you and evolve with it.
Kristina Youngblut is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of expertise in CAD solutions and technology within the AEC community. A BIM Professional determined to deliver innovative solutions and cutting-edge technologies to projects and clients. Kristina also serves on the AUGI Board of Directors since 2023. As an esteemed member of the Autodesk Expert Elite program, she passionately contributes to the sharing and exploration of knowledge within the industry.
Learning and Development
Learning and Development can vary from company to company or person to person. At Garver, Learning and Development (L&D) is a big part of our culture. Our internal L&D platform is called Garver U. Professional Development, which is one of the primary initiatives for our Beyond Strategic Plan. Garver U serves as a clearinghouse for all Garver training (including onboarding), educational lunch and learns, and available courses from partner resources such as LinkedIn Learning, RightNow Media and subject matter experts like myself.
Garver has set a goal for each employee to have at least 40 hours of Professional Development each year. As of the end of September, I was number 2 on the PDF leaderboard with 128.25 hours. Hats off to the person in the #1 slot, they are killing it so far this year. If interested, feel free to reach out to me when you read this to see where I am now.
The goal of each employee achieving 40 hours of professional development is anticipated to be a combination of up to 10-16 hours of classroom training or virtual courses, 20-25 hours of experiential learning, and 8-10 hours of self-paced learning. Attending industry-related conferences, on the job training, going to city council or client meetings, and being mentored by Garver’s leaders. will also count towards your PDHs at Garver. Speaking of conferences, be sure that you check out my September AUGI World article that I wrote about the Importance of Industry Conferences.
Because Learning and Development is such a huge part of our culture here at Garver, I decided to reach out to our awesome Learning and Development team, Marla, Audra, Dominique, Katie and Jeremy. I asked them 5 questions about our Learning and Development program and Garver U. Here is what they had to say.
1. How does Garver U align with the specific needs and career development goals of employees across different departments, particularly in the AEC industry?
a. Garver U is the Learning Management System (LMS) for Garver’s professional development under the direction of the Learning & Development (L&D) team. It contains courses to assist staff with career development as well as learning plans (collection of courses) to help those looking
to grow in their development. Currently, engineering staff have learning plans for each phase of their career including Engineering Interns, ENI (for those in their first 3 years), ENII (3-5 years depending on discipline and focus), PM (skills for project managers), and BTLs (focused on leadership and development of their teams). We also offer a 90-day new hire onboarding program that begins with a new hire welcome call where the CEO and CHRO attend to personally welcome each new hire to Garver.
2. What are the key metrics or indicators used to measure the effectiveness of learning programs at Garver U? How do these metrics influence the development of future courses?
a. After each of the programs offered by the Learning & Development team, we collect feedback using a survey. Some programs also have a live feedback session after the initial survey to allow us to hear directly from participants.
b. Feedback is used to improve existing programs, as well as identify areas of interest for additional courses or programs.
3. How does the Learning and Development team stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the AEC industry, and how are these integrated into the curriculum at Garver U?
a. We follow the webinars offered by ACEC, PMI, ACC and other industry trade organizations. We share the information for sessions of interest, and we incorporate key takeaways into our Garver courses and programs when appropriate. We also connect with Subject Matter Experts in the business to understand the current development needs of staff within the business lines.
4. What opportunities are there for employees to provide feedback on Garver U courses, and how is this feedback used to improve future learning experiences?
a. See #2
b. We partner with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to develop courses for Garver on a regular basis. An example of such is the Environmental course which is a self-paced
eLearning designed to educate staff on the Environmental Review Process. We worked with key staff to obtain content, get input on learning modules, and allowed them to lead in final review and guidance.
5. Can you share some success stories or examples of how Garver U has positively impacted an employee’s career progression or a project’s success within the company?
a. Our Project Management 101 (PM101) is a 30-hour program geared to new college graduate hires through their 3rd/4th year in the engineering field. The program’s goal is to provide a solid knowledge foundation for the life cycle of projects while identifying and discussing key tasks performed by that target audience as they move their careers toward becoming actual project managers. The three-part program includes:
1. Pre-work: A self-paced learning plan of courses to review or educate attendees on topics which will be discussed during the workshop. (8 hours)
2. Workshop: An in-person 2-day workshop consisting of 11 modules facilitated by experienced leaders and Subject Matter Experts. (16 hours)
3. Continued Development Series: Follow up sessions to enhance and reinforce the 6 primary topics of the program conducted as 1-hour sessions once per month for six months. (6 hours)
b. Our Insights Discovery Personal Effectiveness workshop is a personal development and team-building tool designed to help individuals and teams understand their communication preferences, working styles, and interpersonal dynamics. The tool uses a 4-color model to represent the four basic components of a person’s personality. Garver has adopted the program company wide and by having conversations around communication with others we see an improvement in work relationships.
1. We have built the tool into several other training programs including our New Hire Onboarding Program and our leadership workshop Manager’s Essentials. Leaders
Garver U
have reported the tool is easy to use and helps with 1-1 conversations and well as teambuilding. Staff have also advised that it has allowed them to have better communication and relationships with co-workers and their leader.
Garver U is a great LMS that has a variety of different interactive courses. If your company does not have its own Garver U, lots of software resellers offer instructor-led training for the software they sell or your company could utilize other LMS tools like Global eTraining, CADLearning or Pinnacle Series to help with your employees’ learning and development. Most learners these days are DIYers. DIY learners in the AEC industry are individuals who take a hands-on, self-directed approach to their education and skill development. They often rely on a mix of online resources, tutorials, and practical experience to learn new techniques and stay updated with industry trends. As a subject matter expert, you will need to cater to the different ways that DIYer’s learn. I will tell you that I am definitely a DIYer.
DIY LEARNING
Videos
Videos can come in varying lengths and from a variety of sources. They can be in the form of 45–60-minute webinars, short tutorials or a series
of videos. If you are creating videos on a specific task or workflow, you should keep those videos to less than 10 minutes, but ideally less than 5 minutes. This ensures that you have their attention for the whole duration. If your video is longer than that, the person watching is more susceptible to distractions and may miss key points. You should also have access to a decent video editing program like Adobe Premier Pro, Camtasia (this is what I use) or Clipchamp. Obviously, there are many more programs to choose from that you would have to evaluate for yourself to figure out what will meet your needs.
Another thing to consider for video training is to record any training sessions you will be doing and make them available for your staff. With Garver U, we can upload our own videos. I have several recorded training sessions available for our staff to watch.
Step-by-Step
Step-by-Step written instructions are probably the most common way to learn something. Instructions (or quick start guides) are included with just about everything you buy. For the AEC industry, the programs, tools and add-ins we use daily have help center/wiki pages that walk someone through how to do specific things. Even some of those pages contain videos. For Autodesk, it starts at https://help. autodesk.com, for BricsCAD you would go to https://
help.bricscad.com. For tools like CTC Software or Ideate Software, they have links to videos and written instructions built into their tools or AEC Simple has a series of wiki pages with instructions on how to use their tool.
Over the years, I have created my fair share of written instructions. At one point I had a 200+ page word document outlining various workflows and standards. It proved to be quite painful to update and add new sections. I still have a copy of it but no longer use it. Nowadays I am using OneNote, which offers way more flexibility, for all my workflow/process documentation which is being linked from our BIM SharePoint page that I maintain. Some of the instructions I have written have truly been step-by-step while some of the more advanced instructions take some liberties and assume that those that are utilizing these instructions know more about the program than most and do not need to be shown every step.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Learning and Development at Garver is not just a program but a core part of our culture. Through Garver U, we provide our employees with a comprehensive platform that supports their professional growth and career development. With a goal of 40 hours of professional development each year, our employees are encouraged to
engage in a variety of learning experiences, from classroom training to experiential learning and selfpaced courses.
We recognize that people learn in different ways, and Garver U caters to these diverse learning preferences. Some employees learn best by watching videos, which can range from short tutorials to longer webinars. Others prefer stepby-step written instructions, which are commonly used in the AEC industry and are available through various help centers and wiki pages. Additionally, there are those who thrive on hands-on, DIY learning, experimenting and discovering through trial and error.
The success stories and positive feedback from our staff highlight the effectiveness of our programs and the impact they have on both individual careers and the overall success of our projects. As we continue to evolve and adapt to the latest trends and technologies in the AEC industry, we remain committed to fostering a culture of continuous learning and development. Together, we are building a brighter future for our employees and our company.
Jason Peckovitch is an Autodesk Revit Certified Professional for Mechanical and Electrical Design located in SE Iowa. He is a BIM Manager for Garver’s Buildings Business Line, specifically MEPF. Garver has more than 50 offices across the United States and more than 1200 employees. His CAD/BIM career spans over 25 years but he didn’t switch to the AEC Industry until 2007 as a Mechanical HVAC Drafter and transitioned into BIM Management shortly after where he has been working since. Jason is also the father of three children; Shelby – 12, Blake – 10 and Logan - 7, a published photographer, gamer, and car/tech guy. He can be reached at jmpeckovitch@ garverusa.com.
Can an AI Assistant Really Help CAD Users?
AI can’t solve all of our problems — not yet, anyway — but it can offer a helping hand throughout the workday. Graebert invites new and experienced users to explore the capabilities of its CAD-savvy AI assistant in ARES Commander 2025 — and now, in the cloud version ARES Kudo as well.
There’s nothing the tech world loves like a new buzzword. Currently, we’re overwhelmed with pronouncements about the life-changing potential of artificial intelligence (AI). Every day, companies unveil new AI-enhanced products and tools that promise to boost efficiency and turn drudgery into delight. And in some cases, this turns out to be true — but in others, the marketing claims are better developed than the products themselves. Therefore, a bit of skepticism is in order!
When you’re evaluating whether such a tool would improve your workflows, look for specifics about its capabilities, and consider how they would apply in your case. Here, we’ll peek over the shoulders of three different types of CAD users to see how the new AI assistant from Graebert helps them each day — and how it could help you, too.
MEET A3, THE CONVENIENT CAD EXPERT
Earlier this year, Graebert launched ARES AI Assist, one of the many new features in its DWGbased desktop CAD solution, ARES Commander 2025. ARES AI Assist (A3) is a CAD-specific tool powered by OpenAI technology, and trained to help ARES users work more comfortably and efficiently. A3 can be a teacher, an industry expert, a handbook, a translator, a calculator — even a collaborator.
FOR NEW CAD USERS: READILY ACCESSIBLE GUIDANCE
Jim is a new CAD user who wants to make a good impression at work, but he often feels out of his depth. With the help of free Graebert Academy courses and videos on Graebert’s YouTube channel, he is learning quickly, but his intimidating new boss doesn’t want employees to spend much time on non-billable activities — and that includes training!
Although it is a powerful tool, A3 has no learning curve: The palette is loaded by default in ARES Commander, and users simply type their questions at the prompt, using normal phrasing as if they were talking with a colleague. A3 can converse in English, Spanish, French, German, Japanese, and many other languages.
A3 can help new users become familiar with the software, locate features, and learn how to apply them. But as we’ll see, they’re not the only ones who benefit from an on-call assistant! When more experienced CAD users are changing jobs, or migrating to ARES from a different program, A3 is a trusty sidekick that makes the transition easier. And even grizzled ARES veterans will find their workday goes faster when they can handle routine tasks like translations and calculations without leaving their current project.
The other CAD users in Jim’s department are very busy, so he doesn’t want to interrupt their work every time he has a question. (And besides, he’d prefer that they didn’t know just how little he knows.) Flipping through a dusty binder or digging through a massive Help file whenever he’s stuck would take too much time, he worries. So, what’s a newbie to do? Ask A3 instead!
For example, when he wants to bring a PDF file into ARES Commander, Jim simply types “Where is the PDF import?” at the “Ask me anything” prompt In addition
Click to watch an introduction to A3 on Graebert's YouTube channel.
ARES AI Assist (A3) is specifically trained to help CAD users work — and learn — more efficiently.
in the A3 palette — and immediately receives an explanation of which command to use. In addition to providing written instructions, A3 also visually emphasizes the PDF Import feature in the ribbon, applying yellow highlights so Jim can quickly see which ribbon tab to select and exactly where to click. Jim finds this process much faster than hunting through all the icons, and there’s no headscratching involved.
And if Jim is still uncertain after he reads A3’s response, he can continue the conversation, asking follow-up questions to get more details or a different type of answer. It’s just like talking with a knowledgeable coworker — except this one always has the time to give Jim a hand.
FOR USERS SWITCHING CAD SOLUTIONS: A SMOOTHER TRANSITION
Now we’ll look at a different type of CAD user. Maria has many years of experience, but only with AutoCAD; before she started her new job in a big AEC firm, she had never worked with ARES. So when she wants to learn about capabilities that are unique to ARES Commander — such as the ARES Trinity collaboration features or BIM drawings automation features — she asks A3. For example, she types, “How can I create a view-only link in ARES Commander from the current drawing?” and immediately receives step-by-step instructions to guide her through the process.
A3 also helps Maria customize her user interface, arranging things in a more familiar way so she can work more efficiently. She asks about changing the background color, adding a command to the ribbon, and importing tool palettes that she had created in AutoCAD — and A3 explains how she can quickly make these adjustments.
In addition to learning new software, Maria is also learning the ways of a new industry. Since she previously worked in product manufacturing, there are many AEC terms and concepts that are new to her. Whenever she feels unsure about something, Maria can turn to A3 for explanations of general concepts, and even for industry-specific advice. She feels more confident about her work when she can ask A3 for tips such as, “Suggest methods to reinforce a bearing wall when space is limited.”
FOR ARES EXPERTS: A QUICKER WAY TO HANDLE EVERYDAY TASKS
Tomo is too modest to call himself an expert, but he is recognized throughout his company as a “superuser” who knows everything there is to know about ARES Commander. When he first hears about A3, Tomo shrugs; it might be nice for new users, but he certainly doesn’t need any help. But when he glances at the A3 Cheat Sheet posted in the breakroom, Tomo realizes that the new tool can do more than he thought — including conversions, calculations, and translations. Now that’s a kind of help he can use!
Tomo’s company regularly transfers files between branches located in Japan and in the U.S., so he frequently needs to convert units between metric and imperial, and to translate text between English and Japanese. Of course, he has separate software tools to perform those chores, but to use them, he must leave his ARES Commander interface dozens of times each day. Once he switches to A3 for his conversion and translation tasks, those distracting little detours are eliminated — replaced with a streamlined workflow that never breaks his rhythm.
A3 ARRIVES IN ARES KUDO
Now, you can benefit from A3’s assistance anywhere with an Internet connection. Graebert has just released A3 in ARES Kudo, its online CAD software that runs entirely in your Internet browser. With ARES Kudo, you can access your CAD work from any device and any location — creating, editing, and validating files whether you’re at home, in the office, or on the move. And wherever you go, A3 will be right there to lend a hand.
TRY A3 FOR YOURSELF
Now that you’ve seen how Jim, Maria, and Tomo make use of A3, you’re ready to try it too: Simply open ARES Commander or ARES Kudo and type your question into the A3 palette. Note that the number of conversation threads allowed per day ranges from two to ten, depending on your license type.
To start a free trial of ARES CAD software, simply create your free Graebert account and then download the ARES Commander software or visit the ARES Kudo portal. Once your trial license is activated, you’ll enjoy free 30-day access to all three components of the ARES Trinity of CAD software: ARES Commander, ARES Kudo, and ARES Touch. And you’ll see how A3 can make a difference in your workflows, no matter what kind of CAD user you are!
Cyrena Respini-Irwin covered CAD and related technologies for more than a decade at Cadalyst, where she became Editor in Chief. Since 2021, she has served as Graebert's Brand Ambassador for the ARES Trinity of CAD software.
Click to download the A3 Cheat Sheet.
First released in ARES Commander, A3 is now available in ARES Kudo as well.
Elevating Value by Leveraging Technical Advancements
When I first started drafting in CAD over 20 years ago, I was working in an office, full-time, and I was lucky to sit in proximity of a variety of extremely knowledgeable CAD and IT professionals, with decades of combined experience who could answer any question I had about design or the software. While I could have looked up any question online, it was rarely my first instinct. Learning from a peer was the best way for me at the time to increase my skillset as a rookie.
Over the past 20 years, the traditional office environment has transformed significantly. (See Fig. 1) Alongside changes in learning spaces, our access to diverse resources has expanded dramatically, now available 24/7. This highlights the importance of leveraging all available resources to enhance your value as both an employee and a professional.
Let us start by identifying the variety of ways to increase your value, and locate the needed resources, so in the end, you stand out because you have every tool in the networking and technical toolkit.
ON THE JOB TRAINING
While all of us have different learning styles, and we absorb information a tad differently, on-thejob training is right up there with the best ways to elevate your value. It encourages the development of a broader skill set, making you more versatile and valuable to the organization. Collaborating with experienced colleagues provides valuable mentorship, allowing you to gain insights and advice that can shape your career.
When I first learned to draft in CAD, I always used icons or the right-click shortcut menu. For years that went on. Granted, I was still very new to it all, but all the while, just by watching the guy
next to me, I knew it was more productive to use a combination of keyboard shortcuts and the command line. Until I made the conscious effort, and a change in mindset to incorporate the two together. (Make the largest explosion sound you can, in your head.) While this was not on-the-job training per se, I used the time I had on the clock to change the way I did my job, eventually submitting design at a much quicker rate.
CONTINUING EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATION
One way to start is by seeking out continuing education courses or by gaining a certification. Whether that means attending night classes, earning credits by attending conferences or gaining a technical certification, these can increase your value significantly. Joining organizations like the American Institute of Architects (AIA) or the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) can offer access to specialized training programs and resources focused on the latest CAD technologies.
Learning online has become a big business over the last 20 years. Online universities, learning platforms like Udemy®, Coursera®, LinkedIn Learning®, Udacity®, and even most CAD vendors/ resellers offer structured courses that can significantly enhance your skills. Some offer certification options, validating your expertise, and making you more marketable.
While many of the listed resources may take a financial investment, the real investment is your time. After all, if you want to learn, and you want it for free, there is always YouTube®. For example, learn all about BricsCAD® on the Bricsys YouTube channel or visit Bricsys Learning for free, online, at-your-pace lessons. (See Fig. 2)
SOCIAL MEDIA NETWORKING AND PEER GROUPS
Engaging with professional networks and peer groups can enrich your learning experience. Here are some avenues to consider:
• Online Communities: For me, this is where it’s at. Online platforms. There are a gazillion CAD forums. The AUGI community, LinkedIn® , Groups on Facebook, and Reddit® host groups,
Fig. 1
the list goes on and on. I truly enjoy the space where CAD professionals discuss assorted topics, share resources, and can ask and answer questions. While not as prominent, (X)Twitter®, Instagram®, and TikTok® are great first steps for networking. These communities can provide you with establishing a support network and added learning opportunities. If your AUGI experience has been anything like mine, you have gained genuine friendships in the process of networking and elevating your value. Join the AUGI community: https://augicommunity.co Share technical experiences, catch up on industry news and events, and podcasts. (See Fig. 3)
• Podcasts: Podcasts are of tremendous value to the learning community. Try finding a podcast that is relatable or inspires motivation. While there are many reputable CAD podcasts available on such platforms
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
like Apple® Podcasts, Pocket Casts®, Spotify®, Stitcher®, and Google® Podcasts, did you know that our own AUGI President Eric Deleon hosts a podcast called “The CAD Manager Confessions”? (See Fig. 4) I recall how captivated I was listening to AUGI’s own Frank Mayfield in Episode 11 and the similarities from his experiences, emulating my own. Never thought I would like a podcast, but this was the place for me. If you were not aware, AUGIWORLD The Podcast can be found on the following podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/AUGIWORLD
Apple Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/augiworldthe-podcast
• Conferences and Trade Shows: Attending industry conferences can expose you to new software developments, tools, and best practices. These events are also excellent opportunities for networking with peers and industry leaders. Treat these as serious opportunities to leverage and grow. When you are attending a conference, take this as an opportunity to put yourself in uncomfortable situations. They say diamonds are made under pressure. (See Fig. 5) Introduce yourself to as
many people as possible. Attend a session on that technique/software you have been meaning to investigate. Growth can be uncomfortable. But that is where the magic happens. Find industry conferences and events with the AUGI community: https://augicommunity.mn.co/events
• Local User Groups: Many cities have CAD or general CAD user groups that meet regularly. These groups often host events where you can learn new tips and tricks, share experiences, and network with other professionals. While this might be more of an online event now, there are still a few CAD groups kicking it old school with face-to-face events.
WEBINARS & ONLINE WORKSHOPS
Attending webinars is a terrific way to expand your knowledge and stay updated on new features. Many organizations and educational institutions offer free or low-cost webinars that cover a variety of topics related to CAD, including:
• Advanced Techniques: Learn about advanced modeling techniques and workflows directly from industry experts.
• Feature Updates: Stay informed about the latest software updates and how they can enhance your productivity.
• Industry Trends: Webinars often discuss emerging trends in design and engineering, helping you to stay ahead in your field.
Join Bricsys® events for workshops, sessions, and CAD solution updates by visiting https://www. bricsys.com/events
Fig. 5
Fig. 4
TIPS FOR EFFICIENT LEARNING AND PROFESSIONAL GROWTH
• Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve. Whether it’s drafting, project management, or IT infrastructure. Setting specific goals helps you stay focused and motivated.
• Stay Committed: There will always be those days but stay committed to your goal. Consistency is key. There will be people there to encourage and support you the entire way.
• Stay Updated: Regularly check for software updates and new features. The CAD industry evolves rapidly, and staying informed will enhance your skill set and ensure you are using the best tools available.
• Seek Feedback: Share your work with peers or online communities to gain constructive feedback. Engaging in critique sessions can help you improve your skills and learn new techniques. Of course, I am not promoting you violate an NDA.
• Embrace Lifelong Learning: This is saving the best for last. The landscape of engineering and design is always changing. Make a habit of seeking out new learning opportunities, whether through formal education, online courses, or informal study. Keep learning.
CONCLUSION
Gaining technical value by asking the person next to you is not your only option anymore. By leveraging resources such as on-the-job training, official certifications, online courses, podcasts, webinars, and community forums, you can not only master CAD software but also enhance your professional development. Engaging in continuous education, attending webinars, and networking with peers are essential components of your growth as a CAD professional. Invest the time.
It would also be worth your time to talk to your HR representative as a portion or all of the costs of continuing education or certifications may be covered by the company. Of course, your goals and aspirations should also be discussed with your boss. Not only making a plan of action together, but welltrained employees tend to perform better, leading to higher productivity levels, which benefits both the individual and the organization.
MORE ABOUT BRICSCAD®
Bricsys® BricsCAD® is professional CAD software without compromise. Accelerate your time to deliverable without compromising on performance, cost, licensing flexibility, and data security. Not ready to buy? Download the free, 30-day trial of BricsCAD® at Bricsys.com. Would you like free lessons? We have that available with Bricsys Learning. Ready to migrate to BricsCAD®?
Download the Migration Guide. The newly released BricsCAD® V25 has even more tools and features users love, as well as new functionality and UI that supercharge productivity. Follow us today on LinkedIn and YouTube.
MORE ABOUT BRICSYS®
Bricsys ®, part of Hexagon ®, is the global technology company that creates the BricsCAD ® family of computer-aided design (CAD) products and the Bricsys ® 24/7 project collaboration platform. We are relentlessly committed to the success of our customers by offering costeffective, mission-critical CAD software with industry-leading product support. Learn more at www.Bricsys.com
Hexagon is a global leader in digital reality solutions. Learn more about Hexagon (Nasdaq Stockholm: HEXA B) at hexagon.com and follow us @HexagonAB.
Mr. Craig Swearingen is a Global Implementation Specialist and Consultant at Bricsys®. Currently, Craig provides migration and implementation guidance, management strategies, and technical assistance to companies that need an alternative, compatible CAD solution. Craig spent 19 years in the civil engineering world as a technician, Civil 3D & CAD power user, becoming a support-intensive CAD/ IT manager in high-volume production environments. Craig is a longtime AUGI member (2009), a Certified Autodesk® AutoCAD® Professional, and he enjoys networking with other CAD users on social media.
Bright Ideas for a Bright Future
AUGIWORLD brings you the latest tips & tricks, tutorials, and other technical information to keep you on the leading edge of a bright future.