Archive News 2020
Get the tools to launch careers in CAD, BIM
Originally published in the Star Metro Vancouver
At ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ (ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½), learners in the area of study dealing with computer aided drafting (CAD) and 3D building information modelling (BIM) are receiving the latest know-how to enter various careers.
When she graduated from ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ in 2006, Christine Pimpao was one such student. Today, not only is Pimpao a project systems specialist, she is back at the college in a much different role.
"As an alumnus I was asked to sit on the Program Advisory Committee to give ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ advice about what’s happening in the industry and offer guidance to ensure the programs are completely up to date," she says. "That’s one of ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½’s strengths, ensuring courses are relevant and comprehensive."
At ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½, the CAD and BIM area of study — which covers the technology being used in residential and commercial architecture, public infrastructure and engineering — includes six full-time programs. Among these are architectural technician certificate, civil structural technician certificate, and computer aided drafting and building information modelling architectural diploma.
Pimpao says that while topics vary among programs, a staple she experienced during her studies, and which continues to be emphasized today, is practical application.
"Throughout the program, every project, every lecture, everything we did was to work towards a portfolio," she says. "It wasn’t just learning subjects, but creating a professional portfolio we could present to companies."
As a woman in a male-dominated field, Pimpao says ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ gave her the tools to confidently launch her career. She says today there is a shift in the CAD and BIM industries as more women are entering the field.
"As long as you have the type of solid understanding ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ offers, you’ll gain the respect anyone deserves,” she says. "Be confident because there are lots of opportunities."
To learn more about this area of study, attend ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½’s March 20 info session at 4 p.m. For more, visit vcc.ca/info.