Revit Bootcamps Chicago, IL

Autodesk Revit is a crucial software program for many workers. It is part of the Autodesk AEC (Architecture, Engineering, Construction) Collection. Revit is primarily for architectural, construction, engineering, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing), and structural design. This essential building information modeling (BIM) software originated with Charles River Software, later renamed Revit Technology Corporation. Autodesk acquired the company in 2002.

Since then, Revit has become a standard for Architects, Construction Professionals, and Engineers in numerous fields, from local urban planning to individual interior design. Read on to learn more about this essential Autodesk program.

What Can You Do with Revit Training?

How you use Revit training in your work depends on factors like your industry, experience level, and even the size of your organization. However, several Revit applications apply to many careers. Consider the following high-level projects you can do with Revit during training.

Design A 3D Building Model

Revit’s advanced software allows beginners to explore the user interface with Revit Architecture tools and create a 3D building model. The project can include everything from roofing and walls to ceilings, floors, and stairwells. By the end of your first Revit model project, you will have presentation-level 3D graphics.

Create A Construction Document Set

Documenting a project in Revit Architecture requires intermediate to advanced methods. These can include everything from customized scheduling to estimating costs. With the Revit software, you can turn a concept into a practical, integrated set of construction documents.

What Will I Learn in a Revit Bootcamp?

What you learn in a Revit bootcamp depends on multiple factors. For example, you might focus on building information modeling, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing), or large infrastructure projects. Consider the following skills and tools you can learn in a Revit course.

Using Pre-Made Templates

Working with Revit requires managing multiple parts, and these include tools for sketching, scheduling, annotating, and visualizing. Whether you plan to be an Architect or a plumber, your initial Revit training will start with pre-made templates for ease of use.

Integrating Relevant Tools

Revit is not standalone software. Integration with other internal Autodesk products and external plugins can help every Revit pro work more efficiently. AutoCAD and Navisworks are the two best-known examples of Autodesk software you can integrate with Revit.

Collaborating With Teams

Collaboration is one of Revit professionals' most essential soft skills, and Autodesk makes it easy with BIM Collaborate and BIM Collaborate Pro. If your Revit training does not include one of these products, consider exploring it as part of the Autodesk AEC (Architecture, Engineering, Construction) Collection.

What Kinds of Training Options Are Available to Learn Revit?

New Revit users often ponder the best way to learn, especially if they need practical, real-life experience. Consider the following four methods for learning tech skills like Revit:

In-Person

While many students enjoy the engagement of an in-person experience, finding face-to-face Revit training in your area can be challenging. Unless you have in-person availability nearby, consider exploring online options instead.

Live Online

Some providers also make their Revit programs available live online through teleconferencing platforms like Zoom. If they host in-person training, their virtual classes will present the same materials, but students can participate from anywhere with an internet connection.

On-Demand

On-demand training, also called asynchronous learning, typically consists of pre-recorded videos. However, some course providers may also include student chat groups or written materials with tuition. Check listings thoroughly for essential details before you commit to an on-demand program.

Self-Directed

Some providers offer self-directed classes with additional support and guidance from instructors or mentors. For example, the Virtual Design and Construction Institute (VDCI) hosts on-demand courses with instructors available to answer questions. Busy professionals and those with family obligations can learn at their own pace on a schedule of their choosing.

Choosing the Right Training Method for You

Choosing the best training method to meet your budget and schedule can be challenging, particularly for busy professionals. Not everyone can afford to take a leave of absence from work to attend a full-time training program, and part-time courses that require commuting can also prove an obstacle. While attending a live course offers a high engagement level, few providers host live in-person or online Revit training.

By contrast, on-demand and self-directed courses from respected providers can deliver high-level training in a manageable, self-paced format. Many such programs include student software, mentoring, and digital credentials. The only disadvantage to training that isn't available in real-time is the lower level of student engagement. However, dedicated participants can make up for this by studying the materials and contacting expert instructors whenever questions arise.

The many training options available can make selecting one of them seem overwhelming. Nonetheless, with care and research, it’s possible to find the perfect course that fits your experience level, scheduling needs, and budget.

How Are Bootcamps Different from Other Kinds of Classes?

Bootcamps occupy an interesting middle-ground position between lengthy degree programs and short workshops and seminars. While many bootcamps make up portions of certificate programs, some are also available as standalone units.

Individual classes typically run for a few hours or days at most. Some are intensive, but their nature requires them to be of relatively short duration. Certificate programs are usually completion-based classes available from schools or other course providers. They may consist of multiple bootcamps and training modules, some of which may be available as separate courses.

Certification training programs differ still. A certification program may be for beginners, intermediate-level, or advanced-level students but requires students to sit for an exam to qualify. Many require years of experience before a student may obtain such a certification. Lastly, degree programs are the longest training option in terms of duration, typically taking two to four years to complete.

Who Will Benefit Most from a Revit Bootcamp?

Those who benefit most from a Revit bootcamp usually work or plan to start careers in the AEC field: architecture, engineering, or construction. AEC professionals who need intermediate to advanced Revit skills for their careers include roles with titles like the following:

• Architect
• Architectural Designer
• AutoCAD Specialist
• BIM Coordinator
• BIM Manager
• CAD Coordinator
• CAD Manager
• Construction Manager
• Drafter
• Engineer
• Interior Designer
• Product Manager

This list covers general positions, but many other roles benefit from Revit expertise—especially MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) pros. Other workers who need familiarity include CAD/BIM Designers, Structural Designers, and Construction Assistants, to name a few.

How Hard is It to Learn Revit?

Revit is a complex BIM software and requires in-depth training. For example, some students learn it as part of an Autodesk bundle like the AEC collection, some for Revit Certification, and others for Revit MEP certification. Getting familiar with Revit is not hard, but there is a learning curve when combining Revit training with Navisworks and other Autodesk software.

What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Learning Revit?

The degree of difficulty in learning Revit depends on factors like the length of the course, the new user’s previous experience and skill set, and how to integrate the software with other Autodesk tools. Many new users report a positive learning experience, especially when combining Revit fundamentals with intermediate to advanced training in specific applications like Revit Mechanical, Revit Electrical, Revit Plumbing, and Navisworks.

How Long Does It Take to Learn Revit?

As in other technical training, the time it takes to get comfortable experimenting with Revit is much less than it will take to learn Revit professionally. A self-paced Revit fundamentals course can take as little as 60 hours, while a beginner-friendly BIM certificate program that includes intermediate Revit may take up to 300 hours. Consider multiple training options to find the one that works best with your knowledge, experience, budget, and availability.

Industries That Use Revit

Advanced Manufacturing

Chicago is home to numerous industries that require intermediate to advanced Revit skills, including advanced manufacturing. Here, the focus is on product design and development more than buildings or infrastructure. Look for drafting positions or industry-specific jobs that require multiple Autodesk skills.

Architecture

Chicago has many architecture firms, and these often require training in the Autodesk AEC Collection. Some even mention Autodesk tools in the job title, like Revit Architect Modeler or Architectural CAD/Revit Technician.

Transportation and Logistics

Another top Chicago industry, the transportation and logistics sector, provides many positions for Revit professionals. Some require multiple additional Autodesk tools and skills like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Navisworks. For example, experienced CAD/BIM specialists may have to participate in multi-disciplinary transportation engineering projects.

Revit Job Titles and Salaries

Careers in Chicago commonly associated with Revit include architecture, structural engineering, and product design and development. Most positions requiring Revit experience are related to building information modeling (BIM). While salaries for careers requiring Revit proficiency vary, the highest-paying positions typically demand years of experience. Consider the following among the best-paying roles in Chicago that demand intermediate to advanced Revit expertise.

BIM Manager

BIM Technicians, Modelers, and Managers are in high demand in Chicago. Many work for design firms, electrical contractors, or construction companies. A BIM Manager in Chicago can expect to earn an average annual salary of around $93,000, ten percent above the national average.

Mechanical Designer

Another role that often requires Revit expertise is that of Mechanical Designer. These skilled professionals work on everything from aviation and transit to commercial projects, using tools and skills applicable to HVAC, plumbing, and fire prevention, among other areas. A Chicago-area Mechanical Designer can anticipate earning an average annual salary of about $119,000—an impressive 48 percent higher than the national average for comparable positions.

Architect

Architects are among the first professionals people think of when discussing Revit because so many use it as part of the Autodesk AEC Collection. Architects work for private companies, infrastructure consulting firms, and even major multinational corporations. A Chicago-area Architect can expect to earn an annual salary comparable to Mechanical Designers, averaging around $120,000,11 percent higher than the national average.

Revit Bootcamps Near Me

Revit is one of several software programs Autodesk offers that require in-depth training. One way many new users learn is live online via teleconferencing. The Virtual Design and Construction Institute (VDCI) offers multiple Revit training options, including course bundles and certificate programs. Their BIM Certificate is an immersive eight-month program covering Revit for Architects, Engineers, Construction Professionals, and others who want to go from beginner to expert.

VDCI also hosts its Revit MEP Certification Training Bundle for those who want to sit for the Autodesk Certified Professional in Revit for Electrical Design exam. The 140-hour bundle includes five classes, from Revit Fundamentals to Revit for Mechanical, Revit for Plumbing, and integrating Revit and AutoCAD with Navisworks.

Respected course provider ONLC Training Centers offers live online training in numerous subjects, with optional use of their computer labs for those in select locations who need it. Their Revit classes in Chicago include Autodesk Revit Architecture for Novice Users, a hands-on, instructor-led program for those with a basic understanding of architectural terminology. Check course listings for more details.

Another option for online training is the virtual Revit Level 1 class from the Technical Institute of America. This three-day introductory workshop is 100 percent hands-on training from an Autodesk Certified Instructor.

Chicago State University also offers Revit training to Chicago-area residents. Their Revit Basics course is a beginner-friendly 60-hour program introducing beginners to Revit Architecture tools and building information modeling (BIM) fundamentals. Check course listings for hardware and software requirements.

NetCom Learning is another option for Chicago residents, offering multiple Revit training options. Their four-day beginner course is entitled Autodesk Revit 2022: Fundamentals for MEP. Check the NetCom Learning website for more information and alternate courses.

Revit Corporate Training

Corporate and onsite Revit training is a no-brainer for busy professionals and company managers. Noble Desktop provides in-person and online training and can customize a program to meet your organizational needs and preferences.

Want your team to have more flexibility with their Revit training? Noble offers discounted vouchers for its open-enrollment courses. Employers get a discount when they purchase the vouchers in bulk. Contact Noble Desktop for more information and a free consultation.