Contractors, architects, and engineers are increasingly collaborating over long distances using virtual technology, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM).
The School of Design and Construction is working to emulate a global working environment on campus through the BIM initiative. The project will give WSU students and faculty access to equipment, software, and updated classrooms that reflect current industry technology and will annually serve 200 construction management and 120 civil engineering students.
“Collaborating with BIM over distance requires a special set of technical and communication skills outside of the design, engineering, and project coordination skills WSU already provides,” said Jason Peschel, construction management program head. “Construction management students from WSU are already in high demand, and will be even more so if they enter the industry with hands-on experience with BIM technology.”
The initiative will add practical application to research that WSU already does with BIM, creating teaching and learning spaces to allow for industry presentations and collaboration. The BIM lab will educate students to create and navigate 3D, 4D, and 5D models and manipulate multiple models and documents in real time using collaborative technologies. Students will learn how to establish a BIM- based workflow and develop a BIM execution plan, becoming versed in global industry practices.
The initiative will provide equipment, software, and modern classroom spaces. In its first phase, the facility will be equipped with smart boards, cameras, and microphones and speakers. A second phase calls for semi-immersive stations in the classroom to allow students to collaborate with BIM in 3D virtual environments. Updates during this phase will tie all spaces together while bringing the rooms up to date with technology and an enriched learning environment.
“The impact of the BIM program will be far reaching across the school and college,” said Peschel.
For information and to support the initiative, contact Devon Anderson, Senior Director of Philanthropic Engagement, 509-335-2197 or firstname.lastname@example.org.