3D Virtual Building Software Training Helps North Carolina Architects Prep for Recovery

BOSTON, March 3 /PRNewswire/ -- The worst of times can be the best of times to enhance career prospects. Out-of-work architects in the Charlotte, N.C., area are discovering this first hand with a new opportunity to significantly upgrade their credentials by learning building information modeling (BIM).

BIM is the most advanced technology for architectural design. The American Institute of Architects' Charlotte chapter will co-sponsor two free three-hour BIM training sessions on Friday, March 12 called "BIM Basics - The fundamentals of BIM." The sessions will take place from 9 a.m. to noon and again from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the AIA Charlotte offices. Pre-registration is required.

The training is co-sponsored by BIM software provider GRAPHISOFT, which will donate free one-year education licenses of its ArchiCAD 13 BIM software to eligible architects, and Design Integrations Inc. of Marietta, Ga., a GRAPHISOFT value-added reseller.

ArchiCAD, GRAPHISOFT's best-in-class building information modeling (BIM) authoring software, combines leading-edge technology with rich functionality, giving architects the speed and agility to compete in today's increasingly demanding market. The three-hour training session will cover ArchiCAD basics, BIM principles, virtual modeling and integrated product delivery. Online tutorials, reference materials and group discussions will maintain and refresh participants' ArchiCAD skills over time.

"The Charlotte area and the entire Southeast in general has been hit hard by the recession," said Kate Shelton, executive director of AIA Charlotte. "Although entire staffs have been laid off, our members are looking ahead with courage and optimism for a robust recovery. BIM will be a big part of that recovery, and every architect should master the practice. These sessions and their content – software, training and support – will be an excellent opportunity for our members to advance their skill sets."

AIA Charlotte is accepting registrations from its Architects Looking Forward members on a first come first serve basis. To register contact Shelton at: 704.369.2302 or [email protected].

"Design Integrations is grateful to contribute to Charlotte's recovery in architecture and beyond," said Josh Bone, company vice president. "This is a great opportunity for architects to increase their value and be more in demand than ever when the economy turns."

For more information on the program visit: www.aiacharlotte.org or www.designintegrations.com.

About AIA Charlotte

AIA Charlotte is the largest section of AIA North Carolina, the fifth largest chapter in the country, and one the largest components of the American Institute of Architects. The organization exists to serve members and the public at large for a range of issues affecting the built environment. For more information, visit www.aiacharlotte.org.

About Design Integrations Inc.

Founded in 1995, Design Integrations was one of the first companies offering Building Information Modeling (BIM) services and technology solutions, and is committed to providing leading edge BIM solutions fostering integrated design processes. With extensive experience in architecture and construction, Design Integrations is uniquely positioned to help customers optimize BIM processes, and build and retain long-term relationships measured in customer success. For more information please visit www.designintegrations.com.

About GRAPHISOFT:

GRAPHISOFT is the pioneer and leader in developing Virtual BuildingTM solutions. For 25 years, GRAPHISOFT has been empowering the broadest community of architects to deliver model based projects that are better designed, more predictable to construct and less expensive to operate. Further media requests for information can be made to Akos Pfemeter at: [email protected]. You can also get news updates by following us on http://twitter.com/archicad

GRAPHISOFT and ArchiCAD are registered trademarks of GRAPHISOFT. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

Press Information: Carrie O'Neil, +1-603-559-5813, GRAPHISOFT, www.graphisoft.com

SOURCE GRAPHISOFT