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Introduction
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BIM overview
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BIM software & why BIM?
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Examples of BIM
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Knowledge check
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Summary, resources, & what’s next?
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We want to hear from you!
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Conclusion
BIM -- Construction Bootcamp (Part 12)
An introduction to modern construction technology.
Instructor: Ben Ashburn
1 hour
Last reviewed 12/2025
Video Content
Course Description
This course dives into Building Information Modeling (BIM), a modern construction process for efficient and collaborative planning, design, and construction. You'll explore BIM as virtual construction, building a project twice – once digitally and then in the field. It functions as a data-rich computer model, a digital twin providing an information-rich database far beyond simple drawings. This foundation helps you grasp why BIM is transforming the industry.
The course clarifies the difference between 2D drawings and 3D models, which offer a complete view with length, width, and height. You’ll discover advanced BIM dimensions like 4D (time) for scheduling, 5D (cost/budget) for pricing, and 6D (facility maintenance information) for owners. You'll also be introduced to leading BIM software programs such as Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks, and ArchiCAD, learning how these tools help create, combine, and manage complex models. This segment builds your understanding of BIM's technological backbone.
Using BIM leads to more complete project data and better organization, significantly increasing efficiency. The course highlights stronger collaboration opportunities for all parties, from general contractors to subcontractors, within a unified model. You will learn how this object-based, relational database facilitates every stage: design, construction, and ongoing operations. A key takeaway is the ability to perform clash detection, identifying issues like pipes hitting beams early. You'll gain practical knowledge, like generating a Request for Information (RFI) directly from the model, making project coordination smoother.
Learning Objectives
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Define BIM and other related terminology.
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Describe how the model is created.
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Discuss how BIM is used during construction.
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Explain how using BIM helps the whole team work better together.
Prerequisites
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Learning Level: Beginner
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Prerequisite Knowledge: Completion of Construction Site Operations & Project Controls.
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Recommended Knowledge: None.
Continuing Education Course Credits
Course Title: Construction Bootcamp
Course Number: PC-01-061825
Session Number: 1
Curriculum Group Name: AIA Providers
Credit: 12.5 AIA LU
Course Expiration Date: 06/24/2028
Procore's Continuing Education courses may qualify for continuing education credits with other professional organizations or fulfill state licensing requirements. If you are a member of a different organization, you can download your course completion certificate from your learning profile and report your completion yourself to the organization for potential credit. Please refer to the organization's continuing education requirements for course eligibility information.
AIA CES Provider statement
Procore Technologies is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education under Provider Number 40108059. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs. Any questions or concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES (cessupport@aia.org or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3).
This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product. AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.
AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which specific BIM software programs will I be introduced to in this course?
The course will introduce you to several leading BIM software programs used in the industry. You'll learn about Revit, which is the most commonly used BIM software. Other tools include AutoCAD, the original computer-aided drafting software, and AutoCAD MEP used for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing detail work. You'll also encounter SketchUp for 3D modeling, Navisworks for combining different models, and ArchiCAD, which architects and BIM managers use for authoring models, noted for being user-friendly and requiring less computer power than Revit.
How will using BIM improve efficiency and collaboration on my construction projects?
Using BIM significantly increases efficiency compared to traditional 2D drawings. All parties involved in a project gain better access to project data, leading to stronger opportunities for collaboration within a unified model. This object-based, relational database facilitates every stage of a project: design, construction, and even ongoing operations. For example, subcontractors can overlay their BIM models in a master model to coordinate effectively with general contractors.
What's Next
Continue your learning journey
This course is part of the Construction Bootcamp Learning Path. Explore and complete the additional courses in the path below to complete your journey.
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Construction Bootcamp: Program Intro
View Course PageKickstart your learning journey with the Construction Bootcamp program.
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Construction Bootcamp: Construction Industry Overview
View Course PageUnderstand the construction landscape, structure, and key players.
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Construction Phases & Project Delivery Methods
View Course PageUnderstand how projects are organized and executed.
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Drawings & Specifications
View Course PageLearn to interpret essential project documents.
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Construction Contracts
View Course PageGrasp the foundational elements of construction agreements.
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Estimating & Bidding
View Course PageDive into the critical process of costing and proposals.
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Scheduling
View Course PageMaster techniques for effective project timelines.
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Quality, Safety, & Risk
View Course PagePrioritize excellence, manage hazards, and mitigate project risks.
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Contract Administration (RFIs & Submittals)
View Course PageNavigate essential project communications.
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Contract Administration (Financials)
View Course PageControl costs and manage project scope.
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Construction Site Operations & Project Controls
View Course PageUnderstand day-to-day site management and oversight.
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You are here!
BIM
An introduction to modern construction technology.
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Professional & Soft Skills For Construction Management
View Course PageDevelop crucial interpersonal and leadership abilities.
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Program Exam
View Course PageTest your knowledge with the final exam and explore pathways for continuous learning.
Related Resources
Instructors
Ben Ashburn
After a successful career as a construction estimator — working his way up from estimating manager to senior estimator — Ben has spent the most recent part of his career in construction sharing his skills with other as a construction educator. Ben has an extensive background in construction education: He has been an assistant professor in the Department of Construction Science at Texas A&M, and lectured about estimating, scheduling, management, and other related construction topics at Murray State University. He has been a construction training and learning development partner with Procore since 2019.
Reviewers
Janine Trinidad
Janine Trinidad is a Construction Educational professional for Procore Technologies. In previous roles, Janine managed all phases of construction on hotel, mixed-use, and institutional projects in the San Francisco Bay area. She was responsible for negotiating contract budgets and change orders, managing RFIs and submittals, and overseeing quality control, among other duties. She is also a certified transformational coach with a focus on women-centered and trauma-informed methods. She is passionate about transforming the construction industry to be a healthier, more successful and welcoming place to work and believes technology and education are allies in doing so.
Dr. Irish Horsey
Dr. Irish Horsey is a seasoned expert in the construction industry with over 25 years of experience. Currently, she serves as the Director of Industry Advancement at Procore, while also teaching part-time at the Georgia Institute of Technology. A former Assistant Professor at Kennesaw State University, Dr. Horsey specializes in project management, workforce development, and diversity and inclusion in construction. She holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education and a Master's in Construction Management. Her extensive industry experience and academic background make her a trusted leader in advancing best practices and innovative strategies in construction.