Slipping out of the stereotype

BIM is more commonly associated with the Architecture, Engineering and Construction space, stereotype or fact. Maybe this is because Douglas C. Engelbart first analysed BIM as an architectural concept in the 60’s, or maybe we can thank “The Father of BIM” Charles M. Eastman for his theory on “Building Description Systems” for the construction space. There is an argument that the consistent ‘terminology debate’ is also to blame for such a stereotype, but are we now experiencing a shift in which industries BIM can be utilised? In short… Yes, we are.

The BIM adopters

Pearl River Planning Surveying & Designing Co. Ltd. recently received an award from Bentley Systems for their BIM advancements in the Power Generation space. Amongst other very impressive statistics, they saved the owner of a hydroelectric plant over £320k via BIM and specifically 2D and 3D design.

And it’s not just the Hydro sector which is adopting BIM. Projects in the Nuclear, Marine, Waste Water, Rail and Pharma industries are all experiencing greater digital transformation in a strive to achieve operational excellence.

The benefits of using BIM within the Industrial space are therefore consistent with the AEC sector. Through increasing collaboration BIM saves time, reduces both costs and design defects and improves design and project management efficiencies. This is predominantly because, conceptually, the methodology of applying BIM in different sectors is almost identical. So it shouldn’t really be a surprise to see the Industrial sectors investing in BIM.

The ones to watch

Siemens and Bentley Systems were first off the mark, recognising its potential and have consequently been a catalyst for growing the use of BIM in these sectors. After announcing a strategic alliance in 2016, they have been driving digital transformation in the Industrial space by developing solutions which integrate with each other. This increasingly allows engineers access to a much broader and more specialised pool of solutions which improves workflow and data integration.

And the list doesn’t end there. Other organisations revolutionising the way BIM is being used in the Industrial space include:

• AVEVA
• Trimble
• Autodesk
• Hexagon
• Leica Geosystems

Industrial BIM recruitment

FMC have experienced a spike in BIM vacancies for organisations who specialise in the Industrial sectors. In our experience, there is currently a desire to recruit individuals who specifically possess experience of using BIM within the likes of Power, Water and Chemical markets.

In my opinion, this has uncovered two key issues. Firstly, there is a very limited number of candidates who currently possess the necessary experience of working in such an environment. Secondly, those who do are often contracting at a significantly higher rate than the industry average which means the sums just don’t add up for either party.

So why don’t employers considering individuals who possess experience in the AEC markets? This helps unlock a much broader pool of talent who are BIM savvy and earning salaries much more consistent with the industry average.

FMC works with the brightest and best technology and software businesses who lead the digital transformation revolution in manufacturing, plant and construction. If you wish to learn more about our recruitment and headhunting services, or alternatively wish to speak with us confidentially about your career prospects, please call us on +44 (0) 1522 695 011 or visit our website.