THE ROLE OF VCEs AND THE TOP 3 WAYS THEY ADD VALUE
Topcon in-cab display
In tribute to October’s Careers in Construction month, we’re sharing what it’s like to pursue a career as a Virtual Construction Engineer (VCE). It’s not necessarily a widely known term, so we’re glad to share our knowledge as well as some insights from our very own VCEs. Many VCEs started working for contractors and ultimately decided to pursue a degree in civil engineering and/or they took some CAD specific training courses.
What do VCEs do?
In the construction industry, a VCE’s primary responsibility is to build 3d models which are loaded into heavy machinery that is equipped with GPS technology. They also work extensively with CAD files to create linework. This technology results in extremely precise digging, grading, and paving, saving site contractors time and unnecessary expenses doing rework. There is also an amount of general understanding that VCEs must have about construction job sites. Most Virtual Construction Engineers have spent thousands of hours of seat time in GPS-enabled equipment and working on job sites. The value of that experience brought into construction modeling gives the engineer more substantial insights into what the model requires. Their attention to detail is greater and more precise than someone who only works on models occasionally. Due to their dirt experiences, they can identify possible errors, issues, or conflicts early. This information is relayed to the client, which again saves them on labor and money. There are numerous benefits to hiring a skilled virtual construction engineer whose sole job is to build models every day. It is common that companies who try to produce 3d models on their own ultimately realize that they need to hire an external firm to get a higher quality model.
Top Ways VCEs Add Value
We asked our team of VCEs to tell us what the lessons learned have been in their interactions with clients over the years. They had a lot of great insights, which we have summarized for you.
Lower Operational Costs
When a construction company considers purchasing the modeling software and considers the annual service charges, they quickly find out how expensive it is. In addition to the purchase price, training your staff on creating models is costly and time-consuming. If the employee’s primary responsibility is not model building, it will take them longer to build the model than using an external services company. The time spent working on the models takes them away from their primary job duties. Another benefit is the gains in efficiency and productivity. The project will likely come in ahead of schedule and under budget. When you hire an external services firm, you will gain combined modeling experience from a team of VCEs that will form a partnership with you, resulting in a better model.
3d model
2. Cross-checks
Virtual construction engineers check the CAD against the PDF and notify you of any discrepancies. For example, when VCEs use the design information in their 3D surfaces, they often will see elevations that do not make sense. Had it not been identified during the modeling stage, it would increase the project’s costs at the building stage. Their field experience lets them notice where water may get trapped in a parking lot or if your wheelchair ramps don’t meet Federal ADA requirements. Creating and reviewing the models with multiple sets of eyes will eliminate errors way earlier. Mistakes and potential issues are caught early in the process due to an extra layer of review.
3. Higher Quality Product
3D projects are exceptionally delicate, and when inexperienced people try to create their own models, they often treat the 3D surfaces as traditional drawings. The required attention to detail is deficient, so the surfaces lack precision, resulting in irregular grading in the field.
ECI Technologies works with all GPS retailers, and our data works with all GPS equipment. Our CAD services enhance accuracy in all stages of your project, from pre-construction take-offs to linework and models during project execution to as-builts once the project is done. Our team of VCEs is experienced, talented, quick, & responsive. Contact us today to learn more about Virtual Construction Engineers and our services.
Some of ECI’s VCEs