What is a VDC Manager?
We create, manage and coordinate 3D models to improve project efficiency and reduce design conflicts. I ensure accurate model integration, perform clash detection, and assist with 4D scheduling using software like Revit, Navisworks, and BIM 360. I spend my days collaborating with architects, other engineers, and our project teams to improve construction planning and logistics.
How do you contribute to the overall success of the project?
I work in a virtual environment and the time I put in to improving the accuracy of our models has real world implications. If I can identify potential challenges ahead of them happening in the field, we can solve for them early which saves time and money…but most importantly headaches! Construction technology is rapidly advancing and by embracing these tools we are able to make our projects run more smoothly.
What is a recent project you were proud to be a part of?
I’d have to say Ravenswood Senior Living. I am involved in nearly all of our adaptive reuse projects but this one was especially unique due to its scale. It was a 10-story (about 225,000-SF) renovation of an old healthcare facility into an affordable housing community for seniors. I scoped and coordinated close to $14M of building systems. A lot of the coordination effort was timed to succeed demolition and laser scanning activities. This allowed the team to take advantage of the limited amount of space.
What advice would you offer to someone interested in a career in construction?
Explore all the different areas of construction not just project management. Leopardo has women working across the entire organization who all contribute to a project’s success – from accounting, administration, risk and insurance, quality and safety. There are so many opportunities to apply your expertise to an aspect of our work.