What Tekla Structures, AutoCAD, SketchUp and Revit are, what they're used for, how much they're in demand β and the practical route from learning each one to getting hired.
| Software | Main purpose | Best suited for | Typical entry roles | At MentorBuddy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tekla Structures | Detailed structural steel & concrete modelling, fabrication drawings | Civil, structural and mechanical graduates | Tekla Modeller, Steel Detailer, Rebar Detailer | Available |
| AutoCAD | 2D drafting and documentation β the foundation skill | Anyone starting out in construction or design | CAD Draughtsman, Civil / Architectural Draughtsman | Available |
| SketchUp + Enscape | Fast 3D modelling and realistic rendering | Architecture and interior design students | 3D Visualiser, Interior 3D Modeller | Combo available |
| Revit | Multi-discipline BIM for buildings | Architects, MEP and structural engineers | Revit Modeller, MEP Modeller, BIM Coordinator | Coming soon |
Tekla Structures, from Trimble, is BIM software for creating highly detailed, constructible 3D models of structures β steel, concrete, precast and reinforcement (rebar). Every bolt, weld, plate and bar can be modelled exactly as it will be fabricated and erected.
Tekla is one of the most widely used tools for structural steel and concrete detailing worldwide. Detailing and fabrication companies in India deliver work for clients in regions such as the US, UK, Middle East and Australia, and they need trained modellers. Many firms prefer candidates who already know the software, because on-the-job training is slow and costly.
Who hires: Steel detailing & outsourcing firms, steel fabricators, PEB manufacturers, precast companies, EPC contractors and structural consultancies.
AutoCAD, from Autodesk, is the world's most recognised 2D drafting and 3D design software. It is the language of drawings β plans, sections, elevations, layouts and details for civil, architectural, structural, mechanical and MEP work.
Almost every design and construction firm still uses AutoCAD for drawings, which makes it the most common entry point into the industry. At senior levels it rarely stands alone β firms increasingly want BIM skills on top β but strong AutoCAD fundamentals make every other software easier to learn.
Who hires: Architecture and interior studios, civil & structural consultancies, MEP contractors, builders and contractors, survey and infrastructure firms, manufacturing units.
SketchUp is an intuitive 3D modelling tool loved by architects and interior designers for turning ideas into models quickly. Enscape is a real-time rendering plugin that turns those models into photorealistic images, videos and live walkthroughs at the click of a button.
Clients want to see a design before it is built, so 3D visualisation skills stay in steady demand at architecture and interior studios, real estate developers and marketing teams. It is also freelance-friendly β a strong portfolio can win you projects even before your first full-time job.
Who hires: Architecture and interior design studios, real estate developers, modular furniture and interior firms, design-and-build contractors and freelance clients.
Revit, from Autodesk, is a full BIM platform for building design. Architecture, structure and MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) are modelled in one parametric environment β change a wall or a beam once, and plans, sections, schedules and sheets all update.
Revit is a leading BIM platform for building projects and is regularly listed in job requirements for architectural, MEP and BIM coordination roles. Firms delivering BIM-mandated projects or working with overseas clients depend on it, so skilled Revit modellers are sought after by consultancies and BIM outsourcing companies.
Who hires: Architecture firms, MEP consultancies and contractors, BIM outsourcing firms, general contractors, developers and EPC companies.
New to the industry? Read what BIM is and why it matters β or see how we help you get hired.
Demand, roles and salaries vary by city, company and experience. This guide describes the general landscape and is not a guarantee of any specific outcome.
Small batches Β· real projects Β· placement assistance. Reach out to know about the current or next batch.