VMDF Certification Course

The VMDF Certificate Course has been folded into the CM Curriculum.

The Virtual Modeling for Digital Fabrication course aims to give students a deeper understanding of modeling for digital fabrication. Modeling concepts specifically for digital fabrication are the basis for this course as this type of fabrication requires concepts that differ from other types of modeling. Using Trimble SketchUp and Trimble Scan Essentials students will model a historic building.

About the Course

Can I get Financial Aid

*We are not able to offer financial aid.

The VDFM Certificate course is a self-sustaining program delivered through the Center for Education and Research in Construction and does NOT have a connection to the University of Washington’s matriculated programs, as such this course does NOT qualify for university credit.  For university credit and support for international students, the UW offers an online Master’s program.

Who Should Take This Course?

This course is ideal for those in related professions who would like to learn more about design-build management.  It is also a great supplement for students currently pursuing a degree in the Built Environment looking to learn practical skills that could help move into a related role.

Students who successfully complete the coursework will receive a Professional Certificate from the UW Department of Construction Management verifying participation in this course and can add it to their curriculum vitae.

Technology Requirement

Please note that in order to successfully complete the course each student is required to have access to Trimble SketchUp.  Currently, SketchUp is providing the software for students to use and instructional videos to accompany it. Students taking the class must provide the hardware and internet connection necessary to run these tools.  

Course Agenda & Logistics


The hands-on course spans 10 modules.

Schedule:

This 10-week course starts on February 1, 2022 and meets through April 14, 2022.

Classes meet Tuesday afternoons from 3:30 pm to 4:20 pm.
Tutorial sessions occur on Thursday afternoons from 3:30 pm – 4:20 pm.

  • Module 1- Walls
  • Module 2- Parapet/Roof
  • Module 3 -L2 Windows
  • Module 4,5- L1 Windows
  • Module 6,7- Stair/Lamps
  • Module 8,9- Main Entrance

Modeling from Laser Scan

Project Review, Instruction for 3D printing

Contact cerc@uw.edu for technical inquiries related to the VMDF Certificate course.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the course cost?
∴  The introductory price for this course is $1200 plus a non-refundable registration fee of $80.  Currently enrolled UW CBE students and current Turner Construction employees receive a discount on tuition.

Can I attend online? What if I’m outside of Seattle?
∴  Absolutely!  The course is designed to be completed 100% online.  Students can attend from across the country and internationally with great success.  Instruction is delivered live each week of the course via the web-based Canvas platform.  Because we keep the course content and case studies fresh, pre-recorded class sessions are not available.  Each class recording is posted and available the next day for review or to watch for the first time.  the Instructor is available for questions via email.   

How often is the course offered?
∴  We aim to offer the course twice each academic year.  Each offering is dependent on registration demand. 

Regarding the technology requirement.  What if I don’t have access to this software?
∴  Each student is required to have access to Trimble SketchUp.  Currently, SketchUp is providing the software for students to use and instructional videos to accompany it.  Students taking the class must provide the hardware and internet connection necessary to run these tools.

Does this course qualify for University of Washington credit?
∴  No.  This self-sustaining professional development course is provided by the Department of Construction Management as an independent offering and is not offered as a matriculated course. It does not qualify for UW credit.

Are international participants eligible?
∴  Absolutely!   The course is developed to be delivered 100% online.  Students attend from across the country and internationally with great success.  Instruction is delivered live each week of the course via the web-based Canvas platform.  Because we keep the course content and case studies fresh, pre-recorded class sessions are not available.  Each class recording is posted and available the next day for review or to watch for the first time.  the Instructor is available for questions via email.

Can I get help with an international student visa?
∴  No.  Because this course is not delivered as part of a matriculated university program, we are not able to offer support for the visa application.  This workshop/training does not qualify for a visa.

Can the registration fee be paid in installments?
∴  Not typically, however, if your situation is unique please contact cerc@uw.edu to see if arrangements can be made.  

Do you offer financial aid?
∴  No.  Unfortunately, there is no financial aid available for this course.  

 

About UW’s Center for Education and Research in Education (CERC)

CERC is a locus of research, scholarship, and discovery in the UW’s Department of Construction Management and allied disciplines of architecture, engineering, and real estate.  Focusing on people and practices for the dynamic and innovative construction industry, CERC develops new concepts and contemporary solutions while improving methodologies for design, construction, and operations.  CERC’s labs are focused on Safety and Health, Project Delivery and Management, Virtual Design and Construction, Infrastructure Development, and Sustainable Built Environments. 

The Faculty of CERC are not only experts in their field, they are researchers in a wide array of topics but also lead the discipline in translating that expertise into excellent construction education practices and pedagogy to train tomorrow’s construction professionals.

About Turner Construction Co. 

Turner is a North America-based, international construction services company leading in diverse market segments. The company has earned recognition for undertaking large, complex projects, fostering BIM, innovation, sustainability, embracing emerging technologies, and making a difference for its clients, employees, and community.

With 10,000 employees, the company completes $14 billion of construction on 1,500 projects each year. Turner offers clients the accessibility and support of a local firm with the stability and resources of a multi-national organization.

Turner Construction is recognized as ENRs Top General Contractor.

The UW-Turner Certificate in Digital Fabrication is principally taught by Josh Lohr of Turner Construction and Renzo di Furia of RDF Consulting.