Exploring BIM Management, Automation, and Innovation with Ravi Wood

This interview is part of a series featuring the members of our diverse AU community, from speakers and conference attendees to forum participants and online commenters. You are AU.

1. What’s your current job role?
I am currently the BIM model manager at Gresham Smith in Nashville, TN. I am successfully managing BIM for 15-20 large-scale projects as part of the Practice Technology Group. I also support BIM firm-wide.

2. What are your main areas of expertise and interest?
My main focus is to ensure we can be pioneers in innovation—to digitize, automate, and make our systems and processes more efficient than yesterday. The AEC industry is in the midst of a revolution and the leaders of the pack will be those who use innovation and technology as game changers.

3. What’s your favorite piece of technology?
Automation and generative design speak a lot to me. Data mining is also critical, to draw inferences and create an innovative culture. I use the acronym RAVI: Reconnaissance, Automation, Visualization, and Innovation. I believe this is the power of imagination, which when unfurled can help us iterate precise designs and help support a value-based efficient design ecosystem.

4. What do you enjoy most about your work?
The people I work with. I am truly grateful for them and count them as a blessing every day.

5. What one challenge in your work would be most satisfying to solve?
I look at challenges as opportunities and believe in making the most of them. The tougher the challenge, the better the opportunity to soak in the pressure and exhibit intrinsic resilience.

6. Describe a favorite project you’ve worked on using Autodesk software.
We do so many large-scale projects, including airports, hospitals, offices, and mixed-used commercial spaces. It’s hard to choose one. We are one of the best AEC companies in the United States.

7. What is your all-time favorite AU class and why?
My AU 2019 class, Automating Efficient and Profitable Digital Practice Management on Autodesk Products. It's a great class for BIM managers.

Check out Ravi’s profile (and follow him) to learn more about his work and contributions to the AU community.