Parlaying a Love of LEGO into Studying Construction Technology

Interview date:

September 30, 2020

Nicholas Barrett

Construction Engineering Technology Student
at
Fanshawe College
Profile: 
student
Study:
college

Nicholas Barrett, a college student studying construction engineering technology in Canada, talks about learning how to manage all aspects of the construction business through a combination of study and work terms on real construction sites. He discusses how technology is transforming the construction industry and how skilled tradespeople work.

"Put down the iPad. Give your children LEGO from an early age. Let them see what it's like to build something and give them that satisfaction. Because I feel like it all starts in the home. LEGO is the most cost-efficient way to get it started."

ADVICE

  • Encourage kids to play with building blocks and toys from an early age
  • Familiarize kids with computer-assisted design, digital fabrication and online collaboration tools
  • Introduce all high school students to skilled trades: management and specific trades

RECOMMENDED TECH

  • SketchUp (3D design software)
  • AutoCAD (computer-aided design software)
  • Revit (building information modelling software)
  • BlueBeam Revu (construction project collaboration software)