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Building and Construction Authority
People

From design to construction

15 May 2020

Office scene: People at desks, computers display architectural plans on screens.

Katheryn's successful career transition to the built environment sector

By BCA

It wasn’t easy to switch industries… Fortunately, my supervisor is willing to guide and listen. I also learnt a lot about the construction process from my colleagues.
— Katheryn Seoh

Call it a coincidence, or a sign from above.

For Ms Katheryn Seoh, she knew it was an opportunity too good to miss when she came across the Professional Conversion Programme (PCP) for Building Information Modelling (BIM) Professionals on Workforce Singapore’s website.

The 29-year-old has a Nitec qualification in architectural building drafting and used to be in the design industry. In 2018, she decided to look for new opportunities in the built environment sector but had to pick up new skills to make the switch. The PCP for BIM Professionals, managed by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) with funding support from Workforce Singapore (WSG), matched her needs.

Katheryn joined Kimly Construction, which hired her as a BIM modeller and put her on an accelerated six-month training programme. There, she learnt about construction methodology and how to develop shop drawings, among other things.

“To be honest, it wasn’t easy to switch industries. I had initial difficulty learning the new software and was worried that I wouldn’t be able to fulfil my new role. Fortunately, my supervisor is willing to guide and listen. I also learnt a lot about the construction process from my colleagues,” she shared.

For Kimly Construction, the company sees the PCP as an attractive proposition to attract young local talents like Katheryn to join the construction industry.

Mr Kho Teok Siong, Senior Manager (Virtual Design and Construction), Kimly Construction, said, “We have found that the employees hired through this programme bring with them a keen willingness to learn new skills beyond BIM authoring tools. By exposing them to various aspects of what we do in a gradual manner, they can better absorb the knowledge, ask timely questions and learn more effectively on the job.

“At Kimly Construction, we adopt the BIM technology in the entire construction process. There are numerous opportunities for individuals to take on BIM roles in our company and in this sector.”

Katheryn added, “I am really glad I persisted and didn’t give up when the training got tough. I am looking forward to sharpen my skills as a BIM professional in the years ahead.”

About PCP for BIM Professionals

The Professional Conversion Programme (PCP) for Building Information Modelling (BIM) Professionals is a six- or 12-month Place-and-Train programme. The programme aims to train mid-career individuals and equip them with the knowledge and skills to embark on a career in the built environment sector as BIM professionals.

Find out how you can be a part of it.

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