From BIM Technician to Technical Sales Consultant with Ben Byrnes

The Digital Construction Podcast recently welcomed Ben Byrnes, a seasoned professional who has successfully navigated a compelling career shift from a hands-on BIM Technician to a Technical Sales Consultant. Ben's journey offers valuable insights for anyone in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction industry grappling with career paths and the ever-changing digital landscape.

Ben started his career with a structural drafting apprenticeship, gaining foundational experience on significant projects like the Olympic Stadium and Metro Martin Place. While he loved drafting and modeling – calling it his "first true love" – the gruelling nature of tight deadlines and unpaid overtime eventually prompted him to explore other avenues.

The transition to technical sales wasn't without its challenges. Ben, who considers himself more technical and potentially introverted, initially felt nervous about being in front of people. He even recounted teaching an advanced Revit class to experienced users in his very first week, something he couldn't have imagined doing previously. Despite the initial anxiety, he found he enjoyed the role.

Ben believes that his hands-on experience as a BIM technician was absolutely key to his success in his current role. Having worked across various companies and workflows, he gained a deep understanding of the technical jargon and the daily struggles clients face. He puts it simply: he knows the pain points because he's "been on the other side". This practical knowledge allows him to connect with clients and truly understand their needs.

From his perspective, Ben highlights several major challenges AEC companies face when choosing BIM software. Cost is a significant barrier, with licenses now often thousands of dollars per user annually due to subscription models. Companies also use established software like Revit and Navisworks, making them hesitant to adopt new, potentially untrusted solutions. Furthermore, the lack of interoperability between competing software from vendors remains a major "pinch point".

When helping clients, Ben focuses on identifying the "right tools for their workflows". This involves understanding the information they receive and their required outputs. His aim is to "fine-tune" solutions and guide clients towards products that are a better fit. He uses the example of Bluebeam, a software many already possess but often underutilise. By teaching proper workflows, he can help clients leverage its full capabilities.

Finally, for BIM technicians considering a move to technical sales or consulting, Ben highlights the value of a "discipline agnostic" understanding gained from BIM experience – being aware of the needs of architectural, mechanical, and structural disciplines. He stresses the importance of "never stop learning", utilising resources like YouTube and LinkedIn, staying updated on new software versions, and proactively learning about difficult topics to build a robust knowledge base.

Tune in to the full episode of the Digital Construction Podcast to hear more from Ben Byrnes on these fascinating topics and his career journey!