In the AEC industry, skill-building is essential for both individual and organizational success. Professionals often face a choice between two primary paths: learning by doing and formal training. Each method has its advantages and drawbacks, and understanding these can help individuals and organizations select their development strategies effectively.
Learning by Doing: Real-World, Real-Time Knowledge
When you learn by doing, your classroom is the project site. Your challenges? They’re real — budgets, timelines, and client expectations.
Why this works:
Immediate application: You absorb knowledge fast when it’s tied to an actual project. Applying new skills directly gives you the confidence to tackle similar challenges in the future.
Depth of understanding: By solving problems in real time, you build a hands-on understanding that goes beyond the basics. This approach promotes a resilient mindset — every step strengthens your ability to adapt.
Continuous learning: In AEC, every project is different. Each one brings a unique set of challenges, pushing you to learn, iterate, and improve consistently.
Limitations
However, this method is not without its challenges:
Slow Learning Curve: The trial-and-error nature of this approach can lead to a slower overall learning process, as individuals must navigate through mistakes before mastering skills.
Costly Mistakes: Errors made during practical application can be expensive in terms of both time and resources, potentially impacting project timelines and budgets.
Formal Training: Structured, Strategic Skill-Building
For those seeking a quicker, structured approach, formal training offers a pathway lined with guidance, support, and clearly defined goals.
Why this works:
Clear roadmap: Training offers a structured curriculum, ensuring you cover all foundational skills. With programs like ISO 19650 certifications, you know exactly what you’ll learn — and why it’s relevant.
Expert guidance: Qualified instructors share industry best practices, helping you avoid common pitfalls and accelerate your growth. This support can often fast-track your learning journey, helping you gain knowledge that could take years to develop on your own.
Credibility: Certifications don’t just add skills; they add credibility. In a competitive industry, credentials like ISO 19650 show commitment to quality and open doors to new roles and projects. See our approach to BIM certification.
Limitations
Despite its advantages, formal training has its downsides:
Theoretical Focus: Often, formal training can be overly theoretical. Learners may grasp concepts well but struggle to apply them in practical situations.
Investment Requirements: Formal training typically requires significant investment in terms of both time and finances, which may not always be feasible for all professionals.
The Most effective approach
The most effective path isn’t either-or; it’s a combination.
Start with Training: Begin with formal training to build a solid foundation of knowledge.
Apply Skills on Projects: Transition into hands-on experiences where these skills can be applied in real-world contexts for deeper understanding.
Find Your Balance: Tailor your learning strategy based on personal preferences and career goals to ensure continuous growth.
Embrace the Journey: Growth Takes Time
Every expert in AEC started as a beginner, learning, making mistakes, and improving. Skill-building isn’t about rushing to the finish line; it’s about progressing, one project and one lesson at a time.
"Every expert was once a beginner. Embrace the journey."
The most resilient professionals balance structured learning with real-world application, using both methods to unlock their full potential.
Ask Your Company to Support Your ISO 19650 Training
To strengthen your skills through formal training, consider seeking support from your company. Clearly explain how the training aligns with your professional development and the company’s goals, emphasizing benefits like improved project efficiency, reduced errors, and compliance with ISO 19650 standards.
To assist with your request, I recommend using the Letter to Head of Department and the One-page Brochure. Click below to download the files for internal use. If you need additional information or have any questions, please feel free to contact me to schedule an online meeting.
Author: Panagiotidou Nicoleta, Breakwithanarchitect
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