Construction Management Student Makes Virtual Design a Reality

 Construction companies across the country are applying virtual reality technologies to their projects. This virtual-based modeling, also known as building information modeling (BIM), paves the way for a safer, more efficient future by mapping out the structural systems of a building before it’s even built. 

University of Cincinnati graduate Will Molle (construction management ’18) saw firsthand the benefits of this technology on his cooperative education (co-op) rotations with Danis Construction. This summer, he will apply this knowledge to the field when he starts a full-time position as a virtual design and construction engineer for Danis.

In this position, he will work closely with project teams to support technology on the job site, such as laser scanners, robotic total stations, drones, 360-degree cameras, iPads and 3D modeling. He also will work with marketing and business development.

Molle’s co-op experiences helped establish this diverse skill set. Molle spent all five co-op rotations with Danis in the Cincinnati area, working in estimating, operations, pre-construction and virtual design and construction.

“Being in an environment where I could learn, grow, ask questions and make mistakes was crucial for developing the professional knowledge and confidence that I have today,” Molle said.

Working on a number of healthcare and hospital projects was one of his favorite parts about being on co-op. He enjoyed seeing the projects have a positive impact on the surrounding community, he said.

Though Molle stayed in Ohio for all five co-op rotations, he traveled to Las Vegas with Danis this past November. There he attended Autodesk University, a three-day conference that brings together more than 10,000 architecture, design and manufacturing professionals for a weekend of learning and skill development.

“It was truly inspiring to be around so many people changing the industry,” Molle said.

When he wasn’t on co-op, Molle stayed busy with the UC Construction Student Association. One of his teams even placed second at the national Associated Builders and Contractor’s Construction Competition.

Looking back at his time in college, Molle is appreciative of what UC, the College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS) and the co-op program gave him.

“UC and CEAS provided a safe space to learn and try new things,” he said. “I couldn’t imagine being where I am now without my co-op experiences.”