Course Overview
TMBR 2500 provides learners with foundational competencies in mass timber design, preparing participants for entry-level roles in design teams, particularly within mass timber facilities. Participants learn to work in industry-standard cadwork® software while navigating the fabrication approval process for mass timber construction projects. Participants will learn principles of feasible fabrication processes, durable design and best practices in the use of large-format timber (mass timber, solid sawn timber, engineered wood products) to create a fabrication-level 3D model of the project. The projects require the adaptation of technical construction plans, fabrication data and production sequencing for residential, public, commercial or industrial projects. Participants will complete a fabrication-accurate 3D BIM model of the structure including connections, screws and integrated penetrations for other trades by coordinating structural and architectural drawings. The course is offered in collaboration with Selkirk College. Synchronous sessions will be facilitated by industry professionals working in MT design.
Prerequisite(s)
- No prerequisites are required for this course.
Credits
4.5
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Create accurate 3D BIM (Building Information Model) models from 2D drawings and CAD files, incorporating sustainable design elements and ensuring alignment with project requirements.
- Integrate CAD files into the BIM model, identifying key information and basic elements related to sustainability (e.g., building orientation, insulation, renewable energy systems), while ensuring data accuracy and consistency.
- Prepare and export fabrication files in appropriate formats for downstream users, ensuring seamless integration into manufacturing and construction processes and generating additional BIM outputs as needed.
- Describe the fundamentals of CNC machine operations, limitations, and constraints, and apply this knowledge to optimize design for efficient fabrication.
- Produce detailed fabrication drawings that accurately guide fabrication processes, incorporating CNC machine requirements and sustainability considerations.
- Generate accurate Bill of Material (BOM) lists from the fabrication model, itemizing required materials and quantities for production planning and procurement, considering CNC machine requirements and sustainability objectives.
- Recognize conflicts and issues within the fabrication model, considering structural constraints, building codes, and potential impacts on sustainability.
- Communicate identified conflicts and proposed solutions to stakeholders, collaborate with relevant professionals, and ensure that the CAD model is clean, organized, and ready for handover to subsequent technicians.
Effective as of Winter 2026
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.