Welcome to the third edition of "All Antean", in which this time we highlight our BIM team. Have you always wanted to know exactly what BIM entails and how such a team works? Then be sure to read on for a captivating look into the world of Building Information Modeling.

Get to know Kevin and Jordy

Today, we would like to introduce you to Kevin De Pooter, Sr. Advisor, and Jordy Feytons, Advisor. They are two enthusiasts on our Infrastructure team and are looking into various issues within Building Information Modelling, or BIM, on a daily basis.

First of all, can you briefly explain what exactly BIM is?

Jordy: With BIM, you first create a model and then you add a lot of extra information to it. A good example is a 2D sketch of a sewer manhole to which you then add extra data, such as the material of the manhole, its cost, and when it will be addressed in infrastructure planning.

By sharing this model with other parties involved, you can immediately see where potential problems may arise before works begin, rather than discovering them only during execution. So it gives an overview of any clashes or obstacles and helps to plan ahead.

Kevin: Another important part of BIM is its management aspect. This is because great attention is paid to how we share all that info, what specific agreements are made with the project partner(s) and client(s) and in which environment the information is shared.

How did you first come across BIM?

Kevin: For me, it was actually a true evolution in terms of function. Within Antea Group Belgium, I was also the first one to really step into a project in which BIM was a requirement. That was quite a journey, both for me and for the customer. I systematically learned what exactly was expected, which way of working was needed and which details had to be included in the model. The BIM concept was also still relatively new in Belgium at the time, but in the meantime we are already fully up to speed with what is expected by our customers.

Jordy: I got into it a little later, being a draughtsman within Antea Group was also my first job. During my studies, I already had a very strong interest in BIM, but unfortunately this was not yet covered concretely in training. When our BIM Manager started putting together a team and specifically looking for people with an interest in e.g. automation, programming, BIM modelling itself, and so on, I seized my chance. Within the BIM team, I was soon given some great opportunities, such as the task of rolling out Screencasts from A to Z at the various offices.

What is your favourite (partial) aspect of the job? 

Kevin: I am especially a fan of the bit of automation involved, and creating scripts in programmes like dynamo (for civil 3D). It is also fun to take on a coordinating role within the process part of a project.

Jordy: I totally agree with that. I was very interested in programming before and I already knew another programme where you can automate repetitive tasks. It is then really satisfying to see how you can finish an action that normally requires 200 clicks in a single click. Moreover, you are somewhat forced to think 'differently' and not just do what you have been taught. That brings a boost of creativity. 

Why would you recommend people to work with us?

Jordy: Within our BIM team, and actually at Antea Group in general, we need a constant flow of creative energy. For example, we are especially looking for people who are just coming out of school or people who are constantly learning. Why? Because they are the ones who bring fresh new ideas, who understand and can apply new technologies faster. It is crucial to constantly bring in new faces who challenge us to think differently, to discover new ways of working. Because that's the only way we can keep making real progress as a company.

Kevin: With BIM, you also have to keep looking ahead and thinking about how we will work in the future. That's already very different from just doing your routine tasks. Besides, we have a lot of fun projects coming up, so you will never get bored! (laughs)

Working at Antea Group

At Antea Group, we are shaping the world of tomorrow. Would you like to be part of our team and contribute to challenging projects? Take a look at our vacancies and become an Antean too.

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