GLUMAC - Engineers for a sustainable future

Rem Wilson, LEED^®AP, Portland Associate Principal

Not content with the status quo, Glumac is taking new strides in the delivery of exceptional mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) design. We understand that to remain on the cutting edge of the A/E/C industry, we must provide our clients with the most integrated designs possible. We have determined that 3D Design is a very effective tool that offers integration of multiple systems, detailed material take-offs and comprehensive design of increasingly complicated projects. We have set an ambitious corporate goal to become an industry leader in 3D Design.

In the summer of 2006 we conducted research on the best software available. Through discussions with clients, software providers and our colleagues, we have determined Revit^®, a 3D Design program developed by AutoDesk, is the best available design program on the market. We are working closely with the software provider to ensure the program provides a coordinated MEP component that meets the needs of today’s complicated MEP design projects. Glumac collaborated with AutoDesk to host a week-long, in-house Revit^® training session for clients, contractors and staff. The training was a tremendous success and resulted in an informed design community that understands the needs and requirements of each discipline and the capabilities of the software. In conjunction, the Portland office is conducting ongoing user forums with clients, contractors and staff where we continue to explore industry requirements and innovation in 3D Design. Ken Sanders of Gensler, who sent a representative to the conference, says, "Gensler and Glumac continue to collaborate on a number of projects around the country, and we appreciate and value these types of educational opportunities with our partners. Our firms are learning together how to leverage new technologies to more effectively integrate design and engineering, particularly as it relates to sustainable design and improved building performance."

Our corporate goal is to expand these user forums to each office, so that our clients and colleagues at all our locations can participate in this collaborative exploration of 3D modeling.

Glumac is currently partnering with Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Architects on our first Revit project. The 12^th & Washington office building in downtown Portland will be coordinated with the architectural and structural modeling through the design development phase to create a 3D model of the entire project.

The platform of 3D modeling is still in the early stages of development. At Glumac we are committed to remain involved, informed and educated about this exciting new design tool. We will continue to shape and influence its development, guaranteeing that products and applications meet the ever-changing needs of the industry.