If you’re thinking about a new career path and have an interest in buildings, design, or construction, Tekla is a name you should know.
Even if you don’t have any experience in architecture, engineering, or technology, learning how to use Tekla could open doors to stable, well-paying jobs.
Tekla is a 3D modeling software widely used in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. It’s designed to help professionals create highly accurate models of buildings, bridges, and other structures.
At RW2 Career and Technical Education, we make it possible for students—especially beginners—to learn the foundations of Tekla and prepare for exciting job opportunities in structural modeling and detailing.
In this blog, we’ll explain what Tekla is, why it’s valuable, how RW2 helps students learn it, and why you should consider starting your journey with us.
What is Tekla?
Tekla is a powerful tool that allows users to create detailed 3D models of structures before they are built.
It’s like creating a digital version of a building that you can look at from every angle. This technology makes construction work more efficient, accurate, and cost-effective because problems can be spotted and fixed on the computer before any real-world building starts.
The software is especially popular for designing steel structures, concrete buildings, and infrastructure projects like bridges and tunnels. It’s used worldwide by architects, engineers, construction managers, and modelers.
What Makes Tekla Different from Revit?
While both Tekla and Revit are powerful tools used in the construction and design industry, they serve slightly different purposes—and knowing the difference can give you an advantage.
Here’s what sets Tekla apart:
- Stronger Focus on Structural Detailing: Tekla is specialized for creating highly detailed models of steel, concrete, and timber structures, down to every bolt and connection. Revit focuses more on general building modeling (walls, windows, rooms) rather than detailed construction-ready parts.
- Construction-Level Accuracy: Tekla models are built to be so precise that they can be used directly for fabrication and on-site construction. With Revit, additional detailing is often needed before reaching that level of accuracy.
- Material and Connection Management: Tekla allows users to easily model the actual materials and connections used in real-world construction (like welding, bolting, or rebar). In Revit, these details are less emphasized.
- Built for Large, Complex Structures: Tekla shines when it comes to modeling large infrastructure projects like bridges, industrial plants, and high-rise steel buildings—projects where precise structural integrity is critical.
- Seamless Collaboration Across Teams: Tekla has robust tools for managing different project contributors, including engineers, fabricators, and construction teams. It ensures that everyone is working from the same detailed model, reducing mistakes on the job site.
In short, while Revit is excellent for designing the overall look and structure of a building, Tekla goes deeper into the exact construction details needed to actually build the structure safely and efficiently.
At RW2, students gain a practical understanding of Tekla’s specialized role in the construction process, making them more valuable to employers who need detail-oriented modelers and drafters.
RW2 Programs That Help You Learn Tekla and More
At RW2 Career and Technical Education, we focus on giving students real-world skills that employers look for. If you want to get started in construction and design, here are two programs we offer that are beginner-friendly and taught 100% online:
Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) – 14 Weeks
You will learn how to use the Autodesk AutoCAD software program to understand the commands and procedures needed to create detailed 2D (Two-Dimensional) drawings and designs.
Some of the things you will learn to do in our program include:
- Design and draw an architectural section of a wall.
- Draft a plan of a building.
- Draft a foundation plan.
- Draw different kinds of foundations.
- Draft staircases
- Draft connections of a concrete beam and a concrete column.
- And much more!
There is also some limited exposure to 3D design, giving you a taste of more advanced drafting as you build your skills.
No prior experience? No problem. Our instructors guide you step-by-step. This program is ideal if you want a strong starting point before specializing in structural modeling tools like Tekla.
Revit for Building Information Modeling (BIM) – 15 Weeks
Revit is the software that allows you to carry out the Building Information Modeling (BIM) or 3-Dimensional (3D) digital design process.
You will learn how to use the Autodesk Revit software program to understand the commands and procedures needed to create 3D drawings and designs.
Some of the things you will learn to do in our program include:
- Work with BIM models, such as a lake cabin and a multi-story commercial building, to create detailed drawings.
- Create models by placing walls, doors, and windows.
- Create views like levels, floor plans, elevations, and sections.
- Build floors and roofs.
- Create ceilings, interior layouts, stairs, ramps, and more.
Even if you are new to computers or drafting, RW2’s online classes make learning Revit (and eventually Tekla) clear, manageable, and practical.
And remember—because our classes are online, you can study from anywhere. Whether you’re balancing a job, family, or other responsibilities, our flexible programs are designed to fit your life and your goals.
Why Choose RW2?
At RW2, we believe that education should prepare you for real jobs, not just theory. That’s why we’ve built our programs to match the latest needs of the construction and design industry.
Here’s how we do it:
- We update our existing curricula regularly to make sure what you’re learning is what companies are looking for today, not what they needed 10 years ago.
- We add new programming to meet growing demands. If there’s a new tool or method companies need, we work to offer it in our courses.
- We’re expanding our work-based learning programming and projects, giving students chances to gain experience that looks great on a resume. These are real-world projects, not just classroom exercises.
- We increase resources to help students afford the cost of education. We know cost can be a barrier, so we’re continually finding ways to make our programs more affordable and accessible.
Our approach is simple: we want our students to succeed. And we’re doing everything we can to make sure you have the knowledge, support, and opportunities you need.
If you’re interested in enrolling in the Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) and Revit for Building Information Modeling (BIM) program, click below—exciting news is on the way, and you won’t want to miss it!
Success Without Prior Experience
One of the biggest concerns for adults thinking about switching careers is, “Can I really learn this?”
At RW2, the answer is YES.
We specialize in helping students who may not have a background in construction, engineering, or technology. Our instructors are patient and experienced at teaching beginners.
By the end of your program, you’ll not only have technical knowledge but also the confidence to apply for entry-level jobs in construction and design fields.
Tekla is a tool that employers are searching for in new hires, and you can add it to your resume with pride.
Conclusion: Start Your New Career with RW2 Today
If you’re ready to launch a stable, rewarding career in construction and design, learning tools like Tekla is the first step—and RW2 is here to guide you.
Whether you want to start with our CADD program (14 weeks) or dive into BIM with Revit (15 weeks), you’ll be building valuable skills from day one. Our online programs are beginner-friendly, affordable, and designed to help you succeed. Don’t wait. Enroll now with RW2 Career and Technical Education and start building your future today!
