2023 Civil 3D Workshop Agenda

This year's virtual workshop provides attendees with the chance to attend every session at a much lower price. Sessions will be pre-recorded to ensure quality and speakers will be available during the presentation to answer questions. There will be on-demand access to all sessions after the event for registered attendees.

All times listed below are central time. Don't forget to share this event with anyone who might be interested!

Register for the Workshop
Workshop Kickoff (10:30 - 12:00 p.m.)

Speakers: Autodesk Team; WisDOT Team

Target Skill Level: Everyone

Join us for an exciting kickoff for the workshop! Hear from leadership in WisDOT and Autodesk about upcoming new features and changes. This session sets the tone for the event so don't miss it!

What’s new in Autodesk Reality Capture Workflow (1:00 - 2:00 p.m.)

Speakers: Ramesh Sridharan, Autodesk

Target Skill Level: Everyone

In this session, we’ll walk through a complete workflow starting inside ReCap Pro software and publishing a point cloud to the Autodesk Construction Cloud platform. We’ll extract geometries and bring them into Civil 3D software to create a simplified but highly accurate surface model. This is the workflow you’ve been asking for!

 Learning Objectives:

  • Learn about the process of publishing a point cloud to the cloud.
  • Learn about performing linear feature extraction in the cloud.
  • Benefit from a simplified but highly accurate surface model.  
New Corridor Modeling Workflows in Civil 3D 2024 (2:10 - 3:10 p.m.)

Speakers: Tim Yarris, Autodesk

Target Skill Level: Everyone

In this session, you'll learn about new corridor modeling workflows in the Civil 3D 2024 release that will help you work more efficiently. The development team has been hard at work improving the corridor model, which results in big efficiency gains in how you create and edit a corridor, as well as how you share standard corridor components with your team.

Learning Objectives:

  • How to post custom subassemblies in a shared project location and push changes out when new versions become available.
  • How to efficiently model transitions such as driveways and widenings, and then quickly copy those transitions to other corridors in the drawing.
  • What has been done behind the scenes to improve Civil 3D performance, particularly in corridor modeling workflows.
IFC For Infrastructure Update (3:20 - 4:20 p.m.)

Speaker: Nigel Peters, Autodesk

Target Skill Level: Everyone

Over the last few years, building SMART, AASHTO, and infrastructure technology vendors have been working hard to extend the ISO IFC open exchange standard file format to cover workflows in the Infrastructure sector. Provide an update on the status of this exciting new standard and how Autodesk is working to deliver workflows to customers.

Learning Objectives:

  • Become familiar with IFC.
  • Discover how Autodesk is working to deliver the new IFC 4.3 Standard directed at Infrastructure.
  • Understand the importance of IFC standards in design.
Civil 3D Power Hour (4:20 - 5:20 p.m.)

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from power users, Autodesk and other experts in small group settings. Join us for an open dialogue on your trickiest problems and what you'd like to see in the future of Civil 3D.
WisDOT Civil 3D Customizations: What's New Since Last Year (8:30 - 9:30 a.m.)

Speaker: Keith Sowinski, WisDOT

Target Skill Level: Everyone

WisDOT provides a customized Civil 3D package that is used by internal staff, engineering consultants, local governments, universities, and more. It provides consistency in the development of project deliverables and increases the efficiency of many Civil 3D tasks. WisDOT has been actively improving its customizations over the last year. This class is focused on reviewing what has changed since last year.

Learning Objectives:

  • Become familiar with the latest WisDOT custom tools.
  • Discover which existing WisDOT custom tools have been enhanced and how.
  • Learn how to get help with using the WisDOT customization and how to report any issues that are encountered.
WisDOT Structures Civil 3D Customizations and Standard Bridge Design Tool (9:40 - 10:40 a.m.)

Speaker: Danielle De Tennis, WisDOT

Target Skill Level: Beginner

This workshop will give an overview of the WisDOT Structures profile for Civil 3D and what's new since last year. In addition, we'll cover the Standard Bridge Design Tool (SBDT) and how to use it.

Learning Objectives:

  • Discover what's new in the WisDOT Structures Profile.
  • Learn what the SBDT is and what it does. 
  • Understand how to access and use the SBDT.
Fantastic dwg Settings and Management Tips (10:50 - 11:50 a.m.)

Speaker: Eric Gates, EnvisionCAD

Target Skill Level: Everyone

In this demonstration we will explore some useful tips and tricks on how to manage drawings, data references, settings to stream line the design experience and process. We will also dive into ways to append your own configurations to the WisDOT configuration without needing to modify the WisDOT update package every time there is an update.

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn how to append standards without making changes to WisDOT configuration.
  • Discover tips and trick for keeping Civil 3d drawings manageable and clean.
  • Discover tips on managing settings, data references and system variables to help make the design process faster and more efficient.
Using the Survey Database in Civil 3D (1:00 - 2:00 p.m.)

Speaker: Russ Nicloy, MACER Technologies

Target Skill Level: Beginner

The Civil 3D Survey Database stores and provides access to project survey data. This data is protected from accidental editing, and provides a centralized location where data can be shared with multiple files from a project. This session will look at setting up the survey database, importing the data into the database, then into separate design files, and finally, the proper and safe ways to edit and correct that data. This session is NOT WisDOT specific.

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn how to setup the survey database.
  • Learn how to insert survey data into design files.
  • Learn how to edit and correct data that resides in the survey database
Civil 3D Tips and Tricks (2:10 - 3:10 p.m.)

Speaker: Luke Siebert & Dan Whitefoot, raSmith

Target Skill Level: Everyone

This class will cover tips and tricks that we have found helpful over the years to help improve efficiency in design, speed up plans production, and improve overall drawing performance.  The goal of the class will be to briefly cover as many commands, topics, and workflows as possible to reach a wide audience of both expert and beginner Civil3D users.  A handout of all topics will also be provided with the class for quick reference in the future.

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn Civil 3D tools, commands, and workflows to improve design efficiency.
  • Learn Civil 3D tools, command, and workflows to help speed up plans production and drafting.
  • Learn Civil 3D tools and best practices to improve CAD file management and overall drawing performance.
Setting up your Civil 3D Model for Success (3:20 - 4:20 p.m.)

Speaker: Elisa Becker & Eric Notson, Strand Associates

Target Skill Level: Everyone

The approach to corridor model development often differs based on the variables associated with a specific project. For example, beginning a model for an undivided urban concrete corridor requires a different approach than beginning a model for a divided rural asphalt corridor. This class will outline a process for developing corridor assemblies to optimize design models and limit the need for rework through the various design phases. The class will also step through workflows for various types of corridors that can be used to take a project from a typical section to a final design model, accounting for critical design elements like staging, constructability, and surface and cross section deliverables.

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand how project deliverables can affect model setup.
  • Learn how to identify which project variables and design elements can impact the manner in which the design model evolves and how to plan ahead.
  • Learn workflows for how to account for items such as staging, constructability, and surface and cross section deliverables on several types of projects.
Use WisDOT Tools to Efficiently Design in Civil 3D (8:30 - 9:30 a.m.)

Speaker: Mitch Lavin, WisDOT

Target Skill Level: Everyone

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation develops it’s own Civil 3D configuration with a robust set of standards, tools, and workflow efficiencies. This class will take a look at many of the tools and standards included with the WisDOT Civil 3D configuration and review how they can be used to improve workflow efficiencies in the roadway design process. 

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn where to get the WisDOT Civil 3D Configuration.
  • Review what is included in the WisDOT Civil 3D Configuration.
  • The big goal: review various workflows and how to use WisDOT tools to design more efficiently.
Curb Ramps by WisDOT Workflow (9:40 - 10:40 a.m.)

Speaker: Russ Nicloy, MACER Technologies

Target Skill Level: Experienced

The WisDOT curb ramp surface model process is used for curb ramp detail sheets as well as to create and verify curb ramp slopes that fit within the design tolerances. This session will look at the creation of the curb ramp design from the curb and gutter tie-in through the detail sheet and labeling. It will also look at the creation and editing of the ramp through use of feature lines.

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn how to start the curb ramp with the curb and gutter corridor.
  • Learn how to create and manage feature lines to control slopes of the ramp and sidewalk.
  • Learn how to create and label the curb ramp detail sheet. 
Point Codes, from Assemblies to CDP deliverables – and Everything in Between (10:50 - 11:50 a.m.)

Speaker: Eric Gates, EnvisionCAD

Target Skill Level: Everyone

This demonstration will illustrate the importance of understanding and using point codes to develop the required WisDOT design model deliverables, beginning with assemblies, corridors, cross section labels and CDB deliverables. We will review the custom tools by WisDOT developed to assist in maintaining a cohesive process of using point codes throughout the design model process. No need for links.

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand the importance of assigning unique point codes when build assemblies.
  • Develop ways to pinpoint point code issue when troubleshooting corridor surface problems.
  • Learn the value of establishing a point code-centric corridor design workflow.
Options for Working with DWGs outside of AutoCAD Civil 3D (1:00 - 2:00 p.m.)

Speaker: Eric Arneson, WisDOT

Target Skill Level: Beginner

Not everyone is a Civil 3D expert. Some people don't even use Civil 3D. But DWGs contain all the data that drive infrastructure projects. This class will review all the current options for opening DWGs, what they can and cannot do, and what they cost. Whether you oversee staff using Civil 3D or are a Civil 3D expert trying to share files with others, you'll benefit from knowing all your options.

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn the current software and services that can open DWG files.
  • Learn what those software and services can and cannot do.
  • Learn what is required to use those software and services.
Applications of Surface Models (2:10 - 3:10 p.m.)

Speaker: Kyle Peschel, Jacobs

Target Skill Level: Beginner

The session will start with discussion of what is a surface model (specifically - TIN), how do they function, what are their components, how are they constructed from survey and corridor models, how are contours generated from. Once we have an understanding of TINs, discussion would segway into surface visualizations. Viewing as contours, applying coloring and/or slope arrows to aid in design. Lastly, the concept of a volume surface would  be discussed, with a couple of example applications how a volume surface may be utilized

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand the foundation and definitions of a surface model.
  • Discuss how surface models are built.
  • Learn how surface models may be utilized / visualized to aid in design.
How to Model A Driveway Access Using Autodesk Civil 3D Tools (3:20 - 4:20 p.m.)

Speaker: Leo Lavayen, IMAGINiT

Target Skill Level: Experienced

An advanced fast paced dive of the AutoCAD Civil 3D functionality to model driveways using different tools and techniques.

Learning Objectives:

  • Review the classic, more manual method using Feature Lines.
  • Learn how to do modeling with Corridor Subassembly by using the hidden driveway subassembly.
  • Discover the latest in corridor modeling design technology through using Corridor Transitions.
Emerging Professionals Happy Hours (4:30 - 6:30 p.m.)

Emerging Professional attendees are encouraged to join one of these free happy hours being held around the state! Meet other Civil 3D users and grow your connections in the field. Details to be provided soon!
Managing Views in Civil 3D (8:30 - 9:30 a.m.)

Speaker: Eric Arneson, WisDOT

Target Skill Level: Beginner

"Change the way you look at things, and you change the way things look." Viewports, views, rotation, modelspace, paperspace! There's a million different ways to look at data in Civil 3D. That means there's a ton of ways to do it poorly. If you're ready to give your middle finger a break from the scroll wheel, this class is for you! This class will focus on the best practices for navigating the views in a DWG's modelspace and paperspace to make sure you and your team are spending less time navigating files and more time adding engineering value.

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn how to efficiently navigate modelspace views and view layouts.
  • Learn how to efficiently navigate paperspace and viewports.
  • Learn WisDOT provided custom tools for navigating DWG views.
Model-Centric Bridge Development (9:40 - 10:40 a.m.)

Speaker: Joe Brenner, Michael Baker International & Nick Seman, RETTEW

Target Skill Level: Everyone

This class will cover how a model-centric workflow can enhance design and detailing for bridge structures. We will examine multiple Autodesk software products including Inventor, Revit, Civil3D, and Infraworks in this process and how they can be used collectively to develop standard templates and customize processes to improve workflows. We will demonstrate how geometry and parametric components generated in Inventor can be used in InfraWorks for preliminary design applications then used for final & detailed design in Inventor and sent directly to Revit for reinforcement and documentation. Benefits and advantages of the workflow will be discussed, as well as best practices for overcoming some of the current software limitations. This class is designed to help get you started in model-centric workflows by giving multiple examples of how it can be implemented based on organizational standards.

Learning Objectives:

  • Explain how bridge design workflows can be improved with a model-centric approach.
  • Use Inventor as a platform to generate bridge geometry and parametric components to be used not only within Inventor but also in InfraWorks.
  • Discover how to export elements into Revit and reinforce using Rebar tools and document design intent.
Leveraging Visual Programming and Parametric Design to Build a State Kit (10:50 - 11:50 a.m.)

Speaker: Anand Stephen, Gannett Fleming

Target Skill Level: Experienced

PennDOT embarked on enabling the engineering community to develop designs using multiple design platforms. Accordingly, Gannett Fleming (GF) and MBI are creating content to allow designers to use the Autodesk Platform. This presentation will cover the fundamentals of Parametric Design and Visual Programming. Sub Assembly Composer is a Visual Programming Interface. We used it to develop complex roadway templates, illustrating the potential of Visual Programming. Subsequently, we will demonstrate using Inventor to create parametric Bridge and Drainage Components. Finally, we will discuss steps to facilitate collaboration between GF and MBI and the Quality Control and Quality Assurance steps we took as we produced this content. 

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn how to create complex roadway templates using Sub-Assembly Composer and deploy using Dynamo.
  • Discover how to create parametric Bridge and Drainage Components.
  • Establish Quality Control Process to develop design content.
Bridging Innovative Opportunities for Digital Project Delivery (1:00 - 2:00 p.m.)

Speaker: Kelly Barber, PennDOT

Target Skill Level: Everyone

In today's environment of Digital Project Delivery, many opportunities exist for enhancing current project delivery processes from Design to Construction.  This sharing session will touch upon PennDOT's innovative initiatives with Augmented Reality, Drone Data Capture for both Design and Construction and our Project Delivery Collaboration Center Solution. We currently have multiple pilot projects underway and would like to share our lessons learned and how we plan to tie them all together with a single platform. 

Learning Objectives:

  • Discover what PennDOT is doing with programs like Datumate, Reconstruct, Elecosoft Asta Powerproject, Imajion and the Autodesk Construction Cloud platform.
  • Understand the value of digital project delivery.
  • Learn how consultants can contribute to the process and how states can learn from PennDOT. 
Introduction to Autodesk Construction Cloud and Autodesk Docs (2:10 - 3:10 p.m.)

Speaker: Sara Brozovich & Pam Paczocha, Jacobs

Target Skill Level: Beginner

Learn what Autodesk Construction Cloud and Autodesk Docs are.  We will explain how to use them and how they interact with one another, as well as share tips for actually using them!  Autodesk Construction Cloud and Autodesk Docs are platforms developed by Autodesk to help organize, manage, share, and store Autodesk and Civil 3D drawings across a project.  Learn about the differences between them, what each does, how they work together, and the different features they each have as well as best practices for using both!

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand how Autodesk Construction Cloud works and make project design more efficient.
  • Learn if this a possible platform for your projects.
  • Discover efficiencies using Civil 3D and Autodesk Construction Cloud.
How to Prepare a WisDOT Contractor Data Packet (3:20 - 4:20 p.m.)

Speaker: Steve Popke, WisDOT

Target Skill Level: Everyone

Contractor Data Packets (CDPs) contain design survey information, roadway design information, and construction staking reports. The CDP is a contractual design project deliverable. This class will review what files are included in a CDP. It will also cover the submittal and review process.

Learning Objectives:

  • Gain a better understanding of the CDP deliverables.
  • Discover how to better prepare for a CDP submittal early in the design process.
  • Learn about the WisDOT Civil 3D tools that are available for creating CDP files.