MG Blog

Autodesk University 2019 Highlight Reel

Written by Melissa Cash | Dec 17, 2019 5:25:29 PM

Autodesk University is the perfect conference to wrap up the year while providing so much inspiration for the upcoming one. It is jam packed with keynotes, sessions, vendors, insights and so much more – bringing together thought leaders, experts, innovators, tech lovers and Autodesk users. We’re sharing just a smattering of takeaways from this year’s conference.

MG SESSIONS

Three MG team members presented sessions during the conference. Stephen Gabriel was the first MG presenter to take the AU stage. His class covering “Cinematography in Architectural Visualization” introduced the audience to the essentials in crafting the story to your design. Read more of Stephen Gabriel’s work here.

Jarod Schultz was next up, presenting the “US Olympic Museum’s Diamond Donor Program Using the Forge Platform” project. This presentation spoke to how MG AEC Technology Partners was able to use the Autodesk’s Forge development platform to create a unique and interactive web-based experience for the US Olympic Museum’s Diamond Donor Program. It was also named Best Customer Story at AU! You can watch Jarod’s webinar covering this presentation here.

Our last MG presenter, Shawn Cox, shared how to “Acquire and Visually Present GIS Data Like a Pro in InfraWorks with Esri Data Connector.” Building on your Autodesk AEC Collection, the Esri Data Connector in InfraWorks allows you to give your design geographic context. View Shawn’s presentation covering this topic here.

AUTODESK CONSTRUCTION CLOUD

The talk of the conference happened during one of the preconferences at the Connect & Construct Summit. Autodesk kicked things off by unveiling the Autodesk Construction Cloud – ushering in new era of connected construction. This advanced technology gives teams unprecedented capabilities and a whole new level of connectivity by combining data, builder’s networks and predictive insights. From design through operations, you’re able the close the gap and optimize project budgets, schedules and quality. Read the full press release here.

THE LATEST LEICA NEWS

Leica introduced the newest of their scanning devices, the handheld BLK2GO, and their newest registration software Cyclone 3DR as well as the recent updates for Cyclone Register 360 – BLK Edition (created specifically to work easily with the BLK scanners). The conference covered the workflow and features of the new scanning device, BLK2GO, and how it integrates into their line of scanners.

VISUALIZATION

Unreal TwinMotion continues to grow with every release and the latest version is due to be available early in first quarter next year. Our visualization expert is working alongside Unreal to coordinate the development of an instructor-led class in TwinMotion as well as classes in Unreal Studio – allowing architects to take their animations to a new level. 2020 will also bring more 3ds Max classes to MG’s training calendar. Contact us to learn more on training offerings or how MG can help you with your next visualization project.

AUTODESK FORGE

Forge DevCon was in its third year at AU and had its largest turnout with 4,000 attendees, 100 speakers, 10 countries, 30+ partners and its own Expo Hall. Susanna Holt (VP Forge, Autodesk) shared how the book “Accelerate: The Science of Lean Software and DevOps: Building and Scaling High Performing Technology Organizations” by Nicole Forsgren PhD, Jez Humble and Gene Kim transformed how they develop software. (If you are in such a role, this is a must read.) Jim Quanci (Senior Director, Autodesk) talked about how Forge gives us insights, builds relationships, gains additional trust and enables us to ultimately make better decisions. Contact us to learn more on how MG can help with your next Forge project.

AU SESSION FOLLOWUP ARTICLES

From the announcement of Autodesk Construction Cloud to the inspirational address given by Billy Beane (of the Oakland A’s and the subject of the movie ‘Moneyball’) closing out the keynote, you can read all the announcements and highlights of Connect and Construct at the AU preconferences here.

One project highlighted during AU was Skystone’s AC Marriott New York Hotel – the world’s tallest modular hotel. They shared how Autodesk technology is integrated and integral to this project from design conception through completion. Read more on this project and the tech behind it here.

Autodesk and Virgin Hyperloop One announced their joint exploration of BIM for transportation optimization, design and construction technology during the AEC Keynote Address at AU. Attendees learned how Autodesk is involved in the Virgin Hyperloop One commuter pod project where everyday travelers may be able to fly underground at 700 mph. Read more on this joint effort here.

KEYNOTE RECORDINGS 

Join Autodesk President and CEO Andrew Anagnost as he presents at the AU 2019 Opening Keynote discussing real and relevant projects which embrace the opportunities of automation. Watch the keynote here

 Join Autodesk leaders, customers and partners for the Architecture, Engineering and Construction Keynote as they share examples of groundbreaking projects which enable rapid industry innovation across design and construction for buildings and infrastructure. View the keynote here

CONCLUSION

As always, our team had the opportunity to share their knowledge, sit in some great classes, attend various meetings and network with friends old and new, while witnessing how technology is making its impact and how people are continuing to push the envelope. The AEC industry is ever changing, and we are truly blessed to play a part in helping others with their digital transformation journey.