About This Course
Tekla Structures is the industry-leading Building Information Modelling (BIM) software for structural steel design, detailing, and fabrication management. Developed by Trimble, it is widely adopted by structural engineering firms, steel fabricators, and construction contractors across the globe for its precision, interoperability, and ability to generate fabrication-ready documentation directly from a 3D model.
As the construction industry accelerates its adoption of BIM workflows and digital delivery standards, professionals who can harness Tekla Structures are in high demand. From creating intelligent 3D models and designing complex connections to producing shop drawings and interfacing with other BIM platforms such as Revit, Navisworks, and IFC-compatible tools, Tekla Structures sits at the heart of modern structural workflows.
This ten-day programme offered by TrainingComplex is designed to take participants from a solid foundational understanding of the software through to advanced steel detailing, connection modelling, drawing production, and BIM data management. Each day combines structured instruction with intensive hands-on exercises drawn from actual construction and fabrication projects, ensuring that participants build confidence and competence simultaneously.
By the end of the programme, delegates will be equipped to independently manage a Tekla Structures model within a collaborative BIM environment, produce compliant fabrication drawings, coordinate with other disciplines, and contribute to seamless project delivery from design through to steel erection.
Who Should Attend
- Structural engineers involved in steel design and detailing
- Steel detailers and draftspersons transitioning to BIM workflows
- BIM coordinators and managers working on structural projects
- Fabrication engineers and shop drawing technicians
- Civil and construction engineers seeking to expand their software capabilities
- CAD technicians looking to upgrade to a full BIM environment
- Project engineers responsible for coordinating structural steel packages
Learning Objectives
- Understand the Tekla Structures interface, workspace configuration, and modelling environment
- Create and manage accurate 3D steel structural models including beams, columns, bracing, and plates
- Apply and customise standard and user-defined steel connections
- Model complex structural components such as trusses, moment frames, and composite sections
- Generate and manage part and assembly marks for fabrication workflows
- Produce shop drawings, general arrangement drawings, and erection plans from the 3D model
- Use Tekla's reinforcement modelling tools for concrete and composite elements
- Manage BIM data, model properties, and custom attributes for project reporting
- Export and import models using IFC, DSTV, and other interoperability formats
- Collaborate within a multi-user Tekla Structures environment
- Conduct model clash detection and coordinate with architectural and MEP disciplines
- Generate material lists, quantity takeoffs, and fabrication reports
- Apply best-practice BIM standards and project templates for professional project delivery
Course Modules
Module 1: Introduction to Tekla Structures and BIM Fundamentals
- Overview of Tekla Structures and its role in the structural BIM ecosystem
- Navigating the Tekla interface: ribbons, toolbars, and model views
- Understanding BIM concepts: LOD, model uses, and information management
- Workspace configuration, grid setup, and project properties
- Tekla Structures licences, roles, and environment settings
- Best practices for file organisation and project folder structures
Module 2: Steel Section Libraries and Basic Modelling
- Understanding Tekla's steel profile library and cross-section database
- Creating columns, beams, and horizontal members using the steel modelling toolbar
- Applying materials, grades, and surface treatments to model components
- Using work planes, reference points, and snap settings for accurate placement
- Modifying member properties: position, offset, class, and rotation
- Introduction to the model hierarchy: parts, sub-assemblies, and assemblies
Module 3: Connections and Joints in Steel Detailing
- Understanding Tekla's component library and connection catalogue
- Applying standard connections: end plates, cleats, base plates, and gussets
- Customising connection parameters and bolt sizes for project specifications
- Creating user-defined components for non-standard or repeated joint types
- Modelling welds, bolts, and fittings accurately within assemblies
- Validating connections and reviewing fit-up using the 3D model viewer
Module 4: Modelling Complex Structural Systems
- Modelling roof and floor trusses with chord and web members
- Creating bracing systems: cross-bracing, knee bracing, and portal frames
- Modelling moment frames and rigid connections for multi-storey structures
- Handling curved members, haunched beams, and tapered sections
- Managing structural grids and elevation control for tall structures
- Organising complex models using phases, filters, and object groups
Module 5: Plates, Fittings, and Miscellaneous Steel
- Creating and positioning flat plates, stiffeners, and shear tabs
- Modelling base plate assemblies and anchor bolt layouts
- Adding handrail systems, ladders, grating, and secondary steelwork
- Using Tekla's fitting and cutting tools for complex geometry
- Attaching custom shapes and polybeam profiles for irregular sections
- Review of miscellaneous steel detailing standards and shop practice
Module 6: Part Marking, Assemblies, and Fabrication Numbering
- Understanding Tekla's part and assembly numbering logic
- Configuring numbering settings: prefixes, start numbers, and series
- Running and re-running numbering across model phases
- Managing clashes and conflicts in assembly mark assignment
- Using the model organiser to review and control fabrication groups
- Linking numbering to material lists and fabrication schedules
Module 7: Drawing Production: Shop Drawings and General Arrangements
- Introduction to Tekla's drawing manager and drawing types
- Creating single-part and assembly drawings for fabrication
- Setting up general arrangement and erection plan drawings
- Configuring drawing templates, title blocks, and dimension settings
- Applying automatic and manual dimensioning, annotations, and symbols
- Managing drawing revisions, issue status, and drawing registers
Module 8: Reinforcement Modelling and Composite Elements
- Introduction to Tekla's reinforcement modelling environment
- Adding rebar to concrete slabs, beams, and column bases
- Modelling composite deck slabs and shear stud layouts
- Creating concrete pad footings and pile caps with reinforcement
- Using rebar sets and bar bending schedules for production
- Exporting reinforcement data for detailing and scheduling software
Module 9: BIM Data Management and Custom Attributes
- Understanding Tekla's object properties and UDA (User-Defined Attributes) framework
- Creating and configuring custom attributes for project-specific data fields
- Using the model template editor to standardise project settings
- Generating material lists, bolt lists, and quantity takeoff reports
- Using Tekla's template editor to create custom report formats
- Managing model phases and project stages for phased construction delivery
Module 10: IFC, Interoperability, and Multi-Software Workflows
- Exporting Tekla models to IFC 2x3 and IFC 4 formats
- Importing reference models from Revit, ArchiCAD, and other BIM tools
- Using DSTV and NC file exports for CNC fabrication machines
- Linking Tekla with Navisworks for clash detection and model federation
- Managing reference model visibility and coordination overlays
- Best practices for file exchange protocols and BIM Execution Plan alignment
Module 11: Multi-User Environment and Collaborative BIM
- Setting up and managing a Tekla multi-user server environment
- User roles, access rights, and model locking protocols
- Working with model sharing and change tracking across teams
- Resolving conflicts between concurrent model changes
- Using Tekla Model Sharing for cloud-based project collaboration
- Documenting model change history for audit and quality assurance
Module 12: Clash Detection, Model Coordination, and Quality Review
- Using Tekla's built-in clash check tool for structural self-coordination
- Federating structural models with architectural and MEP reference models
- Setting up clash detection rules and tolerance parameters
- Documenting, assigning, and tracking clash resolution actions
- Conducting model quality reviews against BIM standards and LOD requirements
- Producing coordination reports and model health summaries for clients
Module 13: Capstone Project and Professional Workflow Integration
- Delegates complete a comprehensive steel structure model from design intent drawings
- Applying full workflow: modelling, connections, numbering, and drawing production
- Generating a complete fabrication package including shop drawings and material reports
- Peer and instructor review of completed models against professional benchmarks
- Discussion of BIM standards, ISO 19650, and client delivery requirements
- Career pathways, Trimble certification options, and continuing professional development in Tekla
Requirements & Prerequisites
Participants should have a foundational understanding of structural steel concepts and construction drawing conventions. Prior experience with any CAD or 3D modelling software — such as AutoCAD, Revit, or similar — is recommended, as it will ease the transition to Tekla's 3D environment. No prior Tekla Structures experience is required, though familiarity with BIM principles is an advantage.
Training Methodology
- Guided software walkthroughs with step-by-step modelling exercises on real project datasets
- Instructor-led demonstrations of connection design, drawing production, and BIM export workflows
- Hands-on steel detailing labs where participants build a complete structural model from scratch
- Case study analysis of actual fabrication projects, reviewing model setups and drawing standards
- Group coordination exercises simulating multi-discipline BIM clash detection and resolution
- Peer review sessions where participants critique each other's models against professional detailing standards
- Template and profile customisation workshops tailored to participants' organisational standards
- Q&A clinics addressing specific software challenges and real-world project scenarios raised by delegates
Organisational Benefits
- Improved accuracy and consistency in structural steel documentation and shop drawings
- Reduced rework and fabrication errors through model-driven drawing production
- Faster project delivery timelines enabled by automated drawing and report generation
- Enhanced collaboration across structural, architectural, and MEP disciplines via BIM coordination
- Greater compliance with international BIM standards and client delivery requirements
- Expanded capability to tender for and deliver complex steel fabrication projects
- Reduced dependence on external consultants for BIM modelling and coordination tasks
- Higher staff confidence and productivity on Tekla-based project workflows
- Improved data management and traceability throughout the project lifecycle
- Stronger competitive positioning in markets that mandate BIM delivery
Where Is Tekla Structures for BIM & Steel Detailing Training Offered?
This course runs in-person across: Nairobi, Nakuru, Dubai, Zanzibar, Abuja, Cape Town, Riyadh, Accra, Johannesburg, Dar es Salaam, Lagos, Mombasa, Kigali, Kampala, Naivasha, Pretoria, Kisumu, Arusha, Addis Ababa, plus Live Virtual (online) cohorts. Browse live dates for your city below.
Upcoming Schedules
| Location | Format | Dates | Price |
|---|
| Live Virtual |
Online |
28 Sept 2026 – 9 Oct 2026 |
KES 160,000 |
| Nairobi, Kenya |
In-Person |
5 Oct 2026 – 16 Oct 2026 |
KES 230,000 |
| Nakuru, Kenya |
In-Person |
5 Oct 2026 – 16 Oct 2026 |
KES 230,000 |
| Dubai, United Arab Emirates |
In-Person |
5 Oct 2026 – 16 Oct 2026 |
USD 8,200 |
| Zanzibar, Tanzania |
In-Person |
5 Oct 2026 – 16 Oct 2026 |
USD 5,000 |
| Abuja, Nigeria |
In-Person |
5 Oct 2026 – 16 Oct 2026 |
USD 5,600 |
| Live Virtual |
Online |
17 Oct 2026 – 6 Dec 2026 |
KES 160,000 |
| Cape Town, South Africa |
In-Person |
19 Oct 2026 – 28 Oct 2026 |
USD 7,600 |
| Riyadh, Saudi Arabia |
In-Person |
19 Oct 2026 – 28 Oct 2026 |
USD 9,000 |
| Accra, Ghana |
In-Person |
19 Oct 2026 – 30 Oct 2026 |
USD 7,600 |
| Johannesburg, South Africa |
In-Person |
19 Oct 2026 – 30 Oct 2026 |
USD 7,000 |
| Dar es Salaam, Tanzania |
In-Person |
19 Oct 2026 – 30 Oct 2026 |
USD 4,600 |
| Lagos, Nigeria |
In-Person |
19 Oct 2026 – 28 Oct 2026 |
USD 5,000 |
| Mombasa, Kenya |
In-Person |
19 Oct 2026 – 28 Oct 2026 |
KES 240,000 |
| Kigali, Rwanda |
In-Person |
19 Oct 2026 – 28 Oct 2026 |
USD 3,800 |
+233 more dates — view live schedule →
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need prior experience with Tekla Structures to attend this course?
No prior Tekla Structures experience is required. The programme is designed to take you from the fundamentals of the software through to advanced detailing workflows. However, some background in structural engineering, steel construction, or CAD will help you progress faster.
Will I receive a certificate upon completing the course?
Yes. Upon successful completion of the ten-day programme, TrainingComplex will issue a Certificate of Completion in Tekla Structures for BIM and Steel Detailing. This certificate can be used to demonstrate professional development to employers and clients.
Is the training hands-on or mostly theoretical?
The programme is heavily practical. Participants spend the majority of each day working directly in Tekla Structures on structured exercises and a capstone project. Theoretical concepts are introduced briefly before being applied immediately in software-based labs.
What software and hardware will I need?
TrainingComplex provides licensed Tekla Structures workstations for in-person cohorts. For the Live Virtual format, participants will need a computer running Windows 10 or later with at least 16 GB RAM and a dedicated graphics card, along with a valid Tekla Structures licence or student licence obtained prior to the course.
Does this course cover Tekla Model Sharing and cloud collaboration?
Yes. Module eleven specifically covers the Tekla multi-user environment and Tekla Model Sharing for cloud-based collaboration. Participants will learn how to set up shared projects, manage user roles, and coordinate model changes across distributed teams.
