To all,
I started with 2 days of training in DataCad in 1986 and then was "self taught" in ACAD through the next 10 years in the private sector. It's been my experience, staying a bit above the "techno curve" will keep the purely CAD draughtsmen honest. It has always appeared, juniors who don't know the design and building trades will exploit the seniors professional's computor insecurities. Furthermore, I must confess, I have had very little direct exposure in Revit at my work as a Federal architect over the past decade plus. But, I do dabble operating in virtually all of these platforms and am very knowledgable about the technologal revolution as it relates to our profession (God save the Queen;). Therefore, I feel safe saying; "the water is fine and you can jump in today".
As a futher suggestion, SketchUp is free and you can start working on it today if you'll download it from Google. I'd recommend anyone interested in an introduction to BIM do so. The free download comes with 8 hours of design and a tuitorial (PS I don't own any stock in Google, but should;).
Not a lot of money to invest in your introduction to BIM? Then SketchUp might be a fun 8 hour exercise in the pool. Best wishes and good luck,
-------------------------------------------
Stephen Dunakoskie AIA, VP Eastern Regional Operations
Riordan Construction Group Inc
Leesburg VA
-------------------------------------------