Tekla Structures For Civil Engineers: Key Benefits, Applications & Online Courses

Mastering Tekla Structures Software is a game-changer for civil engineers looking to streamline workflows, enhance accuracy, and optimize construction projects. Whether you are a student eager to build expertise or a professional aiming to stay ahead in the industry, Tekla offers a robust solution for structural modeling and detailing.

According to the U.S Census Bureau, the U.S. construction industry is booming, with spending reaching $2.1 billion in January 2025, covering residential, commercial, and public infrastructure projects. With such rapid growth, mastering advanced BIM tools like Tekla is crucial for tackling complex designs, improving collaboration, and ensuring project efficiency.

In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about Tekla Structures BIM Software, from its core features to its real-world applications, helping you take your civil engineering career to the next level.

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What is Tekla Structures?

Tekla Structures is an advanced Building Information Modeling software widely used by civil engineers and structural designers. It enables precise 3D modeling of steel, concrete, and timber structures, helping professionals create detailed and accurate construction plans. With powerful tools for clash detection, fabrication detailing, and project collaboration, Tekla Structures enhances efficiency in complex building projects.

Whether for small firms or large-scale infrastructure projects, Tekla Structures remains a top choice in structural engineering. When considering this software, factors like Tekla Structures software price play a crucial role. Pricing varies based on the license type and features, making it essential to choose the right plan based on project needs. So, do not forget to check out their official website for the cost details. 

3D Building Model created with Tekla Structures

Key Features of Tekla Structures 

Modern construction projects require efficient structural design and detailing, and that is where Tekla Structures BIM software excels. Here are six standout features of Tekla Structures. 

1. Intelligent BIM Modeling

Tekla Structures provides a highly detailed and information-rich 3D modeling environment. Engineers can create structurally accurate models of steel, concrete, and timber structures, ensuring every component fit outs perfectly before fabrication begins.

2. Advanced Steel and Reinforcement Detailing

The software offers industry-leading steel and rebar detailing tools. It automates shop drawings, material take-offs, and clash detection, minimizing errors and reducing project delays during fabrication and construction.

3. Interoperability with Other Software

Tekla supports various file formats like IFC, DWG, and STEP, making it easy to collaborate with teams using different design tools. For engineers transitioning from AutoCAD Civil 3D, Tekla offers a more structured and data-driven modeling approach tailored to complex construction needs.

4. Cloud Collaboration and Model Sharing

Tekla Structures integrates with Trimble Connect, allowing real-time collaboration between engineers, architects, and contractors. Teams can review models, track revisions, and manage approvals from anywhere, improving project efficiency.

5. Seamless Structural Analysis Integration

With built-in compatibility with Tekla Structural Designer, users can analyze and optimize designs directly within the software. This integration ensures that structural integrity is maintained while reducing manual calculations and data transfers.

Civil Engineering Using Tekla

Benefits of Tekla Structures for Civil Engineers

BIM Tekla Structures offers a data-driven approach to structural design, making projects more accurate and efficient. Here are some key benefits for civil engineers.

1. Accurate 3D Modeling

Tekla Structures allows engineers to create detailed, constructible 3D models of steel, concrete, and timber structures. This ensures that every element is designed with real-world feasibility, reducing clashes and costly rework.

2. Seamless Integration with Other Software

Tekla supports multiple file formats, enabling engineers to import and export models to different platforms. This makes it easier to work alongside Building Information Modeling software, CAD tools, and structural analysis programs.

3. Automated Steel and Rebar Detailing

Tekla automates the creation of fabrication-ready shop drawings, ensuring precise steel and reinforcement detailing. This feature enhances structural integrity while cutting down on manual drafting efforts.

4. Streamlined Project Collaboration

With Tekla Structures folder structures, teams can organize, store, and share project data effortlessly. Engineers, architects, and contractors can access the latest model updates in real-time, leading to fewer communication gaps

5. Reliable Construction Workflows

Tekla Structures streamlines the entire design-to-construction process, minimizing errors in fabrication and assembly. Engineers can simulate erection sequences, ensuring smoother on-site execution.

Also Read - Everything You Need to Know About Autodesk Construction Cloud As An Civil Engineer 

Real-World Applications of Tekla Structures in Civil Engineering

Application of Tekla Software in Civil And Structural Engineering-1

In modern construction, efficiency and accuracy are key to delivering successful projects. Tekla Structural Designer has become an essential tool for civil engineers, allowing them to create highly detailed, data-rich models that optimize workflows. Here are some major applications of Tekla Structures in civil engineering. 

1. Reinforcement Modeling

With Tekla, civil engineers can generate accurate reinforcement drawings for bridges, tunnels, and high-rise buildings. It automates the detailing process, reducing errors and ensuring that reinforcement aligns perfectly with the design specifications.

2. Clash Detection and Coordination

Using Tekla Structural Designer, engineers can detect design conflicts between different structural elements. This helps in resolving issues before construction starts, leading to fewer delays and cost overruns.

3. Industrial Projects

Tekla is widely used in designing bridges, highways, airports, and industrial plants. Its advanced modeling capabilities ensure that large-scale infrastructure projects are completed with high precision and durability.

4. BIM-Based Construction Planning

Tekla integrates with Building Information Modeling (BIM) platforms, enabling seamless collaboration between architects, engineers, and contractors. This enhances project coordination, making execution smoother and more predictable. 

Best Online Institutes to Learn Tekla Structures

Embarking on a journey to master Tekla Structures is essential for modern civil engineers. Here you can discover some of the best programs to elevate your career and stay ahead in the industry.

1. Novatr

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It is one of the best institutes for Tekla Structure certification, which offers a flexible curriculum that includes weekly live sessions, personalized mentor support, and a capstone project, ensuring a practical understanding of BIM processes. By enrolling for this course, you will gain proficiency in over ten BIM tools, like Revit, BIM 360 and more, aligning with industry workflows and standards. The ones who have graduated receive dual certifications from Autodesk and Novatr, enhancing their professional portfolios and increasing employability in global AEC firms.

Read More - Explore All Top Online Courses & Training Programs to Learn Tekla Structures (For US Civil Engineers)

 

2. Koenig Solutions

  • Course Name: Tekla Structure Essentials Training Course
  • Duration: 32 hours
  • Fees: $1400
  • Placement Assistance: No

If you are wondering how to learn Tekla Structures, then Koenig Solutions is another recommended option for you. It is a comprehensive Tekla Structures training program that covers fundamental aspects such as creating, managing, and exporting structural models, as well as generating fabrication and general arrangement drawings. This course is ideal for aspiring and practicing structural engineers, architects, construction professionals, and anyone seeking to enhance their proficiency in Tekla Structures. 

3. Skyfi Labs

  • Course Name: Tekla Software
  • Duration: Not available
  • Fees: $152
  • Placement Assistance: No

Skyfi Labs offers a comprehensive Tekla Structures course to guide learners from basic to advanced levels. The curriculum is structured into three tiers, which are basic, intermediate, and advanced level. The course covers fundamental operations such as creating grids and editing stories, defining, drawing, and editing elements, analyzing and designing concrete and steel structures, and performing wind analysis and design. 

4. Udemy

  • Course Name: Tekla Structure Project Warehouse Course
  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Fees: $64.99
  • Placement Assistance: No

This course is designed to equip learners with practical skills in creating detailed 3D models of warehouse structures using Tekla Structures software. Throughout the course, participants will master essential tasks such as grid creation, column and rafter modeling, and the development of various connections including base plates, purlins, and rafters. This training offers comprehensive instruction for both beginners and intermediate users.

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Conclusion

The future of civil engineering is being reshaped by digital tools, and Tekla Structures stands at the forefront of this transformation. Its ability to streamline modeling, detailing, and coordination has made it an essential asset in modern construction projects. 

As the industry continues to evolve, mastering advanced software solutions is no longer an option, it is a needed requirement to excel. For civil engineers looking to expand their expertise, BIM Professional Course for Civil Engineers by Novatr  is the perfect opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in BIM workflows. For the latest updates and insights, visit Novatr's Resource Page

Stay ahead in your career and apply for this course today!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How to export STP files in Tekla Structures?

To export an STP (Standard for the Exchange of Product model data) file, go to File > Export > CAD format and select STEP/IGES format. Configure the export settings, ensuring the correct units and accuracy level are selected. Once the settings are finalized, click Export, and the STP file will be created, which can then be used in other CAD or CNC applications.

2. What is Tekla Structures Used For?

Tekla Structures is a BIM software used for structural design, detailing, and fabrication. It helps engineers and designers create accurate 3D models of steel, timber, and concrete structures, allowing for efficient planning, collaboration, and execution in construction projects.

3. How to manage folder structures in Tekla Structures?

Use a standardized folder structure, separating models, drawings, exports, and reference files. In File > Settings, define the default paths for saving files. Tekla also allows integration with cloud storage solutions for seamless team collaboration.

4. How to recover an autosaved project in Tekla Structures?

To recover an autosaved file, navigate to File > Open > Browse to Autosave Folder. Locate the most recent backup and open it. It is recommended to immediately save it with a new name to prevent overwriting. Adjust the autosave settings in Options > Save & Recovery to ensure frequent backups.

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