I am a 3rd-year (starting) civil engineering student from srilanka. For nearly 2 years, I didn’t focus on learning any software tools deeply. I have learned some software for coursework, such as HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, and EPANET. But not deeply. My goal is to become a structural engineer focused on sustainability, efficiency, and expertise in concrete. I need a software tools guide from anyone who has expertise, how to learn software, what are the software needs to be learned, other tools, which software needs to be learned first, and other advice.
You are not behind.
Start with AutoCAD and Excel.
Then learn ETABS for structural analysis, followed by SAFE for slabs and foundations.
After that, learn Revit Structure for BIM and documentation.
Focus on reinforced concrete design, detailing, load paths, durability, and your local design codes.
Learn one software properly before moving to another.
Also, practise hand calculations so you can verify the software results.
A good project would be modelling and designing a small concrete building from start to finish.