Autodesk expands free access to pro software for 150m global learners

Autodesk has provided its software and technology for free to more than 150 million students and educators globally, connecting educational institutions and learners with tools used by professionals in fields such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing.

Skills gap concerns

Access to advanced technology in education remains a pressing issue as industries report significant talent shortages.

According to Autodesk's State of Design & Make report, 61 per cent of professionals view the lack of skilled talent as a growth barrier. Attracting, training, and retaining skilled workers is cited as the second major business challenge in Australia.

Demand for artificial intelligence skills in job listings has surged by over 640 per cent since 2022, highlighting an urgent need for upskilling. Nearly half of college students surveyed said they do not believe they are acquiring the necessary AI skills for the workforce.

Education programme expansion

Autodesk supplies its software free of charge to accredited institutions and verified students and educators worldwide. The company's reach includes universities, community colleges, trade schools, and secondary schools, providing students with the same suite of professional-grade tools used by industry experts.

These tools aim to help future architects, engineers, designers, and other skilled practitioners gain practical experience and increase their confidence with current industry technology. Certification paths and real-world project opportunities are included to bridge the gap between educational achievement and workplace demands.

Tinkercad adoption

Within this milestone, Autodesk's browser-based 3D design tool, Tinkercad, has reached 100 million users globally.

Tinkercad introduces young learners to creative problem-solving and STEM skills. Many students transition from Tinkercad to professional tools such as Fusion and Forma, supporting a learning pathway from basic design to advanced industry applications.

Designed for ease of access, Tinkercad has become a popular tool from early years through to higher education levels, helping students and non-technical audiences gain familiarity with 3D design concepts.

Expanded VFX access

Autodesk is also extending free access to Flow Studio, its AI-powered application for 3D animation and visual effects (VFX), to all verified students aged 18 and above and educators. Flow Studio provides automation for traditionally complex VFX tasks such as motion capture and character animation, designed to allow students to focus on storytelling and creative output.

By lowering barriers to entry for advanced VFX and animation technology, Autodesk aims to support the next generation of filmmakers, digital content creators, marketing professionals, and game designers with tools previously restricted to professional studios.

Commitment to future workforce

"With technology advancing faster than education can keep pace, it's crucial that industry leaders like Autodesk help equip STEM students and educators with the right tools at every stage of learning," said Mary Hope McQuiston, Vice President of Education, Autodesk.

"It often starts with Tinkercad, where students first learn to imagine and create, and continues with professional-grade tools that prepare them for real careers. Reaching 150 million students and educators, and now expanding access to Flow Studio, shows what's possible when learners can design, make, and tell their story with the same technology the pros use."