Future Construct: Thought Leaders Discuss BIM and Construction Solutions for the AEC Industry

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Ever wondered how early childhood experiences can shape a career in cutting-edge technology? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Tessa Lau, a trailblazer in the realms of computer science, robotics, and entrepreneurship. From her first lines of code on a RadioShack color computer to her pioneering work at Dusty Robotics, Tessa's story is a testament to the transformative power of passion and innovation. Discover how her time at IBM Research and Willow Garage set her on a path to make a tangible impact through robotics, including a life-changing project to assist individuals with disabilities. Tessa's journey is a captivating blend of personal anecdotes, professional milestones, and a relentless drive to push the boundaries of what's possible.

In this episode, we also explore the formidable challenges and exhilarating triumphs Tessa encountered while bringing groundbreaking technology to the construction industry. Learn about the intricacies of Savioke's robot elevator programming and the strategic alliances Dusty Robotics has forged to navigate the complex landscape of technological adoption in construction. Dive into the future of nanorobotics in healthcare, where tiny robots could revolutionize medical treatments and extend human life. Finally, Tessa shares her visionary insights into automating the BIM coordination process and the potential personal benefits of emerging technologies over the next 25 years. This episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the future of robotics and its transformative potential across multiple sectors.

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BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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Unlock the secrets to revolutionizing your construction projects with Building Information Modeling (BIM) in our latest episode featuring Mark Oden, CEO of BIM Design. Dive deep into the world of BIM, likened to a highly accurate version of Minecraft, where Mark shares how this intelligent 3D model-based process enhances planning, design, construction, and management of building projects. From laser scanning technology to facilities management, Mark’s insights reveal the power of BIM in preventing litigation through effective communication and documentation.

Discover how high-quality BIM models and rigorous training of union journeymen can lead to successful project execution. Mark discusses a collaborative renovation of a training center in Arizona, showcasing the importance of precision and avoiding construction clashes. We also explore the core values driving BIM Design, including quality performance, trust, and community engagement. Learn how these principles have guided the company through financial challenges and expansion, even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In our engaging conversation, Mark delves into the benefits of BIM, from reducing rework and controlling costs to shortening project lifecycles and enhancing collaboration. Real-world testimonials and case studies illustrate how proactive communication with subcontractors can lead to no-cost settlements and mitigate risks. Tune in to grasp how Building Information Modeling can transform your construction projects, improve safety, reduce defects, and ultimately save time and money.

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BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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Ready to embark on a thrilling journey through the high-tech world of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Virtual Design and Construction (VDC)? Prepare to gain invaluable insights from our esteemed guest who has been at the forefront of implementing these innovative technologies in the construction industry. They'll be sharing their hands-on experiences, from the highs of tangible benefits to the lows of formidable challenges. As a BIM manager, I'm also going to offer my perspective on managing large-scale projects and how BIM is revolutionizing our working methods.

Keeping up with rapid technological changes can be daunting, and this is particularly true in the construction industry. Our guest, a seasoned professional in project management and construction technology, will shed light on the trials and triumphs of evolving tech. Get ready to peek behind the curtain at our consulting process—from the inaugural meeting to the all-important stakeholder feedback. We'll also discuss the careful navigation required to ensure standardization and company-wide tech adoption, setting the stage for more comprehensive future discussions.

Choosing an implementation partner for BDC and BIM technologies is a critical decision, and we're about to demystify the process. Understanding the problem at hand and leveraging technology to discover solutions is central to our discussion. We'll explore the importance of an external voice to guide and challenge the team, ensuring optimum results. By the end of this episode, you'll have a clearer understanding of how to address pain points and provide effective solutions. We invite you to join us for this captivating episode, as we delve into the fascinating future of construction technology. Buckle up and get ready for an enlightening ride!Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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Embark on a transformative journey with Hugh Seaton, CEO of The Link, as we traverse the changing landscape of construction technology. Having worked across continents and industries, Hugh brings a wealth of experience to the table, from his early days in Hong Kong and Taiwan to reshaping the construction world. This episode peels back the layers of traditional construction practices to reveal how data-driven specification management and forward-thinking IT strategies are revolutionizing the industry. Armed with a case study from The Link, Hugh illuminates how actionable data can streamline construction processes, moving us beyond the paper-laden methodologies of the 1970s.

As we venture further, the conversation turns to the sophistication of AI and its burgeoning role in construction. Language models like GPT-3 are under the spotlight, with the RICE Framework guiding us through crafting precise inquiries to elicit the most relevant information. Within the industry's technological tapestry, we find innovation teams working diligently to integrate new tools and BIM, changing the face of project delivery and embracing the strategic side of IT beyond mere support. Hugh shares how these expert teams are not just adopting but also selectively tailoring software, ensuring that the pace of technological change matches the industry's unique demands.

Looking toward the horizon, Hugh and I contemplate a future where learning and technology are inextricably linked within construction. From AI's potential in generative design to the liberation of the workforce from mundane tasks, we discuss an industry on the cusp of a new era. Technology's role in providing real-time, on-the-job training promises to revolutionize how we approach building and design. Join us for an episode that not only reveals the current state of construction technology but also charts a course for its exciting future.

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BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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Join the conversation with Sam Oldixon, an architect whose designs are as robust in social purpose as they are in beauty. From his roots in South Minneapolis to reservations in northern Minnesota, Sam's journey is more than just a tale of professional success; it's a narrative woven with threads of community upliftment and justice. His role as CEO of Full Circle Indigenous Planning and Design LLC is not merely a title, but a mission statement, underlining his commitment to fostering Indigenous spaces that resonate with cultural pride and resilience.

This episode peels back the layers of architecture to reveal its potent role in the curation of cultural heritage within Indigenous communities. We discuss the balancing act of honoring traditional values through sustainable practices while engaging in the art of modern innovation. Sam imparts his wisdom on how the thoughtful design of communal spaces can serve as heartbeats of cultural activity, pulsing with the life and values of the people they were created for. It's a celebration of spaces that do more than function—they tell stories, preserve legacies, and inspire.

Looking ahead, we tackle the future of Indigenous architecture and the ripple effects of environmental justice in urban planning. With insights gleaned from Sam's time at the Harvard Graduate School of Design, we consider the influence of strategic urban planning in nurturing the relationship between Indigenous communities and their environments. The dialogue branches into mentorship's critical role in shaping future architects and planners, as well as the intriguing potential of artificial intelligence in the design process. Our exchange is enriched with visions of fostering dignity and creating spaces that reflect the vibrant tapestry of Indigenous culture.

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BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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What if your childhood passion could shape your career? Kevin Kendellen, Construction Technology Manager at Riley Construction Company Inc., joins us to share his fascinating journey from building intricate Lego models as a child to managing complex construction projects as an adult. Kevin's story is a testament to how early hobbies can influence professional pathways. He shares anecdotes of creating detailed Lego cities and stadiums, revealing an innate understanding of lean construction principles long before entering the industry.

Discover how architectural wonders and family traditions have played pivotal roles in Kevin's growth, both personally and professionally. Kevin recounts his awe-striking encounter with the Calatrava expansion wing of the Quadracci Pavilion at the Milwaukee Art Museum, emphasizing the sophisticated problem-solving it involved. Additionally, Kevin sheds light on his family's deep-rooted involvement with the Milwaukee Irish Fest. These experiences have fostered a sense of community, adaptability, and leadership that Kevin applies to overcoming challenges in his career and life.

Stay tuned as we delve into the future of construction technology and the importance of engaging youth in the industry. Kevin underscores the value of STEM education and the myriad of career paths available within the construction sector. Learn about Riley Construction's approach to incorporating cutting-edge technologies that boost efficiency and scalability. Kevin also shares his visionary concept of modular, sustainable housing that adapts to the occupants’ needs, much like a Lego set. It’s an inspiring conversation that looks ahead to the innovations shaping the future of living spaces.

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BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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How does a childhood spent on construction sites turn into a career at the forefront of digital innovation in construction? This episode of the Future Construct podcast features Jason Howden, Chief Innovation Officer at Revizto, who recounts his remarkable journey from the dusty building sites of New Zealand to revolutionizing the industry with cutting-edge technology. Jason's early exposure to construction and his father's introduction of AutoCAD Sketch 1.0 ignited a passion that transformed his career. Listen as he reveals how hobbies like remote-controlled model aircraft and a knack for problem-solving, fueled by his dyslexia, laid the foundation for his innovative approach to construction technology.

Leadership and automation take center stage in our discussion with Jason, as he delves into how breaking down complex projects into manageable components has been key to his success. He introduces us to the concept of a "digital custodian" and explains how automating processes such as collision detection can streamline projects and mitigate costly errors. Jason's real-world anecdotes illustrate the tangible benefits of these methodologies, making a strong case for the progression from traditional CAD to Building Information Modeling (BIM).

We also take a futuristic leap into the integration of AR and gaming technology within the construction sector. Jason's firsthand account of overcoming skepticism and adopting these innovative tools for project collaboration is inspiring. He shares an intriguing story of a foreman in Christchurch, New Zealand, who went from mocking digital tools to embracing VR for enhanced project efficiency. As we anticipate the upcoming RevUp conference, Jason teases some groundbreaking advancements in construction technology that promise to reshape the industry landscape. Join us for a riveting conversation with one of construction technology's leading voices.

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BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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Have you ever wondered how accumulated data from past projects can transform the future of construction? Join us in this fascinating episode of the Future Construct Podcast, where we promise you'll gain invaluable insights from our special guest, Steve Whitmer, Construction Technology Manager, VDC at ACCO Engineering Systems. Steve charts his inspiring path from an engineering student with hands-on skills to a pivotal figure in the BIM and VDC fields. He shares his journey of overcoming initial skepticism towards the HVAC industry and discovering a passion for making engineering truly constructible.

We dive deep into the potential of leveraging VDC workflows and data to maximize project efficiency. Steve provides a compelling look at the importance of unifying disparate data sources and how tools like Power BI can create dashboards that lead to actionable insights. He also emphasizes the critical role of leadership in VDC coordination, discussing the essential steps for setting effective metrics and the need for a blend of design and construction BIM understanding. This episode is packed with strategies to enhance productivity and manage costs effectively.

Wrapping up, we explore groundbreaking advancements in construction technology over the past 14 years, from the optimization of fabrication and installation to the use of total stations and the emerging role of robots. Steve shares his vision on the practical applications of AR and VR and the transformative potential of AI in automating tasks. We also delve into the importance of fostering a collaborative culture within teams to minimize rework and enhance overall efficiency. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a leading expert about how BIM and VDC are revolutionizing the construction industry. Tune in and get ready to be inspired!

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BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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Can childhood hobbies really shape a successful career in construction technology? Join us as we sit down with Graham Condit, Director of Emerging Technology at Skanska USA, who shares his unique journey from building Dungeons and Dragons castles and playing with Legos to leading a cutting-edge construction tech team. Discover how these early creative activities spurred Graham's passion for architecture and engineering, laying the foundation for a career where creativity meets practical problem-solving.

Transitioning from a fascination with architecture to hands-on construction management, Graham recounts the pivotal moments and family influences that guided his career choices. From learning artistic techniques and working with rubberized molds to the inspiring legacy of his electrical engineer grandfather, Graham’s story is a testament to how early experiences and strong mentorship can profoundly impact career trajectories. This episode sheds light on the rewarding shift from theoretical design to the tangible world of construction, where every blueprint becomes a reality.

Looking towards the future, Graham offers an insider's perspective on the evolving role of technology in construction. At Skanska, advanced tools and processes are revolutionizing workflows, with AI and other emerging technologies playing a significant role. Gain insights into Skanska’s strategic approach to tech integration, emphasizing sustainability, diversity, and inclusion. But it doesn’t stop there—Graham also shares his personal passions, from 3D printing to furniture building, and imagines a world where AI enhances both his professional and personal creative projects. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the fusion of personal interests and cutting-edge technology in shaping the future of construction.

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BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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How can a background in sociology and criminology lead to groundbreaking innovations in home design? Today, we explore this fascinating journey with Jim Flaherty, the Director of Digital Product and Engineering at Marvin. Jim unveils how his unique career path has shaped his understanding of user behavior, leading to people-centric solutions in the realm of digital home technology. From the importance of end-to-end product development to the critical role of channel partners, Jim shares invaluable insights for aspiring professionals emphasizing adaptability and a holistic view of user interactions.

Get ready to discover Marvin's forward-thinking approach to modern home design, particularly with their exquisite new product line, Modern. Imagine homes graced with large glass panels and motorized windows that not only enhance aesthetic appeal but also bring the convenience of automation into everyday life. Jim takes us inside the Marvin Connected Home Lab, a pioneering space in the Twin Cities where new digital products undergo rigorous testing. Highlights include the Awaken Skylight, an innovative motorized skylight that promises to redefine how we think about natural light and ventilation in our homes.

We also delve into the technical intricacies of integrating smart technology seamlessly into existing home designs. Jim shares the challenges and triumphs of maintaining aesthetic consistency while embedding advanced features like automatic locking, rain sensors, and egress capabilities. He emphasizes the balance between innovation and practicality, ensuring that technology simplifies rather than complicates daily tasks. Looking ahead, Jim envisions a future where homeowners experience seamless connectivity, with smart windows that anticipate and respond to every need—reducing the necessity for manual intervention. Join us for an enlightening conversation with Jim Flaherty, and get a glimpse into the future of smart living spaces.

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BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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Imagine breaking new ground in a field that's ripe for innovation and brimming with opportunities. Sara Hedge, CDI Contractors' BIM VDC Coordinator and a trailblazer for women in construction, joins us to share her transformative journey from architecture and interior design to spearheading digital construction. Her story is not just about personal triumph but also about how she's leveraging her expertise to foster diversity and inspire a new generation through technology and engagement in organizations like NAWIC and WLI.

This episode isn't just about shattering glass ceilings; it's also about shattering old norms of construction practices. Sara takes us through the initial resistance her team faced while shifting to 3D modeling and how they overcame operational challenges, leading to project successes that set a new benchmark for innovation at CDI. We peer into the intricate process of reimagining an underground utility tunnel with cutting-edge scanning technology and discuss the necessity of internal buy-in for adopting such transformative tech. It's a candid look at the trials and triumphs of embracing change.

As we wrap up our conversation, Sara, who has managed projects worth over $1.5 billion, forecasts the exciting role of AI, AR, and VR in the construction industry's future. While acknowledging the hurdles of technology adoption, she highlights the importance of empathy and education in smoothing the transition. Join us as we explore the not-so-distant dream of teleportation devices and reflect on the significant time-saving and connectivity potential such innovations could offer. It's an episode packed with vision, expertise, and a glimpse into the future of construction technology.

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BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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To kickstart Season 4 of the Future Construct Podcast, Women in Construction Week, and Women's History Month, we highlight some of the industry's most influential women. Unlock the secrets to revolutionizing construction workflows and saving costs as we sit down with the trailblazing Kelli Lubeley from Cupertino Electric Inc. From her beginnings in drafting to her current role as a Construction Technology Manager, Kelli's insights are a goldmine for anyone keen on understanding the intersection of technology and construction. Her personal drive to optimize processes and mentorship in the field of BIM has not only reshaped her company’s standards but has also set a benchmark for the industry.

Journey with us through the unexpected lessons of tomato gardening and the steadfast pursuit of rock hunting, drawing parallels to architecture and construction. These narratives are more than just hobbies; they're a testament to the importance of innovation and sustainability in our industry. The stories of change management in the garden and the meticulous craft of turning rocks into jewelry mirror the precision and adaptability required in AEC. These reflections serve as a reminder that growth, whether in nature or technology, demands patience and a willingness to adapt.

Finally, we take a visionary leap into the future of construction design, where virtual reality and mind-to-display technologies are just around the corner. With Kelli Lubeley's expertise, we discuss the transformative potential these tools hold for architects, engineers, and construction professionals. Join us for this compelling exploration into the innovations that are set to redefine the way we conceive and construct the spaces of tomorrow.

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BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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Discover the blueprint for the future as we sit down with Mostafa ElAshmawy, WSP Middle East’s visionary in BIM and GIS, to unravel the evolution of digital transformation within the construction industry. Witness Mostafa's riveting transition from an enthusiastic engineering student to an influential force in digital engineering, sharing the ins and outs of his career trajectory and the expansive role digital models play in enhancing data-driven decision-making. Learn how these advancements are changing the game in project estimation and coordination, and get a peek into Mostafa's pioneering strategies and his aspirations for seamless project management that could revolutionize how we build our world.

Embrace the excitement of managing colossal construction marvels as Mostafa gives us a front-row seat to the cutting edge of mega project management in the Middle East's AGC industry. From the sustainability-focused ambitions of the Future Ready program to the digital wizardry of Digital Twins and the promising efficiencies of modular construction, we dissect how these technologies are crafting a new era of design. Get an exclusive look into the grandeur and complexities of Saudi Arabia's giga projects like the Red Sea project and NEOM, while also delving into the sustainability practices that are setting new standards in construction. Mostafa's personal vision for health-enhancing technologies that connect generations offers a stirring close to our far-reaching discussion, all of which points to an industry at the cusp of a monumental leap forward.

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BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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Discover the remarkable transformation of Dr. Carrie Sturts Dossick, who went from an undecided college major to an esteemed figure in construction management and technology. In a candid conversation, Carrie recounts the pivotal moments of her career, from her early intrigue with materials in architecture to the invaluable guidance of her mentor, Bud Griffiths. Her story is an ode to the profound impact mentorship can have and a celebration of the innovative spirit that defines her path, offering listeners a unique perspective on the evolution of construction management education.

Join us for a deep dive into the complexities and triumphs of creating the National BIM Standard as Carrie opens up about her experiences merging teaching, research, and administrative duties at the University of Washington. She navigates through the challenges of harmonizing disparate industry groups into a cohesive framework and offers a glimpse into the future of digital construction. Her insights are a guiding light for those interested in the synergy of policy, project management, and the progression of industry standards.

In our episode, technology and personal passions intersect, revealing how Carrie's lab tackles the intricacies of IoT, digital twins, and the evolution of BIM. She discusses the symbiotic relationship between technology and human interaction within building operations and the necessity of cybersecurity in today's connected world. Listen as Carrie shares how her love for dance mirrors the creative processes in construction innovation, and don't miss her insights into the collaborative approach to education that's fostering the next wave of industry change.

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BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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Have you ever wondered how the confluence of technology and construction is reshaping our built environment? Brian Skripac, a luminary in the BIM and VDC domains, stops by to enlighten us on the revolution within the building industry. His journey from architect to tech evangelist showcases the transformative potential when architects, engineers, and construction managers unite under the banner of innovation. Brian dives into his experiences of promoting a model-centric approach to project delivery, highlighting how smoother workflows are achieved through close-knit collaboration and technological integration.

The episode takes an intriguing turn as we examine the fusion of modular construction with Building Information Modeling. Brian provides a behind-the-scenes look at a recent project where this synergy played a pivotal role, enhancing transparency and efficiency from conception to realization. The conversation unveils the evolution of project documentation, emphasizing the shift towards fabrication-ready models and the intricacies involved, from legalities to risk management. We also peer into the future, speculating on the continued growth of modular construction and its burgeoning relationship with BIM as a staple in contractual deliverables.

Wrapping things up, we reflect on BIM's broader impact on the construction industry, from driving cost avoidance to optimizing resource utilization. Brian shares insights from the successes at Ohio State University and muses on the hypothetical technology that could streamline decision-making in project management. As we express our gratitude for the rich dialogue and Brian's insightful contributions, we look forward to the innovative strides that await us on the horizon of construction and technology.

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BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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Embark on a transformative exploration of architecture and technology with Paul Doherty, the visionary at the helm of the Digit Group. Our latest episode of Future Construct showcases Paul's fascinating shift from an architecture enthusiast to a tech entrepreneur, illuminating the untold stories behind the evolution of smart cities. As we converse, Paul unveils the intricate dance between brick-and-mortar structures and digital innovation, from the early use of modems on construction sites to the creation of interconnected urban landscapes.

Woven throughout this episode is the narrative of digital tools reshaping the architectural world, with Paul Doherty as our guide. The journey begins with the birth of parametric CAD and continues through the rise of Building Information Modeling, the foretelling of the metaverse, and the implementation of smart city technologies. Paul regales us with tales of software pioneering that led to the realization of futuristic cities in China, reminding us that at the core of urban design lies a deep, humanistic intent. His experiences serve as a testament to how embracing technological advancements can transform not just the skyline but the very fabric of urban living.

As the episode unfolds, Paul and I turn our gaze to the horizon, pondering the future of technology and its potential to enhance the human experience. In this thought-provoking exchange, we discuss the importance of attracting new talent to industries poised for innovation, the role of AI in bridging generational knowledge gaps, and the ways in which technology could enrich our collective intellect. Paul's forward-thinking vision suggests a world where technology serves as a catalyst for societal growth, and his voice is an inspiring call to action for those ready to build the smart cities of tomorrow. Join us for this compelling narrative and envision the boundless opportunities that technology holds for us all.

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BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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Picture this: you're an apprentice with a knack for tools and building, and one day, you find yourself being a director at a company that's revolutionizing the construction industry. Welcome to the world of Andy Lambert, director of Product for One Key and Construction Technology at Milwaukee Tool. Lambert's remarkable journey is not just a testament to his tenacity and passion, but it's also a peek into the heart of Milwaukee Tool and its determination to reshape the construction landscape.

Ever wondered what it would be like if your tools could communicate with each other? OneKey, Milwaukee Tool's innovative solution, has made this a reality. Its robust Bluetooth tracking network, featuring asset ID tags and geo-fencing capabilities, is turning heads in the industry. But what's even more astonishing is how the company is harnessing the power of data and AI. From utilizing machine learning algorithms that enhance safety measures to optimizing resource use, Milwaukee Tool is truly at the forefront of construction technology.

But what does the future hold for the construction industry? According to Lambert, it's all about collaboration. Whether it's unions, trade associations, recruiters, or government agencies, everyone has a part to play in tackling workforce challenges and creating safer environments through the use of tools, drones, sensors, and wearables. And let's not forget about the profound impact of AI. With its potential to improve construction automation and predict maintenance and quality issues, AI is a force to be reckoned with. Tune in for an exhilarating exploration of technology's role in construction, seen through the lens of Lambert's experiences and Milwaukee Tool's innovations.

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BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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Can you imagine a world where automation and efficiency form the backbone of architectural practices? Let's explore this exciting intersection of tech and architecture with our guest, Brian Stridam, the Digital Practice Manager and Senior Associate at FX Collaborative. Brian's passion for data and technology and his unique perspective on teaching will guide us on a journey through his career, from tech-enthusiast to a leader in digital practice.

But we're not stopping there. We're also hosting Micah Kahlo, the AEC Technical Director at Esri, who's ready to share his insights on the role of GIS in digital transformation. From his humble beginnings as a GIS Technician to leading digital transformations at Arcadis and now Esri, Micah's journey is filled with lessons to inspire us all. Prepare for a deep dive into how location forms the core of design and construction and the critical role it plays in integrating data and executing new projects.

Hang on, there's more! We're wrapping up the episode with Mike Kahlo, also an AEC Technical Director at Esri, who's going to unveil the fascinating world of graph databases and their revolutionary impact on digital twins. Here's a chance to grasp the power of location in digital transformation and understand the immense potential of GIS and BIM integration. So, sit back, tune in, and get ready to be inspired, informed, and intrigued by the captivating world of digital transformation.

Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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In this week's captivating episode of our highly anticipated Geo Week 2023 series, we had the privilege of interviewing two industry experts who are at the forefront of innovation. Joining Mark Oden, Carla Lauter, Content Manager and Conference Chair at Geo Week, and Shawana Johnson, the President at Global Marketing Insights, engaged in enlightening discussions on a wide range of topics, including the challenges in finding presenters/topics for conference sessions, what attendees learned from the conference's keynote, how technologies covered at Global Marketing Insights tie into BIM, and research reports. This is a conversation you definitely don't want to miss!

About Carla Lauter
Carla Lauter is co-Conference Chair for Geo Week and the editor of Geo Week News. As editor, she creates and curates content and newsletters in support of Geo Week. Before joining Diversified Communications, Carla spent 10 years on NASA and National Science Foundation funded projects focusing on Earth science and communication. She has worked on web-based outreach and online interactives for NASA Earth Science, including products for satellite missions measuring sea level, salinity and hyperspectral ocean color.

About Shawana Johnson
Dr. Shawana P. Johnson, GISP, is a global commercial remote sensing subject matter expert providing Geospatial Business Intelligence Expertise™ assisting government clients with the vast range of data available from open source intelligence and commercial spaceborne, airborne and terrestrial based sensors and their interoperability with the government and global business community focused on AI/ML usage of sensors for 5G and communications, national security, climate, energy resources, global food security and water sustainability; and logistics and supply chain.

In these interviews, our guest host, Mark Oden, delved into a diverse range of topics with Carla and Shawana. Some of the captivating topics they discussed include:

The many challenges in finding presenters and developing topics for conference sessions
Details on what attendees specifically learned from the conference's keynote
Different types of technologies covered at Global Marketing Insights and some examples of how can we tie those into the BIM world
Shawana highlighting two specialized research reports that are highly related to Geo Week

SHOW NOTES

0:12 - Mark Oden introduces Carla Lauter, Content Manager and Conference Chair at Geo Week.

2:00 - Mark: "I'm very impressed with the speakers and topics. What are some of the challenges in finding presenters and developing topics?"

3:59 - Mark: "So you spoke a little bit about the core topics at the keynotes. I'd love to hear a little bit more about what we learned from the specific keynote?"

8:57 - Mark Oden introduces Shawana Johnson, President at Global
Marketing Insights.

12:32 - Mark: "In terms of your per view on technologies, it looks like you personal and your company covers many different types of technologies. What are some examples of those and how can we tie those into the BIM world?"

18:50 - Mark: "To bring Global Marketing Insights and Geo Week together, you work on very specialized and commissioned research reports. Is there one or two reports that you'd like to highlight that are highly related to Geo Week?"

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In this week's exciting episode of our highly anticipated Geo Week 2023 series, we interviewed two industry experts, Marc Goldman, the AEC Industry Solutions Director at Esri, and Colin Romberger, the Solutions Engineering Manager at Skydio. Joining Mark Oden, these two senior leaders engaged in captivating discussions on a wide range of topics, including Esri's recent toolsets and Marc's thoughts on GIS, practical use cases, and training opportunities in [GIS and BIM] intersection for BIM managers and BIM detailers, Skydio's history, and Colin's presentation at Geo Week. Get ready for an enlightening and thought-provoking conversation that you won't want to miss!

About Marc Goldman

Marc Goldman is the Director of AEC Industry Solutions at Esri. He works with a global team to define and deliver the strategy for Esri’s products and solutions serving architecture, engineering, and construction users. Mr. Goldman is a leading expert in Building Information Modeling (BIM), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and their impact on the processes and business of the planning, design, and construction industry.

About Colin Romberger

Prior to joining the Solutions Engineering team at Skydio, Colin served as Chief Pilot and Senior sUAS Operations Consultant for DARTdrones Inc., where he was responsible for the development and delivery of sUAS training and consultative services for the company’s enterprise clients across a variety of industries including energy, utilities, engineering, communications, security, and public works. Colin began his professional career with unmanned aircraft in 2015 under the terms of a Section 333 Exemption from the FAA for approved operations in south-central Pennsylvania, where his company, Precision Aerial UAS, LLC, provided a range of aerial imaging services to clients in the construction and engineering industries.

During these two engaging interviews, our guest host, Mark Oden delved into a wide range of compelling topics with Marc and Colin. Some of the intriguing subjects they explored together include:

Esri's recent toolsets and Marc's thoughts on GIS
Practical use cases and training opportunities in [GIS and BIM] intersection for BIM managers and BIM detailers
Skydio's history and what they've accomplished lately, their scale, and some of the products and solutions they offer
Colin's presentation at Geo Week and some of his takeaways from the conference

SHOW NOTES

2:28 Mark: "I've been personally so impressed with what I've seen of Esri and their toolsets. They've had some recent toolsets that they've released and there's some combination of GIS and BIM that are blending together. I'd love to hear about those new toolkits and your thoughts on GIS."

5:18 Mark: "If we were to address the BIM managers and BIM detailers of the world, what would be some practical use cases in GIS and BIM intersection, and what kind of training would you point them to?"

11:33 Mark Oden introduces Colin Romberger, Solutions Engineering Manager
at Skydio.

17:29 Mark: "Tell us a little bit more about Skydio, what they've accomplished lately, and at scale how large they are, and maybe we can dive into some of the products and solutions."

22:44 Mark: "So as we transition into Geo Week, I understand you have a presentation. Could you tell us a little bit about it and some of your takeaways?"

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In this week's episode of our special Geo Week 2023 series, we have the pleasure of hosting Konrad Wenzel, Director of R&D in Stuttgart at Esri, and Ted Knaak, Founder and President at TopoDOT. Join Mark, Konrad, and Ted as they engage in insightful discussions on a range of topics, including Konrad's involvement in ArcGIS, how Esri is involved in the evolution of digital spaces in construction, Ted's background, and his takeaways from panel conversations.

About Konrad Wenzel

Konrad Wenzel is the Director of the Esri R&D Center in Stuttgart, Germany, focusing on reality capture and Photogrammetry technology, such as the SURE engine. The technology turns imagery and lidar into 3D and 2D products and is well known for its market-leading precision. It is used worldwide for drone and aerial imagery for sites, cities, and entire countries. Konrad studied Geodesy and Geoinformatics and received a Ph.D. in Photogrammetry from the University of Stuttgart in 2016. In 2013 he co-founded nFrames, which joined Esri through an acquisition in 2020.

About Ted Knaak

Ted Knaak is currently president and owner of TopoDOT LLC, a Florida software company founded in 2011. TopoDOT software is employed worldwide as a comprehensive solution to geospatial point cloud data processing. Ted has over 25 years of experience in the industry, having founded Riegl USA in 1993 to market and apply Riegl lidar technology across North America. Earlier in his career, Ted was a control systems analyst for GE Space Systems. Ted holds Master of Science Degrees in electrical and mechanical engineering from Brown and Drexeluniversities.

Throughout the interviews, Konrad and Ted discussed numerous topics with our host Mark Oden, including:

Konrad's role in working on ArcGIS reality
Konrad's key takeaways were from the Empowering Digital Twins panel that he presented on
Ted's background and what brought him to founding TopoDOT
Ted's key takeaways from his panel and the other speakers who presented

Esri is the global market leader in geographic information system (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping. Since 1969, they have supported customers with geographic science and geospatial analytics, what they call The Science of Where. They take a geographic approach to problem-solving, brought to life by modern GIS technology. They are committed to using science and technology to build a sustainable world.

At TopoDOT, they pride themselves on their connections with those they work with in both their own company and in the LiDAR industry. They are a tight-knit company that works hard on building relationships and supporting their community. They are passionate about LiDAR technology and want to share that passion and excitement through their software solutions.

SHOW NOTES

4:28 Mark: "If we look at Esri's acquisition of nFrames, what was your role in working on ArcGIS reality?"

9:24 Mark: "I would love to understand what your key takeaways were from the Empowering Digital Twins panel that we were presenting on."

12:57 Mark Oden introduces Ted Knaak, Founder and President at TopoDOT.

13:11 Mark: "I would love to hear about your background Ted, and what brought you into founding TopoDOT?"

23:48 Mark: "I would love to understand what some your key takeaways were from our panel and the other speakers who presented."

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On this week's guest list, for Season 3, Episode 16, we are delighted to welcome to the show Kourosh Langari, Project Engineer at Caltrans, and Douglas Dunrud, Vice President and Technical Principal at the WSP USA (26-minute episode). The insightful discussions between Mark, Kourosh, and Douglas covered several topics, ranging from how Caltrans integrates technology and their challenges for the next few years, to WSP utilizing BIM in infrastructure projects and how they approach training with the adoption of new technology.

About Kourosh Langari
Kourosh Langari has 30 years of experience in A&E infrastructure Planning, Design & Construction Management with focus on integration of engineering/survey/GIS software applications (i.e. Autodesk, Bentley & ESRI) to establish industry’s best practices and increase efficiencies in workflow of Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) process. Kourosh has been and is working as Civil Engineer/ BIM Manager Transportation Surveyor at public sector (California Department of Transportation) and has worked as senior project engineer in private sector for AECOM (formerly URS) for the past decade.

About Douglas Dunrud
Mr. Doug Dunrud is a BIM Engineering Specialist with 34 years of experience as a bridge engineer in the highway transportation sector. He joined WSP in 2018 following his previous position as Branch Chief in Structure Design for Caltrans. During his time at Caltrans, he implemented the “Civil 3D Best Practices” in his branch and developed a BIM Implementation Plan for the Division of Engineering Services. Mr. Dunrud is a pioneer in the development of BIM for bridges and structures and Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) which promises to improve quality, accelerate project schedules and increase value to clients on transportation infrastructure projects.

Throughout the interviews, Kourosh and Douglas discussed numerous topics with our host Mark Oden, including:

How Caltrans integrates technology into the performance of their service
Some of the major challenges for Caltrans over the next few years
Use cases for BIM in infrastructure projects, and Douglas' experience influencing tools and technologies for the market
How Douglas approaches the training component when adopting new technologies

SHOW NOTES

0:12 - Mark Oden introduces Kourosh Langari, Project Engineer at Caltrans.

2:21 - Mark: "Speaking of topologies and different climates, here at Geo Week, it's a big focus on topology, LIDAR scanning and BIM. So, how does Caltrans integrate technology into the performance of their service?"

7:26 - Mark: "What do you see as some of the major challenges for Caltrans over the next few years?"

11:59 - Mark Oden introduces Douglas Dunrud, Vice President and Technical Principal at WSP USA.

15:13 - Mark: "So can you drive into some of the use cases, especially how you're using the model and component of BIM into your infrastructure projects? Could you also share a little bit about your experience and how you help influence the tools and technologies that the market sees?"

19:39 - Mark: "So moving on to speak a little bit about Bentley and the agnostic approach that WSP is taking with software, I'm curious how you approach the training component when you're moving from Civil 3D to Bentley, for example?"

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Summer is approaching, and our special Geo Week 2023 series is heating up! This week, for Season 3, Episode 16, we are thrilled to welcome to the show Kara Fragola, Field Engineer at Skanska USA, and Jason Stoker, a Physical Scientist at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The naturally flowing conversations between Mark, Kara, and Johnny took a deep dive into numerous topics, from our guests' career origin stories and how Skanska USA and USGS are involved in the future of construction, to their specific participation in presentations at Geo Week and key takeaways from the conference.

About Kara Fragola
Kara Fragola is a field engineer at Skanska USA Civil, working primarily in the northeast region. During her time at Skanska, she has worked on numerous noteworthy projects such as LaGuardia Airport Redevelopment, Hunt’s Point Interstate Access Improvement Contract 1, and Harmon Shop Replacement.

About Jason Stoker
Dr. Jason Stoker is a US Geological Survey Physical Scientist for the National Geospatial Program. Jason is currently the Elevation Science and Applications Lead for the National Geospatial Program. Jason oversees strategic planning, development and coordination of the 3D Elevation Program and related data, tools, and services. Jason provides technical expertise, prepares roadmaps and plans for elevation products and services, and helps determine the long-term vision for 3DEP products and services.

Throughout the interviews, Kara and Jason discussed numerous topics with our host Mark Oden, including:

What is important and of paramount focus for Skanska this year
Some of Skanska's best practices when it comes to information sharing
How the ROI from USGS collected data is being returned to the community
Jason's findings from a survey he presented at Geo Week

Skanska is one of the largest, most financially sound construction and development companies in the U.S., serving a broad range of clients, including those in transportation, power, industrial, water/wastewater, healthcare, education, sports, data centers, government, aviation, and commercial. Skanska is an industry-leading innovator in both safety and project execution and offers competitive solutions for both traditional and complex assignments to help build a more sustainable future for our customers and communities.

Created by an act of Congress in 1879, the USGS provides science for a changing world, which reflects and responds to society’s continuously evolving needs. As the science arm of the Department of the Interior, the USGS brings an array of earth, water, biological, and mapping data and expertise to bear in support of decision-making on environmental, resource, and public safety issues.

SHOW NOTES

3:37 Mark: "Kara, can you tell us a little bit about Skanska, itself, the organization at scale? And what is of key importance to Skanska this year?"

7:26 Mark: "What are some best practices that Skanska has when it comes to share information with other colleagues?"

17:46 Mark: "Jason, could you share some use cases on where data [that USGS has collected] has been consumed and used, and the ROI that you're seeing is being returned back to the community?"

20:10 Mark: "So you recently participated in a study that you'll be presenting at Geo Week. Would you like to give us a synopsis of your findings and what you studied?"

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Hot off the press, we have another episode of the Future Construct Podcast! This week for Season 3, Episode 15, our guest host Mark Oden, was elated to be joined by Dave Davia, the CEO and EVP of the Rocky Mountain Mechanical Contractors Association, to the show (15-minute interview). The conversation between Mark and Dave took an introspective look into various topics, from Rocky Mountain MCA's (RMMCA) work with contractors and Dave's thoughts on relationship building with labor to insights into a college the organization is developing and Dave's goals for this year.

About the RMMCA
The Rocky Mountain Mechanical Contractors Association (Rocky Mountain MCA) is a professional trade association serving over 160 member companies involved in heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, ventilation, plumbing, piping, and mechanical service throughout Colorado.

While their general mission is to make the Rocky Mountain region the best place to be a mechanical contractor, their work is primarily focused on legislative and regulatory advocacy, labor relations, education and training, and fostering relationships within the industry.

About Dave Davia
Dave Davia is a passionate leader with a diverse background in public and private organizations. He has a strong track record of accomplishments in strategic partnerships, government relations, coalition building, business and legislative analysis, collective bargaining, public policy, and association management.
Currently, Dave Davia serves as the CEO and EVP of the Rocky Mountain Mechanical Contractors Association, a nationally recognized leader in trade organizations. In this role, he founded the Western States College of Construction, an employer-sponsored accredited training program that prepares workers in four states for lucrative careers in several construction trades, addressing a significant gap in the workforce.

Throughout the interview, Dave discussed numerous topics with our guest host, Mark Oden, including:

Rocky Mountain MCA's work with contractors and unions
His thoughts on some of the key strategic elements of building a healthy relationship with labor
Insights into a college the organization is developing, the goal of the college, and the future outlook of the college
Dave's goals for this year and what the future of the industry looks like

SHOW NOTES

0:12 - Mark Oden introduces Dave Davia, the CEO and EVP of the Rocky Mountain Mechanical Contractors Association.

1:14 - Mark: "Could you let us know how you work with contractors and unions in the Colorado area?"

3:25 - Mark: "What do you think are some of the key strategic elements of building a healthy relationship with labor?"

5:34 - Mark: "One of your many accomplishments is a college that you've been working. Could you share what the college is, what the goal of the college is, how much work has been done to get to where you are, and what you see as the future of the college?"

9:44 - Mark: "In fact, your team just worked on this Economic Impact Study for Colorado. What key takeaways do you have from this report?"

11:06 - Mark: "As we wrap up here, just looking into the future, what are some goals you have for the year? And what is the future for the industry whether it comes to employment, technology, or otherwise?"

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It's almost April, and we are excited to launch a new series of episodes featuring our guest host, Mark Oden (CEO of BIM Designs, Inc), and several keynote speakers we met at Geo Week 2023 in Denver, CO!

This week, for Season 3, Episode 13, we are thrilled to welcome back to the show Danielle O'Connell, the Senior Director of Emerging Technology at Skanska USA, and Johnny Fortune, the BIM Program Director at the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) (24-minute episode). The naturally flowing conversations between Danielle and Johnny took an introspective look into various topics, from guests' backgrounds and the work Skanska USA and NIBS do to involvement in presentations at Geo Week and points of excitement from the conference.

About Danielle O'Connell

In 2020, Danielle was listed as one of 17 women that are changing the face of construction. In her career, Danielle has provided leadership, supervision, input, and guidance on integrating, incorporating, and adopting new and emerging technologies relevant to needs in the design and construction of facilities. She has overseen teams dedicated to providing design and construction-related services, including GIS, BIM, CAD, document management, and various graphic requests. Danielle has directed and managed consultants and sub-consultants GIS, CAD, and BIM submissions; and reviewed and investigated the integration of these design/construction technologies.

About Johnny Fortune

Johnny Fortune is a technology leader and subject matter expert in building information management (BIM) for the architecture, engineering, construction, and owner/operator industry. He serves as the Director of the U.S. National BIM Program with the National Institute of Building Sciences, where he focuses on the program launch and implementation plan to improve efficiencies in the design and construction industry. Johnny over 20 years of experience in computer-aided design and BIM management.

Throughout the interviews, Danielle and Johnny discussed numerous topics with our host Mark Oden, including:

How Danielle's role brings focus into the work that Skanska USA does for their clients
Danielle's perspective on app fatigue and what she's driving for to eliminate that association with apps after prolonged use
Who Johnny sees as potential early adopters of new industry BIM standards
Johnny shedding light on how to make the right decisions on adopting technology and change management

SHOW NOTES

0:12 Mark Oden introduces Danielle O'Connell, the Senior Director of Emerging Technology at Skanska USA.

4:05 Mark: "Can you guide us through how you personally see change management and how you've implemented that at Skanska and seen the successes from that?"

9:32 Mark: "So, speaking of other things Geo Week-related, what else have you taken away, and what else are you excited about seeing?"

12:05 Mark Oden introduces Johnny Fortune, the BIM Program Director at the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS).

16:27 Mark: "Would any designer, general contractor, or owner be a consumer of this [BIM] standard? Who would be the typical users?"

20:46 Mark: "Switching gears to Geo Week, you were on the keynote panel, and a huge portion of the conversation was about making the right decisions in adopting technology and change management. What were your key takeaways?"

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We're halfway through Season 3 of the Future Construct Podcast. This week, for Season 3, Episode 12, our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR), was elated to be joined by Aaron Anderson, the Director of Innovation at Swinerton, to the show (30-minute interview). The conversation between Aaron and Amy took an introspective look into an array topics, from Aaron's philosophy on innovation in construction and how Swinerton divides it's focus on future tech and current implementation, to also discussing how owners play a pivotal role in the cohesion of the construction process.

About Aaron Anderson
Aaron joined Swinerton in 2018 to work with their self-perform services in order to exploit his passion for connecting design to business processes using automation and standardization. His work today centers around balancing innovation with the objectives of the business model and Swinerton’s talented people. In his tenure with Swinerton, he has helped develop the application technology and repeatable elements for their parking structure product, Perq. Aaron is also a founding member of Swinerton’s Sustainability Task Force and a contributor to the growth of the Self-Perform Hub.

Over the course of the interview, Aaron discussed numerous topics with our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR), including:

Industry parallels with moving from these 2D screens to 3D, to the metaverse, and Web3
A breakdown of Aaron's personal philosophy in regards to innovation in the construction industry
How Swinerton spends their time in the arenas of ideating future technology and the daily, incremental advancements
The role that owners will need to play in making the demands in the construction process, to start tying all of the elements together

Swinerton provides commercial construction and construction management services throughout the United States and is a 100% employee-owned company. Recognized nationally since 1888, Swinerton is the preferred builder and trusted partner in every market it serves—proudly leading with integrity, passion, and excellence. Since their inception, Swinerton has been on the cutting edge of innovation, operating with accountability and integrity. With 19 regional offices across the United States, their ability to respond to unique project challenges, regardless of size, location, or complexity, is how they provide peace of mind to their clients.

SHOW NOTES

0:12 - Amy Peck introduces Aaron Anderson, the Director of Innovation at Swinerton.

2:16 - Amy: "Do you see any parallels where we are today, moving from these 2D screens to 3D, to the metaverse, and Web3? I think we're at another nexus."

5:48 - Amy: "So I'd love quote your LinkedIn profile, because you don't talk about your experience the way everyone else does...You say 'Inventing the next wave of construction project delivery through a cycle of wisdom, wonder, and getting deep in the weeds.' So where does that come from, because I think those are words to live by?"

10:30 - Amy: "In your day-to-day in innovation, what percentage off your day is about 'what can technology do for us' and what is 'how do we incrementally improve what we do on a daily basis,' because there is an incremental component to it?"

13:30 - Amy: "What are the things that are exciting you today? Is it technology, is it new process? What makes you leap out of bed in the morning?"

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Hot off the press, we have another episode of the Future Construct Podcast! This week, for Season 3, Episode 11, our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR), was delighted to welcome Ryan McMahon, the General Manager of the Manufacturing Informed Design Group at Autodesk, to the show (21-minute interview). The conversation between Ryan and Amy was a deep dive into several engaging topics, including how companies are leveraging manufacturing informed design, the divide between companies pushing the envelope and those that are remaining stagnant, where digital twins fits into developing end-to-end data sharing and optimization mechanisms, as well as compelling technologies that Ryan wants to adopted more.

About Ryan McMahon
Ryan is the General Manager of the Manufacturing Informed Design Group working on building new solutions to enable Industrialized Construction and productization for construction. He has worked for Autodesk for 12 years building and delivering manufacturing products including Factory Design Utilities, Process Analysis, Fusion Production, Factory Digital Twin and Generative Factory layout capabilities. Prior to Autodesk, Ryan worked for several startups delivering products for digital music, medical devices, IT compliance, and high-performance computing. Ryan holds 3 patents, has an MBA from the University of Washington, and a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Washington State University.

About Autodesk
Autodesk is changing how the world is designed and made. Their technology spans architecture, engineering, construction, product design, manufacturing, media, and entertainment, empowering innovators everywhere to solve challenges big and small. From greener buildings to smarter products to mesmerizing blockbusters, Autodesk software empowers innovators to design and make a better world for all.
But they’re restless to do more. At Autodesk, they don’t believe in waiting for progress, they believe in making it–by combining technologies, unleashing talent, unlocking insights, and empowering their customers to find solutions to the challenges they face today. Their software provides customers with the right tools to work, the ability to think flexibly, and the power to transform what actually needs making.

SHOW NOTES

6:13 - Amy: "So when you talk about your title, Manufacturing Informed Design, how are companies leveraging it now, and how are you optimizing the process?"

8:38 - Amy: "The thing that I'm always confused by in the AEC industry is that you have these companies that are really pushing the envelope on the art of the possible, building in all of these deficiencies, using and BIM and all these new technologies, but then there's that faction that 'if it ain't broke don't fix it.' Is this software going to help bring some of those companies along?"

11:54 - Amy: "Talking about optimization both manufacturing and bringing the two together, I personally have a focus on leveraging digital twin. The goal is to get this end-to-end data sharing and optimization mechanism, but really transparency between teams and factions. Where does digital twins fall into that, from your perspective?"

16:24 - Amy: "I'm sure you have a kind of birds eye view, given your experience, on a lot of tangential technologies that are impact the industry, AI, blockchain, XR. Are there things for you, that are really compelling for you, and that you want to see more adoption of?"

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The team at BIM Designs, Inc. produces the Future Construct Podcast. We will be at Geo Week 2023, and this week's podcast guest Johnny Fortune will also be at speaking as a part of the Opening Keynote Presentation: How Ready is the AEC Industry for Digitalization? where a panel of experts will discuss what has and hasn't changed in technological innovations, how they've seen organizations define the value of a shift into the digital age, whether or not certain companies and users are ready for it and much more. Use promo code SPEAKER100 for a free expo hall pass or $100 off a Full Conference Pass. Geo Week is a conference you won't want to miss!

It's a new week, and that means another episode of the Future Construct Podcast! For Season 3, Episode 10, our host Amy Peck(@AmyPeckXR), was thrilled to welcome Johnny Fortune, the BIM Program Director at the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS), to the show (22-minute interview). The conversation between Johnny and Amy touched on a handful of thought-provoking topics, including adoption ratings, inefficiencies, industry standards, and challenges, as well as their impact. They also discussed a roadmap from BIM to, ultimately, the AR cloud and some transcendent industry technologies.

About Johnny Fortune

Johnny Fortune is a technology leader and subject matter expert in building information management (BIM) for the architecture, engineering, construction, and owner/operator industry. He serves as the Director of the U.S. National BIM Program with the National Institute of Building Sciences, where he focuses on the program launch and implementation plan to improve efficiencies in the design and construction industry. Johnny has more than 20 years of experience in computer-aided design and BIM management. Throughout his career, he has successfully helped many professionals adopt various levels of design and construction technology, from hand drafting to virtual design and construction.

During the interview, Johnny discussed numerous topics with host Amy Peck(@AmyPeckXR), including:

What Johnny attributes the slow adoption rating and inefficiencies to, as well as industry standards and challenges
Industry standards that Johnny's seen come about and enacted in the past decade that have been really impactful
Whether people are drawing a line from BIM to building the as-built, to digital twins smart buildings, to smart cities, to ultimately the AR cloud
Some of the technologies that Johnny thinks are having the most impact

SHOW NOTES 0:12 Amy Peck introduces Johnny Fortune, the BIM Program Director at the National Institute of Building Sciences.

2:15 Amy: "So what do you attribute the slow adoption rating and inefficiencies to, because there aren't a lack of standards? And what are the challenges, because it's such a behemoth of an industry?"

4:19 Amy: "And since you've been focused on standards, what are some of the standards that you've seen come about and enacted in the past decade that have been really impactful, and how do we rinse and repeat?"

15:08 Amy: "In terms of your own interest in the industry, what are some of the technologies that you think are having the most impact, and do you think it's somewhat of a slow burn for some of these technologies?"

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It's a new year, and we at Future Construct and BIM Designs, Inc. want to welcome you to 2023. This year, we'll dive deeper into the industry's hottest topics and cutting-edge technological advances as we interview some it's most insightful and forward-thinking leaders. To kickstart it, for Season 3, Episode 9, our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) was thrilled to welcome Ron Mann, the Vice President of Modular Systems at TD Industries, on to the show (22-minute interview). Ron and Amy engaged in a technologically profound conversation as they touched on many insightful topics during the interview, covering how may need to begin thinking differently about working with data and tech, AI deployment, how blockchain may push the industry forward, and Star Trek.

About Ron Mann

Ron Mann leads the Modular division and is responsible for business development, design and production of industrial and data center modular solutions. He has over 25 years of experience in product design, project development and manufacturing. Before joining TDIndustries, Ron was VP of Engineering at TAS Energy, Inc. developing modular IT data center and industrial solutions. Additionally, he helped to launch Vertiv's new data center infrastructure business and spent 20 years at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, leading infrastructure and modular data center initiatives.

During the interview, Ron discussed numerous topics with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR), including:

A potential point at which we may have to think differently about how we work with data and progressing technology
Whether artificial intelligence is being deployed and how it's being leveraged to balance redundancies
How blockchain and racks of servers may become productized, whether that pushes the industry forward, and some dangers we could be missing
How Star Trek influenced his origin story with technology

SHOW NOTES

0:12 - Amy Peck introduces Ron Mann, the Vice President of Modular Systems at TD Industries.

6:44 - Amy: "So just by your history, it's clear where you got your geek stripes, but the origin story might be right behind you. Can you tell us what's going on back there?"

9:00 - Amy: "Is there a point at which we have to fundamentally have to think differently about how we work with all of this data and technology? Is it going to be the data centers that we know today or are they going to be on a wafer?"

13:25 - Amy: "Are you seeing AI (artificial intelligence) being deployed or have heard a lot of balancing around redundancies and leveraging AI to do that. You're saying some of these servers are at 95% capacity. How do you maintain critical up-time while offloading or managing compute?"

17:10 - Amy: "Blockchain and individual minors who are now putting racks of servers in their basements...that is the definition of inefficiency. Do you see that becoming productized? Is that pushing things forward, or because there's so much experimentation with minors, there might be some dangers that we're missing?"

20:08 - Amy: "If you could project yourself 20 to 25 years into the future, and you could bring with you any product or service that would just make you personally happy or make your life better in some way, what would it be, and what would it do?"

Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

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In celebration of Veterans Day, this week, for Season 3, Episode 8, our host Amy Peck welcomed Mike Hazard, the UA ITF Training Specialist for the United Association Veterans in Piping (VIP) Training Program, onto the show (26-minute interview). Mike and Amy covered reintegrating veterans into civilian life, challenges attracting millennials and Generation Z, technology as a recruitment tool, and the evolution of technology.

About Mike Hazard
In 1988, Mike joined the United States Navy. He served as an Aviation Rescue Swimmer and H-46 Helicopter Mechanic for 11 years before being honorably discharged in 1999 as a Petty Officer First Class. In 1999, Mike returned to the UA as a Journeyman Pipefitter. As a member of the UA working in the construction field, Mike was promoted to the position of Foreman in 2000, General Foreman in 2001, and in 2002 to the position of General Superintendent. In 2005, Mike accepted a position with the Southern California Plumbers and Pipefitters Apprenticeship & Journeymen Training Trust Fund (A&J Training) as a Training Coordinator.

During the interview, Mike discussed numerous topics with host Amy Peck, including:

Difficulties approaching the job market as a skilled and trained veteran, and when the Veterans in Piping program originated
Challenges getting the next generation of digital natives to get in and work with their hands in the trades
Some of the other things, whether it's robotics or automation that Mike is seeing being leveraged that poses an exciting evolution in technology

To ease the transition back into civilian life, the United Association established the UA Veterans in Piping (VIP) Program to equip military service members preparing to leave the service with sought-after skills that can lead to lifelong careers in the increasingly in-demand pipe trades. Through 18-week accelerated courses - provided free of cost on military bases across the country - VIP participants earn industry-recognized certifications and direct entry into solid private-sector jobs with good pay and benefits.

In October 2012, Mike accepted a position with the United Association as a Training Specialist assigned to the Veterans in Piping (VIP) Training Program. Mike manages the day-to-day operations of nine VIP training sites and serves as the United Association’s representative for Helmets to Hardhats.

SHOW NOTES

4:24 - Amy: "So, from your own personal story, you mentioned that your whole family is in the industry, and you had that support system. Was this program created because, collectively, coming out of the military, you have incredible discipline, training, and skills, yet, the job market can be a challenge? When did this program start?"

9:34 - Amy: "Do you find it very common for family members to be in the trade because it seems like there are some challenges getting this next generation of digital natives to get in and work with your hands? Are you finding that as a challenge as well?"

12:31 - Amy: "We talk a lot about technology, especially in traditional industries. I think on the training side, there's been so much great data to support how training in virtual environments, although they are expensive and cumbersome, they're changing workflows. Do you see technology as a way to train more people and entice more people into the industry?"

Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
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It's another week, which means an all-new episode of the Future Construct Podcast! This week, on Season 3, Episode 7, our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) was joined by John Rygg, the Technology Strategist and R&D HoloLens Product Owner for the Kiewit Innovation Team (27-minute interview). A lot of insightful topics were discussed during the session, as Amy and John delved into exchanges about augmented reality, wearable technology, and integration into the construction industry.

About John Rygg

With more than 20 years of experience managing and leading corporate IT teams in developing and implementing enterprise-wide software and infrastructure, John has been recognized as #10 on the 2017 Buildworlds Top 50 Technology Adoption Leaders. For much of his career, he has served in facilitating the technology strategic planning process to determine how IT can best benefit business outcomes. This also includes helping to capture innovation, thinking through corporate strategy, and putting technology to work to achieve it. In innovative and disruptive technologies, John has focused on identifying and driving incremental and disruptive innovation opportunities for field technologies resulting in operational excellence.

During the interview, John discussed numerous topics with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR), including:

Having IT heavily involved in the front-line innovation at Kiewit
What difficulties pose obstacles to integrating wearable technology into the construction environment
An explanation of the difference between pass-through video and true augmented reality and the impact each will have on the future of the industry
Jason's opinion on the delineation between AR and VR and the deployments of both headsets for different utilities

Kiewit is one of North America’s largest and most respected construction and engineering organizations. Their construction and design engineering professionals work on some of the industry’s most complex, challenging, and rewarding projects – whether it’s boring tunnels through mountains, turning rivers into energy, or building bridges that connect communities. Kiewit people tackle important projects of every size in any market.

SHOW NOTES

4:14 - Amy: "It's also a little bit unusual to have IT so heavily involved in that front-line innovation, so is that your impetus in saying, 'Hey, we need to look at this,' or was that already happening at the company?"

10:09 - Amy: "That [the construction environment] has always been one of the challenges because as great as those devices [wearable tech like HoloLens] are, they're not as rugged as we'd like them to be, and oftentimes you'd have to wear hard hats and rigs that work with hard hats. Do you find that it's the challenging environment or promoting adoption that is the difficulty?"

13:39 - Amy: "Can you explain the difference between pass-through video and true augmented reality, and what impact do you think these devices will have on the future of the industry?"

19:36 - Amy: "I guess this is a question for you, too, in terms of AR and VR. I don't look at augmented reality and virtual reality as competing technologies ... Where do you see that delineation, and do you see deploying both kinds of headsets for different utilities?"

Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
Schedule a free consultation: sales@bimdesigns.net.
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This week on the Future Construct Podcast, our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) had the opportunity to talk with Jason Goecke (@jsgoecke), the Vice President & General Manager of Intel Commercial Client Software & Services on Season 3, Episode 4 (26-minute interview). During the interview, Amy and Jason exchange a tremendous amount of insight information and thought-provoking questions about the impact of software on today's industry and that of the future.

About Jason Goecke
By those around him, Jason has been described as influential, innovative, and inspiring. Goecke is an experienced CEO, CTO, and Board Advisor with a passion for high-tech advancements and data analytics. He is skilled in leading high-performance global teams, processes, and partnerships to success from the ground-up, and delivers big-picture thinking with attention for even the smallest details. Goecke serves as an international management consultant to Fortune 500 firms and as a frequent guest speaker at global industry conferences for collaboration, open source telephony, cloud, and call center technologies.

Intel’s mission is to shape the future of technology to help create a better future for the entire world. By pushing forward in fields like AI, analytics and cloud-to-edge technology, Intel’s work is at the heart of countless innovations. Jason is responsible for overseeing all operational aspects of the Intel Unite business, including product strategy, product development, go-to-market strategy, as well as building and leveraging key industry partnerships.

During the interview Jason discussed numerous topics with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR), including:

Why it is important for companies to embrace cloud technology, especially for those being more cautious
The need for companies to exhibit transparency, in optimizing their own operations and in how environmentally conscious they are
Things that excite Jason about emerging technology, and some of the things he's seeing that are interesting trends
Jason's futuristic gadget or service that would increase personal happiness and make his life better

SHOW NOTES

0:12 - Amy Peck introduces Jason Goecke, the Vice President & General Manager of Intel Commercial Client Software & Services.

3:54 - Amy: "So in your day-to-day now, what are some of the technologies you're seeing, and what are you looking at that's exciting to you?"

6:36 - Amy: "That is very true that we hear about companies moving to the cloud, but then there are companies that are still reticent. They're nervous about security. Why is it important for companies to embrace cloud, especially for those who are taking a back seat for a 'wait and see' moment?"

11:23 - Amy: "So I do want to come back to something you said about transparency. I am a big believer that it's time to rip the bandage off, and for companies to exhibit transparency, not only in optimizing their own operations, but to also show how environmentally conscious they are at a consumer level. How do we get there and move to this new paradigm?"

Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

BIM Designs, Inc.: minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry.
Schedule a free consultation: sales@bimdesigns.net.
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During Geo Week 2022, Amy Peck, the Founder/CEO of EndeavorVR and host of The Future Construct Podcast had the distinct privilege of delivering the Keynote Address. The theme of Geo Week was the intersection of geospatial + the built world, and Amy’s keynote address delivered poignant insights into current technology, with glimpses into the future of what the confluence of these two worlds could look like. Geo Week is one of the most relevant programs that covers geospatial technologies and the built environment. Experts from a range of backgrounds meet, collaborate, and gain insights into the newest technology, improved efficiencies on the market, and the future, all under one roof.

Amy is a thought leader in the field of VR, AR, and emerging technologies and on the Future Construct Podcast, she regularly interviews industry experts from the biggest names in the industry, venture capital firms, and construction startups. The podcast, which has featured more than 50 guests, has been on the air for almost two years and serves as a knowledge resource for all who are construction technology novices, experts in the AEC industry, and everything in between.

During her speech, Amy discusses:

The state of the current digital transformation
Why reactive mode is a non-starter for innovative thinking
What the next phase of immersive tech looks like
How digital tech is changing the building landscape

SHOW NOTES

4:27 - Amy: "We must address the elephant in the room ... the metaverse. So we're not going to talk about the metaverse today, but if any of your leadership is saying we need to explore the metaverse, don't say that you don't because it did not just fall out of the sky and it isn't going anywhere."

7:06 - Amy: "I look at collaboration as a key element in all business activities, but these are the four primary use cases for XR today. And collaboration touches all of them, certainly, training, visualization, and design can all be done on a solitary cycle, but at some point, we will all need to collaborate." [followed by video]

11:46 - Amy: "So that gives you examples of solutions that are out there today. Different companies have different appetites for being early adopters. Still, there is technology that is out there that is very specific to our industry today, and we're going to talk about some of those."

24:30 - Amy: "IoT is now IoE, the internet of everything. And the enablers, this foundation is being built all around and has a lot of shortcomings, but it's functional now. There are ways to leverage cloud, 5G, and Edge to be able to deliver these solutions to your workforce."

Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

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In this week’s release of Season 3, Episode 4 (16-minute podcast) of the Future Construct Podcast, our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) is thrilled to be joined by Barry Wurzel, the Founder and President at Wurzel Builders.

Join our host, Amy Peck, to learn from Barry about Wurzel Builder's work renovating commercial projects in several sectors. Barry brings 33 years of construction management experience to his work. He spent fifteen years working with excellent companies like The Target Corporation and CF Jordan before forming Wurzel Builders in 1998. Over the years, they’ve worked with numerous companies, including HEB, Walmart, Starbucks, Target, CVS Pharmacy, and Charles Schwab. While it takes a lot to put a building together, Barry has learned over the years that it’s just as important to pull together a team, to orchestrate the personalities toward reaching a common goal. Barry is confident that not only will the company be able to offer clients the best quality of work, but also offer coworkers an exciting environment of growth and opportunity.

Wurzel Builders' transparent process, comprehensive services, and key sense to detail ensure that they can confidently deliver on time and on budget. They see the gaps ahead of time and offer proactive solutions and discover new possibilities designed with their team’s creative viewpoint. As a full-service general contractor and construction manager, we have extensive experience in construction, renovating projects in the hospitality, multifamily, healthcare, retail, industrial, office, and restaurant industries. Their comprehensive construction services, leadership, planning, and proactive approach to projects ensure each client’s vision is executed efficiently to meet or exceed their expectations.

Highlights of Barry's interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

Some of the ways the industry has changed and optimized the building process
How Wurzel Builders find that balance, in our modern times, and shift into more modern building constructs, regardless of archaic methods still in use
The change in types of projects at Wurzel Builders that come with their rapid growth and how that has catapulted them into new sectors
The origin story and focus of Barry's other company, Southern Cutting and Coring

As a commercial builder and general contractor, Barry Wurzel is a strategist, known for his hands-on approach and open communication style in everything he does, and he’s a problem solver who values moving forward over looking back.

SHOW NOTES

0:12 - Amy Peck introduces Barry Wurzel, the Founder and President at
Wurzel Builders.

3:26 - Amy: "In your long career, what are some ways, whether it's technology or processes, what are some of the ways the industry has changed and hopefully optimized the building process?"

4:35 - Amy: "Coming to more recent times, where we have our mobile devices, iPads, and BIM, there's a lot of technology out there to optimize, but there's still an
'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' component in the industry. So how do you find that balance and shift into more modern building constructs?"

7:10 - Amy: "So let's talk about a few of your projects. You mentioned that you're growing rapidly. Have the types of projects changed? You made a shift from public to private sector. Have you grown into other sectors as the company's grown?"

9:54 - Amy: "So in your day to day, what's the focus of your other company, Southern Cutting and Coring? Why did you start that yourself?"

14:28 - Amy: "If you could project yourself 20 to 25 years into the future, and you could have any product or service that would just make you personally happy or make your life better in some way, what would it be, and what would it do?"

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In this week’s release of Season 3, Episode 3 (46-minute podcast) of the Future Construct Podcast, our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) is thrilled to be joined by Hugh Seaton, the General Manager at CSI Crosswalk and Cimatri.

Join Amy, to learn from Hugh about CSI Crosswalk's work enabling software and internal systems to easily translate quantities, costs and other project data. Hugh has spent a career digging up the best version of the truth he could find, from reach and frequency metrics in advertising, business culture in China, to startup financing. Now, he spends a crazy amount of time trying to analyze and share information about the Construction industry. As General Manager of the Crosswalk business line at CSI, and General Manager at Cimatri, Hugh gets to experience the industry at its fundamental level and hear how different companies use data to run projects. As host of the Constructed Futures Podcast, he speaks to two construction rockstars per week; and as the author of the Construction Technology Handbook, he presented a primer on technology for today’s construction professional.

Highlights of Hugh's interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

Artificial intelligence and machine learning, how it solves problems, and how that can be compared to human learning.
The general divide that will become increasingly apparent with the implementation of artificial intelligence.
How smart cities need to be defined in greater detail than the current landscape of development.
Hugh's prediction on the progression of technology with wearables such as augmented reality glasses, smart watches, as well as with motion sensors.

Hugh is the CEO of The Link, a Construction Requirements Management platform based on the most advanced graph database technology, combined with the most tried & tested field insights. The Requirements Manager automatically processes your PDF spec manual into a submittal log, as well as testings, meetings and closeout logs. Search across documents, check submittal logs side by side with the original, create lists & exports, and more.

SHOW NOTES

0:12 Amy Peck introduces Hugh Seaton, the General Manager at CSI Crosswalk and Cimatri.

4:49 Amy: "Neuroscience is still a relatively new field. We're trying to get to super intelligence and humans are kind of medium intelligence. We're fed some much on what AI can do, so what is it going to take for there to be a real breakthrough?"

12:15 Amy: "We talked about putting parameters on creative AI's, and I think what may happen is we'll start to understand our own patterns on how we process information. In terms of though process, and how we build the inputs for AI, I'd love your opinion on what we can let loose in the creative world."

18:38 Amy: "If we sort of move back a little, there so much talk on smart buildings and a desire to wire into smart cities. There are elements of them, but I don't believe there's an example of a true smart city. I do see that we're moving toward that, but the amount of data we'll have to parse dynamically in order for this vision of the city of the future, how far and real are we from achieving this notion of a smart city?"

25:19 Amy: "How do we want to live in 20, 25, 30, 50 years, or how do we want our children to live? We miss a lot of the human factor, and as human we have lost the ability to fantasize about what we want the world to be like. And now you add this layer of the meta verse, and there will be lots of digitization around us. What do actually want to future of the world to look like, and does anyone has an answer to that?"

44:02 Amy: "If you could project yourself 20 to 25 years into the future, and you could have any product or service that would just make you pe

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In this week’s release of Season 3, Episode 2 (31-minute podcast) of the Future Construct Podcast, our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) is thrilled to be joined by Dr. Burcin Kaplanoglu, the Vice President of Innovation and Oracle Industry Lab at Oracle.

Join our host, Amy Peck, to learn from Burcin about Oracle's work providing computing infrastructure and how that will help the AEC Industry become more innovative and efficient. Dr. Burcin Kaplanoglu is a recognized industry technologist, innovator, thought leader, and keynote speaker. He is leading innovation and Oracle Industry Lab as co-founder. LinkedIn's Chief Editor recognized him as one of the “5 content creators to follow” on LinkedIn in 2022. Also in 2022, he received the prestigious James B. Porter, Jr. Award for Technology Leadership by the Construction Industry Institute (CII) in recognition for his contributions, innovation and dedication to the construction and engineering industry. He has been Chair of the Board Committee at AI in Construction Institute (planning funded by National Science Foundation (NSF) and Discovery Partners Institute) since 2020. He was recognized as one of the “BuiltWorlds 2020 Mavericks” in the Technologists category and one of the 7 “AEC Innovators” by @BD+C magazine. He received CEGBU “Let’s build” award in 2020. He was named one of Engineering News Record (ENR)’s "Top 20 Under 40" in 2016. He is also an adjunct professor at Northwestern University's McCormick School of Engineering.

Oracle is a cloud technology company that provides organizations worldwide with computing infrastructure and software to help them innovate, unlock efficiencies and become more effective. From nonprofits to companies of all sizes, millions of people use their tools to streamline supply chains, make HR more human, quickly pivot to a new financial plan, and connect data and people worldwide.

Highlights of Burcin's interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

The methodology behind technological experimentation at Oracle and how much customers play into that process
How Burcin sees technology and information becoming more broadly adopted within the industry in the future
Some of the challenges we face with integrating permit technology and other forms of advancement and how much we should trust them
How advanced full digital twin landscapes are, and what impact does that have on streamlining construction

SHOW NOTES

0:12 - Amy Peck introduces Burcin Kaplanoglu, the Vice President of Innovation and Oracle Industry Lab at Oracle.

1:26 - Amy: "In terms of how you experiment, is driven a lot by customers, or do you have a plan of we're going to work on all of these technologies this year and it just organically leads from project to project?"

6:08 - Amy: "How do you see technology or even just information getting out there and beginning to permeate where it becomes more broadly adopted in the industry?"

13:49 - Amy: "Do you see a point where we can start to have a baseline of interpretation of what a permit requirement is that is done automatically? What are some of the challenges of adopting that type of technology, and can we trust it?"

17:10 - Amy: "Can we talk a little bit about simulating some of the work that you're doing in the [Oracle Industry Lab], where we can build entire digital twins even before one brick is laid on the construction site? How advanced is that today, and how much is that streamlining the construction process?"

28:03 - Amy: "If you could project yourself 20 to 25 years into the future, which you do daily, and you could have any product or service that would just make you personally happy or make your life better in some way, what would it be and what would it do?"

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We are BACK with Season Three of the Future Construct Podcast! Thank you for supporting the show for two amazing seasons, and if you're new to our platform, we welcome you! In this week’s Season 3 premiere episode (24-minute podcast), our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) is thrilled to be joined by Michelle Bockman, the President of Stanley X. Stanley X is a group of business leaders, entrepreneurs, technologists, designers, commercial and innovation strategists empowering innovation across Stanley Black & Decker. Their mission is to create new sources of growth for Stanley Black & Decker and to lead disruption in their core industries. Their experience is in startups, technology, entrepreneurship and venture capital that is committed to the strategic and innovative development of exponential growth opportunities. Their process involves ideation, incubation, acceleration and development of exponential growth opportunities. Stanley X focuses on industrial and manufacturing services, commercial construction and talent services.

Join Amy Peck, to learn from Michelle about the identity and work behind Stanley X and their outlook on their plan to be a key role player in the evolution of construction. Michelle has always been curious about how things move and work. From her days as a mechanical engineer and as a corporate executive, she's found tremendous value in taking things apart and reconfiguring them in innovative, optimized ways. Throughout Michelle's career, she's used that same curiosity and skill to deconstruct, examine the parts, test the functions, and put them back together. As a result, she's been able to transform under-performing organizations into highly successful ones, no matter the industry.

Highlights of Michelle's interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

Michelle discusses some of the things that she's excited about in terms of leveraging technology
Discussion about the difficulty integrating frontier technology in the work that Stanley X is doing
Some of the technologies that Michelle thinks are really going to be transformative for the AEC industry
Notable companies that have experienced success in the Stanley X incubator

Michelle is an authentic leader who doesn't need to steal the show — but she will make her voice heard with her own point of view. She has a passion for building high-performing teams and the kind of open and transparent culture that supports them. Michelle works hard to develop each person on her team, some of whom have been with her in one way or another for over 10 years. As a corporate leader with a background in diverse industries and functions, she has experienced many aspects of businesses and their cycles. But each unique challenge demands the same outcome: to deliver its very best for the customer.

SHOW NOTES

0:12 Amy Peck introduces Michelle Bockman, the President of Stanley X.

6:04 Michelle discusses some of the things that she's excited about in terms of leveraging technology.

10:41 Amy as Michelle about the lack of having utility of frontier technology in our personal lives, and discusses her ideology about whether it more difficult to incorporate it in the work she does at Stanley X.

15:47 Amy: "You know you're working cross spectrum with many different types of technology, and it's hard for me to not ask about immersive technology, but are there some technologies that you think are really going to be transformative for the industry?"

18:49 Amy: "So what are some of the other companies, besides Data, that have had particular success [in the Stanley X incubator] that you'd like to share?"

21:22 Amy: "If you could project yourself 20 to 25 years into the future, and you could bring with you any gadget, software or service, or anything that would just make you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?"

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (90 min interview), we are excited to feature Mark Oden, CEO of BIM Designs, Inc. (@BIMdesignsInc) as the host of the BIM Project Approaches Panel, along with Dustin Williams - CEO of Flywheel AEC (@FlywheelAEC), Tim Riefenberg - Senior Process Manager at Balfour Beatty (@balfourbeatty), and Kurt Johnston - CAD Applications Lead at Kiewit (@kiewit), as they talked during GeoWeek 2022 about how to best apply BIM to projects without adding more time or complexity to that project, what their approaches are to integrating BIM into their processes, and how BIM has improved their AEC workflows.

Highlights of the BIM Project Approaches Panel at GeoWeek 2022 include:
- Explanations on BIM Designs, Inc., Flywheel AEC, Balfour Beatty, and Kiewit are involved in the AEC industry, and role each panelist plays in their respective companies.
- How we can ensure we're getting every single stakeholder along the process to buy in to the integration of BIM?
- The methodology behind keeping communication flowing with the owner and general contractor, but also with the field
- Dealing with general contractors and primes that don't have BIM in-house, and how to get them up to speed and everyone on the same page

Dustin founded FlywheelAEC, a technology solutions provider for architectural, engineering, and construction projects. He is also the CEO and co-founder of Remote Optix (@RemoteOptix). He is a creative and innovative leader who specializes in BIM for infrastructure as well as reality capture utilizing drones and laser scanning. He has over a decade of engineering, surveying, and BIM experience in California, Colorado, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. Dustin’s expertise includes working from conceptual planning through design, construction, and operations on a broad range of commercial, residential, institutional, and mixed-use projects.

Tim started off as an architect, designing and building custom plantation homes in Bluffton, SC. He shifted focus to his technical skills to get a job. His expertise brought him back to Chicago as a consultant, specializing in advanced modeling and laser scanning several large GSA projects in Chicago. When the economy recovered, he was brought into NELSON Chicago (@NELSONworldwide) as a design architect. This role led him to begin teaching Revit firm-wide. Later on, he would be responsible for converting Balfour Beatty's MEP department to REVIT MEP.

Kurt has been with Kiewit for 9+ years, with his role being centered around system design & support for MicroStation, AutoCAD, NavisWorks and everything in between. Prior to Kiewit, he was previously a BIM Manager for Virtual Building Logistics, and a Design Associate for Olsson Associates, a nationally recognized, employee-owned engineering and design firm founded with the mindset of improving communities by making them more sustainable, better connected, and more efficient.

SHOW NOTES

10:23 - Dustin Williams introduces Flywheel AEC, explaining the company's background and the role they play in the AEC industry.

22:33 - Tim Riefenberg introduces Balfour Beatty, detailing their history, projects, and service offerings.

34:52 - Kurt Johnston introduces Kiewit, detailing their background, experience, and service offerings.

55:36 - Panel Question: The BIM process can be so simplified, but how can we make sure we're getting every single stakeholder along the process to buy in to the integration of BIM?

1:02:32 - Panel Question: How do we not only communicate with the owner and general contractor, but also with the field?

1:13:47 - Panel Question: Have you dealt with any general contractors and primes that don't have BIM in-house, and how do you help them get up to speed and everyone on the same page?

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In this week’s episode of the Future Construct Podcast (34-minute podcast), our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) is thrilled to be joined by Dr. Mani Golparvar (@mgolpar2), CTO and Co-Founder of Reconstruct (@reconstructinc). Reconstruct is a startup that Mani has been a driving force behind and describes it as a “Software-as-a-Service company” that equips an “AI-powered digital twin platform.” Reconstruct operates by integrating reality modeling, building information modeling, and project scheduling to visually track progress, analyze productivity, and proactively detect potential delays using predictive analytics.

We learn from Mani about the process behind Reconstruct and how they plan to impact the future of construction. Founded in 2016, Reconstruct has already been acknowledged by several industrial awards, such as Crunchbase’s 50 Hot Tech Companies Globally in 2019, the 2016 World Economic Forum most innovative startup company, and the 2016 Innovation Award from Turner Construction (@turner_talk). He is also an Associate Professor of Civil Engineering, Computer Science, & Technology Entrepreneurship and the director of the Real-time and Automated Monitoring and Control lab at the University of Illinois (@UofIllinois).

Dr. Golparvar is highly regarded with his list of academic and lifetime achievements going on and on. His industry-leading work in the area of computer vision, machine learning, and BIM has been recognized by many awards, including the 2018 Walter Huber Research Prize from the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), 2017 National Top 20 Under 40 from ENR; 2016 Dan Halpin Award for Scholarship in Construction, and 2013 James Croes Medal for innovation in Civil Engineering from ASCE.

Highlights of Mani's interview with host Amy Peck include:

How Reconstruct is helping construction companies design digital twins of construction sites to help paint the picture for the future of construction.
Mani discusses how he is helping influence and educate the next generation of entrepreneurs.
How KPIs can measure tangible impacts in your startup.
How Mani sees the future of robotics impacting the construction industry and coexisting with workers and management teams.

Prior to his work with Reconstruct, Mani has been a part of many national and international construction companies. Most extensively with Turner Construction, where he spent 2 and a half years before becoming an assistant professor in civil engineering at Virginia Tech (@virginia_tech) and going on to become the Director of Real-Time and Automated Monitoring and Control Lab. It was through his early success and through his ongoing research that he was able to build Reconstruct into the industry-changing company it is today. Dr. Golparvar’s vision is to take construction to new heights. With his expertise in AI, BIM, and augmented reality, Reconstruct is in a position to do just that.

SHOW NOTES

0:12 - Amy Peck introduces Dr. Mani Golparvar, the Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder of Reconstruct.

4:16 - Dr. Golparvar talks about weekly coordination meetings at construction sites being archaic and how Reconstruct can completely change how construction sites operate.

18:10 - Dr. Golparvar talks about his vision for the future of the construction industry and how KPIs help him and his colleagues to gauge success on several different levels.

25:16 - Amy asks Dr. Golparvar about other technologies in his industry that he is wowed by. This is followed by an interesting conversation about the impact robotics has on the future of construction.

31:19 - Dr. Golparvar talks about the “painstaking administrative work that we do in construction” and how to make it completely autonomous. “So we can have our people work, focus on more value-adding tasks.”

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In this week's mini-episode of the Future Construct Podcast (10 min interview), we are excited to feature Mark Oden, CEO of BIM Designs, Inc. (@BIMdesignsInc), and our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) as they talked during GeoWeek 2022 about the best approaches to BIM projects, better practices for BIM management, and how to integrate technology and tools throughout the end-to-end construction process. Mark also hosted a panel on BIM Project Approaches during the conference featuring representatives from Balfour Beatty, Kiewit, and Flywheel AEC. And next week, we will be releasing the video of this incredibly insightful panel discussion!

BIM Designs, Incorporated is a BIM company and one of the only certified, federally-recognized minority-owned businesses (MBE) and union-signatories in North America, providing turnkey MEPF design and detailing solutions to contractors that cost-effectively expand their virtual design and construction capabilities. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and culture.

Prior to BIM Designs, Inc., Mark co-founded Taskware, an API-based micro-tasking platform, and served as the organization's COO. While working at Cisco, he served in several roles, ranging from Network Engineering, Product Management, Strategy and Planning, Mergers and Acquisitions, and Business Development. Mark is a Cisco Pioneer Award winner and Best of Interop Finalist for his work as Product Manager for the WebEx and Media Services Interface integration (Medianet).

Highlights of Mark’s interview at GeoWeek 2022 with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:
- Analyzing some of Mark's great takeaways and inspiration from other panels at GeoWeek 2022
- How do we overcome the challenges of the way things are done today and improve processes for the future
- Some key learnings from other specialties that Mark hadn't really considered before, specifically with drone technology

In the midst of his professional career, Mark took a year-long sabbatical, during which he traveled to several countries, including Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, and Cuba. During this experience, he studied Spanish and remotely advised three startups, improving their pitch decks and styles, investigating and understanding their underlying technology to defend their solutions to interested investors.

Mark has been featured on the Bridging the Gap Podcast with Todd Weyandt. He discussed BIM and the collaboration between detailers and other teams in a project atmosphere. Watch the full interview here. To learn more about Mark's background and his responsibilities at BIM Designs, Inc., check out his company profile.

SHOW NOTES

0:12 - Amy Peck introduces Mark Oden, CEO of BIM Designs, Inc.

01:34 - So, what were some of the other panels that you went to where you had some great takeaways or were just inspired by the conversation?

3:02 - There are the challenges of the way things are done today that people have been doing for decades. So the change feels slow on one hand, but seems to be accelerating. What are some the things you've seen, where you think, "Ok, this is where we need to get to?"

6:21 - And I think the other things I'd like to ask you about is, what are some the learnings? Did you come away and learn some things from other specialities that you hadn't really considered before?

8:14 - How does [drone technology] impact pizza delivery for me?

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In this week's episode and final installment of the Future Construct Podcast and Shadow Ventures special 4-part series, we are excited to feature Edgar Martinez Ceja and Ali Khaloo, Co-Founders of Aren, who are also the COO and CEO respectively, in part one and Mike Giacco, Director of Technology at AI Engineers (@AI_Engineers) in part two. Joining host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) as co-host for this special episode is KP Reddy (@reddy_kp) from Shadow Ventures. KP is a globally recognized authority in AEC environments, AI, robotics, automation, mobile applications, and cloud computing and a sought-after subject matter expert, frequently speaking worldwide on BIM and the built environment.

Edgar brings significant business, engineering, and startup expertise to his role at Aren. His prior roles include CEO at Niltsi (a pre-revenue startup in the wind energy space), as well as stints at Bain & Company (@BainAlerts), Fusion Media Group (@FusionMedia), and Univision (@Univision). Over the course of his career, Edgar has been responsible for investing in, acquiring, and operating digital media businesses in the range of $100M in annual revenue, leading a digital vertical with $35M in annual revenue. He also co-founded a company that toured robotic educational exhibits throughout Latin America and Asia, exposing millions of kids to technology. Edgar holds an MBA from NYU-Leonard N. Stern School of Business (@NYUStern) and an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois (@UofIllinois).

After completing his Ph.D., Ali was appointed as a Postdoctoral Fellow at Cornell University’s (@Cornell) elite Runway program at the Cornell Tech campus in New York City, where Aren was born. He has a unique background that includes over a decade of work and R&D in structural engineering, robotics, computer vision, autonomous sensing, data interpretation, and artificial intelligence. He has authored more than 20 papers published in international high-impact journals and conference proceedings and holds several patents on automated generation and AI-powered analysis of 3D models of large civil infrastructure systems.

In part two of this podcast, we are excited to feature Mike Giacco, Director of Technology at AI Engineers (@AI_Engineers). Mike has over 18 years of experience in the AEC industry, with the past 6 years focused on technology implementation. He is an FAA Part 107 Licensed Remote Pilot-in-Command and leads AI’s UAS Program as well as all other company technology initiatives. Mike has performed numerous UAS operations involving signature bridge structure inspection, construction documentation, emergency response, and survey/mapping. Most recently, his team brought artificial intelligence (AI) to the firm to assist with asset inspection and evaluation, keeping AIE on the cutting-edge of UAS capabilities.

Highlights of Edgar, Ali and Mike’s interviews with hosts Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) and KP Reddy (@reddy_kp) include:

The methodology behind connecting the dots between academia teaching you how to research and actually applying that to go to market
How we can create the workflows for things to be easily adopted so that we build things in a more efficient and better way in the future
Current industry trends around transparency when it comes to technology
How recruiting is taking shape in our modernized and technology-driven world, in terms of culture and hiring

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (26 min interview), we are excited to feature Clay Smith, CEO at eVolve MEP (@evolvemep) and COO at Applied Software (ASTI) (@Applied_SW), and our host Amy Peck(@AmyPeckXR). eVolve MEP helps leaders in the mechanical, electrical and plumbing industries harness the power of Revit (@AutodeskRevit) for increased revenue, improved productivity, a stronger workforce and enhanced quality. They do this through software and services that enable faster detailer workflow, smarter use of skilled labor, fewer errors, higher quality and ultimately more projects. Partnered with ASTI, one of the largest AEC, Construction, Fabrication and Manufacturing System integrators in North America, eVolve MEP has created a tremendous breakthrough solution to meet the demands of the MEP prefabrication market.

As CEO, Clay launched and rapidly grew eVolve MEP, a construction technology start-up and comprehensive SaaS technology platform. He manages a versatile team (6 direct reports/65 total employees) of trade-specific product managers, software developers, and SaaS sales professionals, along with a talented executive team that he recruited and that propelled the business to the top of the subtrade software market.

Highlights of Clay’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

Drawing a correlation between skills applied in the military and skills applied in the MEP software industry
The rate at which customers are adopting technology, and how that might pose challenges in the future
How close we are to doing the "heavy lifting" in the cloud with the admin of 5G, real-time rendering, and edge compute and other tools
The influx of so much new technology in immersive technology, blockchain, AI, and how these emerging technologies will have an impact in our industry

As the COO, Clay focused on transforming the culture of ASTI from one of misalignment to one that attracts diverse talent from all over the US. He directed operational policies / organizational goals and managed sales and marketing, software development, technical consulting, and information technology. During his 6-year tenure, his efforts created $MM in value as the company grew to 158 employees (12 direct reports). As the empowerment-based culture he implemented flourished, ASTI’s turnaround became a growth story that catalyzed aggressive corporate growth via new client contracts and the subsequent need to recruit additional talent.

SHOW NOTES

0:12 Amy Peck introduces Todd Mustard, Vice President at The Association of Union Contractors.

04:16 It's interesting, because I didn't know you had a military background, but I do seem to come across a lot of people with military background. Do you think there's a correlation in some of the skills you'd apply in the military, you apply in this industry?

5:26 When you think about the work that you're doing, are you seeing customers really adopt technology on an end-to-end basis, or are they solving problems one at a time, and is that going to be an approach that becomes challenging in the future because there's so much technology coming at us now?

9:34 Do you think that with the admin of 5G, real-time rendering, and edge compute, that at some point, we'll be able to do the heavy lifting in the cloud and deliver the end result, or are we a decade away from that?

10:48 So we've talked about your evolution and how you're thinking about software and optimization and the move to the cloud, but there's so much technology coming in immersive technology, blockchain, AI. How do you see these emerging technologies starting to have an impact in our industry?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (20 min interview), we feature Todd Mustard, Vice President at The Association of Union Constructors (TUAC) (@TAUCbuilt), and our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR). As Vice President, Todd coordinates the government affairs activities of the association, serving as staff liaison to TAUC’s Government Affairs Committee, and working with various legislative coalitions including the Construction Employers of America (@CEABuilds), the Alliance for Industrial Efficiency (@CHPAlliance), the Carbon Capture Coalition (@CCSTechFacts), and the Energy4Us Coalition. Todd also leads the association’s efforts as it relates to industry innovation and technology, serving as the staff liaison to TAUC's Innovation and Technology Committee. He is the point person for the annual TAUC Leadership Conference, Industrial Grade Innovation (IGI) Conference and Expo, and State of the Union Construction Industry Forum, creating the agendas and content for these events. He is the project lead on TAUC's Legacy Partner Program, as well as new and existing affinity programs, and other member products and services.

Highlights of Todd’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

Addressing some of the industry challenges, and how technology can solve them, as well as some of the initiatives Todd is working on directly or indirectly
Bridging the knowledge gap, and where Todd sees some of the innovations coming on that side
How technology is going to be really important in enticing the next generation's workforce
What some of the cool jobs Todd is sees evolving now, that our kids can shape for the future

Over the last two decades Todd has helped market and promote the members of TAUC and the signatory contractors, international and local unions, and owner/clients who participate and use the National Maintenance Agreements. He has been lobbying for changes on Capitol Hill that would better the U.S.construction industry, and the people who work in it. For the last several years, Todd has been working to connect companies, people and ideas to help push the industry forward as it relates to the adoption of new innovation and technology. In addition to his role at TAUC, Todd also serves as the Vice President for the National Maintenance Agreements Policy Committee, Inc. (NMAPC) and as a board member for the Associated General Contractors of California.

SHOW NOTES

0:12 - Amy Peck introduces Todd Mustard, Vice President at The Association of Union Contractors.

02:33 - Moving away from communication, it seems you now have your finger on the pulse of innovation as well, and are really looking at addressing some of the industry challenges, and how technology can solve them. What are some of the initiatives you're working on directly or indirectly, and what are you seeing in terms of great use of technology in this realm?

8:53 - We talked a little bit about how we bridge the knowledge gap, and you have been front and center, so I'd love to see where you see some of the innovations coming on that side?

11:43 - Technology is going to really important in enticing the next generation workforce. In fact if you don't have emerging technology, you're not going to be able to attract this next generation workforce, so how is the industry tackling that piece of it as well?

15:26 - What would you say to your future kids, 20 years from now, about what types of careers are available for them to look at? You mentioned 3D printing, prefabrication, engineering. What are some of the cool jobs you see evolving now, that our kids now can shape?

18:27 - If you could project yourself 20 years into the future, and if you could have any product or service or gadget or thing, that for you, would make your life better or make you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (45-minute interview total in two parts), we are excited to feature Sara Maffey, Head of Corporate Strategy and Business Development at Local Logic (@local_logic) in part one and Cal Inman, Principal at ClimateCheck (@MyClimateCheck) in part two. Joining host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) as co-host for this special episode is KP Reddy (@reddy_kp) from Shadow Ventures. KP is a globally recognized authority in AEC environments, AI, robotics, automation, mobile applications, and cloud computing and a sought-after subject matter expert, frequently speaking worldwide on BIM and the built environment.

Sara Maffey's role combines her passions for real estate development and placemaking with data analytics and PropTech. She has deep experience throughout the built environment lifecycle, from site selection and economic development to construction management and commercial asset strategy. This background allows her to provide strategic real estate insights and help set the direction of Local Logic's growth. Prior to her role at Local Logic, Sara was the Founder and Curator-in-Chief of Localhippo, the Managing Director at Transwestern, President and CEO of Edgewood Strategies, and many other roles with a consulting and mechanical engineering background. Sara received her Bachelor of Arts in Urban Design and Architecture Studies from New York University and her Masters in Business Administration from Yale University.

At Shadow Ventures, the focus is on investing in startups in tech-nascent markets where strategic capital is scarce. Their process and closed ecosystem of entrepreneurs, investors, designers, and developers are driven by both experience and technology to radically change how startups start, and investors finish. The company was founded in 2018 and partners with exceptional founders to transform the built environment. Shadow Ventures' incubator is custom-built to grow the next generation of built environment startups. With less than a 5% acceptance rate, each startup undergoes a vigorous vetting process to be accepted. Their current portfolio is made up of companies tackling hard problems in construction and real estate tech with unique solutions. Learn more about the Shadow Ventures portfolio here.

In part two of this podcast, we are excited to feature Cal Inman, Principal at ClimateCheck (@MyClimateCheck). Cal is also the founder and CEO of ClimateCheck. He has a commercial real estate development background and is a lecturer at UC Berkeley Masters in Real Estate Development. Cal is a Bay Area developer who builds creative mix-used projects, including office, retail, mini-lot homes, and multifamily housing. His projects take a fresh approach to small infill with a focus on innovative design, construction techniques, and community-oriented placemaking. A graduate of the University of Southern California with a focus on real estate finance, Mr. Inman started his career working with cutting-edge developer Rick Holiday on adaptive reuse and ground-up multifamily projects in Oakland and San Francisco. He started his own practice in 2008 and lives in San Francisco with his wife and young son.

Highlights of Sara and Cal’s interviews with hosts Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) and KP Reddy (@reddy_kp) include:
- How consultants are adapting to the evolution of data collection
- Ways to proactively impact your surroundings and what opportunities are present in doing so
- How organizations can service their numerous factions that each have different applications and understanding of collected data
- Products and service of future that both Sara and Cal would like to see become developed

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (32 min interview), we are excited to feature Cynthia Maller, Head of 3D Creative Technology at Walmart (@Walmart), and our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR). Cynthia Maller is also the Head of 3D Creative Technology at three of Walmart's digitally-native brands: Hayneedle, Art.com and Allswell. She is a Certified Emotional Intelligence (EQ) Practitioner. Her focus is strengthening and scaling the three pillars of 3D in retail: inspiring aesthetics, visual integrity and operational excellence. She believes that every one of us has the talent and capability to add value to immersive commerce, and to be a builder, a citizen and a purveyor in the Metaverse. This drives her commitment to peer education, advocacy and invention. When she’s not at work, she’s on the ice, feeding her passion for figure skating. Her drive to try new things, to push herself, both in commerce technology and on the ice, is guided by the words of Erin Hanson, “What if I fall? Oh, but my darling, What if you fly?"

Highlights of Cynthia’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:
- How Cynthia developed Walmart to be "plug-and-play" and not vertical-specific in the world of 3D and visualization.
- The evolution of Cynthia's role becoming the go-to resource for Walmart about the metaverse
- How consumers can utilize 3D on a daily basis, and how they can become more involved in the conversation about integration
- The concept of gamification and developing more comfort about its adoption

In 1999, Cynthia began working as a Creative Director for Yahoo, and for the next 15 years, she held that same roles for large companies including Gyro International, Johnson and Johnson, PayPal, Sam's Club and Adobe. In 2015, she started shifting her focus towards user experience at Touch of Modern, where she led the UX team across all platforms, led a team of 18 photographers, stylists, and editors, and led brand development, creative, and packaging for 4 private label brands
She was able to sell through excellent design and strategic innovations to an approval council comprised of four founders, she created the first-ever 360 review process for HR. Cynthia, then took her talents and accomplishments to Munchery. She has acquired a wealth of knowledge in creative technology, and continues to expand her expertise in her role at Walmart. Walmart aims to build a better world — helping people live better and renew the planet while building thriving, resilient communities. For them, this means working to create opportunity, build a more sustainable future, advance diversity, equity and inclusion and bring communities closer together.

SHOW NOTES

0:12 - Amy Peck introduces Cynthia Maller, Head of 3D Creative Technology at Walmart.

06:09 - You were a visionary when you saw this evolution of 3D coming, and now it's metaverse everything. We're moving from 2D screens to 3D. How has been becoming the go-to resource for the entire company [Walmart] about the metaverse?

18:26 - Now hand in hand with the metaverse, another term we keep hearing about is this "creator economy," and it's similar to what you're doing at [Walmart]. How would people use 3D to do what do on a daily basis, and how do you engage consumers in that conversation of integrating that?

23:42 - You mention gamification, and that can have a positive or negative connotation, depending on who you talk to. So, how do we become more comfortable with the concept of gamification?

27:30 - If you could project yourself 20 years into the future, and if you could have any product or service or gadget or thing, that for you, would make your life better or make you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (30 min interview), we are excited to feature Mike Merrill (@michaeltmerrill), Co-Founder and Chief Evangelist at AboutTime Technologies - Workmax (@AboutTimeTechs), and our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR). In 2003, with another General Contractor & two Software Engineers, he started AboutTime Technologies out of Payson, UT. WorkMax by AboutTime Technologies is the complete Employee Productivity collection software helping businesses reach their full potential. Combining the power of their TIME, FORMS, ASSETS, and INSIGHT modules businesses are able to track their mobile resources and manage project costs accurately. Since then, they have grown their client base to thousands of customers working in all 50 states, all provinces of Canada, & Internationally.

Highlights of Mike’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

Mike's outlook on the next evolution of the culture of AboutTime Technology, and what this company of the future looks like
His reasoning for his move from the traditional end of the industry to the opposite end, back when technology and software weren't as prevalent
The appetite of companies to put a stake in the ground and begin to prioritize innovation for the future
Opportunities for companies to layer on more efficiencies through artificial intelligence, visualization, digital twin, and other newer technologies

In 1991, Mike started working in construction and after becoming a Foreman, Site Superintendent & Project Manager, he started his own building & development company focusing on custom homes, renovation work, subdivision projects & commercial jobs. As a Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer at AboutTime, Mike opened their first office & helped put the initial pieces in motion to get our business off of the ground & thriving. He has acted in various roles including managing Sales, Channel Partnerships & Business Development. AboutTime Technologies is currently expanding its operations, hiring new team members to continue to grow and expand its market presence!

SHOW NOTES

0:12 Amy Peck introduces Mike Merrill, Co-Founder and Chief Evangelist at AboutTime Technologies - Workmax.

03:47 In the time that you've been doing your podcast and since you started your company, have you seen more awareness, and has there been an impetus to start to think about what is the next evolution of the culture of the company, but also what does the company of the future look like?

7:13 You moved from the traditional end of the industry to the opposite end, back when technology and software hadn't really become as ubiquitous as it is today, especially with our mobile devices. What made that happen? Were you always fascinated with technology? Why make that leap?

16:50 So I think it's important, and companies will have to put a stake in the ground and say they are actually going to prioritize innovation. Do you see more of an appetite for that or does it just depend on the company?

18:39 Looking forward to emerging technology that's coming, between looking at AI, blockchain, and immersive technology, do you see some opportunities there for companies to begin to layer on even more efficiencies through visualization, digital twin, and even some of these newer technologies?

27:30 If you could project yourself 20 years into the future, and if you could have any product or service or gadget or thing, that for you, would make your life better or make you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (1 hour interview), we are excited to feature Joseph "Roee" Shua-Haim, Founder and CEO at Hathaware (@Hathaware). He graduated with a B.S. in Civil Engineering from the Technion Israel Institute of Technology in the summer of 2016. After graduating, Joseph moved to NYC and began his career as a structural engineer. Soon enough, Joseph took on an opportunity to shift into project management in RE development. Since making the shift, Joseph has managed over $85M in ground up developments.

In Part 2 of this podcast, we are excited to feature Thai Nguyen, Director of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) at Hensel Phelps (@HenselPhelps). Thai has more than 20 years of experience in the architectural and construction industries. As Director of VDC, Thai drives the innovation of construction processes for Hensel Phelps, one of the United States’ largest employee-owned general contracting firms. In this role he leads VDC initiatives for all of Hensel Phelps’ district offices, managing a team of more than 80 individuals. This team provides company-wide leadership in VDC systems, tools and processes. They continually expand the use of virtual design and construction tools within Hensel Phelps, and within the Architecture/Engineering/Construction (AEC) industry.

Highlights of Joseph and Thai’s interviews with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

The evolution of what's being built and opportunities for mid-size companies to bring technology in and improve processes
How Joseph's developing Hathaware based on insights from conversations with customers
Some of the unique challenges of bringing in new software to a
large company
Talent out of the BIM world that's leading innovation, and how that may be causing a shift in new innovation roles within Hensel Phelps and other companies

SHOW NOTES

0:50 Amy Peck introduces Joseph "Roee" Shua-Haim, Founder and CEO
at Hathaware.

10:31 So you're here and you've created this software, you're in the accelerator program now. Where do you see the evolution of what you're building, and some of the opportunities for mid-size companies to bring technology in and improve
their processes?

13:25 So you also mentioned another thing that can be a trap the founders often fall into, which is too many bells and whistles, trying to make things too fancy and future rich. When you're talking to customers, what are some of the things you're hearing that are informing how you're developing Hathaware?

21:18 Amy Peck introduces Thai Nguyen, Director of Virtual Design and Construction at Hensel Phelps.

27:10 You mentioned some of the unique challenges of bringing in new software to a large company. There are a lot of legacy systems. Is part of your job just understanding how are you going to be able to bring in new technology and what systems do you need to alter or change to allow for all of this new technology?

39:28 Your CIO and CTO are two completely different functions. I've seen this pattern of talent out of the BIM world, that's leading innovation. You're comfortable on a job site. Have you seen a shift in that, because having a CIO or CTO is pretty foreign to our industry?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (23 min interview), we are excited to feature Todd Ogle, PhD, Executive Director of the Applied Research in Immersive Experiences and Simulations (ARIES) program at Virginia Tech (@virginia_tech), and our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR). Todd and Amy were able to catch up at the 2022 Geo Week conference (@GeoWeekExpo) in Denver earlier this year to record this episode. We look forward to seeing you at Geo Week 2023, and you can keep up to date on all the Geo Week News here!

Highlights of Todd’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

Some of the challenges Todd has found in leveraging reality technology and utilizing cross-functionality and how he overcame them using technology
Difficulties in developing and processing renderings of a particular village project
How some projects predate newer optimizations tools, and the industry is beginning to revisit them while determining if there are industry standards yet
Exciting new developments in the world of technology and his ideal product for the future

In his role at Virginia Tech, Todd leads the program, which applies immersive environments and simulations to the content creation and educational programs provided by the University Libraries, such as:

Content to be held in the University Library’s learning object repository, Odyssey
University Library instruction and student digital literacy programs
Open educational resource creation
Research and institutional data visualization
Digital Collections-building and Digital Humanities

The ARIES program supports applied research that brings together industry
partners, faculty, and students interested in the cognitive and affective aspects of
learning in immersive environments, games, simulations for training and
performance support, and more. It provides a destination for students to discover,
create and share their own creations in the form of games, simulations, VR and AR experiences for learning and entertainment while having the informal interactions with interested peers, faculty, industry partners, and external researchers that are so valuable for student development.

**SHOW NOTES

0:12** Amy Peck introduces Todd Ogle, Executive Director of the Applied Research in Immersive Experiences and Simulations (ARIES) program at Virginia Tech.

02:06 This project is one of the perfect use cases, leveraging augmented reality and virtual reality, and utilizing cross functionality. What are some of the challenges you've found, and how did you overcome them using technology?

10:26 So give us somewhat of a snapshot of this project you've been working on. I've been so impressed with how you're looking at open source and leveraging it wherever you can, and how important that is, so I'd love to hear your perspective.

12:38 So you had two former students who are out there in the wild, working in the industry, and you know, there are a lot of tools. Some of the renderings you shared of the village really looked fantastic, but it was not an easy process. Can you talk about that?

16:54 One of your students was talking about the different levels of decimation. Some of these projects were long before some of these optimizations tools were even out there, and it seems like now you're revisiting them. Are there even standards yet that tell you sizing, or are you just sort of guessing?

19:36 If you could project yourself 20 years into the future, and if you could have any product or service or gadget or thing, that for you, would make your life better or make you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (30 min interview), we are excited to feature Adeniyi Ogunsua (@kogunsua), Senior Director and Industry Digital Strategist at Microsoft (@microsoft), and your host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR). In his role, Adeniyi helps design and create the intelligent future by igniting and enabling innovation via strategic partnership, industry-transforming initiatives, and innovative market platforms that leverage intelligent clouds. He leads teams to design and build the future of organizations facing Digital Transformation and transitioning to the Cloud. Lately, his focus has been on Sustainability (ESG) programs, Embedded Finance, RegTech, AI (Intelligent Bots, Cognitive Services, ML), Intelligent Buildings/Cities/Infrastructure (Digital Twins, IoT, Analytics), and Mixed Reality (HoloLens) for customers using 3 Horizons (core, emerging, disruptive business) growth model.

In addition to his role at Microsoft, Adeniyi has attained extensive Big Four consulting and Fortune 500 experience within the financial services, healthcare, AEC, and retail industries. He holds PMP, CISA, and CSM designations. He has also received two Circle of Excellence awards for innovative sales and service Mobile applications that increase revenue and interest profit, improves customer loyalty, and increases customer acquisitions.

At Microsoft, the mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. Microsoft enables digital transformation for the era of an intelligent cloud and an intelligent edge. Microsoft operates in 190 countries and is made up of 181,000 passionate employees worldwide.

Highlights of Adeniyi’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:
- His suggested strategies to companies to help them overcome fear as an organization in the adoption of new technology
- His key tactics, including BIM, that companies can utilize to make their buildings more responsive
- Overcoming the economics and expense involved with introducing and integrating new technology
- Exciting new developments in the world of technology and his ideal product for the future

0:12 - Amy Peck introduces Adeniyi Ogunsua, Senior Director and Industry Digital Strategist at Microsoft.

02:32 - The future is upon us and coming at us pretty quickly. When you're working with companies, what are some of the strategies that you're talking to them about? Are you find some fear and reticence for the level of change that needs to occur in companies these days?

8:07 - So I love when you talked about responsive buildings. What are some of the tactics that companies can use? Not all companies are utilizing BIM. What are some of the strategies and how do we make this a standard?

11:27 - As an owner or large construction company, or even an architecture firm, all of these industry innovations sound perfectly logical and extremely expensive. So what are some of the economics, with introducing new technology, to convince owners and construction companies to embrace technology?

16:41 - Talking about some strategies that companies can leverage to really improve the output of their building, what are some of the things that you're seeing that are really exciting in the world of technology?

26:46 - If you could project yourself 20 years into the future, and if you could have any product or service or gadget or thing, that for you, would make your life better or make you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (44 min interview), we are excited to feature Heather Widman (@HBWids), Principal at Building Ventures (@buildingvc, "BV"), and your host Amy Peck(@AmyPeckXR). In her role, Heather sources and evaluates investment opportunities in the operation and experience phases of the building lifecycle. Additionally, she advises portfolio companies leveraging her years of experience in developing and bringing tech products to market. She works closely with the founding teams at Canoa, Dandelion, enVerid, Envoy, GoContractor, Join.build, and Join Digital. She spearheads Building Ventures’ investment activities within the real estate tech (i.e., PropTech) community. Joining the firm in early 2019, she brings more than fifteen years of tech and startup operating leadership to the BV investment team.

Before joining BV, Heather led the Product, Customer, and Brand Marketing functions at SaaS startup WordStream (acquired by Gannett (@Gannett) in 2018). Prior to WordStream (@WordStream), she held product management and marketing leadership positions at Boston startup ownerIQ (@ownerIQ) (acquired by Inmar) and Fortune 50 Express Scripts (acquired by Cigna (@Cigna)).

BV is championing disruptive ideas for a better-built world. They offer the perfect mix of capital, mentorship, and industry connections. As-built environment pioneers, their mission is to provide access to funding, rich knowledge, and decades of experience, to entrepreneurs, partners, and disruptive thinkers. Together, they will build a better world.

Highlights of Heather’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

Her understanding of the customer and go-to-market piece, coming from the "consumer-centric" side of the venture capitalism space
Her passion for sustainability and how that drives some of the ways she looks at her investments
Discussion about some of the new industry business models, what she's seeing, and what she thinks is really viable now
Heather swapping roles with Amy as host and asking the everlasting personal question about what Amy wants to see in the future

SHOW NOTES

0:12 Amy Peck introduces Heather Widman, Principal at Building Ventures.

09:11 Because you come from the "customer-centric" side of venture capitalism, you understand the customer and go-to-market piece, so I'd love to hear how you work with some of your portfolio companies?

14:11 Welcome back to the podcast! [Heather Widman] here with Amy Peck. We have time for one last question. So Amy, If you could project yourself 20 years into the future, and if you could have any product or service or gadget or thing, that for you, would make your life better or make you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?

19:30 I know you're particularly passionate about sustainability and that drives some of the ways you look at your investments. So what are some other companies that are working to solve that with new buildings, but also solve it retroactively?

26:39 You mentioned the thesis of how you are looking at companies and what you're looking for, and in a combination of what are some of the new business models, new trends and ways owners can maximize space. Can we talk about some of those business models, what you're seeing and what you think is really viable now?

40:43 If you could project yourself 20 years into the future, and if you could have any product or service or gadget or thing, that for you, would make your life better or make you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (37 min interview), we are excited to feature Dave Rhodes, Senior Vice President, General Manager - Digital Twins at Unity Technologies (@unity), and your host Amy Peck(@AmyPeckXR). In his role at Unity, Dave leverages a deep understanding of 3D design, engineering, and entertainment software to oversee the company's global business and growth strategy for industrial markets. Previously, Dave served as Executive Vice President of Sales, Services, and Marketing at Paradigm. Before that, he spent 11 years at Autodesk, where he last served as VP of the Americas and Worldwide Engineering Services Sales. Dave holds an MBA in Marketing and Finance from the University of San Diego and a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of California at San Diego.

“I’ve been following Unity for some time and am excited about the direction and vision the company has for the future of games and digital experiences...Between the amazing creations I’ve seen and the enthusiasm and knowledge of the team, I knew it was the right move for me.” - Dave Rhodes, SVP of Digital Twin, Unity Technologies.

Unity Technologies is the creator of a flexible and high-performance end-to-end development platform used to create rich interactive 2D, 3D, VR and AR games and experiences. Unity's powerful graphics engine and full-featured editor serve as the foundation to develop beautiful games or apps and easily bring them to multiple platforms: mobile devices, home entertainment systems, personal computers, and embedded systems. Unity also offers solutions and services for creating games, boosting productivity, and connecting with audiences.

Highlights of Dave’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

The industry divide between companies that are embracing innovative technology versus those that maintain utilization of archaic systems
His outlook on when we will get to leveraging BIM and design data to effectively build digital twins
The dream state in the industry of what we're able to do, and getting new technology in the hands of people to eliminate fear
How companies are changing the mindset with their workforce to become more accepting of industry innovation

SHOW NOTES

0:37 Amy Peck introduces Dave Rhodes, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Digital Twins at Unity Technologies.

03:04 The AEC industry is a 3D industry, yet there are companies embracing all this technology and then there are the ones that are still working on these archaic systems. How do we bridge that gap?

5:41 So you mentioned a standard. At what point do you think we will get to leveraging BIM and design data to effectively build the digital twin during the process as the building is being built? Do you see trends toward that and where does that demand come from?

12:03 Let's talk a little bit about looking at the retrofitting of buildings, using photogrammetry or lidar scans to create an as-built, and how some of the tool kits of Unity. It's like we're at this dream state in the industry of what we're able to do. And now it's a matter of getting this technology in the hands of people, so they don't have fear because that's what's holding us back.

20:01 From a workflow perspective and practical perspective, how are you seeing companies change the mindset with their workforce because all of the technology in the world is meaningless if the workforce doesn't embrace it?

36:07 If you could project yourself 20 years into the future, and if you could have any product or service or gadget or thing, that for you, would make your life better or make you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (46 min interview), we are excited to feature Jamie Fleming, Founder and CEO at Altoura (@Altoura_XR). Jamie founded Altoura and developed it to be a pioneer in spatial computing (AR/VR/Mixed Reality) and the #1 choice of organizations in manufacturing, retail, healthcare, AEC, RE&F, and technology industries looking to harness the power of spatial computing to improve productivity, lower costs, and increase employee satisfaction.

At Shadow Ventures, the focus is on investing in startups in tech-nascent markets where strategic capital is scarce. Their process and closed ecosystem of entrepreneurs, investors, designers, and developers are driven by both experience and technology to radically change how startups start and investors finish. The company was founded in 2018 and partners with exceptional founders to transform the built environment. Shadow Ventures' incubator is custom-built to grow the next generation of built environment startups. With less than a 5% acceptance rate, each startup undergoes a vigorous vetting process to be accepted. Their current portfolio is made up of companies tackling hard problems in construction and real estate tech with unique solutions. Companies range from idea stage through Series A.

In Part 2 of this podcast, we are excited to feature Marcus Farquhar, Technology Innovation and Experimentation Leader at Microsoft(@Microsoft). He has delivered proofs-of-concept and experiments to validate the implementation of digital transformation technologies. Marcus is creating innovative solutions in regards to digital building technologies and assessing value through experimentation and prototyping of digital transformation technology for the benefit of Microsoft's GWS organization.

Highlights of Jamie and Marcus’ interview with host Amy Peck(@AmyPeckXR) include:

The journey of raising capital and how it differs for founders and investors
Finding the balance between being a practical leader versus a visionary
Where it makes sense to always have a digital twin of your building from an as-built perspective
Jamie and Marcus' desired products of the future that would alter the structure of their lives in a positive way

The Future Construct podcast is produced by the team at BIM Designs, Inc. BIM Designs, Inc. is a minority-owned, US-based, union-signatory preconstruction technology firm, offering turnkey BIM modeling, laser scanning, coordination management, and other VDC solutions to the AEC industry. We'd love to talk with you!

SHOW NOTES

0:37 Amy Peck introduces Jamie Fleming, Founder and CEO at Altoura.

8:12 I definitely want to talk about the journey of raising capital. For founders it's "nightmare-ish" and investors listen to pitch after pitch. Can you talk about that process and what was that synergistic moment?

17:55 There is a visionary component to being a founder, and it takes vision to harness and sell technology. Is there a balance between the practical and visionary that you look for and is part of your day-to-day?

26:26 Amy Peck introduces Marcus Farquhar, Technology and Experimentation Lead at Microsoft.

32:29 I would be curious to see what you think some of the steps are to see where it makes sense to always have a digital twin of your building from an as-built perspective?

42:10 If you could project yourself 20 years into the future, and if you could have any product or service or gadget or thing, that for you, would make your life better or make you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (48 min interview), we are excited to feature Shaun Cooley (@ShaunCooley), President and CEO at Mapped (@Mapped). Shaun is a former CTO and senior technical leader, with over 25 years of demonstrated success across a range of nascent and established markets. He is able to pull from a background rich in business management and deep in engineering to define and execute on product roadmaps and architectures, provide security and privacy design and oversight, establish and manage technical partnerships, drive standards organizations and consortia, advise government policymakers, champion innovation, and solve complex existing or anticipated industry and customer needs.

Mapped started with the idea “What if every built space had an API?” Getting data out of buildings was a complex, time-consuming, and often manual process - weeks or even months of work. To solve the problem, they created a knowledge graph of people, places, and things using machine learning to automate the process of data extraction and identification. They then built a simple, secure, and unified API on top; now anything that generates data - devices, sensors, enterprise applications, and more - is accessible quickly, easily, and securely. In June of 2021, Mapped raised a $6.5 MM round to build out a universal API for connecting control systems for elevators, HVAC, and other physical assets.

Highlights of Shaun’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

The complexity of the Internet of Things and how Mapped is solving its integration the future of technology
Ideal strategies for companies looking to utilize artificial intelligence and servers in their business models
His vision on how wearables and digital twins will co-exist to create better digital experiences in the future
How mixed reality can be utilized in a multitude of ways aside from gaming and what use cases there could be to expand the realm of virtual reality

SHOW NOTES

0:37 Amy Peck introduces Shaun Cooley, President, and CEO at Mapped.

01:00 Clearly you're a slacker with your 120 issued and 100 pending patents. How did you choose this path? What led you to this realm and engineering and IoT?

5:14 So let's talk about Mapped. We use these terms like IoT, and there's a complexity to it. It seems like Mapped is here to solve that. Is that the case?

10:30 With the type of technology that's coming and you're layering on AI and server and digital twins, what is the best strategy for some of these companies?

24:13 Wearables are going to start hitting the market, and there are going to be cameras everywhere. Are you envisioning some version of the future where all of these outward-facing cameras that we're using to play games and access digital experiences in a place that some of that data can be made accessible to this master digital twin of a building?

40:55 If you could project yourself 20 years into the future, and if you could have any product or service or gadget or thing, that for you, would make your life better or make you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (29 min interview), we are excited to feature Jenny Moshea, Chief Information Officer at Sellen Construction (@SellenConstruct). Jenny is an accomplished technology and transformation executive. She has been recognized for the ability to create business value through technology, develop high-performing teams, and establish cross-functional partnerships. Jenny is known for getting things done with creativity, energy, and adaptability. She has a proven track record in motivating and leading teams to deliver success under complex conditions.

Sellen Construction builds iconic projects for the region’s tech, science, arts, health care and hospitality leaders. They believe in building community by creating unique spaces where significant things happen, and in giving back to non-profit organizations that make our community a great place in which to live and work.

Sellen Construction operates primarily in the Pacific Northwest and offers a wide range of services from preconstruction support, cost estimating and constructability services, to Virtual Design and Construction (VDC), integrated project delivery and sustainability services. Sellen has a Special Projects group that regularly performs renovations and tenant improvements in existing buildings for a variety of office and health care clients.

Highlights of Jenny’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

The work that Sellen Construction has done in the cybersecurity space developing their "Sellen S.O.S. Team"
Some of the projects that Sellen Construction is currently working on
How emerging technology plays a role in current operation and direction of Sellen Construction and how far ahead the company is looking at future technology
Discussing the impact Sellen Construction's work has on the end user, how the "metaverse" will impact the workforce

SHOW NOTES

0:37 Amy Peck introduces Jenny Moshea, Chief Information Officer at Sellen Construction.

05:08 You mentioned cybersecurity and where that's going. Where would you like to begin with that?

7:39 And so, when I'm perusing, I was drawn to some of the work you're doing in mixed reality. Are some of those, projects you can talk about?

9:09 So how are you looking at really enabling technology at scale?

14:23 So how far in advance are you thinking about emerging technologies, but then there's the day-to-day? How do we improve process today, but where do we want to go? And how do you balance that in your day-to-day?

25:10 If you could project yourself 20, 25 years into the future, and if you could bring with you any product or service that would make your life better or make you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (29 min interview), we are excited to feature Sandra Benson, Global Head of Industry Transformation at Procore Technologies (@procoretech). Sandra brings over 25 years of experience in the building and building technology industry holding a number of executive positions including CIO/VP at Kentz/SNC-Lavalin, Global Industry Director of E&C at J.D. Edwards/Oracle and at Hexagon PPM. She has worked with many global E&C, EPC, and Real Estate companies throughout her career.

Procore helps firms drastically increase project efficiency and accountability by streamlining and mobilizing project communications and documentation. This real-time data and accessibility minimizes costly risks and delays—ultimately boosting profits.

Using their award-winning suite of project management tools, over a million registered Procore users across the globe manage all types of construction projects including industrial plants, office buildings, apartment complexes, university facilities, retail centers, and more.

Highlights of Sandra’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

The focus of the National Institute of Building Sciences right now and how that will evolve over the coming years
Some of the industry challenges being faced with multi-dimensional technology and how companies can think about that technology today
Why we aren't seeing more adoption with BIMM in the construction industry
The one product or service that would transform her life over the next 20 to 25 years

SHOW NOTES

0:37 Amy Peck introduces Sandra Benson, Global Head of Industry Transformation at Procore Technologies.

03:58 So you touched on something that a lot of people struggle with, which is ethics around their job and role, and what their ultimate goals are. I'd love to talk about what the focus is of the National Institute of Building Sciences and how that will evolve over the next few years.

7:49 And let's talk about that 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D, and how people are challenged with where they sit today. Give maybe a quick discussion of how you define this evolution and how companies can even be thinking about this technology today.

11:42 So let's dive a little bit deeper with BIMM. We're already having challenges having BIM really move through that building lifecycle management. It seems like such an obvious choice to be able to have this standard move through your building process and be the source of truth in an as-built environment. So what is the challenge, and why aren't we seeing more adoption?

17:58 Now, during our sponsor break, we got a look at your "interesting" water glass, can you show us and share the story behind that?

26:15 If you could transport yourself 20, 25 years into the future, and if you could have any product or service that would make your life better or make you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (35 min interview), we are excited to feature Ryan Denehy, Founder and CEO of Electric. Ryan is a serial entrepreneur with three ventures and two exits to public companies. Ryan has served as an investor and hands-on advisor to numerous brands including Stadium Goods, Blackbird, and Anchor Worldwide. He has attained a broad level of experience in all aspects of revenue strategy through direct sales, channel sales, BD and M&A. He also has the proven ability to develop a vision, build the team, and get the job done in developing ideas into businesses.

Electric is on a mission to revolutionize IT by making it simple, effortless, & lightning-fast for businesses everywhere. Through a "first of its kind" technology, paired with an elite squadron of IT technicians, Electric delivers lightning-fast IT support. Whether you're remote or onsite, Electric provides real-time issue resolution, security at the device, app and network levels, employee onboarding/offboarding and IT management. Founded in New York City in 2016, Electric is a Series D startup backed by Atreides Management, Bessemer Venture Partners, Primary Venture Partners, 01 Advisors, Greenspring Associates, Vintage Investment Partners and Slack.

Highlights of Ryan’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

The challenges Ryan is seeing in the AEC industry around IT concerns and some of the ways Electric able to help solve that
Some of the ways that mid-size companies can look at how to grow
or how to pivot
Where the puck is going in a lot of the major businesses and opportunities in immersive technology
The impact that [our recent world health obstacle] has had on Electric, during a growth cycle

SHOW NOTES

0:37 Amy Peck introduces Ryan Denehy, Founder and CEO at Electric.

05:36 What do you think are some of the ways that mid-size companies can look at how to grow or how to pivot?

8:42 And so without giving away your next company, what are some of trends? Where is the puck going in a lot of the businesses that we're all think about? Let's take immersive technology, do you see some opportunities there?

12:17 So we have a pretty broad audience in the AEC realm. I'm really curious on some of the challenges you're seeing in that industry around IT concerns and some of the ways you're able to help solve that?

21:19 So how has the situation that we're hopefully at the tail end of, how did that impact your company, because it fell squarely in the middle of your growth cycle? Was that impactful in a positive way, negative, neutral?

25:40 If you could project yourself 20, 25 years into the future, besides the next two or three companies you will have built by then, and if you bring with you any kind of gadget or service that would make your life better or make you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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We have some amazing content to celebrate our 1-year anniversary episode for you to check out during the holiday season. Thank you to all of our guests that made this past year an amazing experience for the team at BIM Designs, Inc.!

We are thrilled to bring back our very first Future Construct Podcast (23-min interview) guest, Salla Eckhardt, Director of Transformation Services at Microsoft (@Microsoft).

Salla has been Director of Transformation Services at Microsoft since 2018, bringing with her an impressive background in construction and digital design. Since her last appearance on the show, Salla has been named chair of the National BIM Program Steering Committee by the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS).

Salla has established herself as an industry pioneer, and innovative leader in emerging technology and digital transformation. She is committed to building up others and preparing the next generation in the built environment industry. She volunteers with or holds a chair with several construction-related organizations and is a Women in BIM Mentor. Salla specializes in BIM, digital construction, digital twins, extended reality (AR, VR, MR, CAVE), and the Digital Building Lifecycle.

At Microsoft, Salla leads a multi-million-dollar R&D program as well as the Microsoft WW Construction community. She’s also established the Digital Building Lifecycle, resulting in a 50% reduction in design and engineering expenses, 33% reduction in construction budgets with digital program management, and 20% reduction in operational costs with digital twin supported business intelligence; and established the organization-wide BIM, digital construction, and digital twin programs.

Highlights of Salla’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

Salla talks about adjusting to the pandemic’s effects on the workplace (home)
How the metaverse might affect the social environment
Is the metaverse on the radar at Microsoft?
Salla discusses upcoming technologies she’s most excited about

SHOW NOTES

0:37 Amy Peck introduces Salla Eckhardt, Director of Transformation Services at Microsoft.

02:52 In terms of current trends, how are you thinking about all of this hype around the metaverse and digital twins?

07:00 How do we close the gap between the future vision of how we can do everything in a different and better way, from where we are right now?

13:11 We have this opportunity of actually being able to work with data in 3D environments from the inside out. And I don't think we've quite cracked what that visual language looks like. We're still bringing in these 2D constructs into 3D. Is this something that you've looked at, or have you seen anyone really pushing the envelope in terms of how we can start to parse this data and make completely new and broader inferences?

15:10 Buildings are the anchors of cities and then the built environment in digital twins are really going to be the anchor for smart cities. What does that kind of workflow look like?

22:11 If you could project yourself, you're 20, 25 years into the future, and you could have any kind of gadget or service or just something that would make your life better or make you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (24 min interview), we are excited to feature Amy Bunszel, who is the EVP of AEC Design, Autodesk (@AmyBunszel).

Autodesk is changing how the world is designed and made, their technology spans architecture, engineering, construction, product design, manufacturing, media, and entertainment, empowering innovators everywhere to solve challenges big and small. From greener buildings to smarter products to more mesmerizing blockbusters, Autodesk software helps its customers to design and make a better world for all.

Some highlights of Amy’s interview with host Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) include:

Amy’s career path starting as an electrical engineer
Training new employees in modular construction in a safe, low-waste factory setting
Autodesk works with schools: K - 12, community colleges, and secondary education
How exciting high-tech construction is for the next generation while passing the knowledge along from the retiring generation

Show Notes:

00:37 Amy Peck introduces Amy Bunszel, EVP of AEC Design, Autodesk.

06:07 You're in a business that is 3D in nature, and we live in 3D environments, and yet we really have trained ourselves to work in 2D. How has the evolution of moving these sorts of 3D designs and assets into the 3D realm affected workflow, and how difficult is it to manage that end-to-end workflow?

12:38 So we talked about training the next generation who have no construction experience, but on the other side, there is an incredible amount of knowledge within the workforce who may be retiring over the next decade or so. Are there some ways that companies can capture and leverage that knowledge and expertise for this next generation of construction professionals?

16:37 And then with this next-generation workforce, there’s a big challenge in recruiting and showing that these industries are leveraging cutting edge technology and great software, it really does require this kind of marketing effort to show what a day in the life of this future worker might be. And so, are there some examples of that we might be able to share that would be interesting for people listening?

20:05 Yeah. And just looking into the future again, and we talked a little bit about some of the emerging technologies, you know, are there some other things that just, you know, you're really excited about or, or some technologies you've seen or, or uses of technology that really, you know, can, can make a huge difference in, in process and how it improves outcomes?

21:55 So taking us to the future, I'd love to ask you the question that I ask everyone. And that is if you could project yourself 20, 25 years in the future, and you could bring with you any gadget or service that would actually just make your life, you know, on a personal level better, or make you happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (37 min interview), we are excited to feature Howard Berger (@bergerhl), Managing Partner, SVP Programs at RealComm (@RealComm). He is responsible for all programming for the Realcomm, IBcon, CoreTech conferences and the CIO Forums globally. Howard has a combined 30 years experience in both the technology as well as real estate industries.

Highlights of Howard’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

RealComm was one of the first organizations to hold a hybrid conference in response to the pandemic
Howard’s journey from IT to real estate, to digital transformation in commercial real estate
The necessity to have someone in an organization with a vision, ultimately driving change
The gross underutilization of most major office spaces in buildings, whether it’s a classic, urban, or even a suburban office
Howard's vision to have a device that doesn’t just translate words but translates what the speaker is really thinking, what’s in their heart

SHOW NOTES

00:37 - Amy Peck introduces Howard Berger, Managing Partner, SVP Programs at RealComm.
01:06 - Can you tell us a little bit about your journey to this industry and how you became involved with RealComm?
18:41 - One of the things that I think is remarkable in this industry is that you have those who are out there kind of forging a path but then you have others that are clinging to these arcane systems because it’s what they know. And it's going to be very difficult for them to compel their workforce to embrace the new technology. So, the companies that are getting it right – what is the secret?
22:12 - The way space is going to be utilized is changing because people are home and not necessarily going back to work. How do you think this will impact the use of space and how will technology kind of help us redefine workspaces? What do you see as some of the technologies that are emerging to support this kind of fractious workforce?
34:44 - If you can project yourself 20, 25 years in the future, and you could have a service or a gadget, or just something that makes your personal life better, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (32 min interview), we are excited to feature Sanjay Mistry, Co-Founder of VIM (@vimaec). Sanjay is an experienced Vice President with a demonstrated history of working in the design industry. He is a strong professional, skilled in game design, ZBrush, computer animation, graphics, and MEL.

Founded in 2016 with the goal of providing AEC professionals easy access to BIM (Building Information Model) data in real-time and on as many devices and platforms as possible, VIM is transforming the way that architects, engineers, and construction professionals design and build buildings. By removing the artificial walls between the AEC disciplines, and borrowing innovation from the gaming industry, VIM-equipped teams are delivering and sustaining a building’s design intent, from its originally approved conception to its ongoing operation.

Highlights of Sanjay’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

Sanjay's journey into the industry of Building Information Modeling and what led him to start VIM
How the entertainment industry impacted gaming and how game engines can influence smart buildings, smart cities, and IoT
Operating on a job site without access to internet connections, and making data accessible on personal devices
His desired gadget of the future that would completely transform his personal life and the automotive industry entirely

SHOW NOTES

0:37 Amy Peck introduces Sanjay Mistry, Co-Founder of VIM.

2:00 "Through your journey, was it a natural progression into the world
of AEC [from computer graphics], or did you start off on more of the creative bend?"

24:12 Sanjay discusses the operating on a work site without internet connections and making data accessible on personal devices.

29:14 If you project yourself 25 years into the future, and you could have any kind of gadget or service or just something that would make you personally happy or make your life better in some way, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (40 min interview), we are excited to feature Cristina Savian, Managing Director of BE-WISE. Cristina is a highly accomplished director with two decades’ experience in technology and engineering. As an expert in the built environment, Cristina has driven consulting engagements and delivered the adoption of technology, digital transformation and innovation across a number of sectors. She has been recognized for unsurpassed levels of commercial awareness underpinned by strong problem-solving, client management and leadership qualities.

BE-WISE is a London and Melbourne based consulting firm specializing in innovation, technology and digital transformation for the built environment. The company launched in 2018, and their current client list consists of global construction technology companies, NGOs, and numerous educational institutions.

Highlights of Cristina’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

The start of Cristina's career, and what inspired her to found BE-WISE
The importance of having the level of confidence for yourself and providing inspiration for others
The rapid evolution of technology, and the role it plays in the progression of different industries.
Her desired gadget or service that would make her life better on a personal level

SHOW NOTES

0:37 Amy Peck introduces Cristina Savian, Founder and CEO at BE-WISE.

01:12 You have such an interesting background. What was your journey, and what led you to start BE-WISE?

17:05 Talking about so many cool things, including your crazy clubhouse adventure, which seems to be expanding at an exponential rate. I'd love to hear a little bit about what is the importance of having the level of confidence for you, even just to inspire others?

26:28 You know, you talked about digital twins. What are some of the things you're hearing that are the honest challenges about how we leverage digital twins?

37:36 Let's take a little trip to the future. Let's go 20 to 25 years past that edge you live on, on a daily basis, and you could bring with you any kind of gadget or service or just something that would make your life better on a personal level, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (35 min interview), we are excited to feature Jag Mallela, Managing Director of WSP USA. In April 2021, Jag was appointed to the National Institute of Building Sciences BIM Program Steering Committee, which is tasked with creating a national BIM program. His impressive body of work, while closely associated with highway infrastructure, is cross-cutting and touches many areas of surface transportation including innovative project delivery, civil integrated management, highway traffic operations, sustainability and resiliency, highway maintenance, asset management, highway safety, planning, performance measurement, and organizational/institutional capacity building.

Highlights of Jag’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:

Mallela’s inspiration(s) and how he came to combine his cerebral
and creative roots
How vision, imagination, science, and technology together lead
to innovation
The importance of using technology to solve social and
infrastructure problems
How the pandemic has changed communities and how to plan
around the changes

SHOW NOTES

0:37 Amy Peck introduces Jag Mallela, Senior Vice President and Managing Director at WSP.

05:37 We see news about failing infrastructure. What are some of the things — whether trends or cures — you see as solutions for some of these infrastructure challenges? Especially where things were not constructed in a way that supports scalability and sustainability?

15:43 What are some of your thoughts on ways companies can close that digital divide? How can diversity, equity, and inclusion become more than a company mandate?

21:22 With remote work becoming the norm, do you find that you’re able to collaborate with a broader group of people globally within and outside the company to gain better insights into some of the problems you're solving?

29:02 Due to the pandemic, some streets were taken over to allow restaurants and shops to have outdoor seating areas. So we’re seeing more people walking, biking, relishing this new sense of community. How do you now start to plan around this new paradigm?

33:00 If you could project yourself, 20, 25 years into the future, and you could have any kind of gadget or service or just something that would make your life better or make you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (36 min interview), we are excited to feature Kimon Onuma (@KimonOnuma), Founder and President of Onuma, Inc. Onuma, Inc. enables the “I” in BIM. They are a team of architects and computer scientists that build software for the rapidly changing AEC industry. The ONUMA System is an open-source, web-based ecosystem of tools, platforms, and services for buildings, cities, and more, built by architects and programmers who have been using BIM for over 30 years. The open-source architecture supports better quality designs, sustainable data, improved efficiency, and fewer unwelcome surprises throughout the built lifecycle.

Some highlights of Kimon’s interview with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) include:
- Kimon’s interest in information and things – and how that motivated him to fix inefficiencies in the architecture industry
- How he came to combine BIM with traditional design
- The importance of open source, taking software outside the box
- Automating tasks so creativity can remain human

SHOW NOTES

0:37 - Amy Peck introduces Kimon Onuma, founder and president of Onuma, Inc.
04:10 - At what point was it really evident that software was going to go hand in hand, not only with design, but with the practical elements, the data that goes along with it?
07:52 - I think one of the challenges is that there's so much technology now, there's this broad swath of technology that's not as advanced as we'd like it to be. Do you think that’s stagnating some growth on the practical use cases, because there's just too much for companies to experiment with?
12:27 - I think we have an opportunity, augment human potential. To build machines that free us up to do what we're best at – which is the creativity and the nuance of our individual industries. So, I'm wondering if you hear that from your clients and what your thoughts are in terms of that kind of blend of automation and human creativity?
18:49 - So much of this is parallel to open-source software. The more that we open source, the more we can all learn from the same construct. But there's still a corporate veil of secrecy. They're concerned about their shareholders, which is fair, but how do we change that mindset?
25:10 - I'd love to hear some of your thoughts on VR. We're really at the very early stages of this, but I'd love to hear your thoughts on what role you think immersive technology plays in the future.
32:45 - If you could project yourself, 15, 20 years into the future, and you could bring with you an object or service that makes your life better, what would it be, and what would it do?

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Our team is excited to bring you this new episode of the Future Construct Podcast (28 min interview), where we spotlight Danielle O'Connell, Director of Emerging Technology at Skanska USA (@SkanskaUSA). Skanska USA creates sustainable solutions and aims to be a leader in quality, green construction, work safety, and business ethics to drive profitability and reduce construction timelines.

Some highlights of Danielle's interview with host Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) include:

Danielle's day-to-day responsibilities at Skanska USA and how she remains up to date with the landscape of emerging technology.
The next wave of emerging technologies that will be at the forefront over the next three to five years.
Danielle's top three solutions that will most impact the industry now and in the future.
The technologies that are being most adopted within the industry.

SHOW NOTES

0:37 - Amy Peck introduces Danielle O'Connell, the Director of Emerging Technology at Skanska USA.

4:45 - So, how do you stay abreast among the current landscape of emerging technology?

9:26 - What are some of the emerging technologies you see over the next three to five years that we're going to see more of?

11:36 - What are your top three solutions that are really going to impact the industry, that you're implementing now or that you see in the near future?

16:16 - Are there some other trends that you're seeing or leveraging some other technologies like blockchain or AI that are getting adopted more?

25:50 - If you could project yourself 20 to 25 years in the future, and you can you could have a product or service that makes you happy or makes your life better, what would it be and what would it do?

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In this week's episode of the Future Construct Podcast (41 min interview), we are excited to feature James Benham, CEO, and Co-founder of JB Knowledge. JB Knowledge offers technology solutions for Insurance & Construction companies, transforming risk management technology and implementing technologies to transform construction projects. You name it; they can build it! JB Knowledge aims to make the world a more tech-savvy place; insurance and construction are just where they started.

Some highlights of James' interview with host Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) include:

● A recap of James' career, including his University degrees, founding JB Knowledge, and traveling and working worldwide.
● The future of employment, particularly how technology and automation will influence the future of work.
● James' time as a City Council Member with the city of College Station and how he introduced innovation to the 125,000 residents to create a smarter city.
● Why the world needs more doers and fewer critics for us to move forward.
● The difference between wasting time or making time and how the human brain is the best computer ever built.

SHOW NOTES

00:12 - Amy Peck introduces James Benham, the CEO and Co-Founder of JB Knowledge, and his work experience.

02:52 - What inspired the move to Texas, with it being a tech hub? Explain your thought-process for the move.

07:38 - How do you ensure that you are intentional with the way you spend your time? What do you think of people who spend a lot of their time complaining, rather than acting on the things they want to do?

17:52 - What are some strategies that you’ve employed at your company and that you recommend to other business owners? In terms of retraining the workforce, and integrating technology in a positive way.

23:55 - How can companies stay relevant with the technology life cycle and innovation cycles being so short?

35:26 - Tell me about your daughters. Are they interested in technology? Are they interested in flying?

38:22 - If you could project yourself 20 years into the future, and you can bring one product or service with you that makes your life better, what would it be and what would it do?

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Our team is thrilled to bring you this fresh episode of the Future Construct Podcast (27 min interview), where we spotlight Dr. Cornelia Scheitz, Director of Programs and Business Excellence at Autodesk (@Autodesk). Autodesk is changing how the world is designed and made, their technology spans architecture, engineering, construction, product design, manufacturing, media, and entertainment, empowering innovators everywhere to solve challenges big and small. From greener buildings to smarter products to more mesmerizing blockbusters, Autodesk software helps its customers to design and make a better world for all.

Some highlights of Conny's interview with host Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) include:

Conny's background in life sciences, specifically genetics, and how she transitioned into academia, ultimately leading her to Autodesk
The frequency of solution providers working with customers to solve problems and how that workflow evolves into new projects
Trends and combinations of technologies that are at the forefront of the Autodesk Technology Centers
The industry's fear about advancements in automated technology and types of jobs impacted by technology

SHOW NOTES

0:37 Amy Peck introduces Dr. Conny Scheitz, the Director of Programs and Business Excellence at Autodesk.0:55 So, first I want to get into your history and your journey into where you are today, but what happens at the Technology Centers at Autodesk?5:57 What are some of the trends or combinations of technologies that you're seeing coming through the centers?11:08 And do you find that within the network or beyond, are people really recognizing that there's a multitude of technologies and a convergence of these technologies, or is it a tough sell?15:47 How prevalent is the thought process that companies are using all of these technologies [artificial intelligence, blockchain, utilizing algorithms, ethical sourcing], or are there companies with specialties that come together and combine them?

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Our team is thrilled to bring you this new episode of the Future Construct Podcast (23 min interview), where we spotlight Julie Giannini (@jgiannin) Chief Customer Officer at Egnyte (@Egnyte). Julie is a senior executive with 25+ years of go-to-market experience scaling renewals, customer success, professional services, training, and support organizations focused on enterprise & SaaS cloud offerings. Julie builds high-performing teams with the goal of great experiences for employees, customers, and shareholders and she has been involved in several successful exits including Thoma Bravo's purchase of Imperva for $2.1B in 2019, New Relic's 2014 IPO, and Yammer's $1.2B acquisition by Microsoft in 2012. Egnyte is trusted by 16,000+ content-critical businesses and transforms them through smarter content allowing organizations to connect, protect, and unlock value from all their content.

Some highlights of Julie's interview with host Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) include:

How Egnyte is utilizing artificial intelligence in their own product lines
Methods to overcome hesitance to adopt new and transformative technology, within your own company
The day to day responsibilities within her role as the Chief Customer Officer and her focus aside from customers
Her vision for the future, as she discusses the one product that would transform her life, making it significantly easier and more efficient

SHOW NOTES

0:37 Amy Peck introduces Julie Giannini, the Chief Customer Officer
at Egnyte.3:58 So, as Chief Customer Officer, what does your day to day look like? What is your primary focus, aside from customers?5:10 What are some of the trends you're seeing [in technology] moving forward and things that are exciting you?7:20 And so, talking about artificial intelligence, how are leveraging AI, even in your own product line?10:05 Where do you see some of the easier ways that companies can bring in technology, especially among a workforce that be a little more reticent to be accepting of new technology and new workflows?21:27 If you could project yourself 15 to 20 years in the future, and you can you could bring with you any services or any product that makes your life better, what would it be and what would it do?

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Our team is thrilled to bring you this new episode of the Future Construct Podcast (23 min interview), where we spotlight Doug Ludlow (@dougludlow), CEO at MainStreet (@MainStreet). MainStreet helps software, hardware, and venture-backed companies realize tax credits opportunities missed by many accountants. Doug is a serial entrepreneur and senior executive, with over 15 years of leadership experience, scaling new companies and serving as an innovation resource. Doug founded two other companies prior to MainStreet, then he transitioned to Google as an Operations Lead and then Chief of Staff, where he spent over three years. There, he also met the two other co-founders of MainStreet.

Some highlights of Doug's interview with host Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) include:

How the evolution of technology will impact the community and small businesses, as tech companies continue to spread from the major tech hubs
Where the shifts are in inbounds and customers as innovation continues to evolve in the increasingly remote workforce
How influence plays a role in a small business and the direction Mainstreet is headed
His insights on whether startups are aggressive or cautious toward pushing and accepting new technology

SHOW NOTES

0:37 Amy Peck introduces Doug Ludlow, the CEO at Mainstreet.6:09 So, I'd love to hear where you think the evolution of technology will go as it relates to community and reinvigorating small businesses?12:54 Are you seeing in terms of your inbounds and your customer base, are they coming from larger cities, or trend upwards into more suburban or even rural areas?15:30 And let's just talk about a global view. What do you see as the outlook in the startup space with technology? Is there caution or is it full steam ahead?18:02 Do you see an opportunity for your company to get so large and influential because your working with so much small business that you might even be able to influence tax credits? Is that the goal to have that level of impact and influence to help some of these challenges?29:36 If you could project yourself 15 to 20 years in the future, and you can you could bring with you any gadget or service that makes you personally happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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Our team is thrilled to bring you this new episode of the Future Construct Podcast (30 min interview), where we spotlight Miquel Vidal, Head of XRS (eXtended Reality Solutions) at CBRE Global Workplace Solutions (@CBRE). Miquel has been an evangelist on XR within CBRE for the last three years, working across numerous teams, presenting the values and benefits of disruptive technology, having run numerous PoC and pilots with some of CBRE's front-line workers on their respective clients' sites. For the majority of his time in CBRE, he led teams that delivered an array of different innovative initiatives and projects, from ideation to implementation and final delivery, positively impacting internal customers and clients.

Some highlights of Miquel's interview with host Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) include:

Some of the trends and solutions he believes will streamline workflows and facilitate industry improvements
His deployment strategy and how his internal team has conducted a soft launch of concepts, garnering interest from clients
How consumer devices hitting the market will influence the introduction of technology to industry workflows and the work he's doing
Miquel's thoughts on computing, the evolution of consuming information, and its impact on consumers and business

SHOW NOTES

0:37 Amy Peck introduces Miquel Vidal, the Head of XRS at CBRE Global Workplace Solutions.

2:59 So, what are some of the ways and trends you're seeing that make you say, "we think these kinds of solutions will streamline workflows"?

9:19 We know that these consumer devices are coming. Do you feel as though those devices are going to have an impact on how easily we'll be able to introduce this technology into the workflow?

12:28 And so, what kind of trends are you seeing, beyond the things that you're looking at directly, but really future forward, across this industry and emerging technology in general?

14:59 You mentioned computing and having information all around us. Consuming content in context, with location being a big component of that. How do you see that evolution? Are you seeing it as a two-way street, and how does it impact consumers and business?

25:48 Projecting yourself 20 to 25 years in the future, and you can have any environment or any gadget that makes your life better, what would it be and what would it do?

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On this episode of the Future Construct Podcast (27 min interview), we spotlight KP Reddy (@reddy_kp), Founder and General Partner at Shadow Ventures. Shadow Ventures is a venture capital firm focused exclusively on technology that drives innovation in the built environment.

Some highlights of KP's interview with host Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) include:

How he got started in the venture capital industry and his experience with the first company that he supported
His motivation and decision to author a book on BIM and how timing played a key role in the decision-making process
The "investment ethos" he has developed on deciding when and why to invest in particular, exciting companies
How his reputation and brand factors into founders finding him, and why there is no investment that is too early

SHOW NOTES

0:37 Amy Peck introduces KP Reddy, the Founder and General Partner at Shadow Ventures.5:40 You've written a book on BIM and you've written a book on startups. Let's start with the BIM book. Why a BIM book at that time?13:30 So, I'd love to talk about your portfolio and your "investment ethos" and what excites you in some of the companies. Can you share some of the successes of some of your portfolio companies?18:13 And so are you getting most of your inbounds from being in the industry and just having the reputation that you do, or are there other ways that founders are finding you?21:37 So are you seeing any particular trends in the industry, and where should large commercial builders be looking for this next-level technology?25:35 Projecting yourself 15 to 20 years in the future, and you could bring with you any service or gadget, and it doesn't have to be based in reality at all, what would it be and what would it do?

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On this episode of the Future Construct Podcast (30 min interview) we spotlight Leigh Christy, Principal at Perkins&Will and Head of their Innovation Incubator. Perkins&Will is a global design practice founded in 1935 and has more Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accredited professionals than any other design firm in North America. We learn about Leigh's work in her roles at Perkins&Will as well as her experience as an adjunct professor and hear her perspectives on the direction companies should be taking toward the evolution of technology.

Some other highlights of Leigh's interview with host Amy Peck(@VirtualGirlNY) include:

How companies should be thinking about responsibility and sustainability as components of innovation
The role of technology in designing and what processes in automation or technology focus on visualization, helping with AR and VR
How technology is a toolbox for solving industry problems
Closing feedback loops to eliminate repeating mistakes, which can (and will) enhance the global landscape

SHOW NOTES

0:37 Amy Peck introduces the Principal at Perkins&Will, Leigh Christy.4:07 Also you've been an adjunct professor as well, so what was some of the work that you did there?7:40 So, let's talk a little bit about the technology and where you see technology's role in the way that you're designing today and are there processes that you're seeing in automation or visualization. What are some of the trends in tools that you're going to be using over the next couple of years?18:05 So you talked about the incubator a little bit. What are the types of companies that you're drawn to for the incubator and maybe share some of the ones that you're particularly excited about?20:42 Do you think that the incubator program helps everyone at Perkins and Will feel like they're a part of the future of the company?27:44 Projecting yourself 15 to 20 years in the future, and you could bring with you any service or product that just makes you happy and makes your life better, what would it be and what would it do?

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On this episode of the Future Construct Podcast (30 min interview), we spotlight Aarni Heiskanen, Managing Partner at AE Partners, and address AE Partners' perspective on pain points and trajectory of technology in construction, digital buildings and infrastructure, and real estate and construction.

Aarni joins host Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) to discuss:

How the construction industry is ripe for technological advancements and digitalization, and closing the gap of reluctance to bring technology in
Tendencies of companies to want to move toward the next "shiny object" of technology simply for technology's sake
How companies can circumvent the cycle of accomplishing goals through innovation, and think more progressively about what kinds of companies they want to be in the future
Furthering a culture of collaboration among companies to further the progression of industries as whole

SHOW NOTES0:37 Amy Peck introduces the Managing Partner at AE Partners,
Aarni Heiskanen.5:36 I've heard you say this different ways. On one hand, the construction industry is ripe for digitization and innovation, but on certain scenarios there has been real reluctance or challenges to bring technology in. How do you see that gap closing?7:53 You mentioned as well, that there's this tendency to move toward the next "shiny object", and that there are some dangers in using technology just for technology's sake. Can you expand on that and give some advice to companies who are looking at this digital transformation?12:04 How do companies step outside of the cycle of having goals and targets to hit, and really project themselves into the future to think about what kinds of companies they want to be in the future, and how can they carve out that type of innovation in their company construct?20:02 I think we'll hit a critical mass of data and start to optimize how we're building. So, how do you see being able to implement much more of a predictive design methodology, so that you're designing toward a more efficient design cycle?26:23 Projecting yourself 20 to 30 years in the future, and you could bring with you any kind of gadget that would make your life better or make you happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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On this episode of the Future Construct Podcast (40 min interview), we spotlight Todd Lewis, Vice President at Prologis Ventures, as he joins host Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) to discuss:

His investments into different companies, and which ones drew the most interest and excitement
Challenges in the investment realm when it comes to balancing the disruption to the industry, in regards to what you can do today that will lead you to success in future technology
Immersive technology around the AR cloud and how far out autonomous vehicle and drone technology are from becoming fixed pieces within our societal landscape
How real estate figures into drone technology and how it will evolve as drones progress in the future

SHOW NOTES0:44 Amy Peck introduces the Vice President at Prologis Ventures,
Todd Lewis.4:36 So, let's talk about some of the companies you've invested in. I know you want to favor all of them equally, but are there some that you're very excited about?10:17 So one of the challenges in the investment realm is that you don't want to be too early or too late. How do you balance what you can do today that will set you on a path for success with future technology?17:25 You talked a little bit about autonomous vehicles and drones. How far out are you thinking on those and what are some of the inherent challenges that you're finding today?25:35 So how does real estate figure into the airspace with drones? How do you see that evolving and how will drone delivery evolve that piece of the market as well?38:06 So, let's go way into the future. Projecting yourself 20 to 30 years in the future, and you could bring with you any kind of gadget that would make your life better or make you happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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On this episode of the Future Construct Podcast (46 min interview), we spotlight Hugh Seaton (@hughseaton), Head of Product at CSI Crosswalk, as he joins host Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) to discuss:

Aquinas Learning, Inc. and how founding that company influences his current career path
The future of augmented reality and how it will affect the BIM space, as well as the industry drivers toward the adoption of new technology
Smart contracts and how blockchain can be wired into processes of remotely using immersive technology to verify completion of work
Technological solutions such as reality capture, virtual reality, and LiDAR that will serve as the catalysts for the next evolution of the industry

SHOW NOTES

0:44 - Amy Peck introduces the Head of Product at CSI Crosswalk,
Hugh Seaton.

4:14 - So, can we talk a little bit about Aquinas, because I was always struck by your vision with immersive technology and the data and research you did? What were some of the outcomes and how does that inform your career?

11:22 - What do you think are some of the drivers towards adoption of new industry technology?

14:35 - Are you looking into smart contracts and how blockchain can be wired into this conversation where you're able to remotely use immersive technology to virtually verify work has been done?

26:29 - I'm always curious, what would you like to see happen to be a real catalyst of this next evolution? Are there some solutions that are here and about to take off?

44:31 - So, let's go even further into the future. Projecting yourself 20 to 25 years in the future, and you could bring with you any kind of gadget that would make your life better or make you happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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On this episode of the Future Construct Podcast (27 min interview), we spotlight Allison Xu (@AllisonCXu), Investor at BainCapital Ventures, as she joins host Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) to discuss:

Companies that excite her and how construction industry is currently booming with the development of technology
What the benchmarks are for investing, and how investors look for to determine value within potential investment opportunities
Current trends and ways to streamline businesses and workflows
What some of the positive impacts of the emerging technologies are and why successful technologies get adopted across industry

SHOW NOTES

0:36 Amy Peck introduces Investor at BainCapital Ventures, Allison Xu.2:19 So, what are some of the companies that really excite you? 5:18 Do you like to watch the evolution of companies to see if they hit revenue benchmarks or evolution benchmarks to say, "Ok, it's time"? 10:03 Are you feeling that, even with all the new technology, that there is so much room for even one company to solve one problem along the workflow and make an impact industry-wide?18:56 What are some the positive impacts of this future technology that you're seeing?24:46 So if you could visualize yourself 15 to 20 years into the future, and you could have any experience or any gadget that would make your life better or make you happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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On this episode of the Future Construct Podcast (36 min interview), we spotlight Curtis Rodgers, Principal at Brick & Mortar Ventures, as he joins host Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) to discuss:

Integrating technology into the construction workspace and understanding the user's journey
Insights on opportunities to utilize data in a multitude of different ways for many use cases
The types of investments he's made and some of the partnerships he's developed with portfolio companies
The dream gadget he would like to have 20 to 30 years in the future

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On this special episode of the Future Construct Podcast (1 hour interview), we spotlight leaders of two startups, Joe Michaels (@joemich), Chief Revenue Officer at HaptX, Inc., and Tessa Lau (@tessalau), the Founder and CEO at Dusty Robotics, as they join host Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) to discuss:

Current and practical use cases for haptics and robotics among other emerging technologies.
Features of haptic gloves and other wearables that will continue to shape how we interact with technology and the convergence of that with robotics, AR/VR, and artificial intelligence.
The value that robotics holds in the future of technology across multiple industries and what trends will influence the direction of that technological evolution.
Their ideal gadgets of the future, 20-25 years from now, not based in reality, that would make their lives better and easier.

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On this episode of the Future Construct Podcast (24 min interview), we spotlight Cathy Hackl (@CathyHackl), Global Futurist and Founder of the Futures Intelligence Group, as she joins Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) to discuss:

Current and emerging industry trends within virtual reality, augmented reality, and other reality technologies.
What non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are, the value they hold in relation to traditional currency and how they might be utilized in the future of emerging technology
The ways that augmented reality glasses will change the way that we think about augmented reality and how we move from mobile technology to wearables
The involvement of volumetric video in digital experiences with avatars, and how we can utilize volumetric video in machine learning

Cathy is a leading tech futurist and globally recognized business leader specializing in augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), & spatial computing. She is one of LinkedIn's top technology voices and a champion for diversity.

Hackl has worked with some of the biggest names in tech including Amazon Web Services (AWS), Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE. She leads the Futures Intelligence Group, a futures research & consulting firm that works with clients in tech, fashion, media, government, and defense implementing innovation strategies, strategic foresight, and emerging technologies. She's also a top Forbes Contributor.

SHOW NOTES0:37 Amy Peck introduces global futurist and the Founder of the Futures Intelligence Group, Cathy Hackl.4:51 So non-fungible tokens, can you explain what these are for those who don't know? 8:57 I'd love to hear more about the fearless nature of your work. Let's talk about some of the ways to seamlessly bring technology in and leverage curiosity to dispel some of the fear around becoming irrelevant alongside technology? 13:45 Do you see volumetric video being an extension of trends, enabling us those more personalized experiences, whether it be sporting figures or entertainment figures, or our favorite musicians or bands?18:32 How will our everyday lives, for example advertising and marketing, happen in this 3D realm? Do you see a different construct emerging?21:30 So if you could project yourself 25 years into the future, and you could create your favorite thing or gadget, and it doesn't have to be rooted in reality at all, what would it be and what would it do?

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On this episode of the Future Construct Podcast (30 min interview), we spotlight Jessie Mooberry (@mooberryj), Senior Technology & Innovation Advisor at Flight Safety Foundation (@FlightSafetyFoundation), as she joins Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) to discuss:

Ways to seamlessly integrate technology into the current industry processes and how to dispel fear about technology replacing the human factor
Switching gears from her work at NASA to opening and operating a coffee/wine bar
The expansion of the digital nomad lifestyle and the differences between local and global cultures
How close the future of personal air transportation could be and how that may impact the way people travel within cities

Prior to her time at the Flight Safety Foundation, Jessie worked as the Head of Development at Airbus for 3 years, the Vice Director at Uplift Aeronautics for almost 2 years, and an Entrepreneur in Residence & Technologist at the Peace Innovation Lab at Stanford University. In addition, Jessie also served as a member on the Board of Trustees for People's Light for 4 years and was a Board Member for the Global UTM Association (GUTMA) for a year.

SHOW NOTES

0:44 - Amy Peck introduces the Senior Technology and Innovation Advisor at the Flight Safety Foundation, Jessie Mooberry.

1:58 - So let's start with the beginning. Can you tell us a little bit about the history of your career?

8:41 - I'd love to hear more about the fearless nature of your work. Let's talk about some of the ways to seamlessly bring technology in and leverage curiosity to dispel some of the fear around becoming irrelevant alongside technology?

11:48 - You know, so NASA in the morning and coffee bar in the afternoon. How do you switch gears?

15:47 - So, in thinking about moving forward, there's this digital nomad culture that's expanding. Let's talk about this local culture versus global culture. I'd like to hear, how did you land in this lifestyle?

23:25 - So if you could project your into the future, 20 or 25 years, and you could build any kind of gadget that would make your life better or make you happy, what would it be and what would it do?

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On this episode of the Future Construct Podcast (29 min interview), we spotlight Randee Herrin, Senior Vice President of Construction Technologies & Manufacturing at TDIndustries, Inc. (@tdindustries), as she joins Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) to discuss how she has seen technology improve processes and be implemented successfully, how companies should leverage methods to build off-site and develop efficiencies, and the ways that BIM has evolved over the last several years and how it will continue to expand with the ability to leverage BIM data.

Randee has served with TDIndustries, Inc. for over 25 years in several roles, ranging from Project Manager, Vice President, Leader of Corporate Innovation, Senior Vice President New Construction and now Senior Vice President Construction Technologies & Manufacturing. Randee also served on the Board of Directors for the Women Contractors Association from 1999 to 2002, during which she became the organization's Vice President for a year.

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On this episode of the Future Construct Podcast (29 min interview), we spotlight Mark Oden, CEO of BIM Designs, Inc. (@BIMdesignsInc), as he joins Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) to discuss how he developed the company culture and service offerings at BIM Designs, Inc., how artificial intelligence can be utilized as a tool rather a replacement for a human workforce, and how BIM technology can serve as a digital overlay for pre-construction processes in the future.

Prior to BIM Designs, Inc. Mark co-founded Taskware, an API-based micro-tasking platform, and served as the organization's COO. While working at Cisco, he served in several roles, ranging from Network Engineering, Product Management, Strategy and Planning, Mergers and Acquisitions and Business Development. Mark is a Cisco Pioneer Award winner and Best of Interop Finalist for his work as Product Manager for the WebEx and Media Services Interface integration (Medianet).

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On this episode of the Future Construct Podcast (29 min interview), we spotlight Chris Howard (@techris), Founder and CEO of Softeq (@Softeq), as he joins Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) to discuss his perspective on why IoT deployments fail, where his customers come from, how he positions projects to be sold upstream, as well as his work as an entrepreneurial mentor in coding and technology. Also, listen for the two facets of his company he gets the most questions and where he's heard companies are shifting their tech focus.

Aside from Softeq, Chris is also the CEO and Founder of a few other organizations, including zGames, Howzer Interactive, and Genus Microprogamming, Inc. Prior to his entrepreneurial ventures, Chris was a Software Engineer at IBM for 3 years, supporting NASA by working on the engineering department's only IBM PC during the days of the Space Shuttle program.

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On this episode of the Future Construct Podcast (35 min interview), we spotlight Damon Hernandez (@MetaverseOne), Founder and Executive Director of the AEC Hackathon, (@AECHackathon) and Co-Founder and Director of Technology at IDEAbuilder (@IDEAbuilder) as he joins Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) to discuss his current projects using 3D data throughout the construction process, what he has learned about how hackathons are beneficial to the landscape of the AEC industry after hosting 40+ competitions, some of his favorite hackathon projects, his thoughts on full adoption of "living-breathing BIM" in the industry, the importance of the multi-device experience in construction, seeing more VR headsets at AEC conferences than GDC and many more thoughtful insights.

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On this episode of the Future Construct Podcast (30 min interview), we are featuring Joanna Popper (@JoannaPopper), Global Head of Virtual Reality for Location Based Entertainment at HP (@hp) as she joins Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) to candidly discuss her role leading HP's Go-to-Market strategy, why she's excited about HP's newest VR headsets the Reverb G2 and Reverb Omnicept, the amazing features of these new headsets and the accompanying software platforms, solutions for the AEC industry and use cases from some of her enterprise clients, and how she transitioned from a marketing career to the VR space.

Joanna has been selected as “50 Women That Can Change the World in Media and Entertainment, “101 Women Leading the VR Industry” and is on the Coalition for the Women in XR Fund.

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Amy Marks (@QueenofPrefab) has over a decade of experience in the construction industry, including her time at Autodesk (@autodesk) as the Head of Industrialized Construction Strategy and Evangelism. Before joining Autodesk, she was the CEO of XSite Modular and pioneered a path to become the world’s preeminent prefabrication consultant and is often called the Queen Of Prefab.

On this episode of the Future Construct Podcast (30 min interview), she joins Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) to candidly discuss how she became the queen of prefabrication, the need to remove constraints so that companies can fully leverage emerging technology, if there is room for an Uber-like behemoth in the construction industry, and the digital transformation of the industry.

Hear Amy Marks also expound on designing buildings for the end user, the unique story behind her red stiletto in her office, as well as several other insightful topics.

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Elizabeth Baron (@ImmersivStories) has decades (yes, decades!) of experience helping teams at Ford Motor Company (@ford) and now Unity Technologies (@Unity3D) visualize and collaborate through VR. On this episode of the Future Construct Podcast (20 min interview), she joins Amy Peck (@VirtualGirlNY) to discuss VR, game engines, and how companies can leverage technology for the future within an innovative space.

Hear Elizabeth and Amy expand on: "What are some of the ways that game engines are valuable within the enterprise construct?" as well as several other insightful topics.

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On Episode 1, Salla Eckhardt, the Director of Transformation Services and Worldwide Construction Lead at Microsoft, joins Amy to discuss digital twins, her experiences as a woman in the construction industry, and the future role of digital technologies in construction.

Future Construct: Thought Leaders Discuss BIM and Construction Solutions for the AEC Industry: Recent Episodes

Amy Peck