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Join the innovation adventure that spotlights MEP and the construction industry – advancements in technology, distinctive perspectives, the soft skills required for successful digital transformation, and stories about the problem-solving mindset that continues to shape this great industry and propel it forward. The Bridging the Gap Podcast gives voice to the incredible things happening in and around construction while championing the fact that this is a great industry to be in.
The host, Todd Weyandt, seeks out enlightening conversations with industry experts who are changing the technological landscape. Engaging a full spectrum of voices, he champions an industry dialogue that supports companies as they try new things, advance and thrive.
He is on a mission to embrace and share the innovations transforming the AEC, MEP and manufacturing industries.
The Bridging the Gap Podcast is brought to you by Applied Software. With solutions for the modern project, Applied is on a mission to transform industries by empowering clients and championing innovation with real-world expert consultants.
Bringing you a comprehensive array of solutions for AEC, MEP and manufacturing, the experts of Applied have a singular focus – helping you achieve higher performance. Visit asti.com today.
What does it take to modernize a trade-heavy business in today’s digital construction landscape?
In this episode of Bridging the Gap, Todd Weyandt sits down with Andrew Goodwin, President of Professional Piping Systems, to explore how he’s reimagining the industrial piping world through smart leadership, lean processes, and real-time problem solving.
From overcoming early challenges to creating a people-first culture, Andrew dives into the practical side of construction innovation. Whether it’s navigating the labor shortage, adapting to digital workflows, or staying ahead of safety and scheduling—this episode delivers insights you can use now.
🔑 Key Topics:Leading through lean and operational excellence
Culture shifts that drive trade retention
Strategic planning for long-term growth in industrial construction
🎧 Tune in to hear how one contractor is laying the pipework for the future—literally.
Meet Our GuestAndrew Goodwin is President of Professional Piping Services (PPS). He is a seasoned professional with a demonstrated history of working in the industrial and vertical building industry. With a strong foundation in management, he has excelled in various leadership roles. Andrew's journey began with the establishment of PPS Coatings, a company he founded and nurtured. Through dedication and hard work, he worked his way up to become the President of PPS.
Todd Takes Transparency and Collaboration Are Non-Negotiable for a Healthy CultureSustaining a strong, resilient team starts with radical transparency and deep collaboration. When leaders stay engaged on the jobsite and in the trenches—openly sharing both the wins and challenges—it fosters trust and accountability across the organization. That kind of alignment not only improves project execution, it builds a workplace where everyone feels seen and heard.
See the Whole Person, Not Just the Job TitleA thriving workforce isn’t built by treating employees like interchangeable parts. It’s built by supporting people holistically—recognizing their personal struggles, ambitions, and needs. From offering flexible hours to supporting mental health or family challenges, the approach was clear: when people feel genuinely cared for, they show up with purpose and loyalty.
Construction Has a Marketing Problem—And It’s Time to Fix ItThere’s a major disconnect between the reality of today’s construction industry and how it’s perceived. While the industry is packed with innovation, robotics, and exciting career paths, too few young people are hearing that story. The solution? Bold storytelling through social media, direct outreach in schools, and creating visible, authentic ambassadors who show that construction can be a smart, lucrative, and even “sexy” career choice.
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How do you turn a quiet childhood into a powerhouse communications career in AEC? In this episode of Bridging the Gap, Todd sits down with Susan Young—journalist-turned-communication coach—for a deep dive on why storytelling, curiosity, and clarity are the secret weapons of modern construction pros.
Susan shares her unique journey from broadcasting to boardrooms and unpacks the common struggles she sees across the industry, especially when it comes to presenting, persuading, and connecting with people.
🎯 Whether you're pitching to clients, presenting at public hearings, or leading a team—this episode will change how you think about communication in AEC.
Meet Our GuestSusan Young is CEO of Get in Front Communications, Inc. Susan is an award-winning CEO, communicator, and keynote speaker in the AEC industry with over 40 years of experience. She works with AEC professionals who want to be clear communicators so that they have more confidence, trust, and impact. For 10 years, Susan was an on-air radio news reporter and anchor. In addition, she co-managed the office of radio and TV for New Jersey Governor Christine Todd Whitman. She blends her unique communication background with today's mindset tools that bring new, heartfelt, and repeatable processes and perspectives that few trainers know.
TODD TAKESEveryone Has a Story—Even If You Don’t Think SoMost people in the construction industry downplay their own stories, believing that everyday work isn’t worth sharing. But the truth is, if you got out of bed today, you have a story. The challenge is recognizing those small but meaningful moments—like attending a parade or building with Legos as a kid—that shape who you are and why you do what you do. Storytelling starts with acknowledging the value of your own experience.
Curiosity is a SuperpowerBeing a great communicator starts with having a natural curiosity—not just about others, but about yourself too. Asking the right questions (internally and externally) can uncover powerful insights and help shift internal narratives. Whether it’s connecting with clients or developing your own career path, curiosity leads to clarity, confidence, and better human-to-human connection.
If You Want to Clean Your House, You Have to Look at the DirtSelf-awareness is the starting point for growth. From leadership to frontline workers, communication struggles often stem from unexamined habits, fear, or ego. True innovation—especially in communication—requires the willingness to reflect honestly, challenge internal dialogue, and break outdated patterns. Avoiding the “dirt” only allows dysfunction to fester. Growth begins with a willingness to face it head-on.
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What happens when you blend startup energy with construction grit? In this week’s episode, Todd sits down with James Hatfield, Chief Revenue Officer at LiveSwitch and lifelong entrepreneur, for a conversation on how innovation, leadership, and customer “obsession” are shaping the future of the built environment.
From launching his own painting company to helping Fortune 500 teams scale, James shares a practical yet visionary approach to leading in the construction tech space. He breaks down the process of shifting team mindsets, improving buy-in across the board, and how building trust beats selling products every time.
🔑 Key Topics:
Translating startup lessons into construction leadership
Why trust and relationships still close more deals than tech
Creating a “customer-obsessed” culture across your teams
The mindset shift needed for growth in Contech
TODD TAKES
- Solve the Problem That Actually Exists—Not the One You Assume
Innovation in construction must start by addressing real, boots-on-the-ground challenges—not hypothetical or abstract problems. The most effective tools are born from firsthand experience and direct input from the field. If the tech doesn’t make a worker’s life easier today, it won’t be adopted tomorrow.
- Practical Empathy Drives Better Innovation
Seeing through the eyes of the people who actually use the technology—whether it’s a superintendent, technician, or small business owner—ensures that tools are intuitive, fast, and don't require lengthy training. Empathy isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a design strategy.
- You Need Both Visionaries and Plane Landers
Visionaries dream of the future. Plane landers bring those dreams safely to the ground. For innovation to succeed in construction, businesses need both: those who can see around corners and those who can translate that vision into practical tools that teams can use today, without disruption fatigue.
James Hatfield is Chief Revenue Officer at LIveSwitch Inc., a global technology company that serves the trades and other businesses. As an industry thought leader and expert in sales, leadership and business innovation. James has extensive experience working with entrepreneurs, small businesses, and Fortune 500 enterprises. He is also an entrepreneur and has founded a painting and power washing company.
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What does it take to build a business that truly lasts? In this episode of Bridging the Gap, Todd Weyandt sits down with visionary business leader John Abrams to explore legacy in construction leadership and how employee ownership is helping reshape the future of the industry. From founding one of the nation’s earliest worker cooperatives to mentoring a new generation of leaders, John shares hard-earned wisdom on how to leave a purposeful and enduring mark in construction.
They also discuss his latest book, From Founder to Future, which offers a roadmap for building businesses centered on values, longevity, and democratic decision-making. If you’re thinking about your own leadership legacy in construction, this episode offers practical insights on culture, hiring, ownership, and succession.
About Our GuestJohn Abrams is Co-Founder of South Mountain Company and Abrams + Angell. John is a visionary business leader, author, and pioneer in employee ownership. John co-founded South Mountain Company, an architectural building and solar firm that became one of the first worker cooperatives in the U.S. setting a gold standard for purpose driven business in construction. He now mentors others on creating lasting impact through democratic ownership. His latest book, From Founder to Future, is a roadmap for building companies with an enduring integrity.
Todd TakesCulture doesn't just happen—it’s built on purpose.If you want a strong, healthy company culture, it takes daily, intentional effort. It means aligning your values with your decisions and walking the walk, not just talking the talk. Culture should be something you actively shape, not something you inherit or hope works itself out.
Hiring isn’t a race—it’s a responsibility.The best teams come from hiring slowly and with purpose. When you prioritize values, character, and long-term fit over speed or resume flash, you end up with people who strengthen—not strain—the culture you’re trying to build.
Trust grows when everyone gets a seat at the table.Some of the best solutions come from opening up tough questions to the whole team. When people are invited to help solve problems and shape decisions, trust deepens and ownership expands—because everyone feels like their voice actually matters.
🎧 Tune in to learn how you can build your own legacy in construction leadership—through purpose, people, and long-term impact.
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What does it take to truly transform construction? In this episode of Bridging the Gap, Todd Weyandt chats with Paul Hedgepath of MJ Harris about the powerful intersection of innovation and practicality on the jobsite. With over 25 years of experience, Paul dives into how BIM, AI, and reality capture are reshaping workflows across industries like healthcare, aviation, and education.
Discover how to lead technology adoption, build smarter with data, and future-proof your teams in a rapidly evolving industry.
🔎 Topics We Cover:* How to drive meaningful innovation with BIM, AI, and reality capture * Why adaptability and communication are key to long-term success * Breaking down silos and making tech adoption less intimidating
🎧 Listen now for more insights on the future of building.
Meet Our GuestPaul Hedgepath is Director at MJ Harris Construction. In his role, he leads construction technology and BIM operations, integrating practical tools into project workflows and fostering collaboration among design teams, trades, owners, and field teams. His goal is to help teams use technology effectively for better project outcomes.
TODD TAKES1. Tech Culture Starts with Trust and Action
Adopting construction technology isn’t just about the tools—it’s about building a culture that trusts innovation. By getting hands-on, showing results, and addressing real field problems, tech leaders can build credibility and foster meaningful buy-in from teams on the ground.
- AI is Already on the Jobsite—And It's Working
AI isn’t just a buzzword anymore. Teams are actively using smart assistants to review submittals, flag schedule risks, and cross-check documents—saving time and reducing rework. It’s about aligning AI with real tasks, not just theoretical use cases.
- Training and Simplicity Drive Adoption
Rolling out new tech—especially AI—requires thoughtful training. That means using real-world examples, simplifying workflows, and giving teams just what they need to succeed without overwhelming them. A one-pager and clear pain-point examples go a long way toward making AI stick.
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It’s a fact: a picture is worth a thousand words. In this episode of Bridging the Gap, Todd Weyandt sit down with Roger Yarrow of TrueLook Construction Cameras to explore the evolving world of construction cameras. Roger shares his vision for the future of precon, the growing importance of data-driven decisions, and how visibility tech is transforming project teams. Tune in and dive into the rising demand for preconstruction software, how to avoid costly job site mistakes, and why flexibility and transparency are must-haves in today's construction landscape.
🔎 Topics Covered:
- Why preconstruction is more important than ever
- The role of data and software in modern construction
- Building trust through client transparency
- Preparing your team for future innovation
- The biggest challenges facing preconstruction teams today
Roger Yarrow is CEO of TrueLook Construction Cameras. In his role, Roger spearheads the company's commitment to being the market leader in total jobsite visibility. By harnessing advanced camera technology, data-driven insights, and AI, TrueLook offers construction professionals a seamless and comprehensive solution for viewing, securing, and documenting their jobsites.
TODD TAKES
- Total Jobsite Visibility Isn’t Just a Catchphrase—It’s a Decision-Making Superpower
When you’ve got real-time visuals, time-lapse documentation, and security footage all in one place, you’re not just watching a jobsite—you’re managing it smarter. Visibility gives you the power to make decisions proactively instead of reactively. That’s a game-changer. - Cameras Build Accountability and Transparency Without the Big Brother Vibe
It’s not about catching people doing something wrong—it’s about creating a shared reality everyone can operate from. When project stakeholders can see progress, align on facts, and track what really happened on site, you’re building trust from the field all the way to the C-suite. - A Connected Jobsite Is a Safer Jobsite
This isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety. Cameras and other connected tools create an ecosystem where machines, people, and data talk to each other. And when tech can warn you about danger before it strikes, that’s innovation doing what it’s supposed to—keeping people safe.
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Resilient sustainable construction with ICFs is transforming the building industry. In this episode of Bridging the Gap, discover how the concrete industry is exceeding expectations—achieving a 50% reduction in carbon emissions well ahead of the 2030 goal—and how Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) are setting the new standard for energy efficiency, disaster resilience, and long-term performance.
Todd Weyandt sits down with Frank Gordon, Vice President of Strategic Development at BuildBlock Building Systems and an active member of the Virginia Ready Mixed Concrete Association (VRMCA). Frank shares his deep industry expertise on how resilient sustainable construction with ICFs is not just a trend, but the future of building smarter and stronger.
Key Takeaways* The vital connection between sustainability and resiliency in modern construction * How ICFs protect against wildfires, hurricanes, and seismic events * Real-world case studies of ICF structures enduring catastrophic disasters * Innovations driving carbon-neutral and low-carbon concrete technologies
🎙 Tune in to learn how ICFs are reshaping resilient sustainable construction and why forward-thinking builders, architects, and developers are adopting this approach.
About Our GuestFrank Gordon is the VP of strategic development at BuildBlock Building Systems and is a member of VRMCA, Virginia Ready Mixed Concrete Association. He is an advocate of sustainable and resilient construction. With over 30 years of industry experience, Frank shares his passion for educating architects, engineers, and developers on the advantages of Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) and how they are revolutionizing sustainable construction.
Todd TakesSustainability and resiliency go hand in hand. You really can’t have one without the other. It’s not just about being efficient or green—it’s about building systems that can weather change and still deliver value over time.
Let curiosity lead the way. Staying curious—asking the right questions and digging into the “why” behind customer behavior—can unlock powerful insights. It’s that mindset that turns raw data into real opportunities for growth.
Step back to move forward. True innovation doesn’t always come from adding more—it often comes from pausing and reassessing the process itself. When we zoom out, we can spot friction points, simplify complexity, and unlock smarter, more scalable solutions.
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What happens when you blend old-world craftsmanship with forward-thinking sustainability? In this episode of Bridging the Gap, host Todd Weyandt is joined by Jonathan Orpin, founder of New Energy Works and pioneer in timber frame construction and sustainable design.
Jonathan shares how re-embracing wood as a primary building material is key to creating a more carbon-conscious future. From the importance of craft in construction to balancing tradition with innovation, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sustainable building, prefabrication, and the human element behind the tools.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- Why mass timber and wood framing are making comebacks in modern construction
- How collaboration and community are essential to real innovation
- The vital role of craftsmanship in an era of automation
- How New Energy Works is leading the charge in sustainable, people-first building
🎧 Tune in to learn how timber can help us shape a better, more beautiful built environment.
Jonathan Orpin is a lifelong entrepreneur and sustainability advocate, founder of New Energy Works and Pioneer Millworks, two eco-friendly leaders in design. He is also Member of the Board of Directors at Timber Framers Guild.
TODD TAKES
- Sustainability and Business Success Go Hand-in-Hand
Jonathan emphasized that sustainability isn't just about being environmentally conscious—it’s also a smart business strategy. By balancing people, planet, and profit, companies can build long-term value while creating better work environments and products. - Building a Strong Culture is Key to Long-Term Success
A company’s mission is only as strong as the people who believe in it. Jonathan highlighted the importance of creating a culture where employees feel invested, informed, and aligned with the company’s purpose. When people understand the "why" behind their work, they’re more engaged and committed to long-term success. - The Future of Construction Depends on Smarter Material Choices
Sustainable building starts with rethinking the materials we use. Jonathan stressed the importance of selecting materials that reduce environmental impact while maintaining durability and performance. From wood fiber insulation to mass timber, the industry has opportunities to build smarter and greener—if we make intentional choices.
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Does innovation always mean groundbreaking new tech, or can it also mean simple, steady improvements to the way you work? Live from Advancing Prefab 2025, Todd Weyandt sits down with Jason Van Nest to talk about the importance of standardization in prefab construction, the balance between innovation and practical solutions, and the necessity of stakeholder buy-in for successful standards. Looking to the future, Jason emphasizes the need for configured solutions in construction and the power of collaboration to drive change in the industry.
Main takeaways:
🔹 How can we bridge the gap between architects and builders?
🔹 Why is prefab the key to efficiency and scalability?
🔹 What’s coming next in automation, AI, and modular design?
🎧 Don’t miss this deep dive into the prefab revolution—tune in now!
Jason Van Nest is the founder of LOGIC Building Systems and a leading voice in offsite construction and modular innovation. As the executive director of New York Tech's Center for Offsite Construction, he works to create the technology, research, and curriculum needed to scale industrialized construction in the U.S. With a background as a licensed architect, professor, and BIM consultant, Jason brings a unique blend of hands-on experience, academic leadership, and forward-thinking strategies to the conversation on how to drive down costs and make prefab more accessible.
TODD TAKES
- Prefab Needs Standardization—But Not at the Cost of Flexibility: Everyone talks about the need for standardization in prefab, but Jason made a great point—it’s not about forcingeverything into a rigid system. Instead, the goal should be to create repeatable, scalable solutions that still leave room for customization and adaptability. Think of it like USB ports—if the industry can agree on universal connection points, prefab can scale without limiting design freedom.
- Industrialized Construction is the Only Path Forward: With rising material costs, labor shortages, and sustainability pressures, Jason doesn’t see a future where industrialized construction isn’tthe solution. Prefab and modular methods are the only scalable way to build smarter, faster, and more efficiently. The key? Breaking free from outdated, project-by-project engineering and moving toward a true “configured-to-order” model.
- The Market Needs to Be Ready for Innovation: Here’s the thing—technology alone won’t change the industry. Jason pointed out that major innovations only succeed when the market is prepared to adopt them, just like how USB ports paved the way for smartphones and thumb drives. If we want prefab and industrialized construction to scale, we need to set the foundation nowwith clear standards, better collaboration, and a mindset shift across the industry.
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Is prefabrication all about efficiency, or is it also revolutionizing the way we build? In this episode, Todd Weyandt sits down with Michael Quillen, a seasoned expert in electrical prefab to explore the changing landscape of workforce development, automation, and the future of modular construction. Michael shares his journey from being a 17-year-old apprentice to becoming a leader in prefab design, emphasizing the importance of engaging young talent and breaking industry stigmas. He reveals how his team’s innovative approach—focusing on field collaboration, hiring forward-thinking professionals, and embracing automation—has revolutionized efficiency in construction.
Key takeaways include:
🔹 How early engagement with schools fosters a stronger, skilled workforce.
🔹 The mindset shift needed to scale prefab from job sites to full-scale factories.
🔹 The role of AI and automation in shaping the future of construction.
🔹 Strategies for gaining buy-in from the field and leadership to push prefab forward.
🔹 Highlights from Advancing Prefab 2025, including the growing involvement of architects and owners in prefab planning.
🎧 Tune in to gain fresh insights into the prefab revolution and what it takes to stay ahead in this rapidly advancing industry!
Michael Quillian is a leader in electrical prefabrication and modular construction at Inglett & Stubbs Modular. With over 20 years of field experience, he specializes in designing and fabricating electrical and multi-trade modular skids and assemblies that drive efficiency and innovation. Michael is passionate about leveraging technology and advanced workflows to push the boundaries of cost-effective, high-quality, and sustainable prefab solutions.
TODD TAKES
- Prefab Success Starts with Thinking Differently: If you want prefab to thrive, you can’t just copy-paste traditional construction methods into a controlled environment. Michael made it clear that success comes from rethinking processes, questioning why things are done a certain way, and constantly searching for better solutions. The best prefab teams aren’t just following a playbook—they’re rewriting it in real time to drive efficiency and innovation.
- Collaboration with the Field is the Game-Changer: Prefab isn’t about forcing the field to use a product—it’s about partnering with them to solve real problems. Michael emphasized that his team actively listens to what field crews need, which builds trust and ensures that prefab solutions actually make their lives easier. When prefab is seen as a service to the field rather than just another deliverable, that’s when real buy-in happens.
- The Future of Prefab is Automation—But Not Just the Kind You Think: Everyone loves to talk about robotic automation, but Michael pointed out that digital automation is just as critical. Whether it’s dashboarding, AI-driven data analysis, or streamlining workflows, the ability to process information faster is what will take prefab to the next level. The companies that win in the future won’t just automate bending conduit—they’ll automate decision-making and process optimization across the board.
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With tariffs and supply chain disruptions reshaping the construction landscape, staying ahead of contract complexities is more critical than ever. In this episode of Bridging the Gap, host Todd Weyandt welcomes back Josh Levy, CEO and Co-Founder of Document Crunch, to discuss how AI is revolutionizing contract review and helping contractors navigate risks—including the impact of new tariffs.
Josh shares insights on how AI-driven tools help teams quickly identify key contract risks, streamline workflows, and improve decision-making. He also dives into the evolving role of technology in construction and the importance of bridging the knowledge gap between legal teams and field professionals.
Key takeaways include:
🔹 How AI is transforming contract review and risk management.
🔹What contractors need to know about upcoming tariffs—and how to prepare.
🔹 Why better contract understanding leads to stronger project outcomes.
🔹 The future of AI-driven solutions in construction.
🎧 Don’t let complex contracts slow you down—tune in now to learn how AI can give you a competitive edge!
TODD TAKES
- Stay Ahead of Disruptions: Change isn’t just coming—it’s already here. The companies that succeed aren’t the ones that simply react but the ones that anticipate and prepare. Josh highlights how being proactive about understanding market shifts, regulatory changes, and technological advancements can give businesses a competitive edge. Instead of waiting for disruption to force change, leaders should be constantly scanning the horizon and adjusting their strategies to stay ahead.
- Leadership and Innovation Go Hand in Hand: Technology can be a powerful tool, but it doesn’t automatically lead to better results. Josh makes a great point about the need for both leadership and innovation to shape technology in a way that enhances workflows rather than creating new inefficiencies. It’s not just about adopting the latest tools—it’s about bending them to fit the real needs of the business. The best leaders recognize that tech should serve the process, not the other way around.
- Construction’s Resilience Is Its Superpower: If there’s one industry that knows how to adapt, it’s construction. Josh reminds us that time and time again, construction has faced major disruptions—from economic downturns to labor shortages to new regulations—and has always found creative ways to move forward. This ability to think outside the box and problem-solve in real time is what keeps the industry strong. The future will bring new challenges, but if history is any indication, construction will rise to meet them.
Josh Levy is Co-Founder and CEO at Document Crunch, a contract intelligence platform for the construction industry. With a strong leadership background and expertise in construction law, he co-founded Document Crunch to bring his extensive experience to the field. Throughout his career, he has worked for top-ranking construction firms and led departments with annual revenues of $1 billion. He graduated with honors from the University of Florida, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Management. He also holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of Miami, graduating with high honors.
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How can the construction industry break free from traditional constraints and truly innovate? In this episode, live from Advancing Prefab 2025, Harriet Ingham of Holmes Solutions joins Todd Weyandt to explore how offsite construction and AI-driven workflows are changing the game.
Key takeaways:
🔹 How prefab eliminates construction site limitations
🔹 Balancing standardization with customization in projects
🔹 The role of AI & robotics in construction efficiency
🔹 De-risking innovation & redefining failure in the industry
🔹 The power of collaboration & breaking down silos
🎧 Join us for a deep dive into how industry leaders are leveraging incremental innovation to drive big results!
Harriet Ingham is VP of Major Products at Holmes Solutions. She works to drive innovation in the industry through product research, development, and testing. Her background as a structural engineer, combined with experience in product design, enables her to lead projects that seek to improve material and labor efficiency through the design of new technologies.
TODD TAKES
- Prefab Isn’t Just About Projects—It’s About Products: One of the biggest mindset shifts in prefabrication is moving from thinking about projects to thinking about products. Harriett emphasized that when you approach prefab as a repeatable, scalable product, you unlock massive efficiency gains and innovation potential. The key? Standardization and testing, because when you refine a product over time, you create something that’s smarter, faster, and more cost-effective.
- Innovation Doesn’t Have to Be Big—It Just Has to Move the Needle: There’s a misconception that innovation means reinventing everything from the ground up, but Harriett made a great point—sometimes, the most powerful innovations are small, incremental changes. Whether it’s testing a new connection systemor adjusting workflows with data-driven insights, even the smallest refinements can lead to massive efficiency gains over time. Prefab isn’t about one giant leap—it’s about continuous improvement that keeps pushing the industry forward.
- Collaboration is the Key to Making Prefab Work: Prefab can’t succeed in a vacuum—it requires early collaboration between all stakeholdersto truly optimize the process. Harriett highlighted that too often, construction teams are stuck in silos, only thinking about their piece of the puzzle. The projects that are winning in prefab are the ones where designers, contractors, and manufacturers sit at the same table from day one, ensuring seamless integration and shared success.
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In another episode of Bridging the Gap live from Advancing Prefab 2025, Todd Weyandt sits down with Jenny Kronish, insurance industry professional and former athlete, to discuss how team dynamics shape success in construction.
Drawing from her athletic background, Jenny shares how skills like collaboration, communication, and role awareness translate into building stronger, more resilient teams in the AEC industry. She also dives into:
🔹 The importance of trust and communication in large-scale projects
🔹 Why understanding every role on a construction team is crucial
🔹 How early risk management and insurance set teams up for long-term success
🔹 Overcoming the industry's hesitation to innovate despite its long history of adaptation
🎧 Listen in as we explore how construction professionals can take a team-first approach to problem-solving, embrace change, and build a more connected workforce.
Jenny Kronish is a Benefits and Risk Manager at NFP. As both a USA rugby world cup athlete and a leader in industrialized construction and prefabrication, Jenny knows the power of teamwork, strategy, and structure in achieving success. Her experience in high level athletics gives her a disciplined, goal-oriented approach to helping businesses navigate challenges and optimize their prefab and construction strategies.
TODD TAKES
- Construction is a Team Sport—Know Your Role and Trust Your Partners: Success in construction, much like in sports, comes down to team dynamics and trust. You’ve got to master your role, but also understand and respect the roles of those around you—because when one person struggles, the whole project feels it. Prefab and industrialized construction thrive on collaboration, and that means breaking down silos and building a culture of mutual accountability.
- The Industry is More Innovative Than It Thinks—We Just Need to Recognize It: There’s this myth that construction doesn’t innovate, but let’s be real—the industry has been evolving since the dawn of time. The challenge isn’t creating innovation, it’s recognizing and scaling what’s already working—whether that’s adopting new technology, rethinking workforce development, or leveraging prefab for efficiency. If we stop fearing change and embrace the fact that we’ve been evolving all along, we can push the industry forward faster.
- Communication and Early Collaboration are Everything: With so many moving parts and stakeholders, construction is a high-stakes team effort—so why do we still wait until the last minute to align? The earlier teams bring everyone to the table—from contractors to insurers to manufacturers—the better they can anticipate challenges and avoid costly mistakes down the line. Good communication isn’t a “soft skill” in this industry—it’s the difference between success and chaos.
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What’s driving the surge in prefabrication? How do we shift the industry mindset to embrace standardization and long-term partnerships? And where does AI fit into all of this?
In this episode of Bridging the Gap, Todd Weyandt sits down with Matt Graves, third-generation builder and leader at Great Lakes Prefabrication, live from Advancing Prefab. Matt shares his journey from swinging a hammer straight out of Purdue to pioneering prefab solutions that are redefining construction workflows.
Key Takeaways:
🔹 The mindset shift needed to move prefab from “new” to “essential”
🔹 How trust and collaboration drive long-term success in the industry
🔹 AI’s evolving role in prefabrication and digital workflows
🔹 Why some regions still resist prefab—and what’s changing that
🎧 Whether you’re a construction veteran or just curious about where the industry is headed, this episode is packed with insights on the future of building smarter.
Matt Graves is President of Great Lakes Prefabrication. Matt is a leading expert in industrialized construction, prefabrication, and digital transformation. With a passion for streamlining workflows and leveraging technology, Matt has been at the forefront of helping companies scale prefab and optimize construction efficiency. Get ready for an insightful conversation on standardization, AI's role in prefab, and the future of industrialized construction.
TODD TAKES
- Prefabrication isn’t new—it’s just finally catching on: It’s funny how some parts of the industry still treat prefab like some brand-new experiment, when in reality, people have been refining these methods for decades. The difference now? Owners and general contractors are starting to demand it, and that shift is creating a ripple effect across the industry. If you’re not integrating prefab into your projects yet, you might find yourself on the outside looking insooner than you think.
- Standardizing processes is more important than standardizing products: We all want prefabrication to be plug-and-play, but let’s be real—that’s just not how construction works (yet). Every project is different, but what we canstandardize is the process—creating a predictable, repeatable pathway to prefab success. When teams embrace process-driven prefab, they unlock efficiency, scalability, and real cost savings—without having to sacrifice project flexibility.
- Industrialized construction will only scale when we rethink contracts and collaboration: If we want prefab and industrialized construction to really take off, we have to fix how projects are structured from the ground up. The traditional contract model incentivizes low-bid, transactional relationships, which works against the long-term partnerships needed to make prefab successful. It’s time to shift the mindset—collaborative contracts, better risk-sharing, and early engagement are the real game changers.
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We’ve made it to 300 episodes! Join host Todd Weyandt as we celebrate this incredible milestone with a look back at the biggest themes shaping the industry—AI, digital transformation, sustainability, workforce challenges, and more. Todd shares key insights from past guests, highlights the global impact of Bridging the Gap, and gives a special shout-out to the amazing team and listeners who made it all possible. Get ready for a fun, reflective, and inspiring episode as we look ahead to the future of construction innovation!
💡 Our favorite themes from 300 episodes:
✔️ The digital transformation of construction, from BIM to AI
✔️ How sustainability and prefabrication are reshaping efficiency
✔️ The workforce challenge and why construction needs better storytelling
✔️ Breaking down silos: The power of collaboration across disciplines
🎧 Tune in for expert insights, industry trends, and a look at what’s next for AEC!
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Is the construction industry drowning in information overload? In another episode live from Advancing Prefab 2025, Todd sits down with Michael Warren, an industry veteran with 32+ years of experience spanning design, construction, and manufacturing. Michael shares how his multi-disciplinary background helped him break down industry silos and rethink traditional workflows.
🔹 The power of collaboration: Why designers & contractors must communicate beyond the drawing board.
🔹 The tech revolution in AEC: How BIM, LiDAR, and prefab are eliminating inefficiencies.
🔹 Rethinking documentation: Why Michael transformed his architectural plans into step-by-step LEGO-style instructions.
🔹 Future of the workforce: What the industry must do now to attract the next generation.
🎧 Tune in to discover how construction is merging with design and technology.
Michael Warren, Sr. - AIA, NCARB, CDT, LEED AP is Associate Vice President (AVP) at AECOM. With more than 30 years of experience in the architecture and building industry and as a BIM Evangelist and Revit Certified Professional, he consults and strategizes with AECOM's team of industry-leading subject matter experts and technical specialists on small to large and complex projects across various sectors. He develops, manages, and oversees the implementation of global development strategies and initiatives for the traditional and generative application of BIM as a primary delivery method and a submission requirement. He also leverages his skills in open-source programming, computational design, energy simulation, and database management to enhance the efficiency, quality, and sustainability of projects.
TODD TAKES
- Bridging the Gap Between Design, Manufacturing, and Construction: Michael has the ultimate trifecta—experience in architecture, manufacturing, and construction. He’s seen firsthand how disconnects between these areas lead to inefficiencies and how better collaboration can transform projects. The real magic happens when designers, fabricators, and builders stop working in silos and start thinking like one cohesive team.
- The Power of 3D Modeling in Prefab: Michael was an early adopter of 3D modeling before it became the industry standard. By integrating 3D models into fabrication, he improved precision, quality control, and safety in the field. It’s not just about cool tech—it’s about creating a better, faster, and safer way to build.
- The Future of Construction is Smarter, Not Harder: Technology is changing the game, and those who embrace it will lead the industry forward. Michael emphasizes that using digital tools like BIM isn’t just a trend; it’s a proven way to cut costs, speed up timelines, and deliver better results. The takeaway? If you’re not leveraging tech in construction, you’re already falling behind.
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In this episode of Bridging the Gap, live from Advancing Prefab 2025, Todd sits down with Dr. Andrew Rener to discuss the evolution of prefabrication in construction, the misconceptions that hold the industry back, and the shifts needed to drive true collaboration.
From breaking away from outdated procurement cycles to fostering real partnerships between owners and contractors, Andrew shares how technology, mindset shifts, and better communication can revolutionize project outcomes. Plus, this conversation dives into the genius simplicity of a single question that could transform industry relationships.
🔹 Why traditional procurement methods fail modern construction
🔹 The key mindset shift for achieving predictable project outcomes
🔹 How empathy and collaboration drive efficiency and innovation
🎧 Tune in to discover how prefabrication is shaping the future of construction.
Andrew Rener, PhD, PE, DBIA, F. ASCE is an experienced construction professional focused on building teams and projects while ensuring schedule, quality and budget are achieved. He is Management Team Member at Architectural Metals Inc.
TODD TAKES
- Owners Need to Lead the Prefab Revolution: If we want prefab to scale, owners have to stop treating procurement like a bidding war. Andrew made a strong case that owners need to commit to long-term partnerships instead of just chasing the lowest price. It’s about collaboration, not just cost-cutting—because the real value is in certainty, speed, and quality.
- Breaking Free from the Bid Mentality: One of the biggest roadblocks in prefab adoption? The constant bid cycle. Too many projects still compare prefab to traditional stick-built methods without factoring in time, labor, and jobsite congestion. If we shift the focus to total value instead of just upfront cost, we’ll unlock real innovation.
- Prefab Isn’t Just About Cost—It’s About Certainty: The biggest advantage of prefab isn’t just saving money—it’s about certainty of outcome. With prefab, you get fewer delays, better quality, and reduced jobsite risks. But for that to happen, the industry needs to rethink how it measures success beyond just price tags.
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In this episode, straight from Advancing Prefabrication 2025, Todd welcomes back Amy Marks, the Queen of Prefab, for an insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of industrialized construction. Amy shares how prefabrication is becoming the norm, the critical role of strategic partnerships, and why culture fit is key to success in the industry.
🔹 Why partnering—not just cost-cutting—drives real value
🔹 The rise of prefab and industrialized construction on a global scale
🔹 How AI and automation are reshaping the construction industry
🔹 The explosion of data centers and why prefab plays a pivotal role
🔹 Key metrics every construction leader should be tracking
Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how the best in the business are transforming construction through innovation and collaboration.
Amy Marks is the SVP, Innovation at Compass Datacenters. Compass builds hyper scale and cloud data centers tailored to customers' needs, delivering dedicated buildings and campuses through a tightly coupled supply chain and customer-centric network. Amy has defined the language, process and frameworks adopted by companies, universities and countries reflecting the convergence of Design-Make-Operate models. As the CEO of XSite Modular, she pioneered a path as the world’s preeminent prefabrication consultant and is often called the Queen Of Prefab - creating the first prefabrication consultancy.
TODD TAKES
- Trusted partnerships are the foundation of success: Let’s be real—if we keep treating prefab partnerships as just another low-bid contract, we’re missing the whole point. Scaling industrialized construction requires deep collaboration, where companies align on culture, strategy, and investment to truly co-create value. The best partnerships aren’t about squeezing margins—they’re about shared wins, long-term trust, and building something bigger than a single project.
- AI isn’t replacing creativity—it’s enhancing it: There’s a common fear that AI and automation will take over jobs, but in reality, they’re giving us the freedom to be more creative problem-solvers. AI is speeding up the repetitive tasks that bog us down, allowing teams to focus on design, strategy, and higher-level decision-making. The companies that embrace AI as a collaborative tool, not a competitor, will be the ones pushing innovation forward.
- Industrialized construction is the key to solving major industry challenges: Construction is at a breaking point—labor shortages, supply chain chaos, and sustainability pressures aren’t going away. Prefabrication and industrialized construction offer a real, scalable solution by streamlining processes, reducing waste, and making projects more predictable. The industry leaders of the future will be the ones who embrace repeatability, optimize for efficiency, and rethink the way we build from the ground up.
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Is AI a job disruptor, or could it actually make construction more human? In this episode, Hari Vasudevan joins the conversation to explore the transformative impact of AI on safety enhancements, efficiency improvements, and fostering better collaboration across teams. We explore the 80/20 rule in construction, the potential of AI-driven safety metrics, and why true collaboration between field crews and office teams is the key to unlocking AI’s full potential. Tune in for a fresh take on how technology isn’t here to replace workers—it’s here to empower them.
Hari Vasudevan, PE, is a serial entrepreneur and engineer at the forefront of AI, utilities, and construction management. As Founder & CEO of KYRO Technologies and Think Power Solutions, he drives transformative advancements in construction, vegetation, utility, and field services. Beyond these corporate roles, Mr. Vasudevan serves as Vice Chair & Strategic Advisor for the Edison Electric Institute’s Transmission Subject Area Committee, shaping the future of technology and infrastructure. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering, along with professional engineering licensure in multiple states.
TODD TAKES
- Work Smarter, Not Harder with the 80/20 Rule: In construction, a few key processes drive the majority of outcomes. AI can help identify and optimize those high-impact areas—like making sure project setups are done right from the start, so invoicing, cash flow, and overall efficiency don’t take a hit. When used strategically, AI isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a game-changer for profitability.
- AI Can Actually Make Construction More Human: There’s a common fear that AI will replace jobs, but in reality, it can make them safer and more sustainable. By tracking things like long work hours, frequent travel, and risky jobsite behaviors, AI can flag potential safety issues before they become real problems. It can even help ensure workers aren’t burning out by nudging project managers to give them a much-needed break. AI isn’t about replacing people—it’s about protecting and empowering them.
- Collaboration is the Secret Sauce for AI Success: AI only works if everyone—field teams, project managers, and the office staff—are on the same page. The reality is, field crews care about getting the job done, while office teams focus on financials and reporting. AI can help bridge that gap by making data entry easier, translating real-time updates across different teams, and ensuring everyone has the right info when they need it. When AI is built with true collaboration in mind, it stops being a headache and starts being a real solution.
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Think Power Solutions
In this episode, Todd and guest Pat Miller discuss Pat’s inspiring journey in the construction industry. Pat provides great insights into being a woman in a male-dominated field, the importance of resilience, and her advocacy for women to pursue more diverse career paths within construction. This episode also highlights the evolving landscape of the industry, particularly the recent rise of data centers, and the need for continuous education and networking in construction.
Pat Miller is President of Blue Diamond Construction in New Jersey. Blue Diamond specializes in Structural Metal Framing, Interior Metal Framing, Wood Framing, Drywall, Acoustical Ceiling, Insulation, Fire Spray, Doors/Frames/Hardware exclusively within the Commercial sector. Pat offers over 30 years’ experience within the commercial construction industry. She is highly organized, quality-minded and committed to her clients’ best interest.
TODD TAKES
- Let’s Make Construction Cool: The construction industry needs to do a better job showing how exciting it really is. It’s not just about swinging hammers anymore—it’s about using cutting-edge tech like AI, VR, and AR. By sharing behind-the-scenes stories and highlighting all the career paths—whether it’s safety, project management, or business development—we can attract the next generation and show them how dynamic and rewarding this field can be.
- Stay Open to Reinvention: One of Pat’s big messages is that you’ve got to be ready to adapt. The industry is constantly changing, and whether it’s pivoting to projects like data centers or embracing innovations like prefabrication, the key is staying ahead of the curve. It’s all about finding smarter, faster, and better ways to get things done.
- Never Underestimate Networking: Building relationships is everything. Pat’s journey proves how vital it is to connect with others in the industry. Whether it’s attending conferences, joining local programs, or just reaching out to peers, networking can open doors you didn’t even know existed. And for anyone just starting out? Get involved early—it’ll set you up for success.
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What does it take to truly innovate in construction? Should innovation be confined to one team or department, or should it become a collaborative, company-wide effort? In this episode of Bridging the Gap, Todd sits down with Trent Miskelly to explore these questions and the transformative power of AI in the construction industry. Together, they discuss how AI is revolutionizing workflows, enhancing project management, and unlocking new efficiencies. Trent also shares insights on the evolution and future potential of AI and robotics, as well as lessons from his journey with Document Crunch, a company dedicated to improving risk management in construction. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation about the future of innovation and technology in the industry!
Trent Miskelly is Chief Technology Officer at Document Crunch. He has over 20 years of experience in software development, product management, and operations, with a passion for building and scaling B2B software businesses. As the Chief Technology Officer at Document Crunch, he leads the strategy, execution, and growth of the first-of-its-kind solution transforming construction contracts and agreements into actionable insights, powered by a proprietary AI/ML engine. In addition to his role at Document Crunch, he is also an Operating Partner at Integr8d Capital, an early-stage venture capital firm that partners with extraordinary entrepreneurs driven to build enduring businesses.
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How can the construction industry strike the perfect balance between tradition and innovation—especially with AI in the mix? Join Todd and this week’s guest, Eric Helitzer of SubBase, for a great discussion on the evolution of technology. This episode delves into cost management, how experimentation and innovation go hand-in-hand, and the challenges inherent in adopting new technology.
Eric Helitzer is Founder & CEO of SubBase. He is passionate about transforming the construction material management process with innovative, efficient, and user-friendly technology. He has over 12 years of experience in the construction and development industry, where he has honed his skills in value engineering, budgeting, operations, and CPM scheduling.
TODD TAKES
- Leadership Buy-In is Essential: Getting top-tier leadership to champion technology adoption is crucial for success. Their support enables alignment with business goals and ensures smoother downstream implementation.
- Start with Gentle Disruption: Begin technology adoption incrementally to avoid overwhelming the team. Focus on integrating basics first, then layer on advanced features step-by-step as familiarity grows.
- Proactive Data Management for Budget Control: Utilizing data proactively provides real-time insights into budgets, preventing overruns and improving cost management. Centralized systems streamline workflows and enhance decision-making efficiency.
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What if you could switch from a 43% success rate to 98.9%? And what if that switch was as simple as adopting BIM? Join Todd and guest Brian Chapman as they discuss the evolution of construction innovation, particularly when it comes to Building Information Modeling (BIM). Brian has extensive experience in the construction industry, and he emphasizes that BIM is not just for large projects but can be beneficial for all sizes.
Brian Chapman is Founder of Lunix3D, a consulting firm specializing in ArchViz, BIM, and 3D Modeling. With over 25 years of experience, Brian’s journey into the construction industry began as a CAD specialist for AFS Fire, ensuring clash-free projects in a pre-BIM era. He then progressed to programming CAD applications and, later, creating 3D models for prominent multi-family developers and engineering firms. Brian expanded his expertise by serving as an on-site project engineer, and then as a project manager, on various multi-family projects. Recognizing the demand for BIM and 3D visualization services that truly address the challenges and requirements of the field, Brian founded Lunix3D to bridge the gap between cutting-edge tools and practical solutions. With a diverse background blending hands-on experience and technical expertise, Brian brings a unique perspective and unmatched insight to 3D technology application and coordination.
TODD TAKES
- Communication and Willingness to Learn: Good communication and a mindset open to learning are the cornerstones of embracing a BIM workflow. Success often comes from teams willing to adapt and collaborate as they navigate new processes together.
- Building Buy-In with Leadership and Teams: When gaining buy-in for BIM, it’s all about speaking the language of your audience. Tailor the conversation to showcase the ROI in ways that resonate with decision-makers, whether that’s time savings, cost reductions, or increased efficiency.
- The Speed of Trust: I love the phrase “the speed of trust.” When you complete a project successfully while fostering strong relationships, it builds credibility. That trust creates momentum, acting as a snowball for future growth and collaboration.
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Lunix3D
What is the most valuable resource in any organization, including construction? Human beings remain, and have always been, our best investment. Join Todd and guest Ed DeAngelis as they discuss several insights on creating a supportive environment, the need for continuous innovation in the industry, and the positive legacy of those who care for employees while achieving success in their business.
Ed DeAngelis is CEO and Founder of EDA Contractors, Inc. Ed’s innovative personality has allowed EDA Contractors, Inc. to become a leader in its industry. Always looking for another challenge, Ed has continually provided his customers with knowledgeable and qualified employees that share his unique vision. EDA Contractors, Inc. has been recognized for the past three straight years in the top five as a Top Workplace in Philadelphia by the Philadelphia Inquirer. Ed holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Saint Joseph's University.
TODD TAKES
- Humanity is a Strategy: To bring your best self to work, you need to bring your whole self—emotions, life experiences, and work experiences. Ed’s powerful phrase, “Humanity is a strategy,” emphasizes the importance of embracing authenticity and emotional intelligence as a cornerstone of leadership and workplace culture.
- Embracing the Messiness of Emotions: Handling emotions well requires mindfulness and intentionality, especially in a high-pressure industry like construction. While emotions can be messy, construction professionals are some of the most creative problem solvers, uniquely equipped to navigate the complexities of human interaction.
- The Power of Being Exceptionally Average: Ed’s idea of being “exceptionally average” highlights the value of consistent, intentional effort over perfectionism. It’s about excelling in the fundamentals, which takes discipline and focus, ultimately leading to sustainable success.
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EDA Contractors, Inc.
How do aging infrastructure and access to clean water relate? The two are more intertwined than you might think. Join Todd and guest Kenneth Driscol as they discuss the need for investment in public infrastructure, how access to water may look by the year 2050, and how sustainable AI solutions may come into play.
Kenneth L. Driscol is a Sr. Civil Application Engineer at Applied Software, GRAITEC Group. He has a demonstrated history of working in the computer software industry. He is skilled in AutoCAD, Revit, Autodesk Software, Drainage, and Modeling. He is a strong engineering professional with a Civil Engineering/ Construction Technology focused in Transportation and Highway Engineering from The University of Akron.
TODD TAKES
- Addressing Aging Infrastructure Proactively: Aging infrastructure isn’t something we can afford to ignore or push aside. It’s not an "out of sight, out of mind" problem—it’s a challenge we need to face head-on. By taking a proactive approach, we can ensure our systems stay safe, efficient, and built to last.
- Getting the Most Out of Your Data: When it comes to data, start by asking yourself: what do I want to learn? Once you’re clear on your goals, you can map out the right questions and create a framework for managing your data. With good governance and a little help from AI, those insights become game-changers.
- Feelings Aren’t Facts: “Feelings aren’t facts.” That one really hits home, doesn’t it? It’s so human to believe our emotions are the ultimate truth, but staying grounded in reality is what leads to smart decisions and better outcomes.
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What are the most essential ingredients in successful tech implementation? It’s tough to strike the balance between hard numbers and fostering company culture. Join Todd and guest Emily Edelstone as they discuss the importance of strategy, change management, and mentorship in construction.
Emily Edelstone is a Technical Solutions Executive at Autodesk. In her role, she helps architecture, engineering, construction firms and owners leverage the power of Autodesk's software to improve their project outcomes, efficiency, and sustainability. With over 10 years of experience in the industry, she has a strong background in estimating, planning, and managing complex and large-scale projects.
TODD TAKES
- Crawl, Walk, Run Approach to Technology Adoption: When implementing new technologies, start small with a "Crawl, Walk, Run" strategy. This phased approach allows for greater agility, the ability to learn from early steps, and the momentum to scale effectively. Ensure you have a strategic vision, clearly identifying who should be involved and the specific goals the new technology will help achieve.
- The Power of Consistency in Technology Workflows: Consistency is key to repeatability and success in technology implementation. Establish standard operating procedures for your technology workflows to maintain quality control and reliability. These standards ensure your team can execute with confidence and deliver predictable results every time.
- Embracing Diverse Perspectives through Reverse Mentorship: Building a culture of innovation requires openness to different perspectives and fresh ideas. Reverse mentorship, where younger employees mentor senior team members on emerging trends and technology, is a powerful way to foster collaboration and a forward-thinking mindset. Companies that embrace diverse ideas and adapt quickly are the ones leading in the technology race.
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Autodesk
Is it time to start taking ego out of the innovation equation? Join Todd and guest Jessica Vance as they discuss the role of continuous improvement in construction, the need for industrywide communication and mentorship, and the importance of leadership in driving positive change for future generations.
Jessica Vance is the Business Improvement Solutions Director at Cummings Electrical. With nearly two decades of experience in Electrical Engineering within the Construction industry, she has developed expertise across a range of roles, from hands-on engineering and project management to advanced virtual design and construction (VDC). Her career journey reflects a commitment to continuous improvement, leveraging technical insights, and strategic leadership to deliver impactful results.
TODD TAKES
- The Power of "Slow Down to Speed Up" in Construction: In an industry with tight margins and countless moving parts, adopting the principle of “slow down to speed up” is essential. Taking time to strategically plan and think through the most efficient processes allows teams to work smarter and avoid costly errors down the line.
- Empowering Frontline Workers for Meaningful Change: Incorporating ideas from frontline workers into the continuous improvement process is a game-changer. Not only does this foster their buy-in for changes, but it also ensures the solutions directly address day-to-day challenges, leading to more impactful and practical improvements.
- Checking Egos for Genuine Innovation: Innovation and process improvement require a team-wide effort to leave egos at the door. Success comes from consciously pursuing better methods and being open to adopting the ideas and strategies that drive true progress, even if they challenge the status quo.
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If sustainability and the human experience were at the forefront of architectural design, what changes would we see? Live from Autodesk University 2024, Nehama Schechter-Baraban joined the podcast for an important conversation on the intersection of technology and nature, how Revit plays into effective landscape architecture modeling, the potential for healthier and greener urban spaces, and how sometimes, all that’s needed to innovate an industry is a new point of view.
Nehama Schechter-Baraban is Chief Operations Officer of Arch-Intelligence. She is a landscape architect graduate of Technion - Israel Institute of Technology and a Revit expert.
TODD TAKES
- Context Matters in Design:It's crucial for architects to consider how their buildings interact with the surrounding environment. Whether it's grading the landscape or understanding the site’s topography, integrating context ensures the structure fits naturally into its setting, enhancing both the human experience and the project’s efficiency.
- Sustainability as a Mindset:Sustainable design goes beyond specific tools; it’s about designers having a mindset focused on environmental impact. From choosing native plants to minimizing land disturbance, sustainability is achieved by making conscious design choices that benefit the ecosystem and reduce costs.
- Simplifying Technology for Designers:The goal of innovation in design technology is to remove barriers, making tools more intuitive and accessible. This way, designers can focus on creativity, sustainability, and human-centric design rather than struggling with complex software.
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What do you get when you combine marketing expertise with construction industry experience? You get the opportunity to bridge an enormous gap. In another live episode from Autodesk University 2024, join Todd and guest Kyle Seyler as they unpack how Autodesk Construction Cloud is transforming the industry, how AI is changing the game with upgrades to onsite safety, how the gap between the office and the field is steadily closing, and the art of using standardization and collaboration to innovate.
Kyle Seyler is a Senior Product Marketing Manager at Autodesk. With over 10 years of experience in growth, product, and lifecycle marketing, he is passionate about creating value propositions, go-to-market strategies, and customer journeys for innovative software solutions. In his current role, he is responsible for the go-to-market of Autodesk Construction's Building Information Modeling (BIM) offerings, which help architects, engineers, contractors, and owners collaborate and deliver better outcomes for their projects.
TODD TAKES
- Streamlining Data for Better Decision-Making:In today’s construction industry, there’s more data available than ever before, but not all of it is useful at every level. The trend now is toward tools and systems that help professionals quickly access the specific information they need, allowing them to cut through the noise and make informed, impactful decisions without getting bogged down by irrelevant data.
- AI as a Workflow Accelerator:Artificial intelligence is becoming a valuable tool in construction, particularly when it comes to organizing and retrieving complex project data. By using AI to interpret data in everyday language, construction professionals save time on mundane tasks, reducing the need to sift through lengthy documents. This makes the decision-making process faster, more accurate, and easier to manage.
- Enhancing Collaboration Among Project Stakeholders:Effective collaboration remains a top priority, and the industry is moving toward more integrated systems and shared workspaces. New technologies are making it easier for contractors, subcontractors, and project owners to work together seamlessly, whether within a single platform or through interoperable solutions. This focus on connected workflows fosters trust, aligns goals, and ultimately improves project outcomes.
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As the industry forges toward more and more tech adoption, how do we keep track of these new goalposts, tools, and processes? In another live episode from Autodesk University 2024, Benny Baltrosky joins the podcast (in his second appearance) to discuss the oncoming adoption of prefab and offsite construction, the very recent transformation of DeWalt into a technology company, and how MSUITE plays into improving productivity for MEP contractors—even when brand-new tech is on the scene.
Benny Baltrosky is COO of MSUITE. He is a B2B Sales as a Service (SaaS) leader driving sales and growth. He is also VP of Partnerships and Go To Market at Stanley Black & Decker, Board Member & Cofounder of Construction Progress Coalition.
TODD TAKES
- Offsite Construction and Prefabrication are on the Rise: A major trend in construction is the growing move toward offsite construction and prefabrication, which brings greater speed, safety, and efficiency to projects. By preparing components in controlled environments, teams can avoid on-site delays and reduce overall project risks. With labor shortages affecting both field and design teams, this shift to offsite work is becoming essential for meeting tight schedules and maintaining quality standards.
- The Trades Are Leading the Way in Tech Adoption: MEP contractors and tradespeople are embracing technology faster than ever, transforming how they work on complex projects. They're integrating digital models, automated processes, and data-driven tools to streamline workflows, improve safety, and boost productivity. This proactive adoption is positioning the trades as leaders in the construction industry’s tech evolution, quietly driving innovation from the ground up.
- Collaboration Across Tools and Technology is Essential for Success: Bringing together different tools and technology into a single, unified workflow is making a big impact on construction projects. By integrating processes, teams can reduce inefficiencies, improve communication, and ensure every phase—from design to field work—runs smoothly. This approach of centralizing technology and collaboration helps construction teams manage their projects more strategically, making it easier to achieve goals on time and within budget.
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How can one of the busiest airports in the world lead the charge toward sustainability? Recorded live at Autodesk University 2024, Kendra Brown and Robert Brown join the podcast to discuss how Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is breaking ground on visionary sustainability initiatives. From the construction of the new Electric Central Utility Plant (E-CUP) to achieving Net Zero Carbon by 2030—20 years ahead of global targets—DFW is setting the bar for sustainable airport infrastructure.
Kendra Brown is a BIM Coordinator at Keville Enterprises, Inc. and the ACC System Administrator for DFW International Airport. She coordinates civil projects such as the 17R Runway rehabilitation, International Parkway Right Exits, and Southwest End-Around Taxiway.
Robert Brown is Sr. Project Controls System Manager at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). He is a certified Remote Pilot and Weightlifting Performance Coach, and he has additional experience as Survey Party Chief, Engineering Tech III, and Construction Education Adjunct Professor.
TODD TAKES
- Real World Demands and Ambitious Goals: The team at DFW Airport knows the stakes are high—balancing real-world demands with ambitious targets, like reaching net-zero emissions by 2030 instead of 2050. Big goals create urgency, keeping everyone motivated to push harder and innovate.
- Failing Forward and Building Buy-In: Getting leadership support for bold initiatives is crucial, but so is creating a culture where it’s okay to fail. At DFW, they embrace the idea that failure is part of progress, which allows their team to take calculated risks and explore new tech solutions without fear.
- Leveraging Technology to Connect and Adapt: DFW uses tools like Autodesk Construction Cloud and digital twins to keep everyone—from field crews to executives—connected and aligned on projects. The focus is on creating seamless communication and adaptability, ensuring all parts of the team work as one well-oiled machine.
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With the rebranding of Autodesk University, innovation in construction, and advancements in cloud technology, what lies ahead? Live from Autodesk University 2024, Rachel Tuller of Autodesk joined the podcast to discuss the importance of the company’s reinvention, a closer look at the hybrid model of cloud and desktop solutions, and how successful global partnerships are crucial to solve complex customer problems.
Rachel Tuller is Vice President, Global Channels at Autodesk. With a background at Cloudera, Rachel carries a history of wins in AI ISV and Cloud Alliances, driving daily success with partners. Her expertise lies in strategic leadership and building high performing teams, skills honed through direct experience with global partner sales and ecosystem strategy.
TODD TAKES
- Reinvention is Key in Construction: In today’s construction world, staying the same just isn’t an option. The companies that keep pushing forward—updating their tools, refining their processes, and keeping an open mindset—are the ones that thrive. Reinventing continuously helps tackle industry challenges head-on, creating room for exciting new opportunities and growth.
- Data and AI: Game Changers with a Plan: Data and AI have huge potential to reshape construction, but without a clear plan, they can create more noise than value. The key is to know exactly what data to gather, how to use it, and what insights matter most. When approached strategically, AI and data aren’t just trendy tools—they’re the powerhouse behind smarter, faster decision-making.
- Leverage the Power of Partnerships: No company needs to go it alone; in fact, working with trusted software providers and partners is where the magic happens. Partners bring specialized knowledge and solutions that can be fine-tuned to fit local needs, making innovation easier to implement and scale. With the right partners, companies can stay agile, grow stronger, and meet changing demands head-on.
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What does the future hold for the world of Design and Make—and how is Autodesk working to shape that future? Straight from Autodesk University 2024, we’re joined by Dara Treseder, Chief Marketing Officer at Autodesk, to explore the company’s leadership and proactivity. Dara shares insights into the rebranding of Autodesk University to AU: The Design & Make Conference, Autodesk's partnership with the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games, key takeaways from the State of Design & Make Report, along with a spotlight on AI innovation and what’s next for Autodesk in 2025.
Dara Treseder is a proven technology business leader with expertise in building and leading high performing global marketing, communications, consumer, and commercial organizations. She is currently Chief Marketing Officer of Autodesk — a leading, innovative technology & software company changing how the world is designed and made. In 2024, she became the first Black person to be inducted into the Forbes CMO Hall of Fame. In 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020 she was recognized by Forbes as one of the World’s Most Influential CMOs based on a weighted aggregate of 12 indicators. A champion of public health, women's issues, and diversity initiatives, Dara is the Chair of the board of the Public Health Institute (PHI). She also serves on the board of Robinhood. Dara graduated cum laude from Harvard University with highest honors in field and holds an MBA from Stanford University.
TODD TAKES
- Industry Transformation: The construction industry has so much to be proud of, especially with its ongoing transformation into a high-tech powerhouse. This shift has been in progress for years, but it's now picking up significant momentum and redefining how we build.
- AI as an Inspiration: AI is not something to fear, but rather something to inspire us. Though we're still in the early stages, AI is gaining speed and is here to stay. Embracing this technology is key to staying ahead in the industry.
- LA28 Olympics and Autodesk: The LA28 Olympics present an incredible opportunity for the construction industry, and it’s exciting that Autodesk is part of it. This is a chance to impact not only a city but the world, while showcasing the innovation and power that construction brings to life.
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Having access to clean, potable water is a basic human right—so how do we bridge the gap and make water more accessible on the job site? Join Todd and guest Alan Pyle of WaterFleet, LLC as they discuss the critical nature of water management in construction, the successful implementation of water reuse systems in WaterFleet, and the endless potential of concepts like emergency preparedness and continuous water treatment.
Alan Pyle is Founder and Executive Chairman at WaterFleet, LLC. The company’s innovative technology and green solutions have transformed the remote-location water and domestic wastewater industry, significantly improving remote workforce living conditions and reducing the cost and environmental risk of traditional wastewater services. WaterFleet operates a technology-as-a-service platform by leasing its systems to customers and providing ongoing compliant treatment and remote monitoring services.
Todd Takes
- Clean Drinking Water is a Basic Human Right and Jobsite Necessity: Clean drinking water is essential for the health, safety, and well-being of every worker on a construction site. Beyond being a basic human right, having easy access to safe water enhances productivity and reduces health risks. By focusing on more efficient ways to supply and reuse water, construction sites can significantly reduce waste while improving the quality of life for workers. This not only leads to a healthier workforce but also contributes to more sustainable jobsite operations, reducing the environmental footprint of the project.
- The Circular Water Economy in Construction is Both Possible and Necessary: As Alan mentioned, creating a circular water economy in the construction industry is not just possible, but crucial. A circular approach involves recycling and reusing water as much as possible, minimizing the strain on local water resources. However, to achieve this, the industry needs better education on the technology and systems that make water reuse feasible. By embracing water recycling, construction sites can reduce costs, conserve water, and promote sustainability—helping to build a future where water efficiency is standard practice, not an afterthought.
- Modeling the Future of Sustainability in Construction: Alan’s point about being a model for the future of sustainability is a powerful call to action for the construction industry. To create a more sustainable future, we must rethink how we handle resources like water. This means developing cleaner, more efficient construction processes that prioritize water conservation and reuse. By reducing waste, the industry can lessen its environmental impact, align with global sustainability goals, and set the standard for how future projects are executed. Sustainability isn’t just an option—it’s a responsibility that must be modeled across every stage of construction.
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How important is it to prioritize a positive company culture? When it comes training to the new workforce, it can make the difference between a company surviving or thriving. Join Todd and guest Mat Gates as they discuss insights on recruitment, retention, and the future of construction technology, especially when it comes to the need for better trades worker training programs.
Mat Gates is President of Erickson-Hall Construction Co. He joined the company in 2004 and quickly rose through the ranks due to his expertise in managing complex projects and solving challenges before they arise. A Civil Engineering graduate from San Diego State University, Mat holds both CCM and LEED accreditation. As President since 2019, he oversees company growth, employee development, and the implementation of cutting-edge technology to ensure Erickson-Hall remains an industry leader.
Todd Takes
- Building a Culture of Innovation: Creating a company culture that not only tolerates but actively encourages new ideas is crucial for innovation. This requires setting egos aside and genuinely listening to diverse perspectives. By fostering this environment, you unlock a powerful source of creativity and problem-solving within your team.
- Embracing the "Summer Sprint" Mentality: Every project should adopt the urgency and focus of a "Summer Sprint" approach. Taking time at the outset to align all stakeholders, build trust, and set a unified direction is key. This early effort ensures smoother execution and a more cohesive team throughout the project.
- Aligning Team Goals for Success: Getting everyone’s individual goals on the table is essential to creating a unified project team goal. A shared vision acts as a common north star, aligning all parties and fostering collaboration. Leading with empathy and actively listening strengthens the team, making it greater than the sum of its parts.
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Breaking the stigma around mental health issues in construction is crucial and often overlooked. In this episode, Todd and guest Elizabeth Crowley of the Building Trades Employers Association discuss the critical importance of addressing mental health in the construction industry. Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of breaking the stigma around this discussion, the role of leadership and company culture in fostering a supportive environment, and the legislative actions needed to better address these challenges.
Elizabeth Crowley is President and CEO of the Building Trades Employers’ Association, representing 1200 union contractors in New York City. She is the first woman to lead the organization, advocating for increased union-led construction, safety, and diversity in the industry. Previously, Elizabeth served on the New York City Council, where she championed construction safety and expanded opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses.
Todd Takes
- Speak Up and Seek Help: If you’re struggling, please reach out for help as soon as possible. It's important to understand that it’s okay to not be okay, and no one should feel ashamed about needing support. As Elizabeth emphasized, real strength comes from being open and vulnerable with those around you.
- The Employer’s Role in Mental Health: Employers have a significant responsibility and opportunity to foster healthier conversations about mental health. It’s essential for workers to feel valued as individuals, knowing that their well-being matters more than just the company’s bottom line. Creating a supportive environment where employees feel the company "has their back" can make a profound difference.
- Building Authentic Relationships: We are not robots who can simply shut off our emotions when we arrive at work. It’s important to take the time to get to know the people behind the job titles and build genuine relationships with those we work alongside. By fostering authentic connections, we create a more supportive and understanding workplace culture.
Thank you for joining us for this important conversation. Remember, if you or someone you care about is facing a mental health crisis, you don’t have to face it alone. Reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988, or speak with a mental health professional. There’s always help and hope available, and you matter.
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The labor shortage is an ongoing issue—but what are the most realistic reasons behind it? In this episode, Tatanisia Lumley joins the podcast to discuss the relationship between employment and getting answers to housing instability, food insecurity, and lack of childcare; the Building Skills NY Construction Career Accelerator Program; working to change the perception of construction in order to attract a more diverse workforce, and more.
Tatanisia Lumley is Director of Training and Operations for the workforce development nonprofit Building Skills NY. She spearheaded the establishment of the Building Skills NY Construction Career Accelerator Program in 2021. The program provides free, advanced training to help New York City job seekers launch construction careers. Her hands-on support has ensured that hundreds of residents facing employment barriers don't slip through the city's cracks. Outside of work, she is an avid crafter, Halloween enthusiast, and a devoted mother of three.
Todd Takes
- Marketing Construction to New Audiences: We need to do a better job of promoting the opportunities in construction to those outside the industry. This means making the field more accessible and inclusive for all. By partnering with schools, we can showcase the exciting aspects of construction and spark interest in future generations.
- Supporting Skills Development in Construction: Investing time and resources into programs like the Construction Career Accelerator is crucial. It's about coming together as an industry to support training and skills development, ensuring people are not just entering construction but are prepared for the jobs of tomorrow. By upleveling skills, we create a stronger, more capable workforce.
- Leveraging Technology to Attract Talent: Technology is a powerful tool for drawing new talent into construction. VR, AI, robotics, and other innovations are not only attention-grabbing but make the industry exciting and relatable. By embracing these tools, we can reshape the perception of construction and make it appealing to a broader audience.
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You’re probably familiar with building assessments and forensic engineering, but what’s the essential role they play in long-lasting infrastructure? In this episode, Stanley Stoll of Knott Laboratory, LLC joins the podcast for an in-depth discussion on identifying and preventing structural failures, how preventative is “too” preventative, the problem of water management, and a new take on what it means to be innovative.
Stanley Stoll is CEO of Knott Laboratory, LLC. He was a combat engineer and SAPPER in the U.S. Army. He attended the J.B. Speed School of Engineering at the University of Louisville in Louisville, KY and graduated with both a B.S. in Civil and Environmental Engineering and a Masters of Engineering Degree. At Knott Laboratory, he leads a team of forensic engineers who investigate infrastructural failures throughout the Western US.
Todd Takes
- Proactive Building Maintenance: Take the time to learn and implement best practices in building maintenance, ensuring a proactive approach to analyzing the structure. Stay vigilant for any areas of concern, as early detection and action can prevent costly and dangerous issues down the line.
- Building Trust and Credibility: Establishing trust and credibility is essential before people will listen and act on your insights. When you identify a problem and have already built trust, the conversation becomes much smoother, leading to quicker and more effective resolutions.
- Treat Maintenance Like Construction: Stanley emphasizes the importance of treating property maintenance with the same level of care, attention, and critical eye as the building process itself. This mindset ensures that maintenance is not an afterthought but a crucial part of preserving the building's integrity.
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In construction, what gives a particular tech or process the ability to “stick around”? Should we lean into change, stick to tradition, or reconcile the two? Join Todd and guest Scott Cannon as they discuss some key reasons for the industry’s reliance on older methodologies, how logistics are impacted by new technologies, keeping up with KPIs as construction evolves, and tackling the labor shortage by fostering an innovative environment.
Scott Cannon is the CEO of BigRentz, a leading online equipment rental marketplace that revolutionizes how construction companies access heavy machinery. With over 2 decades of experience in executive leadership roles, Scott is known for his strategic vision and commitment to driving innovation in the construction industry. Under his leadership, BigRentz has become a pioneer in leveraging technology to streamline logistics and improve efficiency in construction operations. Scott’s deep understanding of industry challenges and his passion for digital transformation make him a voice in shaping the future of construction.
TODD TAKES
- Education as a Catalyst for Overcoming Change Resistance: Change often meets resistance because people lack a clear understanding of its purpose and benefits. Educating your team about the 'why' behind the change is crucial for easing this resistance. Utilize concrete data to paint a vivid picture of potential success, helping to reinforce the value and need for the change.
- AI: A Tool, Not a Disruptor, in Construction: Scott’s perspective that AI is "more tool than disruptor" in construction is spot on. AI is often perceived as intimidating, but its true potential lies in enhancing efficiency within the industry. By embracing AI, construction professionals can unlock new levels of productivity without the fear of disruption.
- Building Trust Through Data in Digital Transformation: Trust is the foundation of a successful digital transformation. To establish this trust, start by using clear data and key performance indicators (KPIs) to demonstrate small, achievable successes. Once trust is built and success is proven on a smaller scale, you can confidently expand your digital initiatives.
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We are revisiting a recent favorite episode this week…Construction: is it only slow to innovate due to tradition, or is there another conversation to be had? In this episode, Sarah Buchner joins the podcast to discuss the industry’s outlook on new technology, the difference between AI and “IA,” how to leverage artificial intelligence as a tool in your career, the worldwide issue of construction data inconsistencies, and her company, Trunk Tools, Inc.
Sarah Buchner, Ph.D. is CEO of Trunk Tools, Inc. With 20 years of experience in the construction industry, she has founded four live construction technology applications. She holds a Doctorate in Civil Systems Engineering/Data Science from Technische Universität Wien and an MBA from Stanford University Graduate School of Business. She was recently listed on Forbes’ 30 Under 30.
Todd Takes
- Embracing Innovation: Innovation should not be seen as a threat but rather as an opportunity for growth in construction. It paves the way for advancements that can transform traditional practices.
- Technology Adoption in Construction: The construction industry is receptive to adopting technology when the immediate benefits and reasons are clear. This dispels the myth that construction is inherently resistant to innovation.
- AI as a Collaborative Partner: At its best, AI serves as a powerful partner that enhances human capabilities. It allows humans to focus on critical thinking while it augments and processes data efficiently.
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We are revisiting a recent favorite episode this week…What are the “limits” of design software—and why push those limits? What makes Las Vegas, Nevada an untapped goldmine for BIM professionals? Join host Todd and guest Alain Michalak as they discuss recruitment of the next generation, the full rundown on StrucSoft, and striking a balance with being reactive, proactive, and responsive to industry demands.
Alain Michalak is a BIM Senior Specialist at Performance Contracting, Inc. He is an Architectural and Construction Specialist with passion for practicing early architectural techniques and concepts to modern innovative technology. He has 17 years of experience in Architecture and Structural Design and 9 years of experience in the United States Army.
Todd Takes
- Establishing Strong Rapport for Success
Building a solid foundation with stakeholders and team members is crucial for the long-term success of any project. This involves taking the time to genuinely understand and connect with your team, listening attentively to their needs and concerns. Such efforts not only foster a positive working environment but also enhance efficiency and effectiveness, especially when navigating through change management processes. Establishing strong rapport lays the groundwork for a collaborative and supportive project atmosphere, where everyone feels valued and heard.
- Cultivating Curiosity and Innovation
Embracing a mindset of continuous inquiry is key to driving innovation. Don't hesitate to question the status quo and explore new possibilities by asking "why" and experimenting with different approaches. This natural curiosity stimulates creative thinking, leading to the discovery of innovative solutions that might not be immediately apparent. Encouraging yourself and your team to remain curious and open-minded can significantly impact the project's ability to adapt and thrive in a constantly changing environment.
- Embracing Simplicity as Innovation
Keeping things simple is often more challenging than it appears, yet it is a powerful strategy for innovation. In a world cluttered with complex solutions and processes, the ability to streamline and simplify can set your project apart. Simplicity leads to clearer understanding, easier implementation, and better user experience. By focusing on the essentials and removing unnecessary complications, you can achieve more efficient, effective, and innovative outcomes. Remember, simplicity is not just an objective; it's a mindset that can drive groundbreaking ideas and solutions.
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What does it take to build a lasting legacy in an industry that never sleeps? Peter Lehrer, a legendary name in construction, joins us in our latest episode to discuss. Tune in for Peter’s insights and experiences from decades spent in the industry, a conversation on the importance of the “human element” in every phase of a job, the current need for high-level professionals, Peter’s involvement in rebuilding the Statue of Liberty, and a closer look at what it means to consider your legacy and reputation in this line of work.
Peter M. Lehrer is an internationally recognized and highly respected leader in managing large-scale, complex construction projects. He is currently the Chief Executive Officer of PML LLC. Throughout his career, Peter Lehrer has been at the forefront of managing construction for some of the world’s most iconic projects. On a pro-bono basis, he has chaired several government commissions focused on reducing costs and improving efficiency for multi-billion-dollar capital programs.
Todd Takes
- The Importance of Human Connection in Construction: The human element remains the central factor for success in the construction industry. Effective communication and the ability to understand different perspectives are crucial for achieving project goals.
- The Power of Empathy and Expression: Having the courage to care, showing empathy, and expressing your opinions effectively are undervalued skills. As Peter said, "It is too easy to let things just passively evolve. Stand up and take ownership."
- Ego-Free Decision Making: Keeping ego and emotion out of decision-making are key ingredients to developing a successful career and leaving a lasting legacy. Making objective decisions helps foster trust and respect in the industry.
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How interconnected are the ideas of innovation and storytelling? In our latest episode, Danielle O’Connell of Skanska joins the podcast to shed some light on concepts like the practical side of using new tech for safer sites, the importance of continuous education on the job, the commonalities between construction and art, and the potential of AI (as long as it’s tempered by human intervention).
Danielle O’Connell is Sr. Director of Emerging Technology at Skanska USA. She has additional experience as an Account Services Manager at Bluebeam, Inc., Design Technologies Manager at Massachusetts Port Authority, Project Manager at Gilbane Building Company, and BIM Manager at Consilgli Construction. She holds a BFA in Architecture and Design from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
TODD TAKES
- Integrating Innovation into Company Culture: Innovation shouldn't be isolated; it needs to be woven into the very fabric of a company to truly flourish and be fully leveraged. Making innovation part of the company's DNA ensures it becomes a sustainable and impactful practice.
- Prioritizing Technology Implementation: Effective technology implementation requires prioritizing platforms based on urgency and impact. Focus on addressing real pain points for end users and ensure that decisions are supported by data to achieve meaningful results.
- Treating Employees Like Professional Athletes: Supporting employees' mental and physical well-being is crucial. The concept of treating employees like professional athletes makes sense as it emphasizes comprehensive support for their safety and overall health.
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What’s the connection between STEM education and the trades? When it comes to recruiting the new generation, that connection may actually be crucial to the future of the industry. In this episode, Mike McCarthy of Design Communications, Ltd. joined the podcast and sparked an important discussion about the balance between creativity and practicality, the impact of experiential design in large-scale projects, and some surprising ways in which art, engineering, and construction all intersect.
Mike McCarthy is Vice President of Design Communications Ltd (DCL), an internationally recognized custom manufacturer of architectural specialty products with locations in Boston, New York, Los Angeles, Seattle, Austin, and Orlando. Mike has been involved with thousands of projects over his 25 year career with DCL. This includes work for Walt Disney World, SoFi Stadium, TD Garden, Madison Square Garden, Gillette Stadium, Netflix, Linked In, Amazon, Facebook, Coca-Cola, Hasbro, Logan Airport and many others.
Todd Takes
- The Power of Clear Communication: Clear communication upfront is essential for creating alignment and ensuring success. Visual plans are particularly effective in cementing the vision.
- Long-Term Vision for Building Use: It’s important to have a long-term view of the building’s use case, considering how people will move and interact with the space while ensuring it remains relevant.
- Adaptation and Innovation for Success: Adaptation is crucial for innovation and long-term success. Attracting and retaining top talent, while making the industry attainable and relatable, can spark interest in construction.
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There are many ways to get involved and carve out your ideal career in the AEC industry. Where do you begin? In our latest episode, Chris Ryan of Ryan Studio, LLC joins the podcast to discuss the best ways to foster an environment of collaboration across teams, how to reconcile the different perspectives between architects and owners, the reality of making your own ideal career in the field, and more.
Chris Ryan is the Founder of Ryan Studio, LLC. He is a Building Design & Development Consultant with over 20 years of professional experience creating unique projects and building meaningful spaces that combine work and play. He is a licensed Architect, registered contractor, former commercial development executive, college professor, and national-level competitive athlete.
TODD TAKES
- Finding Your Passion in Construction: Chris emphasizes the importance of finding your passion and making your career your own in construction. His advice to explore the diverse options and paths in the industry is invaluable. Don't feel constrained by a standard career flow—find what works best for you.
- The Importance of Trust in Construction: Trust is the cornerstone of relationships in construction, a team sport that requires everyone working in unison. The most successful teams and projects connect the dots early with all stakeholders, balancing diverse perspectives for optimal outcomes.
- The Power of 'Narrative Architecture': Chris's concept of 'narrative architecture' is spot on. Clearly defining the project's intent and bringing it to life tells a compelling story that resonates with all involved.
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It’s a common misconception that precon is solely a numbers-and-computers industry. How do we get the word out that in reality, it’s far more complex and full of opportunities? Live from Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Ryan Diekemper of Poettker Construction joins the podcast to spark a conversation about the many different options you have in a precon career, how to tackle communication when the chain of command seems to be a mile long, and why refusing to evolve with the times means “you’ll always be a dinosaur.”
Ryan Diekemper is Vice President of Preconstruction at Poettker Construction Company. He has additional experience in the Electrical field, in which he worked for over 15 years. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Missouri University and Science and Technology.
TODD TAKES
- Adoption of AI in Preconstruction: Like in many other sectors, AI is increasingly being integrated into preconstruction. This technology is revolutionizing how we plan and execute projects, offering smarter ways to approach building design and management.
- Importance of Collaboration: Effective collaboration and continuous communication among all stakeholders are essential in preconstruction. Ensuring everyone is on the same page helps in managing the complexities of construction projects more efficiently.
- Efficiency and Planning in Preconstruction: Preconstruction is crucial for establishing efficiency and preparing for unforeseen challenges. It involves detailed planning and a deep understanding of where and how to streamline processes to ensure project success.
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Is failure something to be avoided at all costs—or is it vital to growth? In this episode, recorded live at Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Manasi Pitkar joins the podcast to discuss the “next big thing” in construction technology, how to make the best case for tearing down data siloes, the hurdles of time, talent, and escalation that are facing preconstruction, how to create an environment that welcomes growth and innovation, and more.
Manasi Pitkar is Sr. Preconstruction Director at McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. with nearly a decade of experience at the company. She has additional experience as a Sr. Preconstruction Manager at Clark Construction, Estimator at RQ Construction, Sr. Estimator at Gilmore Construction Corporation, Lead Estimator at Saunders Construction, Estimator II at M.A. Mortenson Company, and Field Engineer at Turner Construction.
TODD TAKES
- Embracing Failure as a Path to Success
It's okay to fail; in fact, failing quickly and learning from it is a crucial part of growth. As a leader, demonstrating vulnerability by acknowledging and sharing your failures can build trust within your team. This transparency not only fosters a supportive culture but also encourages others to take calculated risks without fear. - Staying Current with Emerging Technologies
Keeping up with emerging technologies in any field is challenging, but making the effort to stay informed is invaluable. Attending conferences, listening to industry-specific podcasts, and engaging with community resources are all worthwhile investments. These activities help you stay at the forefront of innovation, ensuring you're always equipped with the latest tools and knowledge. - Celebrating the Construction Industry
Construction is a dynamic and impactful industry that deserves more recognition and enthusiasm. It's an exciting field that constantly benefits from fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. We should actively share our pride in this industry, encouraging more people to explore the diverse opportunities it offers.
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What’s the key to achieving a relevant, active, and connected career in the industry? The answer lies in your own level of commitment. Live from Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Wes Mayes of The Brandt Companies joins the podcast to discuss the importance of networking, the ways we’re seeing prefabrication and preconstruction overlap with each other, whether AI will make it to the forefront of construction within the next decade, and one of the most interesting and overlooked trends in the industry recently.
Wes Mayes is Director of Preconstruction at The Brandt Companies. He has worked at The Brandt Companies for over a decade. He has previous experience as an Estimator and Senior Estimator.
Todd Takes
- Critical Importance of Data Management in Preconstruction
Effective data management and interoperability are essential in the preconstruction phase to streamline workflows and enhance project outcomes. These practices enable seamless sharing and utilization of data across different platforms, ensuring all team members are on the same page. - The Promise of AI in Preconstruction
Artificial Intelligence holds promising potential to revolutionize preconstruction by providing advanced analytics and predictive capabilities. This technology can lead to more accurate planning, cost estimation, and risk management, significantly improving project efficiency. - Cultivating Early Collaboration
Creating a culture of early and frequent collaboration is crucial for engaging all stakeholders in the construction process. This approach helps in building consensus and ensuring that every participant has a voice in critical decisions, thus enhancing project buy-in and satisfaction.
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We’re in a new era of construction—does that imply a new era of data management, as well? Live at Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Darrell Torres of Irvine Company joins the podcast to discuss the balance between ambition and “keeping it simple,” the power of data management platforms to set companies apart from their competitors, and the most effective ways to achieve buy-in when you introduce new processes and technology.
Darrell Torres is Sr. Director of Preconstruction at Irvine Company. He has more than two decades of experience in the construction industry in California and Colorado. His diverse range of project expertise includes residential, office/mixed-use developments, higher education, healthcare and cultural buildings.
TODD TAKES
- Essential Data Management in Preconstruction
Proper data management is foundational for success in preconstruction, ensuring that all project details are accurately tracked and accessible. Interoperability between systems allows for seamless integration of data, streamlining communication and decision-making processes across various construction platforms. - Leveraging AI in Preconstruction
Artificial Intelligence offers transformative potential in the preconstruction phase, enhancing precision in project planning and risk assessment. By integrating AI, teams can predict outcomes more accurately and optimize resources more effectively, paving the way for smarter construction practices. - Building a Collaborative Culture Early On
Establishing a culture of collaboration early in the project lifecycle is critical for aligning all stakeholders and fostering commitment. Regular and open communication among all parties encourages proactive problem-solving and ensures that everyone's interests are represented and addressed.
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What does it mean when a new tech sweeps the industry? Times are changing, but the way we interact with technology on a wider scale seems to be similar. Live from Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Devin Sherman joins the podcast to discuss the way AI is received in construction, the riskiness involved in preconstruction startups, and how to utilize networking to become stronger in our craft.
Devin Sherman is VP of Preconstruction/BIM/VDC at Lee Lewis Construction, Inc. In his role, he handles and oversees all estimating and VDC operations including conceptual estimating, model based takeoffs, budgeting, bidding, drone operations, 4D scheduling, clash detections, and laser scanning.
TODD TAKES
- The Real Role of AI in Construction
Artificial Intelligence is a powerful tool, but it's important to understand that it's not a magic solution that can solve all problems instantly. It requires strategic implementation and thoughtful integration into existing processes to truly enhance construction operations. - Addressing Construction's Marketing Challenge
As frequently discussed, construction faces a significant marketing problem that needs to be addressed to attract new talent and interest. It's essential to rebrand the industry as exciting and innovative, highlighting the vast opportunities available to potential workers. - The Value of Networking in Construction
Networking within the industry is crucial for personal and professional growth, allowing you to gain diverse perspectives that can challenge and improve your processes. Engaging with others not only broadens your understanding but also sparks new ideas and enhances your capabilities.
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How can we be sure we’re collecting “the right” data to drive future success? The
secret lies in when (and how) we gather that data in the first place. Live from
Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Will Lehrmann of Procore Technologies joins the
podcast to break down the best ways to prevent data siloes, the ongoing issue of
worker safety in construction, and the importance of standardizing processes for the
future of the industry. Will Lehrmann is VP of Product – Preconstruction & Construction Documents at
Procore Technologies. His career experience is highlighted by product leadership,
building world-class product teams, developing industry-leading products, executing
against sales goals, bringing a customer-first approach to customer success, and
delivering against commitments for customers and the business. TODD TAKES1. Strategic Data Mapping and Management
Before diving into data, it's crucial to strategically determine which questions need answers, guiding how you map and analyze your data. Effective data management paired with interoperability between datasets is essential, ensuring information flows smoothly and accurately across systems.
-
Fostering a Culture of Innovation in Preconstruction
It's vital to cultivate a culture that supports innovation, particularly in preconstruction, to enhance process improvement and foster broader advancements. This culture shift can lead to significant efficiencies and better outcomes throughout the construction lifecycle. -
Enhancing Communication Through Collaboration
Promoting collaboration is key to maintaining clear and effective communication among all project stakeholders. By working together from the start, all parties can ensure their perspectives are heard and integrated, leading to more cohesive project execution.
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Live from Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Steve Dell’Orto of ConCntric joins the
podcast to discuss some of the most common misconceptions surrounding precon,
how top-of-the-line technology truly benefits those who are the backbone of the
construction industry, and how a resistance to change can be reframed towards a
desire to be a champion of innovation.
Steve Dell’Orto is the founder and CEO of ConCntric. Since launching ConCntric in
2021, Steve has built a dynamic global team and secured support from strategic
and notable investors. Steve and his team are on a mission to make the built world
more affordable, predictable and sustainable, and are uniquely positioned to
transform the future for the construction and real estate industry.
TODD TAKES
- Importance of Strategic Thinking: Allocating time for whitespace strategic thinking and planning is essential. This approach allows for creativity and innovation, providing the space needed to develop and refine strategies effectively.
- People and Opportunities in Preconstruction: Preconstruction is filled with talented individuals and exciting opportunities. It’s a field that continually attracts skilled professionals who drive the industry forward with their expertise and vision.
- Technology and Data in Preconstruction: Leveraging technology and data represents the next major challenge in preconstruction. Harnessing these tools is crucial for enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and overall project outcomes.
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The younger generation may be full of people who would shine as construction professionals—what if they just don’t know it yet? When it comes to considering the trades as a viable profession, a huge factor tends to be whether you “see yourself” there. In this episode, Colleen Martindale of McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. shares her experience as someone who moved from the arts to the trades: which hurdles faced her early on, the advice she’d give to teams and individuals facing hurdles of their own, and her take on preventing supply chain issues.
Colleen Martindale is VP of Preconstruction at McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. She is an experienced preconstruction professional with a demonstrated history of working in the construction industry. She is skilled in HCSS Heavybid, Subcontracting, Value Engineering, CMAR Delivery, and Client Experience. In addition, she is a leader of a regional resource group for women, the McCarthy Partnership for Women, and is passionate about advocating for diverse talent in the construction industry.
Todd Takes
- Diversity in Backgrounds: Diverse perspectives are key to success. Colleen's transition from the music industry to construction exemplifies this principle. Her unique viewpoint not only brings fresh ideas but also demonstrates how incorporating a variety of perspectives can lead to more innovative and effective solutions in construction.
- Personal Connections: Recognizing that we are all human seems straightforward, yet it's fundamental. Getting to know the person behind the employee builds trust and fosters collaboration. By focusing on mutual success, we create a work environment that encourages better communication and teamwork.
- Early Stakeholder Engagement: Bringing all stakeholders into the project at an early stage to define terms, workflows, and processes is vital for success. This strategy not only streamlines project management but also increases the overall chances of achieving project goals effectively.
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Construction: is it only slow to innovate due to tradition, or is there another conversation to be had? In this episode, Sarah Buchner joins the podcast to discuss the industry’s outlook on new technology, the difference between AI and “IA,” how to leverage artificial intelligence as a tool in your career, the worldwide issue of construction data inconsistencies, and her company, Trunk Tools, Inc.
Sarah Buchner, Ph.D. is CEO of Trunk Tools, Inc. With 20 years of experience in the construction industry, she has founded four live construction technology applications. She holds a Doctorate in Civil Systems Engineering/Data Science from Technische Universität Wien and an MBA from Stanford University Graduate School of Business. She was recently listed on Forbes’ 30 Under 30.
Todd's Takes
- Embracing Innovation: Innovation should not be seen as a threat but rather as an opportunity for growth in construction. It paves the way for advancements that can transform traditional practices.
- Technology Adoption in Construction: The construction industry is receptive to adopting technology when the immediate benefits and reasons are clear. This dispels the myth that construction is inherently resistant to innovation.
- AI as a Collaborative Partner: At its best, AI serves as a powerful partner that enhances human capabilities. It allows humans to focus on critical thinking while it augments and processes data efficiently.
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What’s the best process of leveraging your software to its fullest potential? How do stakeholder communication and project transformations fit in? In this episode, delve into Adrian Mangan's Advance Steel-centric YouTube channel, the impacts he's observed since its launch, and his ultimate goal in sharing knowledge about both Advance Steel and its counterpart, GRAITEC PowerPack.
Adrian Mangan began his career in Ireland in carpentry field with experience in AutoCAD from college. He has worked as an Ironworker in New York City for the past fourteen years, ten of which he has also been a Foreman. He is now looking to learn and pursue a career in Steel Detailing, 3D Modeling, and BIM.
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If the world is in 3 dimensions, and we think in 3 dimensions, why would we work in only 2? Join Todd and guest Jonathan Jasinski as they unpack the inherent advantages of BIM, how Advance Steel and its GRAITEC PowerPack have benefited the production at Mezzanines By Design, some of the best ways to navigate the stakeholder sign-off process, and much more.
Jonathan Jasinski has worked at Mezzanines By Design for over a decade. With a passion for precision, he has dedicated thirteen years to crafting structures that are not only functional, but also innovative.
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If the world is in 3 dimensions, and we think in 3 dimensions, why would we work in only 2? Join Todd and guest Jonathan Jasinski as they unpack the inherent advantages of BIM, how Advance Steel and its GRAITEC PowerPack have benefited the production at Mezzanines By Design, some of the best ways to navigate the stakeholder sign-off process, and much more. Jonathan Jasinski has worked at Mezzanines By Design for over a decade. With a passion for precision, he has dedicated thirteen years to crafting structures that are not only functional, but also innovative.
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Technology stacks are transforming the construction industry. In the years to come, what benefits in decision-making and project efficiency might we see from this transformation? Join Todd and guest Edward Garcia for an in-depth conversation on traditional vs. transformative methods, how to foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptability, cross-collaborating with engineering and fabrication teams to ensure feasibility, and much more.
Edward Garcia is a seasoned professional in the field of building materials, currently serving as the Senior Engineering Manager for Synergi. With a rich background in project management and a keen focus on innovation and technology integration within the construction industry, Edward brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the forefront of architectural advancements and efficient building solutions.
As AR and AI continue to sweep the construction industry, what are some of the best and most proven ways to leverage this enigmatic technology? Could it, in fact, help us address some of the largest and most persistent pain points of the industry at large? Join Todd and guest NK Chaitanya as they discuss the connection between data and AI, NK’s company ConstructN.ai, how AR can be leveraged to increase onsite safety, and the burgeoning benefits of artificial intelligence.
Chaitanya Naredla Kirshan, widely known as NK, stands at the forefront of the rapidly evolving technology industry. As the Co-Founder and CEO of Constructn.ai, NK is pioneering the future of construction monitoring, bringing simplicity and automation to complex processes across the build timeline. His rich experience weaves together advanced domains such as robotics, computer vision, extended reality (XR), machine learning/artificial intelligence (ML/AI), and the Internet of Things technologies.
Where do most training programs fall short? The answer may lie in the way we’ve been approaching the subject of training at large. Straight from GRAITEC Innovate2Build with Amy Powell of Well Works, this episode takes a closer look at what it means to truly and effectively train workers, how to support the “learning transfer” in every stage of training, and how emotional intelligence comes into play.
Amy Powell is the founder of Well Works, bringing to her position nearly two decades of construction experience, primarily as a Project Manager for a Commercial GC. Recognizing the gap in training tailored to the unique challenges faced in construction, Amy decided to roll up her sleeves and do something about it by going back to school to earn her Masters in Adult Education. She has crafted a specialized leadership program for field leaders. This program equips industry professionals to excel in their roles now and in the future to lead their diverse teams effectively.
Now that prefabrication is taking off, we’re looking for ways to make it a seamless process. Is there yet a “perfect software” that has everything you need for a prefab project? Often, we don’t streamline our workflows until something raises the alarm bells. In this episode from Advancing Prefabrication 2024, we sit down with Chris Fischer to discuss some of the biggest hurdles facing widespread, cross-industry adoption of the prefab movement.
Chris Fischer is Prefabrication Manager at Ready Electric Company, Inc. He has been in the electrical construction field since 1997 and completed his 5-year IBEW Electrical Apprenticeship in 2003. In his current role as Prefabrication Manager, he works with the BIM department to continue to improve and grow the Ready Electric Company, Inc. prefabrication process.
Prefab has demonstrated itself to be a valuable addition to the construction industry, but there’s still some pushback against it. When we’re certain of the benefit of new processes, we just need to be persistent. As they say, “the proof is in the pudding.” In this episode, Mike Barrett of CRB joins us to discuss how the cumulative successes of prefab will ultimately be key to widespread adoption.
Mike Barrett is Vice President of Technical Innovation and Delivery at CRB. He is passionate about excellence through project delivery and develops and drives innovative project delivery strategies across the entire project execution value stream. He brings a lean-thinking mindset to continuously seek out waste in project delivery processes, practices, tools, and methods in order to position CRB as a global leader in Life Science Project Execution.
The productization of prefab will be a tricky and incremental process. Can we still bring our creativity to the table when there are so many unknowns? In this episode, Todd Mustard joins us at Advancing Prefabrication 2024 and sparks a discussion about repurposing supply chains, the power of BI dashboards, and growing widespread interest in IBEW Local 48.
Todd Mustard is Executive Manager at Oregon Columbia Chapter NECA. He represents over 200 electrical contracting businesses that employ over 6,000 union professionals in northern Oregon and southern Washington. He is passionate about advancing the interests and values of the electrical construction industry.
Depending on how you look at them, AI and prefabrication in construction can be time-saving game changers or tools of disruption. Paul Sweeney joined us at Advancing Prefab 2024 to discuss the substantial shifts in mindset around prefabrication as a whole, how to look at the past to prepare for the future, the positive aspects of newer technology, and new alignments between industries that were once completely disparate.
Paul Sweeney is Director of Prefabrication at GE Johnson Construction Company. He has also worked as MEP manager for the same company, and as Project Manager at Haselden Construction. He received his Bachelor of Applied Science, Construction Management from Colorado State University.
A solid management team is foundational to the success of your company. When you come to management with a request or idea, whether they listen or not will inform how you interact with your job as a whole. In this episode from Advancing Prefab 2024, Chris Traugh joins us to discuss the importance of morale, the exciting future of productization, and how to attract and retain new hires in an industry that endures huge labor shortages.
Dr. Christopher Traugh is General Manager of Manufacturing at ColonialWebb. He is results-driven with exceptional practical judgment and attention for detail with skills in process improvement, investment controlling, lean manufacturing, and team management. Chris describes himself as a “can do” person with solid organizational, communication, and time management skills, utilizing his skills as a contributor in a growth focused organization.
Transparency is often key to the success of a project. When you bring in something newer, like prefabrication, harmony and communication between teams is essential. Join host Todd and guest Steve Houston as they discuss how to combat inertia, the current inefficiencies of the construction industry, and what “works” compared to what’s “always been done.”
Steve Houston is Senior Director of Building Technologies and Vertical Manufacturing at LIFTbuild. Steve leads efforts for strategic transformation of the design and construction process through the LIFTbuild Resource Optimization, Planning and Execution (ROPE ™) delivery approach. He is a results-oriented operations leader who implements solutions with a focus on cross-organizational alignment. He has been successful in building agile organizations dedicated to solving complex challenges and bringing high-value solutions to market.
The great Dave Cooper joined us at Advancing Prefab 2024. He brought plenty of energy and hard facts about the industry. Namely, there is a cool-factor with jobs when you're young. If you can go home and show off the unique things you're doing and building in a career, it's going to be a draw for the next generation. Once you have people on board, how do you keep them there? Culture. Culture. Culture. Tune in to see where the rest of the conversation went.
Dave is a a home builder, vlogger and believer in the power of personal brand. He started creating video content to showcase the value of modular construction. Over time, he connected with industry leaders changing the way we build new homes, specifically in the offsite construction marketplace and regularly hosts the show Dave Cooper Live.
Each and every building is indeed one of a kind, but in truth, not everything needs to be that special. UMC's Ryan Hoggatt worked on a project one time that had two almost identical buildings but a bathroom on the bottom floor of each had a different center point. His point with the story here is that the subtle differences between buildings and projects makes it hard to replicate and fabricate. Repeatability and consistency doesn't have to be the death of ingenuity.
Ryan Hoggatt is the Director of Manufacturing for UMC. He strives to solve the complex challenges of built environments and their systems. His work on standardization in the industry has consistently reduced energy, operational costs, promoted sustainable building environments and more.
In this episode from Advancing Prefab 2024, we see how often buildings are simply means to an end for bog companies. A pharmaceutical company makes molecules that make people better, and they just happen to need a building to do that. Later we delve into market dynamics, focusing on the data center space, where big manufacturers and clients are pushing for value chain advancement and improved communication with supply chains. The episode also discusses learning from projects in other parts of the world, emphasizing failure as a learning tool. This approach fosters a collaborative, forward-thinking environment in conferences, contrasting the usual showcase of successes without the journey details.
Jamie Johnston is the head of global systems at Bryden Wood. He is shaping the future of construction by bringing integrated expertise, innovation, deep experience, open minds and creativity to unravel clients’ complex problems and create exceptional, sustainable design solutions – all for a better built environment.
Work shouldn't be wasteful and work shouldn't be burdensome. Robert Penney says that anyone who has stopped liking their work can find joy in it again through better communication, process improvement, and keeping a pulse on the latest industry best practices. Building skills looks different for everyone and the path towards enjoying your work again may surprise you.
Robert Penney is the national director of continuous improvement for Skanska and is a featured co-author sharing his expertise in the anthology, Secrets of the Construction Industry.
Offsite facilities are opening up everywhere. Everyone wants a shot at getting prefab 'right' and growing the industry into the massive potential that we know is there. Will the backbone of the industry still remain in hardware or are currents shifting towards software?
Anthony Montesano is a solution sales manager at StrucSoft. He is a seasoned veteran of the industry - from shipping software on CDs in the early 2000s to connecting teams with the tools to build the Las Vegas sphere and beyond.
Back again from Advancing Prefab comes Amr Raafat and Stuart Meurer. Each year, these two take a longitudinal look at how the field of prefab has changed over time. The big topic this year? AI, naturally. A unique angle came from our conversation because their company Windover Construction used AI to assist in projects and were able to verify that it was indeed accurate. Perhaps over the next year we will see other companies doing similar testing and adding their thoughts to the industry at large.
Stuart Meurer is President and CEO of Windover Construction. He provides leadership for the firm and is integral to ensuring operational excellence across all project teams. Dedicated to service and collaboration, Stuart focuses Windover’s teams and resources on the needs of clients to deliver a tailored, thoughtful approach to every project.
Amr Raafat leads Windover’s virtual design and construction team and the Innovations for Design, Engineering, and Automation (IDEA™) platform, providing leading-edge technology services to optimize project delivery. He received his master’s degree in architecture from the Boston Architectural College and received global recognition as the Innovator of the Year award at the Autodesk AEC Excellence Awards in 2019.
How do you build something that's never been tried before? How do you model something that's never been modeled before? If you're looking for the answer to those questions, Alain Michalak is your guy. He brings the "there must be a way" mindset to every project - including the Las Vegas Sphere. This episode is rich with advice for challenging the way things have always been done and paving the way for projects of the future.
Alain Michalak is a BIM Senior Specialist with passion for practicing early architectural techniques and concepts with modern innovative technology. His unique projects include the MSG Sphere at the Venetian, Allegiant Stadium, Resorts World Las Vegas and more.
AI has already become integral in society. How is it affecting the construction industry—and what do we see as its long-term effects? Join host Todd and guest Patrick Murphy as they discuss generative AI in construction, the journey from congressman to construction startup founder, how Togal.AI addresses expectations and misconceptions about artificial intelligence, and next steps for the professionals who are just beginning their journey with AI.
Patrick Murphy is a former Congressman and serves as CEO and Founder of Togal.AI, which won first place at the 2022 eMerge Americas Global Startup Showcase and The Big 5’s 2022 Startup City Global Pitch Competition. Additionally, he currently serves as an Executive Vice President of Coastal Construction, the largest General Contractor in Florida.
Perhaps we will soon find out. Workers who use smart powered suits like those made by German Bionics often have a better quality of life. People who once came home and iced their back for hours now have time to play with the kids or pursue hobbies. People even take fewer sick days from being in pain. From the company side, there is a reduction in worker's comp, those seasoned industry experts can stick around longer and pass their knowledge on. In this episode Meghan Kennelly will take us on a deep dive into our future of assistive technology.
Meghan Kennelly is the head of marketing at leading European Robotics Firm German Bionic. She has an innate passion for introducing cutting-edge technology to businesses.
What does it take to become fully carbon-neutral in this industry? What are some practical steps we can take in that direction? Join host Todd and guest Ben Meyer as they discuss the current conversation around sustainable practices, common pitfalls and misconceptions about carbon neutrality, and how essential it is to take collaboration and partnerships into account when we’re planning for the future of our business.
Ben Meyer serves as the Building Enclosure Business Director for Siplast. He also serves as the chair of the ASRAE 90.1 Envelope Committee, Director of the Air Barrier Association of America (ABAA), member at Large on the NIBS BETEC board, past LEED Technical Committee member, and past Technical Advisor of the LEED Materials (MR) TAG.
Is there a way to balance innovation and tradition? The answer is yes, but it takes mindfulness and strategy. Join host Todd and guest Chris Tatge as they discuss the “old guard” in the timber industry, reckoning with new tech and sustainable practices, the ever-changing field of the supply chain, and Chris’s journey in scaling a self-made business to the top of the market.
Chris Tatge is a 25-year veteran framer and Founder, President of DC Materials. A Wisconsin construction company recognized as one of Inc. 5000’s fastest-growing companies in the US that specializing in providing turnkey framing solutions and supplying quality lumber materials for multi- family and commercial projects. He also believes in paying it forward by mentoring the next generation of construction professionals, addressing the skilled labor shortage and setting new standards in construction.
New cost management tech is taking the world by storm. How can you identify which software is best for
you? Join host Todd and guest Brad Buckles as they discuss the most common misunderstandings in tech
implementation, Autodesk Build’s popular Cost Management tool, ERP system integration challenges,
and more.
Brad Buckles is the VP of Technology and Innovation at Charles Perry Partners. Brad, a technologist at
heart with an expedition into the construction industry, has been blending these two worlds for nearly
12 years. His background in technology laid the foundation for a career that has since evolved to focus
on how technological innovations can revolutionize the construction sector. With almost three decades
of experience in technology and a significant chapter in construction, Brad brings a unique perspective to
the table, emphasizing the importance of integrating cutting-edge tech solutions into construction
processes.
Is the future of construction mycelium-based? That’s what Thomas van Haren asks in sustainable building initiative. Join host Todd and guest Thomas as they discuss Thomas’ work on Project Phoenix, the essential nature of sustainable housing, cost benefits of mycelium-based building materials, and the collaborative partnerships that have helped Project Phoenix take flight.
Thomas van Haren is the Chief Operating Officer of Ecovative, where he is responsible for the mycelium composites and raw materials business lines across the United States and Europe. Ecovative’s composite products are focused on replacing single use plastics, such as EPS and PU, for applications ranging from packaging to construction materials, while the raw materials business produces spawn and substates that are required for growing these products.
What does it mean to successfully rebrand a company? Why is it so essential to have a brand “story”? Join host Todd and guests John Lenker and Assaf Arie as they discuss best practices in attracting and retaining top talent, the role of brand perception in hiring, how behavioral science relates to marketing, and much more.
John Lenker is the Founder and CVO at LENKER. He is a marketing strategist and communications artist who helps clients develop and promote products and services that attract, inform, and invoke. His prognostications regarding the future of marketing communication arts and technology are detailed in his book, Train of Thoughts: Designing the Effective Web Experience (New Riders, 2002).
Assaf Arie is the Chief Executive Officer at LENKER. He is an entrepreneur, business strategist and growth hacker, as well as Partner and CEO of LENKER. He has successfully raised over 22M USD for business ventures from private investors and financial institutions, and has seen double-digit IRR on all investments under his management. In his time as CEO at LENKER, the company’s revenues have grown by 20x.
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Designers and engineers are under a lot of pressure to design all of our future infrastructure. In fact, it may be an impossible task right now. KOPE's Head of Industry Strategy Charlotte-Frances Garrett says that the product platform approach will be the silver bullet. She said that standardizing the way we build is a must. We don't have to reinvent the wheel with every new building.
Charlotte-Frances Garrett is the Head of Industry Strategy at KOPE. She is a qualified architect with extensive experience in the offsite sector having led on design, managed complex multidisciplinary teams and advised on the delivery of numerous projects across the UK.
Why is experience and wisdom a key for organizations? The wise fuel knowledge. We have to leverage experience so we avoid repeating the past and avoid making mistakes that come with time. Many organizations are asking the same question: how do we unlock and leverage the wealth of information that lies with seasoned veterans and how do we combine this with new technology hitting the market? Technology Consultant Catherine Walmsley dove into these questions during AU 2023.
Catherine Walmsley has her own firm where she reimagines what's possible with connected platforms. Her digital transformation leadership has been accelerating the design to delivery process in western Canada by working with builders using Autodesk products - connecting data from Inventor, Vault, Revit and the Autodesk Construction Cloud.
What if saving an hour a day could revolutionize the construction industry? DPR's Kyle Knauer explores this provocative idea. Discover how simple tech solutions are more than just time-savers; they're life-changers. Knauer delves into the challenges of integrating new technologies in construction, balancing flashy features with functional simplicity. This episode offers a deep dive into understanding user needs and adapting to varying project requirements, highlighting the transformative impact of technology in construction.
Kyle is an Integration Manager at DPR Construction servicing Phoenix and San Diego business units, along with national efforts related to construction technology. Kyle is coming up on his seventh year at DPR, where he started on the project management side until he switched roles to become an integration manager.
Has traditional construction changed for good? Industrialized construction and productization are creeping in. We're moving away from the old ways and stepping into a new realm of streamlined, efficient, and innovative building processes.
This episode takes us through the seismic shift towards a productization mindset in construction. This change isn't just a trend; it's a necessity, offering significant gains in efficiency and sustainability. Our guest Bertrand de Peufeilhoux also explores how this evolution demands greater accountability and fosters enhanced communication among stakeholders. Tune in to understand how transparent communication is becoming the cornerstone of modern construction practices.
Bertrand de Peufeilhoux is a project manager at Bouygues Construction. He has a depth of experience in both structural engineering and software management, working on a number of high profile projects across France.
Is the future of construction being built in the cloud? Listen in to find out. Brandon Ionata, a senior solution director at Graitec StrucSoft, discusses the evolving landscape of off-site construction and its integration with technology. He emphasizes the growing importance of cloud data connectivity, data sharing, and the convergence of construction and manufacturing. He highlights the shift towards more integrated and efficient construction processes, breaking down traditional industry silos. Ionata also touches on the role of software in enhancing coordination and collaboration, and the potential impact of AI and machine learning in optimizing manufacturing efficiency.
Brandon Ionata is the Solution Line Senior Director for StrucSoft, a market leading wood and light gauge steel framing software. He has over two decades of industry experience and takes a solutions-based approach to customer challenges.
Could deeper GIS integration simplify or complicate your projects? Are you overlooking potential efficiencies by not incorporating GIS data? Mortenson VDC Director Brian Nahas addresses these key questions.
Brian's conversation raises important questions about AI, deep learning, GIS, and their role in the future of construction. He suggests how evolving technologies, such as image recognition, might transform productivity tracking and project planning. Is the construction industry approaching a new era of data-driven, interconnected workflows? This episode goes beyond current technology, offering a glimpse into a future where construction could see significant advances in efficiency and project management.
Brian Nahas is an experienced Virtual Design & Construction leader with a demonstrated history of working in the construction industry across the U.S. on high-profile, complex sports venues, and an internal DfMA incubator, focused on rewriting the approach and enabling vertical integration.
The phrase "walk before you run" echoes throughout the industry right now. Autodesk's Senior Director of Global Customer Success Brandon LaCourciere says that with an influx of new tools hitting the market, we must solve practical problems. Adoption won't come from solving every problem all at once.
AI needs to solve practical pain points before it solves the big hairy challenges we often describe. These everyday life improvements will be the ones that convince the masses to adopt.
Brandon LaCourciere is Autodesk's Senior Director of Global Customer Success. He is responsible for overseeing the development and execution of ACS global customer success strategy to drive long-term customer retention and subscriber growth in a scalable manner.
In this enlightening episode, we're joined by Hannu Lindberg from DPR Construction, a top U.S. general contractor known for its hands-on building approach and strong advocacy for technology integration in construction. Hannu brings his nearly two decades of experience to the table, discussing the challenges and strategies involved in bridging the gaps within the construction industry. He delves into the complexities of coordinating different construction disciplines, the importance of early integration in design processes, and the role of technology in enhancing efficiency and collaboration. Hannu's insights offer a deep dive into the evolving landscape of construction technology and the industry's journey towards more integrated and efficient practices.
Hannu Lindberg, a seasoned professional in the construction industry, serves in a pivotal construction technology role at DPR Construction. With a career spanning almost twenty years, Hannu's journey began with hands-on experience as an Assistant Superintendent, leading him to explore the intersection of construction and technology. His expertise lies in supporting preconstruction planning, scheduling, and advocating for the integration of technology in construction practices. Hannu's approach emphasizes the need for early involvement in the design process, advocating for a collaborative construction environment. His efforts are geared towards improving the predictability, consistency, and efficiency of construction projects, making him a valuable voice in the industry's technological evolution.
What is the current state of design and make? Stephanie Losee and team have the data and the answers. In this episode we discuss the novel Design and Make Report, It highlights the enhanced performance and preparedness of digitally mature companies post-COVID-19, emphasizing their plans for further digital investments. The report also underscores the rapid workforce changes in recent years, equating them to historical shifts like the internet's advent. Additionally, it discusses the increasing corporate emphasis on sustainability and carbon neutrality, crucial for attracting environmentally conscious younger talent.
Stephanie Losee is the Director of Executive & ABM Content at Autodesk, helping people imagine, design and make a better world. Formerly the Senior Director of Content at Visa Communications, governing editorial content marketing/brand journalism, Executive Director of brand content at POLITICO and Managing Editor of Dell, directing editorial content strategy. She was also named a Holmes Report Top 25 Innovator., Marketing Insider Group Top Marketing Speaker and more.
As families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, we invite you to reflect on your blessings. While we're taking a brief hiatus this week, we wanted you to know that a big new series is just around the corner. If you need some inspiration in the meantime, check out our catalog of 225 episodes of innovation. Next time you listen, invite a friend along to share the journey of this great industry together.
Brad Smith, founder of Sonar, highlights the criticality of operations teams being proactive, advocating for creativity and critical thinking in problem-solving, and shares his unique perspective on innovation, defining it as the antithesis of insanity by advocating for doing something different every day, taking risks, and innovating.
Brad is the Co-Founder and CEO of Sonar. He has over a decade of experience in turning ops teams from reactive roles to proactive business drivers. His efforts have catapulted the company to become the top-rated change intelligence platform and Top 50 Software by G2.
When you think of “soft skills,” what do you imagine? Do you think of them as having a tangible effect on the construction industry? Join host Todd and guest Amy Powell as they discuss the essential nature of emotional intelligence (EQ), having an effective “leadership mindset” in a cross-generational workforce, the concepts of “microtraining” and “reactive training,” and much more.
Amy Powell is the founder of Well Works, bringing nearly two decades of construction experience, primarily as a Project Manager for a Commercial GC. Recognizing the gap in training tailored to the unique challenges faced in construction, Amy decided to roll up her sleeves and do something about it going back to school to earn her Masters in Adult Education and crafted a specialized leadership program for field leaders. This program equips industry professionals to excel in their roles now and in the future to lead their diverse teams effectively.
What key lessons can construction take from manufacturing? What do advents like machine learning, AI, IoT, and industrialization mean for manufacturing at large? Join host Todd and guest Jeff Reinke as they discuss the biggest factors leading to the growing labor gap, how we can better align manufacturing with the needs of the younger generation, and the principles of “Industry 4.0.”
Jeff Reinke is the Director of Content and Audience Engagement at Industrial Media and the co-host of Today in Manufacturing and Security Breach podcasts. With over 20 years of experience in creating and managing strategic content in the B2B marketplace, he has served audiences in the automotive, manufacturing, medical and product development industries.
What are your key values? What makes you hold true to them in the long run? Join host Todd and guest Cole Porter as they discuss the essential nature of a company’s ethos, what “people over profits” really means in practice, how to balance community involvement and company growth, reconciling innovation and tradition, and much more.
As president of Porter Steel, Cole Porter has played a pivotal role in upholding the company’s legacy while ushering in innovative approaches to meet the ever-evolving demands of the industry. With a keen emphasis on core values, a dedication to putting people first and a spirit of community involvement. His efforts to navigate generational shifts within the company, while also focusing on bringing fresh talent into the fold, offer invaluable insights for the industry.
What does the concept of “mentorship” mean to the future of construction? How do we ensure that the younger generation is provided with the tools and skills they need to succeed? Join host Todd and guest Ryce Elliott as they discuss the journey from construction field work to construction company president, what young people should consider when looking into a construction career, and the vision of Bennet Construction Company to push for remodeling vs. building new and environmental consciousness.
Ryce Elliott is the President of Benning Construction Company. He is responsible for corporate planning, risk analysis, contract review, and pre-construction management. Throughout his 29 years with the company, Ryce has served in almost every position from the ground up, making his experience and expertise a valuable asset to clients, trade partners, and Benning Construction as a whole.
How do construction and structural engineering work together? What are some ways that we can encourage this meeting of the minds? Join host Todd and guest Juraj Sabatka as they discuss the contributions of structural engineering to the construction industry, common misconceptions about both industries, the challenges that come with embracing the change inherent in sustainability, and more.
Juraj Sabatka is the CEO of IDEA StatiCa. His background is in finance, business and management. He is enthusiastic about new technologies and entrepreneurship.
Of all the most recent advents in construction technology, what are the most useful? What’s the biggest hurdle in adoption when it comes to AR and VR? Join host Todd and guest Garrett Isham as they discuss the pros and cons of artificial intelligence, what construction and manufacturing can learn from each other, and the modern technologies that will shape the near future of the industry.
Garrett Isham is the CEO and Founder of PlatformXR. Over the last 7 years, he has led PlatformXR – a software application development company with a focus on Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality and mobile tools and application
What are the smartest ways to prioritize sustainable efforts and profits—especially if your company is less established? Join host Todd and guest Aad Storm as they discuss what it means to prioritize sustainability, the “human element” we shouldn’t forget in the whirlwind of new tech adoption, how we can reassure teammates and employees of their irreplaceable value in the face of AI, and much more.
Aad Storm is the CEO and founder of Eveon Containers. He has a strong background in developing strategic vision and inspiring people with that vision. Eveon Containers is the leading global supplier of used shipping containers, pioneering sustainable and responsible solutions with digital innovation.
What does a successful technological transformation look like in our industry? What are the biggest challenges facing that successful transformation? Join host Todd and guest KP Reddy as they discuss the importance of staying consistent, the reliable predictors of success or failure in tech implementation, making space for creativity and innovation in construction, and more.
KP Reddy is the founder and managing partner of Shadow Ventures, a venture capital firm that invests in seed-stage companies that are transforming tech-nascent industries with disruptive technologies. With over 25 years of experience as a serial entrepreneur and investor, he has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in industries such as construction, real estate, manufacturing, and design. He also wrote the book "BIM for Building Owners and Developers," published by Wiley and Sons in 2012,and has contributed to several publications and media outlets on the topic. His mission is to help owners and clients use BIM to increase transparency, quality, efficiency, and profitability in their projects.
What are the best ways to create a culture of innovation in construction? Join host Todd and guest Todd Grossweiler as they discuss adopting an entrepreneurial mindset for success, how one customer’s story can change your processes for the better, the pros and cons of modular construction techniques, and more.
Todd Grossweiler is the Executive Vice President at Allison-Smith Company LLC. In his role, he applies his creative techniques to technical project management while staying acutely aware of the “people” side ofthe business. His mission is to help Allison-Smith’s team succeed through continuously improving processes, technology, and relationships.
How will AI and data analytics shape the future of construction? What are some ways we’re already seeing shifts in our workforce? Join host Todd and guest Izhak Paz as they discuss the benefits of AI-powered tools, how to harness and use the right data, the potential risks of new tech, and more.
Izhak Paz is the CEO and founder of SafeGuard AI Group. With a deep passion for improving people’s wellbeing and a drive to create a meaningful impact through innovative technical solutions, Izhak is an experienced entrepreneur and trusted strategic advisor with a solid foundation in economics and public health.
What does the path from journeyman to executive look like? What should young workers expect to find in the industry today? Join host Todd and guest James Chesnut as they discuss the generational rise and fall of vocational work, changing the narrative around skilled labor, Day & Zimmermann’s new app DZ JobLinX, and the interesting relationship between government and the trades.
James Chesnut is the Senior Vice President of Nuclear Operations for Day & Zimmermann’s open shop business unit. In this role, he is responsible for fossil and nuclear maintenance, Value, and QA/QC services. James is a second-generation nuclear worker with 40 years of experience in construction, design modifications, outage management, and maintenance in the power industry.
Delve into the game-changing potential of AI in construction. In this episode we uncover how AI serves as a research assistant, accelerating problem-solving; Hugh's insights encourage us to fearlessly harness its power. Part of this power is using AI systems as dynamic partners - elevating interactions and refining outcomes. One thing is for certain: this technology will change how we interface with documents. Full stop.
Hugh Seaton is CEO of The Link, a platform that is changing how specifications are consumed, managed, and ultimately created by construction field teams and design-build contractors. Hugh has been involved in construction technology for over a decade, including the AEC hackathon, and he is currently publishing the Construction Technology Quarterly, hosting bi-weekly Clubhouse rooms, and recording his own podcast, Constructed Futures.
How has financial reporting in construction changed over time? Does new tech allow us to increase accuracy and transparency—and what are some pitfalls we might find on our tech adoption journey? Join host Todd and guest Matthew Smith as they discuss the biggest challenges that come with adopting digital workflows, the key benefits to implementing digital finance solutions, some common security concerns with the advent of new finance technologies, and more.
Matthew Smith is an expert in Construction Technology, with a focus on construction finance. As the CEO and Chief Compliance Officer at Truss, a leading Banking Platform for Construction Businesses, he drives industry innovation. Leveraging his extensive expertise in technology and finance, Matthew has successfully assisted numerous construction businesses in transitioning from traditional payment methods to streamlined digital systems. His deep knowledge of Construction FinTech positions him as a valuable resource for construction professionals seeking to optimize their financial operations.
How can we successfully contextualize the construction industry for the new generation? What role does technology play—and what about creative concepts like children’s books? Join host Todd and guests Chris Eccleston and Jenny Schroen as they discuss the children’s construction book series Grit Leads to Greatness, the initiatives we can all take to change perceptions of construction, the huge variety of job and growth opportunities in the industry, and much more.
Jenny is the Creative Developer for DVB. In 2020, she won a MarCom Award, an international creative competition for developing DVB’s ad campaign “Grit Leads to Greatness”. In-depth research regarding the power of GRIT and her first-hand view of the workforce shortage inspired Jenny to team up with Chris to co-write a children’s book titled “Grit to Greatness”, a nod to her own children for preserving through tough times while demonstrating to all people the vital impact construction trades have on the world.
Chris is the CEO and founder of Delmarva Veteran Builders (DVB) located in his hometown of Salisbury, Maryland. He proudly served in the Navy for 6 years as a nuclear machinist mate, completing 3 tours of duty. After the military, Chris received a construction management degree and has become a passionate warrior defending the image of tradespeople. As DVB grew, the company gained recognition for its strong company culture and fresh approach.
As technology advances in construction, what impacts have we seen overall on sustainability, safety, and equipment quality? Join host Todd and guest John Somers as they discuss the latest and greatest in construction industry advancements, what incentives exist to drive tech adoption, how to find the tech that best suits you and your company’s needs, how to interpret brand-new data, and much more.
John Somers is the Vice President, Construction & Utility Sector of the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. John is responsible for the strategic direction of construction and utility programs and services for AEM membership. He strives to help equipment manufacturers improve their businesses.
What does it really mean to “go green?” It’s more complex than you might think. Join host Todd and guest Tommy Linstroth as they discuss the ups and downs of creating a successful startup, the greatest issues we face in construction when it comes to adopting sustainability, how the widespread reaction to sustainable practices has changed over time, the concept of “automating” green processes, and more.
Tommy Linstroth is the CEO of Green Badger, LLC. He has a 20-year career in managing sustainable construction and launched his company, Green Badger, to help professionals (from owners to sub-contractors) to lighten the load while pursuing LEED certification. Today, Green Badger’s mission is to make sustainability accessible, attainable, and effortless for the entire construction industry. Tommy regularly speaks at industry and sustainability trade events, contributes content for Forbes, Environmental Leader, and Construction Executive, among many others.
What are some ways for BIM to positively affect the electrical engineering industry? How do we get more people on board with BIM adoption across the trades? Join host Todd and guest David Robison as they discuss the long-term benefits of BIM workflows, the electrical engineering issues that BIM and 3D workflows may not yet address, and more.
David Robison is a co-founder and President of Design Master Software, a company that helps electrical engineers design buildings in Revit. He has over 25 years of experience developing electrical BIM software, first in AutoCAD and now in Revit.
What is “connected construction,” and how does it change the layout of our industry? Join host Todd and guest Rob Norton as they discuss the potential of digitization, how to improve communication between stakeholders, the biggest and most common inefficiencies in construction firms, and more.
Rob Norton is Rob is responsible for new business and existing client relationships at PlanRadar, leading the UK’s focus into compliance and fire safety. Rob advises clients on the use of a digital platform to construct and operate buildings and assets, to meet new building safety requirements, and implement the ‘Golden Thread.’ He has 12 years of experience in the construction industry, having worked as an engineer before joining PlanRadar 4 years ago.
When change can sometimes lead to failure, how do we embrace those lessons to champion the value of innovation? Join host Todd and guest Hamzah Shanbari as they discuss what it truly means to learn from failure, how to create a culture of innovation in the construction industry, the Haskell approach of “Invest, Invent, and Innovate,” and much more.
Hamzah Shanbari is the Director of Innovation at Haskell. He is always looking for ways to push the boundaries of what is possible in the construction industry, and he is excited to continue making a positive impact in his field
What are some surprising similarities between the sports and business worlds? What is the “Alter Ego Effect”? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Todd Herman as they discuss applying sports metaphors to a career in AEC, the impact that your imagination can have on your personal success, and the biggest obstacles we all face when we “level up.”
Todd Herman has been working with the highest achievers in sports and business for over two decades. He’s helped clients reach the Olympic podium, build multimillion-dollar companies, and more importantly master their inner game so they enjoy the process on the way to victory. He is the creator of the multi-award-winning Leadership & Skills Development Program, 90 Day Year, and author of the WSJ bestselling book, ‘The Alter Ego Effect: The Power of Secret Identities to Transform Your Life’ and ‘My Super Me’, a children’s book to help young kids navigate tough stuff.
We’re happy to welcome back Tyler Campbell, host of Construction Brothers Podcast, for today’s episode! Join Todd and Tyler as they discuss the challenge of marketing in construction, how to approach the skilled labor shortage effectively, the connection between brand and career, and the near future of industrialization.
Tyler Campbell is the founder of Storybuilder Creative, where he aims to solve the problem between the realities of the field and marketing materials. You may also recognize his voice from the Construction Brothers Podcast, which he hosts.
How do we break free of “the way things have always been done”? How can you tell in the hiring process whether you’ll be working for a collaborative and healthy company? Join host Todd and guest Dan Dowdy as they discuss maintaining a healthy culture in the industry, the role of core values in career success, managing multiple generations of workers, and how technology helps us attract and retain top talent.
Dan Dowdy is Founder of Build for the Trades and hosts the podcast of the same name. He is a second-generation Master Plumber, certified John Maxwell Coach, trainer, and speaker with over 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur in the home service space. He has dedicated his life to giving back what he has learned to the trades, believing that success in life and business starts within.
How would you describe your attitude towards change in the construction industry? How do our expectations of technology change as the tech itself evolves? Join host Todd and guest Angi Izzi as they discuss the unlimited potential of unified platforms, how the ownership of data has become more tangible, the function of Autodesk Platform Services (formerly Forge), and the importance of fully understanding your own goals and ambitions.
Angi Izzi is the Sr. Director of Partnerships & Digital Sales at Autodesk. Angi has demonstrated over 25 years of career success developing and executing operational strategies to promote product recognition in the building design software market. She has extensive experience leading operations for technology, business development and application development within AEC software solutions. Angi possesses decisive leadership of operational initiatives of organizations of varying size and scope.
It's a podcast mashup! Work Done Right Podcast host Wes Edmiston joins us to talk about the important trends and topics in construction. In this we cover: hiring the next generation of workers, the perception of skilled trades versus college, tech adoption and implementation, and so much more. Make sure to check out Wes and the Work Done Right podcast!
Wes Edmiston is the Director of Product and Strategy at Cumulus Digital Systems. Wes is a proven construction professional with world-class experience ranging from entry-level craft to senior project management and technical assurance leadership, leading teams on multi-billion-dollar projects. Wes is also host of the Work Done Right Podcast where he talks with industry professionals to discuss best practices and solutions for common issues that we all face, and to share the stories of the incredible men and women in the construction industry.
What have you learned over the past four years? We've learned a lot. Construction has changed and overcome major obstacles to adapt to a newly digitized world. Interoperability has become more than just a concept. New tools have been developed. New efficiencies have been gained.
We've also learned that there are still many hurdles along the way. Tech adoption is still clunky and slow. The labor shortage persists (or are we just bad at hiring and retaining?). Digital waste and physical waste might just be digital twins.
We have been thrilled to cover the ups, downs, triumphs and curveballs of construction in over 200 episodes. What will the future of the show hold? Join host Todd Weyandt and editor/producer Eric Daniel to find out!
What do you picture when you hear about augmented reality? What are some misconceptions we might have in the industry around AR? Join host Todd and guest Waleed Zafar as they discuss the potential of using AR on the jobsite, how to tackle the resistance to new tech in construction, and how AR is even beginning to change the conversation around the Autodesk Construction Cloud.
Waleed Zafar is the Mission Critical Director of the construction technology company, XYZ Reality. It is the company behind the Atom – the world’s first Engineering-Grade Augmented Reality headset. Waleed joined XYZ Reality as its first employee and has led the development of the Atom across all major projects in Europe.
What are the top issues we face when recruiting Gen Z into the construction industry? What are some ways we can use our experiences to resonate with younger generations? Join host Todd and guest Erin Volk as they discuss the importance of storytelling, the best ways to increase diversity in the industry, common misconceptions around the trades, and more.
Erin Volk is the Senior Vice President of Workforce & Community Development for the Associated General Contractors of California, which represents more than 1000 construction companies and construction related firms throughout California. She currently holds a seat on the AGC of America Construction Careers Taskforce.
How can we carry our enthusiasm for prefabrication into the jobsite? How do we recruit the younger generation? What are some indicators that productization is gaining popularity in the industry? Join host Todd and guest Ryan Dobbins as they discuss the biggest opportunities in construction this year, how the conversation is changing around entrepreneurship and the trades, and more.
Ryan Dobbins is Vice President of Strategic Growth at KLH Engineers. He has past experience as a Director of Manufacturing, Director of Production Operations, Director of Sales and Marketing, Director of Commercial Division, and Director of Strategic Initiatives. He attended American College Dublin and the Haworth School of Business at Western Michigan University.
When it comes to the conversation around prefab, what are the biggest hurdles facing electrical workers today? How does effective communication between management and employees come into play? Join host Todd and guest Jared Christman as they discuss the fast-growing opportunities for electrical contractors, the direct correlation between long-term success and short-term failure, how we can promote each other’s strengths with a “hands off” approach, and more.
Jared Christman is the Director of Construction Technology at ELECTRI International. He has additional experience as an Operations Manager, BIM Manager, Owner of BIMCAD Solutions, and VDC Manager.
How do we tackle the issue of inefficient communication in construction, and how does “having an open mind” come into play? Join host Todd and guest Anthony Gude as they discuss site sequence, the potential of productization in construction, common misconceptions around the industry, and more.
Anthony Gude is Director of Real Estate Development at Leap of Faith Partners. His career objective is to make a measurable impact on the housing ecosystem by entitling, funding, and building large scale housing and infrastructure projects. In doing so, as an owner-developer, he aims to remove capital and project delivery constraints to deliver beautiful, attainable, and sustainable living spaces for all.
What is the “human side” of construction? What is “human capital” and how does it relate to employee retention? Join host Todd and guest Katie Hall as they discuss the boom of AI development, how to secure buy-in for new tech within the construction industry, how we can find and translate construction skills in other areas, and much more.
Katie Hall is the Founder and CEO of Claira, a competency analytics platform helping companies understand their workforce and hire better. Before starting Claira, Katie spent 10 years in global workforce development, where it became clear that customers and the market were ready for a more precise, inclusive future of work. Katie regularly speaks and writes on a variety of topics including diversity hiring, ai ethics, and automation impact on the workforce. Previously, Katie worked for the United States Attorney’s Office, Department of Justice, Executive Office of the President, The White House and the State of Michigan. She holds an MBA from MIT Sloan School of Management and an MPA from the University of Michigan, Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy and a BA in Political Science from Hope College. She also played and coached volleyball for 20 years.
What does it look like when a firm truly has an open mind? CEO of Windover Construction Stuart Meurer had a great story to tell about that 'aha moment' of tech adoption. You'll know it's happening when phones are ringing off the hook in the office and the field from skeptics and promoters alike.
Stuart Meurer is President and CEO of Windover Construction. He provides leadership for the firm and is integral to ensuring operational excellence across all project teams. Dedicated to service and collaboration, Stuart focuses Windover’s teams and resources on the needs of clients to deliver a tailored, thoughtful approach to every project.
Amr Raafat leads Windover’s virtual design and construction team and the Innovations for Design, Engineering, and Automation (IDEA™) platform, providing leading-edge technology services to optimize project delivery. He received his master’s degree in architecture from the Boston Architectural College and received global recognition as the Innovator of the Year award at the Autodesk AEC Excellence Awards in 2019.
What barriers exist between design and construction, and how can we mindfully tackle them? How can we promote communication and camaraderie across the trades? Join host Todd and guest Jenny Han as they discuss the unique perspective of the licensed architect in the construction industry, ways to encourage collaboration in a hybrid working environment, embracing the “scrum” methodology, and more.
A licensed architect and Lean Champion with extensive experience managing design teams, Jenny Han serves as an important member of Boldt’s preconstruction team, pulling prefabrication concerns into the design process and shepherding DFMA (Design for Manufacturing and Assembly) through the fabrication and construction value stream. She couples her design background with experience solving complex code-compliance challenges, to develop innovative modular solutions that ensure projects are planned for maximum efficiency and constructability across her company and for clients seeking higher quality buildings, safer construction environments and 40-60% faster delivery and quicker return on investment.
A lot can change in ten years, especially in the construction industry. What will productivity, jobs, and tech adoption look like a decade from now? Join host Todd and guest CJ Best as they discuss the unlimited career potential within AEC, how to forge your own path using the job you’re passionate about, some of the hidden contributions to your ROI, and how construction and manufacturing can promote a symbiotic relationship.
CJ Best is the Director of Manufacturing at McKinstry, responsible for the strategic sales direction and enterprise manufacturing standards. CJ studied Engineering Management at Gonzaga University and joined McKinstry in 2013. He has worked across several functions at the company including as a project engineer, project manager, senior project manager, and construction technology program manager. His experience in pre-fabrication and detailing allows him to visualize how a project will come together far in advance of the actual installation date and identify ways to drive out waste from the installation process.
How has social media influenced what the world knows about the trades? How do we tackle the subject of miscommunication about—and within—the industry? Join host Todd and guest Sam Hamilton as they discuss the ups and downs of communication in the industry, how ego can easily lead to misunderstandings on projects, how to tell the “tried and true” from the “shiny and new,” the importance of “pushing the broom” above appearances, and much more.
Sam Hamilton is the director of prefabrication and virtual design construction (VDC) at Encore Electric. She leads two teams of more than 70 Colorado-based craftspeople in the prefabrication shop as well as VDC Coordinators. She was recognized as one the region’s Top Young Professionals by Engineering News Record in 2018. Hamilton’s prefabrication team was also awarded the “Building and Construction Manufacturer of the Year” in 2021.
At Advancing Prefab 2023 we interviewed Ray Boff about the current trends and best practices in modular and prefab and the conversation focused in on owners. The role of the owner is shifting and evolving and we are seeing a much more involved party across the whole project lifecycle.
Ray Boff is an experienced prefab, modular, and IC leader with a demonstrated history of working across large markets in several industries. He is currently the national prefab leader for DPR Construction focusing on the firm's strategic vision for productizing the built environment, leveraging all things Prefab, offsite-manufacturing, and Lean planning and process.
Are modular and prefab going to immediately bring you profits? Probably not, and that's okay. Implementing new processes and technologies won't give you an immediate cash injection. In this episode, Prefab integration director Sara Curry says that you have to constantly look at the long-term vision. Don't let the sticker shock of the initial investment deter you from realizing the gains in the long run.
Sara Curry brings 15+ years of experience leading, planning and delivering a variety of complex construction projects. In her role as JE Dunn Construction’s Prefabrication Integration Director, she leverages her education in architecture and business, plus her technical skills, highly collaborative approach, and drive for results and innovation. She serves as a key leader in planning projects with heavy prefabrication plans to improve quality, collaboration, and speed to market for her clients and partners.
What is operational efficiency, and what are some ways that we can achieve it? How do we bring up to the “technology conversation” to slower adopters? Join host Todd and guest Aaron Henderson as they discuss the pros and cons of AI in the construction industry, how efficiency and technology relate to each other, what the future of sustainability will look like, and more.
As product marketing manager for STACK Construction Technologies, Aaron Henderson is on a mission to help contracting organizations leverage technology to increase efficiency and minimize risk at scale. Throughout his career, Aaron has worked with top AEC industry leaders to streamline systems and processes and develop strategies for more effective growth.
What do we do as an industry facing a 600,000 worker deficit? At some point we will need to rely on prefab and modular just to get projects done. We might just be slipping out of the early adopter era to the mass adoption era of prefab. It's moving from a 'nice to have' to a 'must have'.
Matt Hardy, a 25-year construction veteran with expertise in prefabrication, preconstruction and healthcare construction, joined Robins & Morton in the Spring of 2022, filling the newly created position of SmartFab® Director. He leads Robins & Morton’s SmartFab® systemic review process to identify and implement customized, project-specific logistics, pre-assembly, modular and prefabrication plans for every project.
We interviewed a dozen industry leaders Advancing Prefab 2023 about the most important and pressing themes in the industry today. You'll hear about productization, data, communication and much more. We're starting off this special series of interviews with the Queen of Prefab herself, Amy Marks.
Amy Marks is the head of industrialized construction strategy and evangelism at Autodesk; she is known throughout the construction industry as the “Queen of Prefab.” A graduate of the University of Florida and an alumna of Harvard Business School, Marks is the former CEO of XSite Modular, a leading prefabrication consultancy and design-builder of critical infrastructure buildings.
As a prefabrication consultant, she defined the language and process that is adopted by companies, countries, and builders around the world.
What’s the best way to transition from a 2D workflow to a digital one? How do you gain a holistic and competitive advantage with your BIM workflows? Join host Todd and guest Eric Bernier as they discuss “leveling up” with BIM, what it really means to “model the future” with Graitec, and the next steps we’ll witness in the industry as it relates to construction and sustainability trends.
Eric Bernier is the BIM + VDC Technical Director of Graitec Group. He is a senior architectural technologist with years of experience in construction, drawing room and project management. Eric is a certified expert in Revit and ACI by Autodesk, trainer, coach, BIM strategist, project manager and Revit pioneer in Quebec, Canada and helps firms with their digital shift and BIM adoption.
What does good and effective leadership look like? How do we know when we’re being an effective leader? Join host Todd and guest Major General Karl Horst as they discuss the ways leadership adapts to different generations and personality types, some timeless examples of excellent leaders, and more.
General Horst retired from the United States Army in 2013 after more than 37 years of enlisted and commissioned service. During that time, he had the privilege to lead soldiers at every level of the military, at home and around the world, in peacetime and in combat. Upon retirement, he founded KNHorst and Associates, LLC that provides consulting support to clients interested in reinforcing ethical behavior and strong positive leadership attributes.
How is sustainability changing the way we approach data, reporting, and design? What changes are we seeing already? Join host Todd and guest Anthony Zuefeldt as they discuss his class at the recent Advancing Computational Building Design Show, the current and potential industry impact of embodied carbon, finding connections in seemingly disconnected data sources and databases, and what the future of computational design will look like.
Anthony Zuefeldt is a Senior Solutions Architect at Applied Software, Graitec Group. He is a computational design expert with a deep background in AEC technology, operations and business strategy.
A great friend of the show Nathan Wood joined us for a special episode to recap the Construction Progress Coalition's 2023 AEC Integration Summit. The summit serves to connect like-minded AEC Technology professionals from different industry perspectives to solve our biggest interoperability challenges. Todd and Nathan cover hiring, interoperability, brainstorming, future trends and more.
Nathan Wood is the Founder of and Chief Enabling Officer at SpectrumAEC. Nathan helps organizations and project teams successfully adopt change through executive strategy sessions and end user workshops. Nathan continues to support industry progression through conference presentations, academic papers, and as President of the Construction Progress Coalition.
What does the art of negotiation have to do with construction, and what are some tactics to avoid? Additionally, what should we do about AI? Join host Todd and guest Cian Brennan as they discuss the ins and outs of construction subcontracting, how “squeaky bum time” ties in to the end of an arduous project, how to be proactive in the discussion surrounding industry misconceptions, and much more.
Cian Brennan is the CEO of Quantum Contract Solutions. He spent almost two decades on the client side of construction. Over this time, he saw hundreds and hundreds of construction companies being bullied contractually, losing money, and going out of business. In 2019, after becoming deeply concerned with the state of the industry and having inside knowledge of how the clients manage Contracts, he launched his own company. Cian has won a 40 under 40 award, a Best of Business Innovation Award and outstanding growth and was a finalist for entrepreneur of the year in the CEO Magazine and business news. He is the host of the Construction Secrets podcast.
How do we accomplish interoperability in our industry, and what does that look like on a practical level? Join host Todd and guest Tom Reno as they discuss the biggest trends and opportunities coming up this year, the impact of shifting bottom lines, the future of industrialization, and more.
Tom Reno is the co-founder of Agave. Prior to Agave, Tom worked at Amazon Alexa as a Technical Product Manager, leading 3 engineering teams building tools for data integration and knowledge management. Tom co-developed Alexa’s Knowledge Skills product from pitch to public launch.
The need for more skilled tradesmen is one of the biggest issues facing construction. How do we attract—and retain—new talent? Join host Todd and guest Rob Bonifacio as they discuss the significance of social media in the industry’s future, connecting with likeminded people in the trades, what it truly means to “be an influencer,” and what the younger generation should know about construction before pursuing a career in the industry. Rob Bonifacio is the owner and operator of Bonifabcustom. For the last 8 years, he has been teaching college level trades (machining and welding) as well as sharing trades content to over 250k followers on social media under the handle @bonifabcustom.
Where is the construction industry right now on the road to tech adoption? What steps do we need to take to guarantee successful technology implementation? Join host Todd and guest Russell Haworth as they discuss the mindset that’s needed to move forward with technology, the arc of the industry’s digital transformation journey, how tech can assist us in tackling bigger issues like sustainability and carbon emissions, and more.
Russell Haworth is a technology-focused CEO with a proven track record of growing businesses with new products in new markets. He specializes in optimizing the intersection of data, cloud, and machine learning for SaaS products.
Join host Todd and guest Britta Teller as they discuss the intersection of ecology, statistics, and construction, how we can contextualize sustainability on an individual level, some “green” products that we should start integrating into our workflows, and some hurdles that we’ll face moving into 2023.
Britta Teller is Chief Sustainability Officer and a Co-Founder at Steller Floors. Five years ago, she pivoted away from her PhD-academic career in ecology and statistics to co-found Steller Floors in Tyrone, PA. Today, her team uses their exciting and innovative hardwood floors to make a positive difference in both global climate change and in their rural Pennsylvania area.
When it comes to the many different facets of our industry, what are some ways we could collaborate more effectively? What are some misconceptions that people have about the industry as a whole? Join host Todd and guest Marc Goldman as they take a deep dive into GIS, the biggest hurdles facing data interoperability, how geographical knowledge benefits the construction worker, and more.
Marc Goldman is the Director of AEC Industry Solutions at ESRI. He is recognized as a global industry expert with international experience pushing through digital transformation. He has a unique breadth and depth of technology and product leadership skills throughout AEC, CAD, BIM, and building product manufacturing.
Join host Todd and guest Aviv Leibovici as they discuss an outside perspective on the issues faced by the industry, how technology can fundamentally change construction, an expert’s opinion on AI involvement on projects, and the next steps we should take to make our workflows more modern.
Aviv Leibovici is a co-founders and Chief of Product of Buildots, a company that solves one of the biggest challenges in construction management using an AI-based approach. He comes from a background of data-heavy cyber security systems and leads the company’s product development and relationship with the British construction industry.
Top-level marketers specializing in construction weigh in on the best way to market your construction business. This special episode is in an audiobook format that is a companion to an eBook by the same name.
Experts in this episode cover: branding, website, blogs, social media, videos, emails, digital advertising, press releases, brochures, creative bids and more.
Every week on Bridging the Gap, I end the show by asking my guest “what does innovation mean to you?”. I have been fascinated with the wide-ranging and thought-provoking responses. This eBook contains an ode to some of those themes. So, what does innovation mean to you? --Todd
What’s the biggest hurdle stopping the industry from adopting tech as a whole? How do we address that hurdle and jump over it? Join host Todd and guest Matt Kleiman as they discuss the similarities between construction and aerospace, what we stand to learn from different industries, how to know you can rely on your systems under pressure, and more.
Matt Kleiman is the cofounder and CEO of Cumulus Digital Systems, an IoT platform originating from Shell’s TechWorks division that was named on CNBC’s Upstart 100 list of the brightest, most intriguing startups. With previous experience at Shell and Draper, Matt has an extensive background in technology and energy.
How can you know that you’re growing in the right direction? What’s your company’s next big step? Join host Todd and guest Matt DiBara as they discuss the state of industrialization, the hurdles facing the industry in 2023, the best ways for us to approach the current labor shortage, and more.
Matt DiBara is the Co-Founder of The Contractor Consultants, Owner of DiBara Masonry, and Founder of The Undercover Contractor. Matt is dedicated to help contractors make better decisions.
This is a special episode of Bridging the Gap. This is our final live recording from the 5th annual MEP Force. During the Day 1 General Session, we sat down with the Queen of Prefab herself, Amy Marks. A key theme she touched on was 'expected experience' in your job and in a product. How you anticipate a situation can drastically affect your satisfaction with it. She also touched on the importance of productization. We have to do a better job taking all the knowledge and ideas we have and turn them into products and processes.
Amy Marks is the head of industrialized construction strategy and evangelism at Autodesk; she is known throughout the construction industry as the “Queen of Prefab.” A graduate of the University of Florida and an alumna of Harvard Business School, Marks is the former CEO of XSite Modular, a leading prefabrication consultancy and design-builder of critical infrastructure buildings.
As a prefabrication consultant, she defined the language and process that is adopted by companies, countries, and builders around the world.
The hottest topic in construction right now is Change Management. We set up a live podcasting booth at MEP Force 2022 and asked your peers and industry experts what they thought about the topic. Here are the guests who joined us:
Steve Smith - Steve is the product portfolio director (build and construct division) at Nemetscheck. You may recognize them as the parent company o Bluebeam. Steve is a passionate team builder with experience in Product Management, P&L Management; onboarding, training, and motivating top talent; strategic account development; sales process improvement; inside and outside sales management; and driving bottom-line profitability.
Mark Oden - Mark is the CEO of BIM Designs Incorporated and is a long time friend of the show (see ep. 12 & 38). He joined the BIM Designs team with over 10 years of experience working with Silicon Valley tech companies in product management, business development, mergers and acquisitions, and CxO roles. He successfully launched several startups and directly consulted several more through their early stages of development and fundraising.
Mark leads the growth, strategy and execution of the company; his acute ability to develop and implement strategic processes that scale the company’s capabilities drives efficient service delivery, increases client satisfaction, and builds cross-functional teams. Mark received his master’s degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Florida. Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
Stephen Grecsek - Stephen is the CEO of G-Force Global Marketing. His company helped to produce MEP Force 2022 and lends a unique perspective on the industry. Stephen has over 20 years of experience working with companies such as: FOX Sports, IMG Academy, Buick/GMC, Sinclair Broadcast Group, Media General, NFL PLAYERS Inc., PGA TOUR, YPO, and others.
Eric Daniel - Eric is the editor and producer of the show and this is his fourth time attending and producing MEP Force.
We're coming at you LIVE from MEP Force 2022 in San Antonio, TX. Our great friends of the show, Nathan Wood and Travis Voss joined us for this exclusive look at the conference and the theme: Stronger Together.
In this episode, the trio puts their finger to the pulse of the MEP industry as a whole looking at leadership, workflows, and what happens after you throw a bunch of tech at something and nothing improved.
Nathan is the founder and CEO of SpectrumAEC and Executive Director of the Construction Progress Coalition. He has had a reputation as an industry thought leader for nearly a decade. His specialties include BIM, collaboration, coaching, digital fabrication, VDC, and IPD.
Travis Voss is a Leader of Innovative Technology at Helm Mechanical. He uses his background in the tech field to explore, adapt, and perhaps develop technologies and workflows for the construction industry as it is thrust into its digital transformation. Helping Mechanical, Inc. stay on the cutting edge.
What is a circular economy? What does it have to do with Contech, green construction, and “Big Data”? Join host Todd and guest Alfredo Carrato as they discuss true sustainability in construction, the technology behind carbon capture, and the “industrialization of sustainability.”
Alfredo Carrato is the Venture Capital Advisor at CEMEX Ventures. He is a trained architect, BIM enthusiast and college professor who scouts for breakthrough technologies and solutions in the decarbonization space for the construction industry. As a Venture Capital Advisor, he oversees investment activities and strategic partnerships in CEMEX Ventures putting a special focus on startups that effectively tackle the carbon footprint challenge of the built sector.
There are many different cultures within the construction industry. How do we navigate them—and communicate with each other—successfully? Join host Todd and guest Angelo Suntres as they discuss the “human side of construction,” ways in which we’re warming up to technology, and what the “next steps” look like for the industry as a whole.
Angelo Suntres is an MEP Manager at EllisDon. He is a passionate leader in the construction industry with 16 years of experience designing and building in the ICI sector. He has represented both contractors and owners and understands the struggles from both sides of the fence. Angelo believes that focusing on the human principles of connection including effective communication and fostering healthy relationships is a critical part to ensuring a successful future for the construction industry.
What can you learn from building an awareness of failure? How do you encourage people to input good data to leverage across the project lifecycle? Join host Todd and guest Blake Douglas as they discuss the exponential growth that occurs when everyone in the company looks out for one another, the future of construction, and much more.
Blake Douglas is Director of Construction Services at Applied Software. Blake seeks to champion technology innovation to help bring projects to completion on time and under budget while driving real business results for construction teams.
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TODD-TAKES
- Fine tuning the built environment involves people and materials with a goal of creating repeat customers. The key to pulling this off is quality data across the project lifecycle.
- To help ensure everyone in the company is doing their part of inputting good data, you must make it real for them on the why but even more importantly on how they benefit personally. It goes back to the conversation Blake and I had around the back of the jersey playing for the front of the jersey and the front playing for the back. When both sides equally view themselves on the same team magic happens.
- Loved what came out of Blake’s innovation answer around being comfortable in the cycle of continuous failing that leads to continuous learning. As I said, learning from failure is a muscle that takes hard work to build but wow can create exponential growth when it happens. For the record, exponential is the word I was trying to think of in the moment with Blake.
Are we beginning to make the move to sustainable construction overall? Join host Todd and guest Andrew Staniforth as they discuss the benefits of distributive design models, the biggest differences between traditional and modern modular processes, and how the industry will advance in the future.
Andrew Staniforth is the CEO of Assembly OSM, working to make urban growth more sustainable, scalable, and inclusive by delivering high rise urban housing using the manufacturing techniques of the aerospace and auto industry. Andrew studied real estate, finance and computer science at the University of Pennsylvania and graduated with dual degrees from The Wharton School and the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.
As someone in the AEC industry, what does your job look like on the daily? Does it involve many repetitive, time-consuming tasks on top of your important projects? If so, you’re not alone. Join host Todd and guest Simon Dickinson as they discuss ways to eliminate repetitiveness, how to prioritize interoperability, and what the industry may look like in the next five years.
Simon Dickinson is Product Manager (PowerPack for Revit) at Graitec. Simon has over 20 years of experience with Revit and BIM and has worked as a consultant on many projects, large and small, helping design practices and manufacturers to implement BIM – from setting up new BIM standards, to solving complex design issues with the software and ensuring that the customer gets early and lasting benefits from their investment in BIM technology.
In academic settings, why are the trades considered “less than?” What can we do to change that social stamp of disapproval? Join host Todd and guest Clay Abernathy as they discuss how to make the trades a viable option for the younger generation, when to start talking about trades education, and tackling the subject of traditional college versus trade school educations.
Clay Abernathy is a veteran entrepreneur with 28 years of experience in a wide variety of sales and management positions. In 2006, he founded Idea’l Trade Institute to provide alternative educational opportunities for students wanting accelerated or hands-on training.
Do you feel “heard” on the jobsite? In your experience, have efforts at collaboration been effective? Join host Todd and guest Ron Nussbaum as they discuss what communication in the construction industry should look like, the value that clarity brings to an overall ROI, best practices for stakeholders and contractors, and more.
Ron Nussbaum is the Founder and CEO of Nuttnest. After serving in the Marine Corps., he went on to add over a decade of experience in the construction industry. He has cemented himself as a visionary and a leader in construction by working in field, sales, leadership, and management.
TODD-TAKES
When we think about communicating better in construction, we first need to ask ourselves a basic question. What does that even mean? It isn’t as easy and straightforward as it seems at first glance. In fact, better communication means something different to everyone. In these situations, taking the time to understand where the other side is aiming for is very helpful.
Ron brought up a stunning stat in that 35% of time on a jobsite is related to miscommunication. That is crazy! How much could you do if you got 35% of time back in your day? This is definitely not a minor issue.
We need to focus on the customer experience. The better and more simplistic we can make the experience, the more likely we are to have a lifelong customer.
Is it possible to guarantee success? If so, what building blocks do you need to implement? Join host Todd and guest Bryson Reaume as they discuss building the best team for your project, how to stay connected when you might be working remote, what the world should know about the contractor’s point of view, and the shifting goals and mindsets of project teams.
Bryson Reaume is the Founder and CEO of Reaume Richardson, a Los Angeles-based contracting company with 20 years of experience revitalizing cityscapes throughout California. His knowledge was built from the ground up, as he worked in the trades for half a decade before moving into executive management.
As someone in the construction industry, how do you begin to tell your story? Join host Todd and guest Katlyn Slocum as they discuss best strategies for getting “the word” out about your company, the difference between “old school” and “new school” marketing tactics, and how to know you’re being effective at communicating with your target audience.
Katlyn Slocum is the owner of Katlyn Slocum Design, a website design agency based out of Vancouver, WA. Growing up in Minnesota with a family of tradesmen, she learned the value of hard work, keeping your word, and entrepreneurship. After finishing her Bachelor's in Business, Katlyn started her own business from the ground up, with a passion for helping blue-collar professionals like the ones she grew up with. She believes website design is most effective when it is strategy-driven and tailored to every business' unique needs to increase conversions. Katlyn brings together a unique combination of strategic web design, development, SEO, and training all in one to get her clients' businesses to the next level.
We all have a story to tell—what’s yours? Join host Todd and guest Jessica Bannister as they discuss the growing audience that comes with globalization, the difficulties we face in reaching and maintaining the attention of the younger generation, the essential nature of collaboration in modern times, and much more.
Jessica Bannister is a Level 3 HVAC Apprentice in BC. She is a brand ambassador for ERRECOM. She shares her everyday adventures and journey towards becoming a licensed journeyman on her website and her Instagram (@HVACjess).
When you think of modular and preconstruction, what comes to mind? Are there some misconceptions around the implications of these building styles, and how do we challenge those misconceptions? Join host Todd and guest Audree Grubesic as they discuss the parts of modular construction that go unseen, how the “seismic shift” in the industry will impact this form of construction, and how innovation plays a huge part in getting the word out about sustainable building.
Audree M Grubesic is the owner of Modular Sure Site, an Off-Site Construction Management Service company. She has first-hand experience of project management on site using offsite solutions. Over the past 25+ years, she has excelled in marketing, sales, new business development, and homebuilding. This experience has led her to create a niche in the modular construction industry. Our specialty is modular residential and commercial consulting, along with management services including full team development.
Join host Todd and guest Tammy McConaughy as they discuss lean manufacturing vs. lean construction, some of the best and easiest ways to reduce waste on the construction field, how to move away from being “risk averse” in the industry, and the end goals that we can look forward to when it comes to lean construction.
Tammy McConaughy is a Six Sigma black belt and certified national trainer with the Lean Construction Institute. As the Global Director of Lean Delivery, she develops, facilitates and supports CRB Group’s international Lean design and construction programs. She is also a contributing author to the LCI published book, “Target Value Delivery: Practitioner Guidebook to Implementation.”
Is sustainability leaving the boardroom? Are you effectively communicating throughout your organization the implications of sustainability or are you keeping those conversations in a small group? We as a construction industry need to work together more to reimagine how we do things that reduce waste, make construction more efficient and make it better for the environment. Advance Workshop director Ismail Makda joined the show to talk about sustainability and the expectations that arise from innovation.
Ismail is a construction industry professional with over 20 years experience serving the AEC industry. His background is in construction industry materials with a particular focus on digital tools and innovative transformation to make the world of construction meet the challenges of climate change and in harnessing new technologies in the interests of efficiency.
How do you lead successfully? And more importantly, how do you lead in a way that benefits yourself and everyone around you? Join host Todd and guest Jason Feifer as they discuss how change can spur growth, the rewards that come with pushing away your comfort zone, the concept of “comfortability,” and more.
Jason Feifer is the editor in chief of Entrepreneur magazine, author of the book Build For Tomorrow (out September 2022), a startup advisor, and host of two podcasts: Build For Tomorrow (yes, same name as the book) a show about the smartest solutions to our most misunderstood problems; and Problem Solvers, about entrepreneurs overcoming the odds in their business. Prior to Entrepreneur, Jason has worked as an editor at Men’s Health, Fast Company, Maxim, and Boston magazine, and has written about business and technology for the Washington Post, Slate, New York, and others. Jason’s previous book, a romantic comedy that he wrote with his wife called Mr. Nice Guy, is currently being developed for television.
Are we in a recession? Would that even matter for construction? How can we avoid getting boxed in by our next contract? What is the biggest impact to our bottom line? Join host Todd and guest Josh Bone as they discuss recent economic impacts on the electrical and construction industries, how to stay informed while moving into a modular framework, and what to expect from the next five years.
Josh Bone is the Executive Director of Electri International and is a long time friend of the show, helping to launch one of our first episodes in 2019. For more than two decades, he has been implementing, training, and presenting construction technology solutions to AEC&O professionals.
Are you familiar with modular construction? Do you think you’d give it a try, and why or why not? Join host Todd and guest Nick Coubray as they discuss the real-world applications of BIM, how to realistically reduce waste in the field, the pros and cons of modular construction, some common misconceptions about the industry, and more.
Nick Coubray is the CEO of Howick Ltd. Having grown up in the industry from building and designing roll formers to guiding the development of complex software and production offerings, he is always interested in seeing what can be done to improve how things are done.He has a keen interest in not only construction technology, but also innovative tech in general.
Bridging the Gap is officially at 150 episodes and counting!
Over the past 50 episodes, three major themes have emerged: hearing more voices from the field, the blurring of the lines between blue and white collar work, and taking innovation and making it practical.
Join host Todd Weyandt and editor/producer Eric Daniel as they look back to reflect on the lessons learned, moments that stand out and where the show is going in the future.
During our first 100 episodes, we have had the great pleasure of learning from so many brilliant guests and thought leaders throughout the industry. To you the listeners, thank you for joining us on this adventure, taking the time to listen each week and sharing with your friends.
What are some of the key similarities between the trades? What does that mean for the potential of your company? Join host Todd and guest Josh Levy as they discuss risk management and mitigation in construction, what we can do to encourage and bolster collaboration in the industry, the importance of democratizing knowledge, and the history behind Document Crunch.
Josh Levy founded Document Crunch having spent much of his career building upon extensive leadership and expertise counseling the construction industry. Josh graduated with honors from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management, and earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Miami, graduating magna cum laude. Josh started his career as a lawyer in South Florida focusing on complex construction litigation and evolved into a full-service construction practitioner.
Can you name a few things within the construction industry that have the potential to be better? If so, give yourself permission to jump in and make a change. Join host Todd and guest Angie Simon as they discuss what changes can and should be made within the industry, the success of the Heavy Metal Summer Experience, how to intuit when you might need to “take a break,” and more.
Angie Simon, PE is the co-founder and president of The Heavy Metal Summer Experience. She worked with Western Allied Mechanical for 22 years and is a graduate of the California Polytechnic State University – San Luis Obispo.
What kinds of opportunities do you associate with blue-collar jobs? Do they differ from white-collar opportunities? It seems that the lines are beginning to blur. Join host Todd and guest Josh Zolin as they discuss “abundance” within the trades, managing a good work-life balance, challenging the stigma around manual labor, and more.
Josh Zolin is the CEO of Windy City Equipment Service. SchaiHi Partners is his secondary business, which is a full-fledged real estate investment firm. In 2019, he published his book, "Blue is the New White: The Best Path to Success that No One Told You About - Until Now" in order to shatter the common misperceptions about the skilled trades to today's youth.
As prefabrication becomes more and more popular, what opportunities have risen to meet it? How do we keep up? Join host Todd and guest Neil Wypior as they discuss lessons learned about the manufacturing process, how to move past and leverage supply chain disruption, and the importance of data in DfMA.
Neil Wypior is the Managing Director of EVO-MEP. He is an educator and enabler of prefabrication and modular construction with extensive international experience. He specializes in prefabricated and modular building services and his passions are to design, engineer, and construct.
There’s an invisible revolution happening right now, and it’s probably affecting you. How? Join host Todd and guest Oliver Lepinoy as they discuss the potential benefits of disruption, the importance of perceptions and belief systems, the best ways to measure success, and how to address the biggest changes facing the industry today.
Olivier Lepinoy belongs to the Autodesk Business Development team for the AEC industry. Olivier took part in multiple platform initiatives for the largest firms worldwide. He now focuses his effort on helping AEC companies explore and build new business models. Before joining Autodesk, Olivier worked in Architecture, for VINCI, for Accenture, and for IBM. He is one of the co-authors of two acclaimed books about Innovation in Construction. Olivier holds two Master’s Degrees: in Civil Engineering and in Earthquake Engineering. He is also a licensed architect and an urban designer.
How do you bring new voices to the table? Better yet, how do you make sure that those new voices are heard? Join host Todd and guest Rick Kremer as they discuss crossing the divide between GCs and architects, the differences in how people have worked over the past two years, and how to encourage and embrace better collaboration in the industry.
Rick Kremer is a Senior Technical Consultant and Bluebeam Certified Instructor at Applied Software. He has over 20 years of experience with project delivery and workflows as well as direct architectural experience with commercial, institution and federal projects. Rick has a passion for helping others “work smarter, not harder.”
What are the biggest trends emerging in construction? Do you see any pushback towards them? Join host Todd and guest Kelli Lubeley as they discuss achieving buy-in from the industry when it comes to changing workflows, the importance of “the right timing,” and when innovation might become a normal expectation within the industry. Kelli Lubeley is a BIM Program Manager at Cupertino Electric, Inc.
Kelli has been teaching and implementing VDC technology for thelast 10 years and truly passionate about inspiring others to explore the world of VDC.
It’s true: audio and video are the “in” thing, especially when it comes to spreading the word about your company. Do you feel hesitant about adopting videography, or are you completely on board? Join host Todd and guest Dan Maitland as they discuss how to “own your story,” the importance of storytelling through the “hero’s journey,” the ROI on videography in construction companies, and how to embrace the camera as someone who may be camera-shy. Dan Maitland is a commercial producer and video director at Meticulous Image. He is in the business of telling great stories to build your brand and make you money.
Join host Todd and guest Shannon Tymosko as they discuss commutable skills between Child and Youth Work and the trades, the current divide between “white-collar” and “blue-collar” work, how social media can elevate your and your company’s journey, and how construction is commonly misinterpreted or misunderstood by society at large.
Shannon Tymosko is a third-year electrical apprentice and Skilled Trades Ambassador. She originally completed a Child and Youth Work diploma where she found a passion for people, mental health and learning. Being an advocate for the skilled trades has allowed Shannon to take her passion for people that she found while being a Child and Youth worker and combine it with her new love for the trades.
After over 125 episodes of the award-winning Bridging the Gap podcast, we have seen a pattern in the messages and insights brought by our guests. As we welcome new members of the workforce into construction, witness the dawn of another great industrial revolution, incorporate new tools and new processes, promote a growth mindset, and embrace more collaboration, there are many questions to ask and answer.
In this special audio production, we walk through the trends set forth in the first two years of the show and set the stage for what is to come in the future.
How do you feel about change in construction? Do you prefer doing things “the way we’ve always done it”? Join host Todd and guest Maret Thatcher as they discuss Maret’s connections with both construction and law, how difficult it is to cause genuine change in the industry, the fun and challenges involved in augmented reality, and how to frame innovation in a way that people may already be used to.
Maret Thatcher is the CEO of Argyle. Previously, she was in the family construction business--a flagging contractor (you’ve seen the signs--Stop/Slow), Maret paid for law school on the jobsite. She was inspired when she tried the Hololens and was told someone would put the BIM on the jobsite. Alternate realities on top of this world made more sense to Maret than arcane legal theory, and Construction called back to her. Now she spends her days helping people understand that AR is just Star Trek for the Jobsite.
Todd Takes
- The more we can integrate technology into our normal everyday workflow and project management the more likely it is to be practically used. This will help allow us to better align data to the jobsite.
- AR helps to enhance your own builder’s intuition and intelligence into a kind of superpower with a ton of potential. Harness it. The last couple years of seen a ton of growth in construction innovation. As easy temptation that we need to avoid is reverting back to what was comfortable. Let’s keep up the momentum and encourage the try it mentality.
- I love that Maret brought up the importance of being personable and mental health. It is ok to be willing to talk about the personal side of things in construction. Get to know the person behind the employee. You will be amazed at the benefits that brings across the board.
How vital do you consider training to be? How about relationship-building on the job? Join host Todd and guest Rebecca Lewis as they discuss misconceptions around “blue collar” and “white collar” jobs, the strange competition between trade schools and colleges, the best way to defend tech adoption to naysayers, and the biggest hurdles that currently face the industry. Rebecca Lewis is an Electrical Revit & CAD Design Engineer at Allison-Smith Company LLC in Atlanta, Georgia.
Before I share my Todd Takes, I wanted to give a shout out to a past guest Walker Lockard of DADO for setting up the introduction with Rebecca. I hope you enjoyed hearing her perspective as much as I did. Personally, I walked away with so many points to think about it was difficult to narrow it down to just 3 takes.
TODD-TAKES
- To Rebecca’s point on taking pride in your work, we as tech providers need to communicate better how technology actually enables field workers to regain pride in their work they feel may be threatened. It starts by taking the time to listen, engage and truly empathize. Then take the needed action to meet them where they are and make it easy to use.
- Training that resonates is a critical component as well. By making it more of a hands-on job simulation you increase the likelihood of retention. Take time to explain the why behind the what you are doing. Intentionality will always rule the day with everything from a new tool to leveraging BIM. Get everyone on the same page from the start.
- Construction is a relationship business. Do not discount any relationship along your path. The simple fact is that you have to get along with people in order to get any results.
Join host Todd and guest Sameer Merchant as they discuss the recent developments and “skyrocketing” tech adoption within Autodesk, how the industry has been reinventing itself over the years, the advent of Autodesk Bridge and how it relates to current workflows and software, and what sustainability will look like in the future of construction.
Sameer Merchant is the Head of Product Development for Autodesk Construction Solutions. He leads product development and delivery efforts for Autodesk’s site construction and preconstruction product portfolio, which includes BIM 360 and PlanGrid. Sameer joined Autodesk with the acquisition of PlanGrid, where he was vice president of engineering. Prior to joining PlanGrid, Sameer co-founded and was CTO at AdMarvel, a mobile advertising platform acquired by Opera Software in 2010. While at Opera, Merchant was Vice President of Mobile Commerce, where he started and grew the company’s mobile and data services businesses, managing a global team of more than 400 employees. Merchant began his career at VeriSign, setting up and leading engineering teams across three countries for several business units, including Public Key Infrastructure, Payment Services and Telecommunication Services. He and his team built massively scaled products that were used by Fortune 500 customers and partners including Adobe, Netscape and Microsoft.
TODD-TAKES
- One of my mantra’s this year is down with silos. I was excited when I heard about Autodesk’s Bridge announcement because it plays right into my mantra. Making sure our technology and data points are connected and flowing seamlessly is mission critical into for us to create growth at scale.
- The illustration of the wave building momentum Sameer used when describing the tipping point when innovation becomes practical is a great one. Don’t be one of those people that realizes the wave has broken and passed them by without taking any action to ride the wave. There is a lot of innovative workflows and technologies in construction today. Be intentional to look at them and assess what makes the most sense for you.
- I agree with Sameer that “we owe it to each other” to streamline processes, reduce waste and drive to a more lean and sustainable construction industry. It will take all of us coming together to make strides. Connected data is one of the major lynchpins in this endeavor.
How do you avoid overcomplicating construction? What should the role of innovation be in construction firms? What is the true potential of Industrialize Construction? Join host Todd and guests Jeevan Kalanithi and Adam Settino as they discuss the story behind OpenSpace.ai, setting aside time and space for innovation on the job, the importance of finding and considering different perspectives, the role of Industrialized Construction moving forward and more.
Jeevan Kalanithi is the CEO of OpenSpace.ai. Jeevan sold his first company, Sifteo, to 3D Robotics, where he eventually became the President. 3DR, a 200+ person company, launched a drone which made $45M in its first year. Jeevan was most recently an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Lux Capital. He holds a BS from Stanford and an MS from MIT, where he was a National Science Foundation Graduate Fellow.
Adam Settino is a Solutions Engineer Manager at OpenSpace.ai. He spent seven years in design as an architect and the last ten years in construction as Director of Virtual Design and Construction. Most recently, his fiery passion for identifying where technology can improve how we design and build has led him to the tech world, joining the team at OpenSpace as their Solutions Engineer Manager.
TODD-TAKES
- There is no need to overcomplicate things. Simple is always better. I know this is easier said than done. However, with some intentional focus on the goal to simplify you will be able to achieve just that.
- It is so important to get different perspectives early and often. If people are involved in the planning, they are much more likely to be bought in during adoption.
- We need to democratize innovation throughout the company and encourage finding and bubbling up those small 1% improvements. When you are able to stack 1% improvements on each other you will be amazed the distance you can go.
Are the lines between construction and manufacturing starting to blur? What does that mean for you? Join host Todd and guest Gil Mayron as they discuss the ins and outs of 3D printing, the competition and dedication that goes into automation, recent shifts in perception in the industry, and more.
Gil Mayron is the Founder and CEO of Cobot Nation, Architects of Automation™. He is a pioneer of the consumer 3D Printing industry as the Founder and CEO of Botmill 3D, which manufactured and sold the first fully-assembled consumer 3D printers. Mr. Mayron continued to lead corporate development strategies for the consumer division at 3D Systems. He composed the first ever licensing deals involving 3D printing with Sony, Viacom, NBA, DreamWorks and many others.
TODD-TAKES
- I really resonated with Gil’s line at the start of the show to create something out of chaos. Construction at times can seem an industry with chaos infused in the DNA. However, that just means there is a tremendous opportunity to innovate and make something incredible.
- If you don’t start automating tasks where needed now, your competitors will. Remember it is a journey and not as simple as flipping a switch for innovation. Don’t be one of those people that realizes they are in catch up mode and 2-3 years behind everyone else on the transformation path.
- Innovation must be paired with a logical path to get there. Take time to plan your innovation and be intentional.
What is the future of the skilled labor trades market? Why do younger workers seem to be moving away from it? Join host Todd and guest David Broomhead as they discuss making the skilled trades more attractive to the younger generation, the opportunities for change that arise with “the great resignation,” the role that technology plays in the industry’s future, and more.
David Broomhead is the CEO and Founder of Trade Hounds, a construction-only platform that allows Tradespeople to network and improve their craft through engaging our community. David likes the mighty North Queensland Cowboys, the New England Patriots, surfing, traveling and spending time with family and friends.
TODD-TAKES
- We have talked about it before but there is a great need in the industry for everyone to come together and share a collective message that resonates with those outside the industry. The labor shortage is a problem the effects all of us and so all of us need to band together to solve it.
- I think it is time to do away with the outdated “blue collar” vs. “white collar” branding divide. It creates a false perception and does not adequately show the full extent of options and possibilities in the construction industry.
- Be proactive in reaching out to the younger generation. David and I talked about creating apprenticeship programs to provide exposure to the industry. I think that is a great idea to get people excited and knowledgeable on what is happening in this great industry.
What does it mean to put yourself in someone else’s shoes and understand their pain points when it comes to data strategy? Is this important? Join host Todd and guest Justin Fellows as they discuss starting with the right mindset, how to change from being reactive to proactive, common hurdles in tech adoption, developing the right data strategy and much more.
Justin Fellows is the Founder and Claims Consultant at 53 Quantum LD. He helps senior commercial directors, contract directors, planners and lawyers in the construction industry clarify construction data, minimize exposure to future disputes and financial risk, reduce delays and overruns and minimize the costs associated with them by using emerging technology such as machine learning and AI to provide results faster and more accurately.
What is the importance of social dynamics in the industry? Are those dynamics underrated? Join host Todd and guest Carole Filion as they discuss the dreams versus realities of the construction industry, how to engage in company-wide efforts in “broadening your scope,” and the surprising commonalities between wine and construction.
Carole Filion is a Construction Technology Specialist and Marketing Director. She is a fluently bilingual (French and English) creative problem-solver, trainer, coach, and writer for both technical and marketing communications to B2B audiences and internal business units. Her strengths are inter-personal, technical, marketing, leadership, and motivational skills. She claims focused vertical expertise in both the construction technology sector and wine industry. In addition, she is a strong strategic planner with proven results in creating measurable ROI for organizations.
What should leadership development look like? Does it need to involve a change in mindset? Join host Todd and guest Nanette Miner as they discuss job-hopping, how to know the difference between positive change and “indoctrination,” how to “step up” in your industry, what a good leader looks like, and much more.
Nanette Miner is a Consulting Manager/Learning Officer at The Training Doctor, LLC. She has additional experience as a Contributor to Leadership Development for Forbes Coaches Council and a Facilitator for the Association for Talent Development. She is passionate about developing leadership in organizations. She has spent 20+ years consulting to the Fortune 500.
TODD-TAKES
- Every company wants to have great leaders throughout the organization. However, too many organizations are not intentional about investing and developing people to become those great leaders. Nanette said we should almost think of leadership development as our insurance policy, in that if we properly investing in our people, it is there when we need to rely on it.
- As the younger generations are coming more into the workforce, it is becoming even more critical to explain the why behind why every job matters to the mission of the company and the positive impact it is having.
- Down with silos across the board! We need cross-collaboration, especially in this industry. The more viewpoints and knowledge the better.
When it comes to how things “used to be done,” what should we retain and from what should we move on? Join host Todd and guests Nolan Browne and Diana Fisler as they discuss bringing a high-level attitude into the construction industry, how we’re accomplishing “incremental innovation,” encouraging growth mindsets, systemic barriers in the industry, and much more.
Diana Fisler is a Sr. Principal at ADL Ventures. She is an experienced industrial scientist and a variety of materials-related fields with a demonstrated history of working in the building materials industry and managing laboratories.
Nolan Browne is the Co-Founder of FieldNav, Inc. and the Founding Partner of ADL Ventures. Nolan combines his deep background in CleanTech and BuildingTech commercialization for the Fortune 1000 with nearly a decade of venture-backed founder / executive experience in Silicon Valley and Boston to help the world’s leading companies find, develop and scale deployment of CleanTech and AI solutions to simultaneously become more profitable and sustainable.
TODD-TAKES
- Create a culture of continual improvement and innovation. When you give people not only the space but the permission to explore and test ideas, you will be amazed at the creativity and the initiatives that will come back. I was recently at the AEC iSummit presented by the Construction Progress Coalition where teams where essentially tasked with this mission. It was inspiring to see people throughout the industry come together to innovatively address and seek to solve systemic problems in workflows. It is possible.
- Avoid the “Kodak Moment” in construction. As we discussed at length in this conversation, Kodak made the mistake of playing it too safe instead of playing to win. Instead, you should seek for daily small improvements that add up. I get it changing a mindset and process is really hard and uncomfortable. However, it pays dividends in the long run against your competition.
- It may seem like looking back change happens with a “poof”, but as Diana said “when you are in the middle of the poof it feels like a series of pressures instead.” I love that line but it is so true. We are in the middle of the construction poof. There are so many internal and external pressures being placed on the industry to change. It is going to be exciting to look back and know we thrived in and after the “poof” of change.
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Other Relevant Links:
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What is an EOS? How does it impact you, and how do you leverage it? Join host Todd and guest Mel Towey as they discuss maintaining “a grip” on one’s business, the six components we use to define our business issues, how to best utilize each and every tool that is available to us in the industry, and the importance of strategy.
As a Professional EOS® Implementer and Business Coach, Mel Towey acts as a teacher, coach, and facilitator, helping business leaders transform their companies and, ultimately, their lives. She helps to implement a complete, proven system with simple, practical tools to help business leaders achieve three things: vision, traction and health.
TODD-TAKES
- I talk a lot about taking time to think through your thoughts. It is so important to allow yourself some “white space” time to proactively assess where you are and where you need to go.
- Mel said “less is more with accountability”. You cannot have 20 top priorities and effectively execute on them all. It is impossible. Identify what your top 3 are and then develop an accountability component to your goals in order to provide the best chance of success.
- When you are organizing your workflows, time and priorities, start with the big “rocks” that are must dos. After you have put those in your vase, you can add in some smaller rocks. Finally, you will be able to fill in the rest of the vase with everything else that needs to be done. When you organize in this, you assure the main essentials are completed first. You will also be amazed at how much more you will be able to accomplish.
What is the future of construction? Are we able to see where technology will take us? Join host Todd and guest Jorge Tubella as they discuss theories and realities of technology adoption, the solutions that the industry is truly looking for versus the ones they are discovering, taking the “leap of faith” when it comes to tech, and much more.
Jorge Tubella is a creative technologist who combines his interest in robotics, artificial intelligence, and design to research construction technology systems. He was a founding member and formerly the Coordinator of the Robotics and Digital Fabrication lab at Florida International University. Jorge has published his work in conferences, delivered workshops on robotics, and has collaborated on a National Science Foundation grant to develop robotic operation courses for the AEC industry using Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality learning platforms. He holds a Master of Architecture and a Master of Arts in Architecture from Florida International University.
TODD-TAKES
- We are experiencing the beginning of the golden age of construction. This is an amazing time to be exploring and adopting ConTech. I am excited for the future of this wide-reaching industry.
- It is important to develop an innovation incubation team within your company that is willing to try new things. Yes, innovation comes with an inherent risk, but that doesn’t have to be a bad thing. When you have a mindset to try new things you will discover powerful things you didn’t know before.
- Micro-credentialing is an interesting trend to keep taps on. The potential to unlock greater flexibility in order to explore your technical interests and be rewarded is there, if we can collectively approach it with the right mindset.
Join host Todd and guest Paul Collart as they discuss turning “the complex” into “the simple,” where we’re at in the construction industry when it comes to tech adoption, the future of digital twins, and how to cross-communicate important concepts between each industry.
Paul Collart is VP, Strategic Engagement of San Jose, California-based Cupix, a pioneer of cutting-edge 3D digital twin solutions for the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industries and building owners. Paul joined Cupix in 2017 and formerly served as the company’s Head of Product Strategy. In a technology-focused career spanning more than 25 years, Paul has held executive positions focused on the development and implementation of mobile & terrestrial 3D scanning, 3D tours (real estate & construction), 360 imagery platforms, 3D web platforms, virtual staging, machine learning, commercial real estate (CRE) & test fits, indoor mapping, BIM/VDC, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), photogrammetry and reconstruction technologies.
TODD-TAKES
- Having a detailed plan with champions at the ready is a key ingredient to successfully implementing new technology. Make sure you are taking time to map it out before you really dive headfirst into the process.
- Once you are ready to implement, start with something simplistic and scale up in complexity from there. You don’t have to eat the whole elephant in one bite.
- Finally ask yourself are you providing business value with your technology. You should be. Merging the analog and the digital worlds through digital twin technology could be your answer to that question.
What does your marketing team focus on? Are you paying attention to what reels in a consumer? Join host Todd and guest Tim Brown as they discuss Tim’s transition from web design into the world of contracting, unique challenges that are present in the construction industry, how to provide your company with a strong and communicative brand, pushing quality over quantity, and more. Tim Brown is the CEO and Founder of Hook Agency. He is an experienced Technical Director, Director of Marketing and Strategy, and Web Designer.
Todd Takes
- If you don’t have clarity around what your brand is and more importantly how others perceive your brand, stop what you are doing and find out. Having a strong brand is one of the most important things you can do for your business in generating leads and revenue.
- Don’t overthink and therefore overcomplicate your marketing, especially when it comes to video. Your iPhone camera will provide a good quality video. The important thing is to start posting content to see what is going to resonate with your audience.
- I am a big believer in fostering a natural sense of curiosity. What do you find interesting about your industry, work, and clients? Then lean into that and learn more.
When you picture “blue collar” jobs, what comes to mind? Do you carry any misconceptions with that term? Join host Todd and guest Ken Rusk as they discuss the “blue-collar crisis,” how to get more people interested in construction as a concept, how to take control of and manage our careers in the best way possible, and much more.
Ken Rusk is the President of Rusk Industries and the author of Wall Street bestselling book, “Blue Collar Cash.” He describes himself as a professional ditch digger, entrepreneur, and proud advocate of following your dreams.
If there are a hundred ways that something can go wrong on a project, there are now a thousand ways to fix it. So what’s best for you and your company? Join host Todd and guest Bob Armbrister as they discuss the benefits of technology adoption, the difference between adoption by field workers and every other department, how our choices now impact us in the future, and more.
Bob Armbrister is the President and CEO of SPARK Business Works. As a member of the leadership team for several organizations over the past decade, he has served as a forward thinking, mission-driven information technology executive. He desires to impact and create significant advancements in efficiency, productivity, and accountability. He enjoys the never-ending challenge of turning complex computer information into understandable and easy-to-access data for strategic thinkers.
Todd Takes:
- When starting to implement new technology, it is important to start with user center design. Think through how people are actually going to use and leverage the technology. What needs to change in their workflow and how are you going to streamline that process.
- Challenge your assumptions by taking time to sit down with the people that are experiencing the pain points. By getting them involved early in the process, you are helping to ensure you are on the right track that will actually and practically address the issue at hand.
- Bob brought up the different personas that should be involved in the implementation process. Think through which personas and stakeholders need to be involved and recruit them to join the team.
When you picture modular construction, what comes to mind? Do you have some preconceived notions that should be challenged? Join host Todd and guest Chip Parsley as they discuss the ins and outs of modular construction, everything that goes into modular manufacturing, and how prefab saves time, money, and effort in the long run.
TODD-TAKES
- We all need to be aware of our presumptions about things and regularly take time to make sure they are still accurate. With that in mind, be patience with others and take time to educate them on the realties of the industry.
- Help spread the word on the innovative trends happening like modular to show these trends are practical and actively happening.
- Take time to reimagine what it means to be productive and learn from those outside the industry, like manufacturing. We can pull valuable, hard learned insights into construction.
Chip Parsley is the Director of Prefabrication Solutions at Poynter Sheet Metal. He has additional experience as a National Sales Director, Business Development Manager, Sales Project Manager, and an Owner/President.
In your experience, does construction have a PR problem? What can be done to fix that problem? Join roundtable speakers Todd Weyandt, Travis Voss, Brandon Patterson, and Adam Davis as they take a closer look at each major facet of the industry and discuss target audiences, the need to share success and growth stories, whether we need to have a “massive PR campaign,” and embracing both success and failures.
Travis Voss is a Leader of Innovative Technology at Helm Mechanical. He uses his background in the tech field to explore, adapt, and perhaps develop technologies and workflows for the construction industry as it is thrust into its digital transformation. Helping Mechanical, Inc. stay on the cutting edge.
Adam Davis is a Virtual Design Construction Manager at Lighthouse Electric Company, Inc. His specialties include developing and mentoring talented individuals in creating innovation in construction; modeling, virtual design and construction using AutoCAD/Revit, Navisworks; Compressor Station construction, oil and gas, fabrication, pre-fabrication, and Trimble; and Enterprise, Project, and Model-Coordinated scheduling.
Brandon Patterson was Iowa born and raised with a history in the Building Industry. He enjoys working with the Iowa Skilled Trades Team and collaborating with the industry leaders to build the next generation of tradesmen and women.
As the year wraps up, what have we learned about the industry? What needs to be fixed, and in what ways have we made great strides? Join host Todd and guest Cameron Page as they talk about the jobs that set us up for success in the long run, how to pull together different industry groups for the better, the best ways to convince the industry to adopt new tech and tools, and how a workflow would look in a perfect world.
Cameron Page is CEO of Extracker, the industry’s only change order communication platform. Leaning on his experience as a project manager, Cameron understands the risks involved in processing change orders and how detrimental mistakes can be to a project. Cameron is available to offer listeners the keys to processing change orders faster and how to mitigate risks when speeding up the process.
TODD-TAKES
- Technology and collaboration have made the need for visibility all the more important. Leverage technology to help firm up your processes to give greater confidence that you aren’t missing important pieces of information.
- Cameron used the example that at a previous company they ran decisions through a simple question of “does this make us a better builder?” I love that. Having a north star that you can measure new initiatives, workflows, software and more against is a handy tool. It will go a long way to set you up for success in the long term by understanding the value and business case behind the action.
- Finally, document your processes to minimize disruption as things change and people leave the company. You want to make sure you don’t lose the intuitional data and information that has been learned.
Would you fit in if you were working in a construction industry job? A lot of people looking for work don’t think so. There is a long-standing perception in our society that construction industry jobs are dirty, difficult, back-breaking labor. And yes, there are certainly jobs like that. However, the added reality is that there are literally hundreds of jobs in or linked to the construction industry that do not require carrying bundles of fiberglass insulation on your shoulder, roofing a building, digging ditches, or muscling around sheets of drywall.
Coralee Beatty joins us this week on the podcast to talk about women in construction and the perceptions surrounding the industry. She urged everyone to look past only what they see or hear passing by a construction site, and research further into the vast sea of opportunity in this industry.
- We need to spotlight different faces and voices around the industry to show leadership positions are attainable for all. There is tremendous value in embracing and leveraging a diversity of thought and backgrounds.
- Teamwork, active listening and creating understanding are crucial to a healthy and productive work environment and jobsite. Give people permission to have these conversations and make those personal connections at work.
- Finally, it is ok to ask for help. A lot of people can feel it is a weakness to not be able to do everything. In fact, it is a strength to admit that you in fact need someone else. Only once we tap into our collective strength can we truly accomplish great things.
As the year comes to a close, what has changed? What have we learned about collaboration, data, and teamwork? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Eric Whobrey as they discuss the newest opportunities in the world of technology, the boldness of taking a good calculated risk, the education component of the AEC industry, “data for the sake of data,” and much more.
Eric Whobrey is fascinated by technology and how it continues to make businesses more successful, and he finds himself delving deeper the applications of smart design, data analysis, and application development with each new endeavor. He has managed web and data development teams, build technology, established a technology strategy for a billion-dollar business, and actively invests in technology startups. Previously, Eric managed the Operational Effectiveness program at Centro and now runs the technology department for ARCO/Murray, a Design-Build Construction company, and he co-leads a small investment fund.
TODD-TAKES
- There is tremendous value in bringing in an outsider perspective to gain fresh eyes. By providing a blend between technology and industry experience you are expanding your scope of knowledge while increasing your chance of success.
- Once you have a diverse array of perspectives, it is important to listen and learn from others when trying to implement new technology. Pull in and give ownership to the stakeholders that are experiencing the problem instead of just forcing new technology.
- Finally, Eric said “we don’t necessarily have a technology problem. We have a communication, education and empathy problem.” I think that is a great framework to operate in when implementing technology. Develop a plan for all three areas – communication, education and empathy.
Join host Todd and guest Mark Lamberson as they discuss construction trends that are here to stay, doing your “due diligence” in the industry, how to evolve alongside the constant changes in tech, how to represent your own interests as well as those of your team with technology, and remembering to apply empathy to every aspect of the industry.
Mark Lamberson began his construction career as a plumbing apprentice for his stepfather’s plumbing company in Detroit in 1992. He completed an apprenticeship program through the Plumber's Local 98 training center in 2000. He has worked in the roles of journeyman, welder, foreman, project manager and estimator. He began his role as a plumbing detailer in 2006 and advanced to leader, manager, and finally National VDC Manager for the Limbach Company. Mark’s accreditations include a Certificate in Plumbing Design, Certified Autodesk Professional, and a Certificate in Construction Supervision. In 2018, Michigan’s chapter of American Society of Sanitary Engineers awarded Mark the John E. Matthews Engineer of the Year Award. Mark is involved in technology implementation, fabrication, and standardization committees throughout Limbach.
Are you ready to turn the volume up and rock the trades loud? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Christopher Brenchley as they discuss the state of the trades today, the absolute importance of skilled tradesmen as essential workers, how Rock the Trades is helping to revitalize the workforce, and how there would be “no white-collar world without blue-collar workers.”
A digital evangelist for nearly three decades, Christopher Brenchley is co-founder and CEO of Surehand, Inc.—an industrial talent sourcing platform provider—and the driving force behind the Rock the Trades workforce development movement. He is deeply committed to expanding awareness of blue-collar career paths, reducing industrial labor shortages, and ending underemployment. Get involved at https://rockthetrades.com.
TODD-TAKES:
- This conversation really gets at one of my soapbox topics around helping to change the perception problem that exists around the skilled trades. Loved that Chris is working to help, in his words, “elevate the perception of the skilled trades back to the industrial artists that they were decades ago.”
- To help increase exposure to the trades and reach a younger audience, we need to humanize the trades while getting information out about the reality of this industry in current and creative ways.
- The key to accomplishing this rests in our ability as an industry to lock arms with each other around a single message and rallying cry. I love the “Rock the Trades” mindset to bring people together to turn the cameras around and show the amazing things happening in the industry. So, let’s go rock the trades together!
Are you well equipped and empowered to thrive in the new normal? Join host Todd and guests Melissa Lopez and Ryan Shortill as they discuss what a healthy corporate culture looks like, the new opportunities that have arisen from the remote work environment, how to adjust to working from home in the face of burnout and different schedules, attracting top talent employees to your company, and the importance of empathy in every context.
Melissa Lopez currently serves as the CEO of Positive Adventures and CEO and Co-Founder of Onyx Offsites & Trainings, a new corporate concierge team building company designed to create meaningful culture, connection and change in corporations of all sizes. With more than 25 years of industry and leadership experience in marketing, advertising and entrepreneurship, Lopez successfully navigated Positive Adventures through the COVID-19 pandemic and launched Onyx in early 2021 to address the new needs of the corporate landscape. Lopez currently sits on the Board of Directors for Entrepreneur’s Organization San Diego Chapter as Integration Chair as well as serves on the Board of Directors for Pegasus Building Services, where her board role is centralized on marketing, operational and visionary guidance for the institution.
As the Founder of Onyx Offsites & Trainings and Positive Adventures, Ryan Shortill is the driving force behind the brand’s mission. Passionate about helping communities, organizations, teams, and individuals realize their productive power, for more than 15 years, Shortill has provided counsel for companies and communities through unique, purpose-driven techniques. Shortill has taught a variety of curriculum to every level of academia as well as large organizations and senior management teams and is accustomed to speaking to a variety of audiences.
TODD-TAKES
- I loved the birds chirping in the background of Ryan. It was such a great example of embracing this new normal and allowing the flexibility and empowerment for people to work from where they can thrive the most.
- Melissa and Ryan provided so many great examples of thinking outside the box in order to connect people across departments, for example the Run Club or serving together. I also loved the idea of switching things up in meetings and brainstorming to meet at a park. Recently, I was able to bring my entire team together for the first time in 2 years and we incorporated that advice into our meeting. It was fantastic to enjoy being outside together.
- Construction workers are athletes that must take time to focus on Physical, Mental, Emotional and Spiritual health. As part of this, it is incumbent on leaders to know the person behind the employee. Take the time to know what drives and fulfills your team members so you can as Ryan said, “relate as a human rather than an item that needs to be accomplished.” Ryan also provided some powerful examples of this in action with purchasing concert tickets and plane tickets for his employees.
It is an amazing time for construction but with the growth comes a lot of change. Are you harnessing the change required to launch you into a successful future? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Randee Herrin as they unpack change management, developing alignment throughout the organization, investing in a healthy culture, data strategy, diversity in the workplace and more.
Randee Herrin is the Senior Vice President of Construction Technologies & Manufacturing at TDIndustries, Inc. With 20+ years of experience as a leader in construction, she has been innovative and utilized technology to drive value creation through big-picture and futuristic thinking. She is well versed in technology-driven workflows to transform how building and construction is executed.
Does your company embrace innovation and new opportunities? Do you? Also, what is the future of robotics in construction? Join host Todd and guest Aarni Heiskanen as they discuss crossing the divide between labor and construction demand, the growing importance of robotics in the field, the people-centric aspect of the construction industry, and much more.
Aarni Heiskanen is a Finnish construction innovation agent helping construction sector companies innovate and communicate. He has worked as an architect, consultant, and software developer. Aarni is the co-founder of AE Partners, a business development firm, and heads AEC Business, a construction communication agency. He has been hailed as a Top 100 construction tech influencer. His award-winning blog is at AEC-Business.com.
What does it mean to grow? Will you have to move beyond your comfort zone to keep up? Join host Todd and guest Doug Howard as they discuss navigating growth with your company, nurturing long-range plans over time, the absolute necessity of skill training, and how to both embrace and understand the downsides of technology.
Doug Howard is the Director of Consulting Services at Remodelers Advantage, Inc. He has extensive experience in business consulting, facilitating and training on profit improvement, growth strategies, financing, succession planning and business enhancement in the home remodeling industry
Are you ready for what’s ahead? Is your company And how can you know? Join host Todd and guest Jason Gregg as they discuss the continuing hesitancy around the adoption of technology, pursuing and achieving goals even though the path may be unsure, and how ensure that your company survives—and grows stronger through—every obstacle placed in its way.
Jason Gregg is the VDC Manager at RK Mechanical. He has 30 years of construction experience bringing innovation, technology and prefabrication to the construction industry by utilizing field experience and project management to help propel employees to the next level.
How do you bridge the gaps that occur in your workflow? What’s the best way to adapt? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Justin Saeheng of Stanly X as they discuss the connection between the field and the shop, the most rampant problems in the industry today, and the potential of an open innovation platform in Contech.
Justin Saeheng leads the Construction Technology team at Stanley X, where he is responsible for defining the product vision, strategy, and overall roadmap execution. Prior to Stanley X, Justin led product teams across various startups and large enterprises. Most recently, he was at a Series A software startup leading the Supply Chain team on first to market logistics SaaS features. Prior to that, Justin was a product manager at Uber Freight for the Marketplace Dynamics and the Carrier Fleet teams. At Adobe, Justin delivered innovative features for Adobe Analytics for Fortune 500 customers and led partnerships with Amazon, Google, and Microsoft.
How are you presenting your company to a watching world and why does it matter to your bottom line? Join host Todd and guests Tom Deane and Noel Brady as they discuss how to ensure that you are catering to your audience and customer base, the importance of first impressions (especially when it comes to your company), and how to empathize with others before making a commitment to change. Tom Deane and Noel Brady are the co-founders of ProjectMark. Tom the CEO of ProjectMark. He has spent 10 years in the Construction Industry, working primarily in Cost and Risk Management. He has been a part of multiple project teams across a range of sectors, touching over $5 billion in construction cost. He has a bachelor’s degree in Quantity Surveying from Limerick Institute of Technology. He is extremely passionate about the contech landscape and for making a real difference to daily processes in the industry.
With a younger generation coming into the workforce, what will change? And with the rise of security concerns, what parts of the industry do we need to ensure are secure? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Jennifer Byrne as they discuss embracing tech in the industry, the recent rise of “asymmetric warfare” and cyber attacks, what the future workspace will look like, and fostering a collaborative and problem-solving mentality and environment where we work.
Jennifer Byrne is currently an independent advisor, speaker, and author. A lot of her work is centered around digital transformation. Previously, Jennifer was Chief Technology Officer of Microsoft US. She infused innovation practices into Microsoft’s technical field teams which led to high-value and well-publicized digital transformation strategies with top global companies.
How does a passion for innovation tie into the construction industry? How about creativity and a desire to drive the future? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Adrian Hatch as they discuss the future of construction work, the rising power of AR and VR, how to allow workers to be more intentional with their time and resources, and much more.
Co-founder and CEO of IMAJION, Adrian Hatch is a product developer and sales leader who is passionate about creating practical innovations and experienced in the conception and engineering of prototype software products and applications. Prior to co-founding IMAJION, Adrian worked at the Syracuse University School of Information Studies as a brand designer and co-founded and operated Lokil, an app and website development firm. Adrian holds a BS in Information Management and Technology and an MS in Management Information Systems from Syracuse University.
Are you willing to push past the failures and pain that’s others won’t? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Greg Santoro as they discuss digitization, the generation of new ideas in the workplace, how storytelling ties into innovation, how to focus on the continuation of learning and growth, how to adapt to the latest global trends, and much more.
Greg Santoro earned his B.A. in Economics at Yale University. After working in strategy consulting for two years, Greg started his career in the construction industry working in a technology incubator at Stanley Black & Decker. He then moved on to Co-Founding DADO, where he serves as Head of Product.
It’s no secret that the workforce is changing—and everyone needs to learn how to keep up. Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Bryce Batts as they discuss recruitment in the AEC industry, how to avoid losing your employees, the importance of getting to know the people who work for you, and what it means to take action in the right direction.
My name is Bryce Batts and I’m an AEC Recruiter and Career Coach. I’m grateful to be able to help people in the industry find a job they love and make an income they can be proud of. I specialize in defining your strengths and identifying your weaknesses while setting goals for success. I love cheering on my clients and helping them feel empowered to take the steps needed to move into a fulfilling career. I've helped over 500 people land their dream job so if you're thinking about taking the leap or want some help in making that transition easier I'm your girl.
That's a wrap on MEP Force 2021! A truly global virtual/hybrid conference spanning 40 states and 6 continents. Being indestructible means booting up your device and getting the work done from half way across the world, and still having time to network with industry peers.
For this episode, Jake Olsen and Amy Peck joined us once again to wrap up the final day of MEP Force. When taking a look back over Angie Simon's Keynote, breakout sessions, and roundtables, a few common threads shone through today. Supply chains are fragile, and it's going to take a lot of coordinated effort and ingenuity to keep them flowing. The key to hiring and appealing to the next digital native generation may end up being hands-on learning. Finally, we must learn from our past projects and seasoned individuals before this knowledge slips through our fingertips.
Amy Peck is the founder and CEO of EndeavorVR. From healthcare, education, retail, hospitality and entertainment to government and industrial use cases, her personal goal is to bridge the gap between the leading edge tech and clients ready to adopt the myriad solutions in the AR/VR stratosphere.
Jake has worked in the industry as an engineer and entrepreneur for over 20 years both in the USA and abroad developing new products, software and businesses to transform the way we build. Jake holds a master’s degree in Structural Engineering and is a licensed Professional Civil Engineer in California.
Disruption is merely rethinking how we think about innovation. This theme shone through the keynotes, discussions, and breakout sessions on day 2 of MEP Force 2021.
We heard from industry leaders across the world about how the past 18 months has been a source of major disruption. The common thread? We are all indestructible. We all turned major disruption into crucial innovation.
Amy Peck is the founder and CEO of EndeavorVR. From healthcare, education, retail, hospitality and entertainment to government and industrial use cases, her personal goal is to bridge the gap between the leading edge tech and clients ready to adopt the myriad solutions in the AR/VR stratosphere.
James Simpson is the Mechanical Product Manager at eVolve MEP. He has gained valuable experience in all sections of the industry. From within Field Installation, VDC, DFMA, and even application development, he has led teams in bettering workflows. His current passion is driving innovation utilizing ConTech applications. He also shares his expertise in his industry blog BIM² in an effort to promote growth in the field as a whole.
Jake has worked in the industry as an engineer and entrepreneur for over 20 years both in the USA and abroad developing new products, software and businesses to transform the way we build. Jake holds a master’s degree in Structural Engineering and is a licensed Professional Civil Engineer in California.
What does it mean to be 'indestructible'?
On day 1 of MEP Force 2021, panelists, participants, and keynote addresses alike set out to capture and define what it means to be indestructible.
Themes emerged from the more than 80 breakout sessions and roundtable discussions:
- Company culture is at the heart of being indestructible. Attitudes of individuals directly contribute to company outcomes
- A solid strategy on collecting and analyze data is key.
- Buy-in when adopting a new tool or technology is just as important as understanding the technology itself.
Amy Peck is the founder and CEO of EndeavorVR. From healthcare, education, retail, hospitality and entertainment to government and industrial use cases, her personal goal is to bridge the gap between the leading edge tech and clients ready to adopt the myriad solutions in the AR/VR stratosphere.
James Simpson is the Mechanical Product Manager at eVolve MEP. He has gained valuable experience in all sections of the industry. From within Field Installation, VDC, DFMA, and even application development, he has led teams in bettering workflows. His current passion is driving innovation utilizing ConTech applications. He also shares his expertise in his industry blog BIM² in an effort to promote growth in the field as a whole.
Jake has worked in the industry as an engineer and entrepreneur for over 20 years both in the USA and abroad developing new products, software and businesses to transform the way we build. Jake holds a master’s degree in Structural Engineering and is a licensed Professional Civil Engineer in California.
Recently, we’ve all learned quite a bit about being tough. But what about being adaptable? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Dan McCarthy of Dodge Data and Analytics as preview his keynote during MEP Force 2021, the right strategy when you’re gathering and governing data, and the cultural mindset required for successful digital transformation in construction.
Dan McCarthy is the President and CEO at Dodge Data & Analytics. He has broad experience across consumer and business-to-business markets and multiple business models, including data, information, consumer payments and advertising. His focus is on transforming organizations and unlocking value through multiple strategies underpinned by the creation of strong leadership teams and highly engaged and creatively-motivated workforces.
Trust isn’t just important—it’s essential to getting things done efficiently, properly, and on time. So, what have we learned about trust and collaboration over the last twelve months? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Jeff Sample as they discuss how the construction industry has held up over the past year, knowledge and lessons learned to take away from the pandemic, the new potential for a better work-life balance, what really needs to be changed in the industry, and much more.
Jeff Sample is a technology evangelist, speaker, podcaster, and passionate advocate for construction. He has been working in the technology industry for the past 20+ years and is the Head of Communication at Join. He has taken specific care to work with and understand the diverse components of a successful business and how technology can enhance those workflows.
It is time to celebrate… Bridging the Gap is officially at 100 episodes and counting! Join host Todd Weyandt and editor/producer Eric Daniel as they look back to reflect on the lessons learned, moments that stand out and where the show is going for the next 100 episodes.
During our first 100 episodes, we have had the great pleasure of learning from so many brilliant guests and thought leaders throughout the industry. To you the listeners, thank you for joining us on this adventure, taking the time to listen each week and sharing with your friends.
Do you prioritize communication in your company? How about between different companies? That choice may be more important than you realize. Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Tim Speno as they discuss the importance of camaraderie on the field and in projects, taking time to think through plans no matter how small they might be, and how to support each other in times of drastic change.
Tim Speno is a Business Development Expert, Entrepreneur, and Strategic Planner. He is the President and CEO of E2E Summit. He has experience as an advisor, vice president of jobsite solutions and services, and a senior manager and platform manager.
In your experience, what’s the best that the construction industry has to offer? What can change? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Scott Ellison as they discuss the intricacies of construction and its projects, the ups and downs that come with disruption, how to start and grow a ConTech company, and much more.
Scott Ellison is an Advisor, Investor, and Consultant for Tech- and Data-Powered businesses. He has experience in principal, international travel, and holds a pilot’s license. He graduated AB Cum Laude from Harvard University.
Join host Todd Weyandt and guests Clay Smith, James Simpson, Steve King, Adam Heon, and Michael Schinn for a first look at the release of eVolve 5.0. You’ll learn more about the “why” and “who” behind eVolve MEP, what to expect from this latest release, which features each guest is most excited about, how eVolve and AI are getting involved, the upcoming MEP Force event, and much more!
Clay Smith is the CEO of eVolve MEP. James Simpson is a Product Manager at eVolve MEP. Steve King is a Prefab Consultant at eVolve MEP. Adam Heon is an Electrical Segment Manager at eVolve MEP. Michael Schinn is a Product Manager at eVolve MEP.
How important is trades education to you? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Brandon Patterson as they discuss the importance of preparing for the future of our workforce, the “Build My Future” event, the issues with perception around the construction industry, and much more.
Brandon Patterson was Iowa born and raised with a history in the building industry. He enjoys working with the Iowa Skilled Trades team and collaborating with the industry leaders to build the next generation of tradesmen and women.
How do you reconcile different opinions, economies, and levels of experience in the field? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Simon Waldren as they discuss the world of modular prefab, the challenge that comes with different perspectives about the industry, embracing the mindset that it’s okay to fail, and how to “check your ego at the door.”
Simon Waldren is an Operations Director at Apex Wiring Solutions. He has experience in modular, DfMA, and LEAN. Apex and Simon work hard to advocate for modular construction, helping to drive the industry to better identify challenges, while providing solutions to adapt to meet future market needs.
- When thinking through the ROI for industrialized construction, remember this is a long-term play. It doesn’t mean that you won’t find immediate benefits, but you do need to have realistic expectations. IC is a marathon not a sprint. You are bridging the gap from what can be done to what will be done in the future.
- This leads me to my second take. It is important to give yourself the freedom to fail if you are learning from those mistakes. Simon had a great line that “innovation stands on the shoulders of the people before you.” Find those 1% improvements that you can make. They add up to be a monumental change.
- Finally, don’t try to hide your mistakes. People are going to know. When you do make a mistake, own it, address it and then roll up your sleeves to fix it and learn from it. You will garner so much more respect from others in the end.
When you look at your professional field, do you see a need for improvement? How about room to grow? We can all benefit from improvement, though we might not realize it at the time. Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Slater Latour as they discuss sharing information cross-industry, the need for data standardization and organization, and the progress we’ve made towards streamlining information.
Slater Latour is the Chief Marketing and Product Officer at Newforma. He is focused on helping Newforma continue to build a great business by delivering valuable solutions to the AEC industry. Slater has held multiple corporate strategy and cross-functional leadership roles at vertical software, financial technology, and financial services organizations ranging from early-stage start-ups to one of the ten largest diversified financial services providers in the world.
What is your data strategy? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Kevin Soohoo as they discuss the huge overlap between manufacturing and construction, working towards a single source of data in the industry, protecting and prioritizing data against ransomware and the differing mindsets that surround data in construction.
Kevin Soohoo is the Director of construction and engineering at Egnyte. With 15-plus years of experience, Kevin is responsible for supporting Egnyte’s newly-formed construction and engineering vertical and its growth efforts within AEC. He also has a history of leading technology and innovation at E&R Ranked, specialty trade contractors, and context startups.
What role should curiosity play in the construction executive’s day-to-day? As it turns out, a lot. Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Cory Borchardt, Sr., VP of Operations at Fisk Electric, as they chat through embracing ConTech and prefabrication from an executive’s vantage point. They also discuss how to build out consistent processes, high-five worthy software providers for the field, attracting a younger generation. and more.
Cory Borchardt joined the Fisk Electric team in 2019 as Senior Vice President of Operations with over 20 years of electrical construction experience. Cory brings an innovative approach to construction utilizing prefabrication, technology and project management skills to drive for operational excellence. Cory received a B.S. Electrical Engineering Technology from Michigan Technological University, holds a Master Electrician license in multiple states, and is a certified Project Manager Professional (PMP).
What does Industrialized Construction mean to you? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Clay Freeman as they discuss the future of the assembly line, the common misconceptions that surround industrialized construction, how to see the best ROI from production, how to keep your expectations at the right level, how data flow goes through the supply chain in industrialized construction, and much more.
Clay Freeman is VP of Products at eVolve MEP. Freeman brings 25 years of experience to the eVolve MEP team. Previously the co-founder and Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Solidspac3, a San Francisco-based construction technology and services provider. Freeman held executive, product, and engineering leadership positions with Autodesk, Webcor Builders and Vico Software/Graphisoft.
How soon do you think augmented reality and virtual reality will be commonplace on the field? It may be sooner than you’d think. Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Amy Peck as they discuss the acceleration of technology adoption, a continual focus on human needs in tech, the benefits of wearable tech, and much more. Amy Peck is the founder and CEO of EndeavorVR. From healthcare, education, retail, hospitality and entertainment to government and industrial use cases, her personal goal is to bridge the gap between the leading edge tech and clients ready to adopt the myriad solutions in the AR/VR stratosphere.
Where do you think we’re headed in the construction industry? What do you think encourages our potential? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest René Morkos as they discuss ALICE—an AI-powered construction platform, the potential in efficiency and cost savings when it comes to artificial intelligence, the construction industry’s historical reluctance to adopt new technology, where the current market is headed, and much more.
René Morkos is the founder and CEO of ALICE Technologies and teaches at Stanford University's Ph.D program in Construction Management. The son of a civil engineer, René grew up in the construction industry. He has worked on construction projects worldwide. His professional experience ranges from working as a project manager in Afghanistan to building an underwater pipeline project in Beirut, from driving automation engineering on a $350 million gas refinery expansion project in Abu Dhabi to leading the development of a virtual design and construction model for Amsterdam’s cruise ship terminal. René received his Ph.D in Construction Engineering and Management from Stanford University, his MSCE in Construction Management from USC, and his BS in Civil and Environmental Engineering from American University of Beirut.
Are you familiar with commissioning? If so, you might have a few questions about it. Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Ryan Lean as they unpack common industry misconceptions around commissioning, how the process of commissioning is and should be “all about people,” how efficiency and operability in projects has been impacted in the last year, and more.
Ryan Lean serves as Associate Partner at JB&B and leads JB&B Field, a division of JB&B incorporating ten specific field-related services into one comprehensive service offering. Since joining the firm in 2004, Mr. Lean has garnered extensive experience in building commissioning and related services for commercial, mission-critical, educational, laboratory, healthcare and LEED green buildings. He sees building commissioning and related field services as a means of fostering relationships with owners and operators, and of guiding them through the challenges of transitioning to a new facility.
Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Dan McCarthy of Dodge Data & Analytics as they discuss digital transformation's effects on construction, how the industry can make the best use of data and analytics to drive future success, the “bleed” and “lag” that has become obvious in the construction industry, the essential nature of gathering the right data, and where in the world technology adoption is taking us.
Daniel (Dan) R. McCarthy is CEO of Dodge Data & Analytics, North America’s leading provider of commercial construction project data, market forecasting, analytics services and workflow integration solutions for the construction industry. Having started his career as a business analyst covering the technology, data and business information markets for Communications Trends, Inc., he has since led major growth transformation for multiple business-to-business and business-to-consumer firms in the data, information, paid content and marketing services sectors and has completed more than 50 transactions and financings to date.
Is mental health a priority to you and your company? How can you raise awareness for those who may not get represented in the construction industry? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Darcy Gruttadaro as they discuss the importance of Mental Health Awareness Month, addressing common stigmas around mental health in construction, how “Zoom fatigue” may be affecting just about everyone these days, and how essential it is to identify and manage burnout.
Darcy Gruttadaro is the director of the Center for Workplace Mental Health. As director, she works with her team in developing high impact trainings, guides, resources, and case studies to support mentally healthy workplaces. The Center’s work includes working in consultation and collaborating with employers in raising awareness, creating mentally healthy organizational cultures, and improving access to mental health services and supports. The Center works with organizations of all sizes from Fortune 100 companies to small family-owned businesses in creating effective approaches to improving the mental health and well-being of employees and their families.
With all the data you could collect, how do you know what you should leverage?. Do you face this problem? If you do, how do you overcome it? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Lilian Magallanes as they discuss what the common data environment means, how can you make the data more flexible, what are potential pitfalls of collecting too much data and more.
Lilian Magallanes is a Project Manager for a large general contractor, where she leverages thirteen years of construction management and facilities experience to help support technology alignment. In her previous role as BIM Coordinator for the Los Angeles Community College District, her team identified technologies and applications of Building Information Modeling. In addition to her daytime role, Lilian also currently serves as the Membership Committee Chair for the Construction Progress Coalition, a non-profit organization dedicated to defining the future of project data governance through common data exchanges, and a Board Member for NAWIC Los Angeles, celebrating women in the AEC industry.
Are you a good example to the people that you persuade? How can you know? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Dr. Charles Redd as they discuss how to develop someone’s potential, the importance of passion in your work, taking the social stigma out of failure, and how “you either learn and you live, or you live and you learn.”
Dr. Charles Redd has over 30 years of success as a speaker, minister and leader in Fortune 500 organizations. As a leadership trainer, he brings to the table a dynamic blend of business, ministry and team development experience that gives organizations a well-rounded approach to solving complex issues.
Join hosts Todd Weyandt and Christopher Riddell and guests Marcello Sgambelluri and Anthony Zuefeldt as they discuss Marcello’s new book, “Dynamo and Grasshopper for Revit Cheat Sheet Manual,” the difficulty we have with defining computational design in the industry, how to achieve a “cultural buy-in” when you’re introducing something new, the importance of a willingness to take chances, and whether or not we’re being “too nice” when it comes to introducing change.
Marcello Sgambelluri is internationally recognized at one of the top BIM leaders and contributors to the education and implementation of BIM technology in the building industry. He provides training and consulting the AEC industry. He received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Civil Engineering, and he is also a licensed Civil and Structural Engineer.
Anthony Zuefeldt is a Senior Solutions Specialist at Applied Software. He has a deep background in A.E.C. technologies and workflows. In addition, he serves as an enterprise and solution architect for architecture firms, design build firms and fabricators, and the home building industry.
Are you overworked? Untethered? Maybe confused by new advents in construction? A lot’s happening, but there are ways to keep up. Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Dillon Mitchell as they discuss sustainability in the construction industry, Dillon’s podcast The Construction Corner, embracing new technology and growth in the industry, how to balance your work life, and maintaining an effective connection to the industry you work in.
Having designed millions of square feet in Revit for everything from K-12, higher education, healthcare, industrial, and mixed use, Dillon Mitchell is well versed in the construction industry. As a professional electrical engineer in 6 states he’s seen the ups and downs of construction. In 2018 Dillon transitioned from working in A/E firms to starting his company Kowabunga Studios mission is to help engineers save time reduce their stress and live a better life, while increasing the margins and financial strength of the firm. He is also the host of the Construction Corner Podcast.
What’s the best way to coordinate between different backgrounds and experience levels in the field? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Cliff Cole as they discuss managing your time and effort as a leader, balancing your interests and priorities, staying proactive through change, how credibility and emotional intelligence fit together, and the impact that the younger generation will have on the construction industry.
As Director of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) at The PENTA Building Group, Cliff leads all building information modeling implementation and management. Cliff has over 17 years of experience in the construction industry and is an innovative technology industry leader. Cliff is responsible for monitoring the coordination and execution of all projects that incorporate VDC processes. In addition to his role as Director of VDC, he is responsible for strategic technology initiatives for the operations and preconstruction groups. Cliff also leads PENTA's corporate lean group and is passionate about reducing and eliminate waste in our industry.
Are you setting your company up for an innovation superpower? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Tauhira Ali as they talk about how everyone’s looking for a way to get connected, the impact diversity and inclusion has on construction innovation, how to live up to our values, and how to approach perceived differences in one another with kindness.
Tauhira Ali is a highly skilled technology strategist with more than 16 years of R&D and product design experience. As NECA’s Executive Director of Industry Innovation, she gathers insights from end users, industry experts, and tech providers to deliver awareness, education, and implementation strategies to specialty contractors. These efforts serve to empower contractors to strategically leverage technical innovations and industry trends to drive process and productivity to increase market share.
What’s on your construction “bucket list”? Is there anything in the industry you’d like to see changed? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Hugh Seaton as they discuss the ups and downs of the creative process, getting people more comfortable with technology, Hugh’s book “The Construction Technology Handbook,” the growth of artificial intelligence, and how to prepare for where we’re headed.
Hugh Seaton is the Head of Product for Crosswalk by CSI, where he leads development of an API connecting MasterFormat, Uniformat and Omniclass to the industry's premiere construction software. Prior to this, Hugh was the GM at Adept Reality, a VR/AR company. Hugh has been involved in construction technology for over a decade, including the AEC hackathon, and he is currently publishing the Construction Technology Quarterly, hosting bi-weekly Clubhouse rooms, and recording his own podcast, Constructed Futures.
In recent times, how has preconstruction changed? Precon is being put center stage as bids are increasing and more projects are coming back online. Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Zac Hays as they discuss the exciting new Autodesk Takeoff, the undergoing journey from 2D to 3D, the biggest hurdles facing preconstruction this year, and the effects that the pandemic will have on the construction industry as a whole.
Zac Hays is the Director of Research & Development of Preconstruction Products for Autodesk Construction Solutions. Zac leads product design and development for Autodesk’s construction bidding, risk, & intelligence products. As a member of the Construction Solutions R&D Board, he also helps with the strategy and development of the entire Autodesk Construction Cloud portfolio. Zac came to Autodesk through the 2019 acquisition of BuildingConnected, where he spent four years as VP of Product. Zac has over 15 years of experience in product development at startups and large tech companies including Microsoft, Nokia, and TiVo. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from UC San Diego and gets to enjoy living and working in San Francisco with his wife and two young daughters.
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What role does trust play in the everyday success of construction? Can you really measure the ROI and improve productivity with an intentional focus on trust? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Eric Thomas of Autodesk as they talk about the state and definition of trust in construction, how to face interpersonal challenges in the industry, creating a space where ideas can flourish, taking the stigma out of failing, and maintaining good work relationships.
Eric Thomas is a Manager of Construction Thought Leadership at Autodesk and host of the Digital Builder podcast. In addition to developing Autodesk’s content strategy for construction, he is passionate about helping the AEC industry make impactful decisions when leveraging construction technology. Prior to joining Autodesk, he worked for Gilbane Building Co. and Truebeck Construction. Eric has nearly a decade of marketing experience and a bachelor’s degree in Scientific and Technical Communication from Michigan Technological University.
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Bridging the Gap Website
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Thank you to our sponsors!
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Other Relevant Links:
Eric Thomas’s Linkedin
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Autodesk Website
Are you telling your story or allowing others to fill in the gap with potentially inaccurate information? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Mike Merrill as they continue with the second part of their conversation and how to overcome the marketing problem in construction. Todd and Mike get into some ways to better share the innovations happening and some ways to get the message out. Make sure to listen to the first part of the conversation from the Mobile Workforce Podcast.
With 10 years as a construction and real estate entrepreneur and 18 years as a technology executive, Mike Merrill, co-founder of WorkMax by AboutTime Technologies, brings strong leadership and expert knowledge. In addition, he’s the host of The Mobile Workforce Podcast where gathers industry experts to inspire change and finds out what it takes to profitability manage mobile workforces. With Mike’s depth of knowledge of the construction industry and mobile workforce technology, he’s a highly sought after author by leading industry trade publications and speaker at industry conferences. When he isn’t working, Mike is an athletic outdoorsman and is spending time with his wife and four kids.
What are the foundational building blocks of success with digital transformation? How do you know you’re moving in the right direction? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Jason Saunders as they discuss the different ways the MEP industry is handling operational efficiency, how to achieve long-term success, what it means to really leverage your data, and how to properly communicate your vision from the office to the field.
Jason Saunders is a Solutions Engineer at eSub Construction Software. He grew up in the suburbs of Cleveland Ohio and went to college at Purdue University. After graduating from Purdue, Jason took a position managing a territory for a building materials manufacturer in the roofing industry. Working with contractors, distributors, architects, and owners, he gained pre-con and construction experience. After extensive work with hundreds of trade contractors, Jason decided to leave his current position to pursue starting his own trade contracting business.
How relevant is your company moving into the next decade of construction? Are you prepared to make the innovations necessary to thrive? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Jim Tavernelli as they discuss the industry-wide adoption of industrialized construction, challenging your team to innovate, utilizing consistency to see what your company is capable of, creating an open and trusting work environment, sharing best practices, and much more.
Jim Tavernelli serves as President and Chief Operating Officer of KLH Engineers, a traditional MEP Engineering Consulting Firm in the AEC Industry. KLH has transformed into a distinctively different engineering firm that leverages technology and software to provide more tangible value to the true consumer of its services – contractors. Jim has led KLH’s reinvention into an innovation-centric practice by executing its “technical strategy” which has fundamentally changed the way KLH views and completes its work. Jim graduated with a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from the University of Dayton and is a registered Professional Engineer in 17 states. He also holds a Master in Business Administration from Xavier University.
Are you ensuring the wisdom of the field in your technology? How can you know? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Troy DeGroot as they talk about the need for consistent workflow standards across teams, foundational building blocks for technology adoption, how it’s possible to increase both efficiency and accuracy, and utilizing Bluebeam as a genuine game-changer. With over 20 years as a Detailer, Designer, and BIM Manager prior to teaching, Troy DeGroot has cultivated a deep understanding of the requirements of customers, the needs of end-users, common goals of management, and the capacities of Bluebeam® technology. As a Bluebeam Certified Consultant, Bluebeam Certified Instructor, and Implementation Specialist, Troy increases productivity for Project Managers, predictability for BIM/VDC Managers, and helps maximize software adoption for CEO/CIOs.
What is your instinctive reaction to technology? How does that impact your work in construction? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Peyton Kringlie as they discuss a recent article Peyton wrote around the different approaches to technology in construction, encouraging those who need a confidence boost in technology, staying humble while you’re trying out something new, and what innovation looks like real-time.
Peyton Kringlie, Business Analyst from LS Black Constructors has experience in several domains. Peyton grew up in a family owned, Construction/Building Material Supply company located in the Dakotas. He then received degrees in Business and Construction Management from the University of Minnesota. After pursuing traditional Project Engineer route, he then transitioned to Business Analyst, where he leads his company, LS Black, in all its efforts with Technology and Innovation. He recently wrote an article, highlighting the difficulties of technology adoption, specifically in the Construction Industry, but provides takeaway insight from Psychology research to help.
What is the impact of an empathic leader in construction? How can vision-casting help improve operational efficiency? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Sean Reid as they discuss the remote workforce, the appeal and potential of the construction industry, new approaches towards leadership in the industry, the importance of empathy in the workplace, and the new generation of workers who want to see new and better things from their workplace and jobs.
Sean Reid is Vice President of Strategy and Business Operations for Aedo, a leader in data-enablement solutions for construction. He is also a certified leadership coach, and a recognized expert in operational planning and execution, leadership communication, and team performance. In his work at Aedo, Sean and his team are developing software and consulting solutions that help contractors create high-performance, data-driven operating cultures, and leverage innovative analytic and AI capabilities to drive new levels of growth, profitability, and market opportunity.
We are flipping the script and showing respect for perspective. It’s time to look at ConTech through an architect’s eyes. Join host Todd and guest Maya Leigh as they discuss common myths about architects, how to utilize self-reflection after you’re done with a project, what a project might look like in an ideal world, the need for curiosity, and asking others for help.
Maya Leigh is a senior architect and team leader at Moshe Zur Architects and Town Planners, one of the leading architecture firms in Israel. Over the last 13 years she has gained extensive experience using Revit and BIM, planning projects ranging from high rise residences and hotels to office buildings. She is interested in the intersection of architecture and technology and is deeply curious and excited about what the future holds for the AEC industry.
Join this special episode as Bridging the Gap joins forces with our sister podcast The AEC Disruptors hosted by Christopher Riddell to recap the biggest takeaways for the Digital Agility Summit. Todd and Christopher are joined by solutions engineer and cloud infrastructure strategist Jason Schmidt of Applied Software to unpack whether the intensity of work has changed over the past year, the potential future technology trends of the AEC industry, the ways in which we’ll need to adapt to technology, and what we can look forward to when it comes to digital transformation.
Christopher Riddell is the Director of Innovation at Applied Software and host of the AEC Disruptors podcast. Over the last several years, he has placed an emphasis on utilizing technologies such as Dynamo to extend the power of Revit and other BIM technologies. He is passionate about the transfer of knowledge from one group to the next, which he believes is the key to overall success in the AEC industry.
Jason Schmidt is an AEC industry specialist and Technology leader, with over 29 years of progressive IT & Design Technology experience, helping enhance AEC processes and workflows. He has the experience to interact and communicate effectively with a diverse range of individuals and groups, including all levels of management.
Cyber security is a massive part of being digitally agile. How secure is your data? Join host Todd Weyandt and guest Phil Keeney as they discuss trends in cybersecurity, practical steps towards implementing cybersecurity, the importance of resiliency, important commitments to map out before obtaining CMMC, the definition of digital agility, and how to truly understand innovation.
Phil Keeney leads the Stambaugh Ness TechSolutions team, providing technology consulting and implementation to over 800 clients including the architecture and engineering, not-for-profit, governmental, and health care industries. Working closely with clients, Phil develops innovative solutions designed to contribute to the company’s overall growth and profitability. Phil manages and deploys technology initiatives for clients via ERP, EDI, and CRM, as well as developing and managing all aspects of their technological infrastructure, technology inventory and staff. His years of experience also includes performing IT security audits, intrusion/penetration testing, and long-term strategic planning.
Are you ignoring what is possible by not taking the time needed to understand perspectives? Join host Todd and guest Mike Buckiewicz as they talk through the value of soft skills in construction, the human element needed, utilizing disruption for the betterment of your company and the encouraging other construction innovators.
Mike Buckiewicz’s career spans technology, construction, government, and private consulting engagements that are all focused on identifying methods or strategies to improve the way that things get done. This unique blend of experience enables me to connect with a wide variety of people in order to define the objectives and build buy-in for a unified vision of success. He works in Virtual VDC Management, Construction Technology Adoption, and Agile Facilitation.
How can you take advantage of the moment others pull back from? Join host Todd and guest Dan Waldschmidt as they discuss the concept of “leveling up,” ultra-marathon lessons for AEC, how failure can set you up for success, the digital transformation happening in the AEC industry right now, and the essential foundation of caring.
Dan Waldschmidt is the Chief Revenue Officer at Panzura, the leading high-performance global cloud file system that allows users to work together as if they were in the same room. He is the pulse of the company, using every ounce of his energy to ensure sustainable, long-term health and growth opportunities. He is also the co-founder and partner of EDGY Inc, a highly-focused, invite-only, business strategy execution company based out of Silicon Valley. As a champion ultra-runner and elite strategist to business leaders across the world, Dan pushes the limits of high performance in everything that he attempts.
Join host Todd and guest Michael Reuter as they discuss the biggest misconceptions about BIM Coordination, the latest trends in construction data, taking a deep dive into integrations, finding a space for creative problem solving, and new features coming to 360 Sync.
Michael Reuter is a Customer Success Advocate, Senior Technology Specialist, BIM Coordinator, and BIM Advocate at Applied Software. He implements, trains, sets metrics and follows up with BIM implementation for Applied Software’s construction clients to ensure the success of implementation. He holds a Master’s of Building Science from Auburn University.
Sometimes, you just have to earn the right to be heard by doing the work. Join host Todd and guest Steve King of eVolve MEP as they discuss the need for better communication from the office to the jobsite, how more verbal communication does not always mean better communication, technology’s role and the importance of focusing on the roadblocks for others.
Steve King is a Product Manager and Prefabrication Consultant at eVolve MEP. He has over 30 years of experience in the Electrical Contracting industry and has experience with Project Estimating, Project Management Project Planning, Design and Trade Coordination, and Fabrication.
With every new development in the construction industry, there’s always a certain amount of implementation and adaptation that must take place. Join host Todd and guest Blake Douglas as they discuss recent trends in construction, impacts of the COVID disruption this past year, the benefits of augmented reality, where BIM 360 will take us, and the effects that so many new product announcements might have on the industry. Plus, they discuss what Ikea may be able to teach the construction industry.
Blake Douglas is the Director of Services at Applied Software. Through technology, Blake aims to help bring projects to completion on time and under budget, driving real business results for construction teams.
What brings about a company’s success? Is it innovation? Adaptability? Collaboration? Or is a mix of all three? Join host Todd and guest Michael Glatt of MACRO, a Savills company, as they talk about what it takes to be a good leader, whether the AEC industry is fighting over the margins, whether or not technology is keeping up with the vision needed to handle this crisis, and how truly dependent we are on the trades.
Michael Glatt is the Vice Chairman and North American Head of Project Management of MACRO, a Savills Company. With over 40 years of industry experience, Michael epitomizes daily leadership for both clients and fellow team members. Michael has managed an extensive array of projects and accounts, ranging from commercial, large-scale towers and campuses to various nonprofit assignments. No matter the size of scope of the project, Michael brings his unfettered energy, experience and commitment.
What’s your appetite for technological change? Are you dynamic, static or a naysayer? How do you know? Join host Todd and guest Travis Althouse of Revizto as they discuss the importance of implementation discovery, how and why to embrace technology and how to be aware of what your (and your team’s) capabilities are.
Travis Althouse is the MEP Implementation Manager for Revizto. His 10-year career in the AEC space has included a full-circle experience from field to design to installation. He started his post-college career as a construction field worker and spent several years in a DFMA Project Coordinator role at a respected mid-size prefabrication subcontractor. Later, he worked for years as a mechanical design engineer at an engineering firm.
Travis's passion is up-and-coming construction technology, and he spends time learning how to best leverage it in all sorts to communicate, learn, and produce fabrication designs and models, and how to establish proper communication in all stages of a project lifecycle.
Join host Todd for an exclusive episode featuring guest Sameer Merchant, Head of Product Development for Autodesk Construction Solutions, as they unpack the new product announcements from Autodesk University – Autodesk Build, Autodesk Quantify, Autodesk BIM Collaborate and Autodesk Tandem. They also address how to bring technology to the forefront by fully leveraging data and breaking down silos, the importance of a single source of truth for construction management and how to use all the data and new product offerings to make better, smarter decisions moving forward.
Sameer Merchant is the Head of Product Development for Autodesk Construction Solutions. He leads product development and delivery efforts for Autodesk’s site construction and preconstruction product portfolio, which includes BIM 360 and PlanGrid. Sameer joined Autodesk with the acquisition of PlanGrid, where he was vice president of engineering. Prior to joining PlanGrid, Sameer co-founded and was CTO at AdMarvel, a mobile advertising platform acquired by Opera Software in 2010. While at Opera, Merchant was Vice President of Mobile Commerce, where he started and grew the company's mobile and data services businesses, managing a global team of more than 400 employees.
Merchant began his career at VeriSign, setting up and leading engineering teams across three countries for several business units, including Public Key Infrastructure, Payment Services and Telecommunication Services. He and his team built massively scaled products that were used by Fortune 500 customers and partners including Adobe, Netscape and Microsoft.
Is it better to be stable or adaptable? Different sources might give you different answers, but experience is the greatest teacher. Join host Todd and guest Brian Burke as they discuss the difference between book learning and being in the field, the importance of paying it forward to the next generation, how to help others think outside the box and whether there’s a difference between being paperless and going digital.
A few short years ago, reprographics expert and business owner Brian Burke conceived an idea for getting construction documents printed. His idea led to the founding of Plans4Less.com in 2015. Mr. Burke has proven that leveraging both technology and a strategically located national network of reprographics partners provides a more valuable printing service to the construction industry.
Join host Todd and guest Stewart Carroll of Beck Technology Ltd. as they discuss staying relevant in a competitive market and taking advantage of current preconstruction trends and contech, how the industry can collectively make the world a better place. They also ask the questions: why aren’t we fully leveraging the vast amount of data a construction project captures, and why aren’t we talking to each other more?
Stewart Carroll is the President at Beck Technology Ltd. As leader of Beck Technology, Stewart runs all aspects of Beck Technology, corporate strategy and vision. He has been a lead A/E/C technologist for well over a decade and continually speaks on the integration of cost and scoping technologies to owners and developers. Stewart serves as a keynote speaker for various trade shows, conferences and councils, and is an expert on A/E/C technology and its application in the marketplace.
Join host Todd and guest Chaunté Hall of Victory Trades Alliance as they talk about the transition from the military to the MEP trades, changing the narrative around the skilled trades work, affecting the public perception of trade schools, and how veterans are rising to the nation’s needs during the pandemic.
Chaunté Hall is a US Air Force veteran, an adjunct college professor, executive career coach and most recently became the president of Victory Trades Alliance (VTA), an organization that focuses on transitioning military members into fulfilling careers in the skilled trades industry, specifically in mechanical, electrical and plumbing. Having spent her time outside of the armed services aiding America’s heroes in developing long-lasting and lucrative careers, Chaunte is offering her unique insight and guidance to help steer like-minded professionals in the right direction.
What mental image do you associate with digital workflows? How about innovation? What you associate may have a lot to do with how you perceive them. Join host Todd and guest Frank Schuyer of Xinaps as they discuss common myths about digital workflows, the importance of transparency, enhancing the collaboration between designers and contractors, and not being afraid to share information.
Frank Schuyer is the founder and CEO at Xinaps. With a back ground in Marketing, Business Administration and a Serial entrepreneur and an innovator by heart, Frank is constantly working on better, easier, and smarter ways to make software peoples lives more fun. With over 20 years of experience and a different look on processes, people, and interfaces, he brings software to the next level. Believing in a lean, pragmatic, and simple approach to the more complex business of today. With the love around his family, friends, and business- and sports, his passion in driving industries forward, he would like to contribute for the better.
With all the technology and innovation happening in the construction industry, are we overcomplicating growth? Join host Todd and guest Tom Stemm of Ryvit as they discuss how to fully leverage your data across platforms and ecosystems, the importance of accountability and transparency to foster true collaboration and what it means to grow or die.
Tom Stemm is a longstanding Entrepreneur and technology enthusiast with several years of broad experience building companies from the ground up. His penchant is geared toward providing consultation and partnership to other companies, pursuing complex problems to enable unique solutions, and simplifying the overall path to success for small businesses.
Some things are for sure: times are changing, and so is construction. Join host Todd and guest Jeffrey Nesbitt as they discuss using technology to create better construction processes, using consistency to implement new technology, and what it means to be one of those who refuse to adapt to the new trends and tech that have swept the world.
Jeffrey Nesbitt is the national director of firm wide consulting with CliftonLarsonAllen construction and a member of the firm-wide construction strategic leadership team. With over 16 years in the construction and technology industries, Jeffrey has helped guide both domestic and international construction firms across multiple verticals with operations management reviews, business planning, information systems selection and implementation. Jeffrey’s strong construction industry market knowledge and connections have helped clients in installing best practices for connecting the back office to the field office and advisement on the latest technology tools to help you manage, grow and increase your company’s value.
Given the most recent progressions in technology, how much has your workflow changed? Has it been for the better? What’s your new process like? Join host Todd and guest Shane Hedmond as they talk about new movements in podcasting, the basics of adopting and integrating new tech, and the potential challenges of getting people to adopt artificial intelligence (AI), given the resistance to tech in the past.
Shane Hedmond is the creator of Construction Junkie. He has a strong passion for construction technology and safety as well as sharing the knowledge and insight he has gained throughout his career as an active construction project manager.
How have expectations changed in the industry? Is it enough for a job to be efficient, or should we begin to prioritize things that haven’t been as important in the past? Join host Todd and guest Juliana Milanov of Randall Mechanical, Inc. as they talk about respecting the expertise of others, how departments can meet demand without getting overwhelmed, and how to incentivize innovation.
Juliana Milanov is the Director of BIM Technology at Randall Mechanical, Inc. She is an experienced Director with a demonstrated history of working in AEC Design and Construction industry. She is also skilled in AutoCAD, Revit MEP/Architectural/Structural, CM-BIM, LEED, HVAC, Value Engineering, Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Building Information Modeling(BIM), VR, AI, ML and Technology.
Has your company embraced new ways to make projects easier and more efficient? Would you consider yourself a supporter of that early adaptation or more of a laggard? Join host Todd and guest Kyle Peacock of Peacock Construction Inc. as they discuss adapting to on-site disruption, how Peacock Construction Inc. has successfully automated their mandatory safety check-ins, and the benefits of being an early adapter to this recent disruption.
Kyle Peacock is the President and CEO of Peacock Construction Inc. Keeper of the vision, Kyle considers it an honor to lead Peacock Construction as it continues to grow and evolve. Kyle got his start managing construction for Boston Properties, then joined Peacock as a Project Manager, eventually becoming CEO. A favorite project was the renovation of a 22,000 square-foot forensic lab for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Keeping the job running efficiently while the lab continued to operate was a technical challenge, but one Kyle thoroughly enjoyed. When he's not working, there's nothing Kyle likes more than being outdoors and if it's with his family, even better.
We’ve heard that the biggest problem facing construction is the skilled labor shortage, but what if it’s just a delusion? Join host Todd and guest Todd Dawalt of The Construction Leading Edge podcast as they discuss if the labor shortage is just a symptom of a larger problem. They also tackle questions like: is there a better way to do things, or do you search for new and innovative ways to look at construction? How do you make employees and customers feel valuable and important to your business?
Todd Dawalt is an Executive Business Coach on The Construction Leading Edge podcast. He helps construction business owners to boost revenue, put financial worries behind them, and turn their company into a well-oiled, profitable machine. He also has a website (www.constructionleadingedge.com) dedicated to helping construction leaders grow their leadership skills, business, and income.
What’s the biggest problem facing the construction industry right now? On the surface, some of the biggest problems aren’t easy to see. Join host Todd and guest John Reid of Faber Connect as they talk about how new technologies are changing the game, the need for skilled trades and labor, and why construction firms need to begin to embrace innovation and technology.
John Reid is the Co-founder of Faber Connect, a construction software platform that lets construction companies connect with construction workers. He enjoys spending quality time with his family, skiing and exploring new innovative industries.
What’s your stance on adopting new technology in the construction industry? With the growth in venture capital investment and the adoption of new ideas, it’s certainly an exciting industry to be a part of. Join host Todd and guest Mallorie Brodie of Bridgit as they talk about pushing the industry forward, data versus the “gut instinct,” and the newest challenges of social distancing on the job site.
Mallorie Brodie is the CEO and Co-Founder of Bridgit. She holds an Honors degree from the Richard Ivey School of Business, and has almost 10 years of entrepreneurial experience. She holds various entrepreneurial awards, including receiving the top prize at the 2015 Google Demo Day, being named Techvibes Entrepreneur of the Year, being named to the 2019 Forbes Manufacturing & Industry 30 Under 30, and being named to the Best Of Canada Forbes Under 30 Innovators list.
When you attend a jam-packed conference (like MEP Force), you have watched all the keynotes, attended your favorite breakout sessions, and hopped on a Zoom call for networking, how do you keep the conversation moving forward after the event ends? Rob McKinney, Nathan Wood, Travis Voss, and James Simpson have joined Todd Weyandt on the Bridging the Gap Podcast again to answer this very question.
The answer is so simple that it might surprise you.
Tune in to this episode to see how to push the momentum of a changing industry forward and get an in-depth recap of the final day of MEP Force 2020. Check out the previous two episodes to catch up on the first two days of the conference.
What do get when you pack over 200 industry professionals into one Zoom meeting? If you guessed 'have a virtual party', 'create an amazing conversation', 'push the industry forward', 'get a cooking demonstration', 'learn BBQ tips from a professional', or 'learn a new margarita recipe', you'd be correct!
In this episode we too a look at Day 2 of MEP Force 2020 on the Bridging the Gap Podcast. This special episode took place during a Virtual House Party. If you have attended MEP Force in person, then you know that the Block Party is one of the best parts of the whole event. Since we have a virtual conference this year, we switched it up a little bit. We featured a round table from some industry and podcast veterans: Rob McKinney, Nathan Wood, Travis Voss, and James Simpson, and the conversation that unfolded from there was nothing short of amazing.
As the conversation kicked off, other special guests joined in, including: Kyle Speropoulous of MMC Contractors, Darren Young of Hermanson Company, Jeff Sample of eSUB, Jason Barber of Manufacton, Travis Althouse and Mark T. Jones of Revizto, Tim Vock of Gibson Electric Co, Saeed Eslami of VisualLive.
Amy Marks of Autodesk, David Francis of ICT Tracker, Mike Zivanovic, Jason Ashburn, Ken Schneider of UA-ITF and Phil Nimmo of MCA also received shout outs from the crowd. Make sure to check out the recap from day 1 of the conference and don't miss the story from day 3 tomorrow!
LIVE: A look at Day 1 of MEP Force 2020 on the Bridging the Gap Podcast. This special episode features a round table from some industry and podcast veterans: Rob McKinney, Nathan Wood, Travis Voss, and James Simpson. They unpack the biggest trends and conversations coming out of the conference and the trades. Two of our biggest takeaways? 1) Tons of folks in the industry (1300 of them!) are hungry to network and connect. 2) Amy Marks' Keynote, The Rise of the Subcontractor struck a chord with listeners across the globe. Some more about the amazing panel joining us this week:
As the Executive Director of the Construction Progress Coalition and host of the #SharedPains Podcast, Nathan Wood understands how rewarding the design and construction process can be when technology and culture embrace a new era of innovation.
Known as the ConAppGuru and a co-host on the ConTech Crew Podcast, Rob McKinney is a self-taught construction technologist who began his construction career as the Safety Director for JM Wilkerson Construction. He is now on a mission to educate the industry about the uses for new apps and technology on projects.
As the Product Manager for eVolve Mechanical, James Simpson has a passion for driving innovation utilizing ConTech applications. He has a self-proclaimed “OCD for innovation” and is leading the charge in revolutionizing the industry as well as developing all those in it.
As the Leader of Innovative Technology at Mechanical, Inc., Travis Voss uses his background in the tech field to explore, adapt and perhaps develop technologies and workflows for the construction industry as I thrust into its digital transformation.
Stay tuned as we unpack day 2 and 3 of this great conference.
Join host Todd and Nathan Kirchner of as they discuss the intricacies of tracking AI software, situational awareness, and the issues of safety and work vs. idealization. Also, learn more about three things that matter when it comes to AI: vigilance, reliability, and consistency.
Nathan Kirchner is the Founder and CTO at Presien - a cutting edge AI vision systems, a Special Advisor for Robotics, Ventures at one of the world’s largest private construction companies, a Director of the Robotics Australia Group peak body, and sits on the Advisory Board of Queensland Robotics. He is an active academic researcher in robotics as an Honorary Professor at both the University of Technology Sydney and at Ohio State University. Previously to this he served multiple academic appointments at Stanford University. Dr Kirchner's specialty is uncovering and imagining opportunities for emergent robotics & future technologies in the real world and forging viable R&D to Deployment (R&D2D) pathways to their realization.
Join host Todd and guest Lt. General Robert “Bob” Caslen, Jr., president of the University of South Carolina, as they discuss the importance of character in leadership. Through Caslen’s time in the military, he has seen all kinds of leaders up close. Todd and Bob talk through the need to consistently perform to the upper level of your potential, and how to develop the leadership traits that are best suited to you. Learn more about the importance of character, determination, values and how that reflects on the people you lead.
Lt. General Robert Caslen, Jr. has been serving the people of South Carolina as president of their flagship university, the University of South Carolina, and president of the University of South Carolina System. He is the former Superintendent of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, and his principal mission was to build leaders and leaders of character. He has worked in strategic planning and policy formulation and in executive management implementing strategic plans. He is a retired general officer of the U.S. Army, and he served on NCAA Division 1 Board of Directors and Board of Governors. He also served as Co-Chair of the Commission to Eliminate Sexual Violence on College Campuses.
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Join host Todd and guests “Queen of Prefab” Amy Marks of Autodesk, David Evans of Starr Electric, and Bob Snyder of Binsky and Snyder as they discuss misconceptions about prefabrication, increasing lack of labor and complexity of design, and what productization has to do with the rise of the subcontractor. Learn more about how education and proof of existence is changing the mindset around prefabrication, achieving longevity in the industry, and the new Industrial Revolution.
Want to hear more from Amy Marks? You can at MEP Force 2020. She will be the featured keynote on August 31st. Register today.
Amy Marks is the head of industrialized construction strategy and evangelism at Autodesk; she is known throughout the construction industry as the "Queen of Prefab." A graduate of the University of Florida and an alumna of Harvard Business School, Marks is the former CEO of XSite Modular, a leading prefabrication consultancy and design-builder of critical infrastructure buildings. As a prefabrication consultant, she defined the language and process that is adopted by companies, countries, and builders around the world.
David Evans is a Senior Vice President for Starr Electric Company, Inc. and a 25-year construction industry veteran. David helped found the modular division at Starr Electric Company and has helped create new techniques in prefabrication and modular construction such as interior and exterior electrical rooms, power skids, battery storage, and other electrical modular capabilities. David is a licensed general contractor and brings an expanded way of modular thinking to Starr Electric Company.
Bob Snyder is the CEO of Binsky and Snyder. As a fourth-generation owner, Bob has worked and been involved in the mechanical contracting industry since his youth. As a graduate engineer, Bob has strong technical and design aptitude and has a vast understanding of both conceptual and technical aspects of mechanical systems. Bob has devoted significant time to the Mechanical Contracting Association of New Jersey and Industry Council, currently sits on the Board of Directors, and holds the position of Secretary/Treasurer. In addition, Bob has served as a Trustee on Plumbers Local 24 and currently on Pipefitters Local 475.
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What does optimal performance look like for construction? What about your company? What steps will ensure everyone is on the same page while working on a project? Join host Todd and guest Clay Smith of eVolve MEP as they discuss the need for proper information flow in an organization, flattening and streamlining the communication process, and the danger in “flying blind” while on the jobsite. In addition, Todd and Clay discuss what’s in store for MEP Force—and what you can expect from it now that it’s virtual.
Clay Smith is the CEO of eVolve MEP and the COO of Applied Software. He has been successful in delivering outstanding results in operations, software development, and technical consulting. He thrives in leading high-growth, cloud-based, and disruptive businesses that blend a customer-centric vision with strong technology innovation. With a focus on results and relationships, he is skilled in expanding business ventures quickly while at the same time building winning cultures that create sustainable results.
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The MEP industry is full of grit but can it be used as a springboard for innovation? How can grit help lead to success in the industry? What should the combination of youthful energy, technical knowledge and real-world experience look like? Join host and guest James Simpson of eVolve MEP as they unpack the grit needed for success in MEP. Listen to James’ story on how he started full time in MEP at 16 years old and the lessons learned along the way.
James Simpson is the Mechanical Product Manager at eVolve MEP. He has gained valuable experience in all sections of the industry. From within Field Installation, VDC, DFMA, and even application development, he has led teams in bettering workflows. His current passion is driving innovation utilizing ConTech applications. He also shares his expertise in his industry blog BIM² in an effort to promote growth in the field as a whole.
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Join Todd for this exclusive interview episode unpacking the recently announced partnership between Autodesk, eVolve MEP and GTP Services to form a more comprehensive fabrication workflow that will enable MEP contractors to more easily adopt Building Information Modeling (BIM) Autodesk software products and workflows. Listen to Steve Butler, Sr. Industry Strategy Manager of MEP Design and Fabrication at Autodesk, Clay Smith, CEO of eVolve MEP and Amanda Comunale, COO of GTP Services, as they unpack how the partnership will help contractors create safer environments, allow more projects to be completed on time, combat the skilled labor shortage and increase overall project efficiency and profitability.
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Let’s face it, the world has changed over the last few months between remote work, zoom meetings, safety requirements and more. How is the COVID aftermath affecting you, your company and the construction industry as a whole? Todd welcomes back Mark Oden of BIM Designsto discuss what’s changed in the past six months, the importance of self-care, encouraging communication and collaboration, and what’s going on in the world of prefabrication.
Mark Oden is the CEO of BIM Designs. He joined the BIM Designs team with over 10 years of experience working with Silicon Valley tech companies in product management, business development, mergers and acquisitions, and CxO roles. He successfully launched several startups and directly consulted several more through their early stages of development and fundraising. Mark leads the growth, strategy and execution of the company; his acute ability to develop and implement strategic processes that scale the company's capabilities drives efficient service delivery, increases client satisfaction, and builds cross-functional teams. Mark received his master’s degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Florida.
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As a construction technologist, you know that your job comes with a unique set of difficulties and benefits. Can you pinpoint what those are? Do you feel that it would benefit all construction technologists to open up a conversation about it? Join host Todd and Walker Lockard of DADO as they discuss the technological trade, the cure and curse of construction technologists, and putting intentionality into initiatives.
Walker Lockard is the Customer Success Manager at DADO. He is a construction technologist whose heart beats fast for helping skilled trades workers, labor supervision, and project management teams save time and mitigate risk through creative problem solving with technology. His key principle is to act as a missionary - not mercenary - for innovation: earning the trust of field and executive teams alike.
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Check out Ep23, “The Innovation Brief Bonus Episode #3: The Cure or the Curse for Construction Technologists?”
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As someone in the construction industry, you’re probably aware of the constant what-ifs that accompany you as you work. How does the impact of the uncertainty on you and your coworkers? How about the project you’re working on? Join host Todd and Mike Zivanovic of United Association Technology as they break down stigmas around mental health, momentum and coordination on the job site, and the importance of mental health awareness in the construction industry. They also talk on the importance of having humility to build a relationship with those on the jobsite to know the person behind the employee.
Mike Zivanovic is the Technology Manager for the Chicago Pipefitters’ Local Union 597. Working full-time at the 597 Training Center in Mokena, IL Mike is tasked with implementing technology inside of the existing curriculum utilizing iPads, Mobile Device Management strategies and Learning Management Systems. Mike also oversees the UA 597 Technology Team, a talented group of members who teach several courses ranging from Drone Certification to multiple levels of Autodesk Revit. Mike is a dedicated member of several other Technology groups, including the MCAA National Technology Team, the MCA of Chicago Technology Team and the United Association Technology Team. Mike has taught many classes ranging from Leveraging Millennials in the Workplace to Implementing Mobile Devices on the Jobsite and how it can be tied to Training. With a strong passion for Augmented Reality & Virtual Reality, Mike constantly looks for ways to innovate our industry and do our part to preserve the future.
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As someone in the construction industry, how do you see the adoption of innovation? Are you open to doing things differently, or do you prefer the way it’s “always been done?” What has the edge in the battle of soft vs. hard skills? Join host Todd and guest Graham Thiel as they discuss different roles in the AEC industry, the surge in adoption of technology, and using remote connectivity. Learn more about the benefits of collaboration, sharing information, and mutual respect.
Graham Thiel has spent more than 15 years in the AEC Industry. Prior to his role as Construction Director for Brick Inc. he was the Director of Project Management for Starcity, a co-living owner/operator with communities in the San Francisco and Los Angeles Metro Areas. At Starcity, he was responsible for the design and construction of high-density multifamily communities, managing internal team members and external AEC service and trade partners
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As someone in ConTech, do you remember what inspired you to engage in this field? What makes you passionate about what you do, and what makes you continue in the face of adversity? We welcome Bianca Coury back as she and Todd discuss what brought Bianca to the construction industry, the challenges of being female on a job site, the work/life balance in quarantine, and the successful crossovers between art and construction.
Bianca Coury is the Construction Manager for Eagle Point Software. She is a builder, connector, change agent, and strategist responsible for facilitating process improvement and aligning technology with operational excellence across the AECO space. Bianca is a LEED Green Associate, currently serves as the Director of Partnerships for the Construction Progress Coalition and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Urban Design and Architecture Studies from New York University.
How big of impact does a healthy culture have on a company? What does healthy look like and how do you build that culture? Join host Todd and guest Jake Olsen of DADO as they discuss the benefits of a healthy culture, how to adjust for remote work and how to bridge the gap between the office and field. They also unpack the importance knowing the personalities of your teammates, along with tools to help.
Jake Olsen, P.E. is currently the Co-founder and CEO of DADO, a construction software company that provides a voice-powered search for project data and documents. Jake was previously VP of Engineering at DEWALT where he built a team dedicated to developing and providing software and consulting services for architects, engineers and contractors. Jake has worked in the industry as an engineer and entrepreneur for over 20 years both in the USA and abroad developing new products, software and businesses to transform the way we build. Jake holds a master’s degree in Structural Engineering and is a licensed Professional Civil Engineer in California.
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When you think of the word innovation, what comes to mind? Can some good come out of disruption, or have you always thought of change as a bad thing? Sit down with host Todd and Angie Simon of SMACNA (The Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning National Association) as they discuss the HVAC trade, the untapped resource of women in the trade workforce, and the resilience of the construction industry that has kept it afloat in a rapidly-changing world.
Angie has been a leader in the Bay Area construction industry for many years. She has been with Western Allied Mechanical for over 33 years, became President in 2008 and recently took the CEO position. She is a registered Professional Mechanical Engineer in the state of California with a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo where she also played softball on the NCAA team for 4 years.
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Have you ever thought of construction as a way of communicating? As a designer, are your beliefs reflected in what you make? Sit down with Todd and Tal Friedman as they talk about origami-inspired “3D folding,” minimalistic design, and the work involved in integrating design and construction. Learn about the necessity of taking time for details and how 3D folding can be used as an alternative form of construction.
Tal Friedman is the founder and CEO of FOLDSTRUCT. He works in the realm of computational construction and digital fabrication technologies. As an architect, construction-technology engineer, and international keynote speaker, he has a passion for bridging the gap between industrial innovation and novel design. His work has been featured in Archdaily and Design Boom, and his portfolio can be found at talfriedman.com.
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How do you define productivity for the trades and construction? What are some hurdles that you’ve faced in achieving that productivity? What changes have you seen with internal communication across the board? Join host Todd and Rob McKinney, aka the ConApp Guru, of ICT Tracker as they discuss the “holy grail” of the construction industry, productivity tips, how safety is your best friend and the need for collaborative communication in every project. Learn how encouraging a mindset of openness, continual improvement, and being a lifelong learner can benefit your organization.
Rob is a pioneering Construction Technologist that works with apps every day to better understand how the can improve workflows in the Construction Industry. He is a founding member of the ConTech Crew podcast and speaks at conferences across the United States. During his time with the ConTech Crew, Rob has interviewed a number of thought leaders about the changing influence of Construction Technology. When he is not on the road at events, he enjoys spending time with his family in the outdoors, trying out a new BBQ recipe or sampling a local craft brew!
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There is a Renaissance in construction technology and the recent uptick in disruption has increased the acceleration. But how comfortable are you leveraging the wide-ranging construction technology available? Are you using BIM to influence your detailing decisions? Join Todd and The Construction Brothers, Eddie and Tyler, as they unpack what BIM (Building Information Modeling) really is, the necessity of working together and getting back to the basics of being a builder.
Eddie and Tyler own a building information modeling business called ABSI, based in Downtown Milledgeville, GA with their dad. Throughout his career, he has tied rebar, been a carpenter, and remodeled bathrooms. After years of being in the field, Eddie turned his focus to 3D modeling and the new family business, ABSI, in 2005. There, he pursued becoming a licensed General Contractor in the State of Georgia. Tyler came into the family business as an apprentice at the beginning of 2012. Branching out from there, Tyler had a fascination with technology--how it can speed up work, and how it can improve accuracy. Beyond that, he became obsessed with User Experience design and the implications it could have for the construction industry.
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Ever wondered about what generative design really means? Are you wondering what its presence implies for your job and your future? Sit down with Todd and Lilli Smith of the AEC Generative Design Team at Autodesk as they discuss the process of augmenting workflows, the partnership between designers and generative design, and the new dimensions that have arisen in the world of design. Learn more about the implications generative design and what it may be able to offer your company.
Lilli Smith, AIA, Sr. Product Manager for the AEC Generative Design Team at Autodesk is an architect with a passion for re-envisioning the way that buildings are designed. After working for several years as an architect, she joined Revit Technology as a fledgling start up and helped grow it to where it is today in almost every architect’s tool box. She has gone on to work on many Autodesk tools including Vasari, FormIt, Dynamo, Project Fractal and Project Refinery which has just graduated from beta to a new suite of tools included in Revit 2021.
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As a contractor, how can you help increase efficiency? As technology changes, what level of commitment should you make? Join Todd and David Francis from ICT Tracker as they discuss breaking down the barriers between departments, communication in the age of globalization, the evolution of augmented reality, and understanding your strengths and weaknesses. Learn about the importance of patience in any project and what it means to “know your people.”
David is the CTO at ICT Tracker, a mobile productivity software solution that utilizes augmented reality. He has had a distinguished career as a BIM manager, and he is currently MEP National Chairman for AGC BIM Forum MEP Group. He is a construction technologist who shows contractors how to dramatically increase efficiency and profits.
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