CONEXPO – CON/AGG Podcast: Construction Business Insights For Contractors: Recent Episodes
CONEXPO-CON/AGG
Perspectives from construction business owners, heavy construction equipment experts and construction technology providers.
Taylor welcomes James Stiksma, the founder of Canadian Septic, to the podcast today for an indepth look at his unique journey from corporate sales to the world of septic installations. James’ dedication to excellence and his strategic approach to positioning within the market are discussed as are the evolution from subcontracting to equipment ownership, and the careful balance maintained between specialization and diversification in the septic industry. Additionally, the episode touches upon the integration of family dynamics into business and James' future aspirations. Together, Taylor and James review the intricacies of septic system installations, covering the challenges, successes, and effective strategies within this specialized field. As you listen in, you will gain an exclusive understanding of the operational aspects of running a septic business as well as the paramount importance of professionalism and high-quality work. Valuable insights into the septic industry and the significance of maintaining industry standards, certifications, and the commitment to delivering exceptional service to clients are highlighted throughout. Join Taylor and James today for this fascinating tale of one man’s significant career transition and gain a rare behind the scenes glimpse into a top-of-the-line, full-service septic company along the way.
Topics:
James’ unconventional path from corporate sales to septic installations
Shaping Canadian Septic's growth trajectory
Balancing specialization and diversification in the septic industry
The integration of family members in the business
James's visionary perspective
Exploring streamlining operations and growth challenges
Emphasizing high standards, certifications, and professionalism
Addressing labor shortages and the complexities of finding skilled personnel
Professionalism and quality workmanship
A unique installation challenge
Valuing integrity and accountability
Future aspirations for Canadian Septic
Quotes: "I started looking for different businesses to buy and can honestly tell you, I did not expect to end up where I did when I started that process." "We're not the cheapest guys out there either. And I'm quite proud to say that. So in order to help a customer appreciate or understand, I'm there answering questions that they have.” "We're not turning equipment every day. We're not doing installs every single day. We'll mix it in with some other stuff." "The family side of things, it's just so intertwined in everything that we do. It's the reason we do what we do.” "We're trying to find more ways to streamline...have somebody come to audit your business. And see if there are some technologies that can help streamline some of it and run your business a little bit better." "The issues with finding people and everything like that...yeah, it's one of those things that's up in the air and we're still working our way through it to try and figure out what the best next steps are for us." "It's a matter of keeping our guys busy, doing things that make the most amount of money...and make sure that we have everything that we need because we offer a warranty all over to our customers." "When things got hard, we stood up and we took care of it...being able to stand there and stand behind our work."
Links:
Taylor White on LinkedIn
To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights
Komatsu Homepage
Canadian Septic
Excavator operator extraordinaire, Liam Bryan, better known as @diggerbry on social media, joins Taylor for a very special episode of the CONEXPO-CON/AGG podcast. Starting out as a bricklayer and eventually becoming an expert excavator who captivates online audiences with his finesse in asphalt fine grading, Liam’s journey within the construction industry is a truly remarkable one. Today, he shares details of this journey, highlighting his dedication and determination, as well as the thrill of creating engaging content on social media. Liam’s tale is one of breaking barriers, defying skepticism, and proving that age and background are no hindrance to achieving excellence, all while advocating for better opportunities for future excavator operators. With unparalleled enthusiasm, Liam’s online presence showcases his exceptional excavator operating skills, leading him to become a beacon for the next generation of excavator operators, encouraging them to follow their dreams in the field. Delving into the camaraderie and pride within the construction industry, Liam's captivating videos celebrate the joy and passion of his work, promoting construction careers to a broader audience through the power of social media. Listen in today and prepare to be inspired by Liam’s journey of self-discovery, as he proves that social media in construction can, indeed, be done differently, and that personal growth and success know no bounds in the construction world.
Topics:
Liam Bryan's unique journey from bricklayer to social media sensation in the construction industry.
Embracing the challenge of fine grading asphalt
Overcoming skepticism and age-related obstacles
Showcasing the camaraderie and pride within the construction industry
The impact of social media in promoting construction careers to a broader audience
Liam's pursuit of excellence and determination to break barriers
His journey of self-discovery, from laborer to esteemed excavator operator
The importance of finding mentors and support
Harnessing social media to promote a positive image of construction careers
Quotes: "I just want to inspire everyone around the world to be a machine driver because, myself, it wasn't an easy way to get in. And I just want to show everyone it can be easy.” “For laborers now to see where I am, they just can't believe it. And obviously, I just want to show them that it is possible." "I am really shocked the amount of people it has wowed, really.” "I've always had things come in my path to push me. I could have easily just said, “I'll leave it,” but I've always taken it as motivation and that's why I feel like I am where I am now because I've just never given up." "I thought right then, ‘I'm going to start posting my work on LinkedIn.’ And ever since I had done that, it was just crazy, the comments and all the support I had, and it really showed me that I was doing a good job." "I did a Tarmac video. So this Tarmac video, I got 7 million views, and it was probably my 8th video I posted…It took me about six months to gain 9000 followers. And then after that video, I gained 30,000 followers just off the bat in about three weeks." "I just want to really showcase to people how it can be and how fun it can be.”
Links:
Taylor White on LinkedIn
To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights
Komatsu Homepage
Diggerbry
Liam on LinkedIn
This week, Taylor welcomes Trey Bohannan, widely known as Treybodirt on TikTok, to the podcast. A seasoned entrepreneur and equipment enthusiast, Trey’s insights here today offer a masterclass in leadership and work-life balance. Together, he and Taylor explore his remarkable journey in the landscaping and construction industry, starting from his humble beginnings as a young lawn mower to his meteoric rise as a successful business owner. Along the way, Trey emphasizes the importance of equipment care, team camaraderie, and the timeless allure of older machinery. Their discussion highlights the qualities of effective leaders, the significance of investing in employees, and the need for a healthy equilibrium between professional and personal life. Trey's wealth of experience managing a business is distilled into valuable lessons and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Moreover, his passion for antique tractors shines through as he shares captivating stories of his collection and his involvement in a charitable event for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The episode culminates with Trey and Taylor's thought-provoking exploration of success, emphasizing the profound impact of personal values, nurturing familial bonds, and cultivating meaningful relationships. Join these two learned professionals here today for a wealth of valuable information and advice as well as a hefty load of laughs that will leave you equal parts educated and entertained.
Topics:
Trey's humble beginnings and gradual expansion in the landscaping industry
The allure of using and maintaining older equipment in a technology-driven world
Encouragement for aspiring entrepreneurs to learn hands-on equipment repairs
The significance of cash flow and effective expense management
Trey's exceptional organizational skills in optimizing team workflow and productivity
The practicality of utilizing two-way radio systems for communication on job sites
Cultivating leaders within teams and learning from others in the industry
Making necessary adjustments based upon lessons learned from past mistakes
Quotes: "We check all the fluids. We tighten tracks, we dig out tracks. And don't get me wrong, there's a lot of times we don't. But if it's a rainy day, if there's an opportunity, we're in the shops working." "I'm decent at working on the older stuff, too. This new stuff today is expensive." "The first hour of the day is the most important. Let's get in here and I try to clock everything every morning. We’ve got a certain time framework. Everything needs to be out onto a job." "A good bird dog is born no different than a good leader. But they have to have training too. They have to watch others to be on point." "Learn from your mistakes because you're going to make them every day." "Success is a good man that raised his family and did everything right - that's success." "I had a lot of people come up to me that I hadn't seen in 10 or 15 years and say, 'Man, I appreciate you did this for my Dad,' or ‘this for my grandparents’ or whatever." "Everybody will notice you if we're going to go through this life, let's just pop a wheelie and ride it on through."
Links:
Taylor White on LinkedIn
To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights
Komatsu Homepage
Treybodirt on TikTok
Welcome to another exciting episode of the CONEXPO-CON/AGG podcast as Taylor discusses the logistics of building a successful excavation business with his guest, Travis Gemmell, Founder of Walnut Grove Excavating. Today, Travis recounts his remarkable journey from the corporate realm to becoming a passionate business owner in the dirt industry, and shares invaluable insights into the importance of cash flow and strategic planning when starting a business. He also reflects on the challenges and lessons he has learned along his journey, and emphasizes the immense impact of having a dedicated and reliable team, as well as the unwavering support of family. In this enlightening exchange between Travis and Taylor, they explore the diverse facets of running an excavating business, the recession-proof nature of the wastewater and septic industry and the dynamics of hiring and managing a young and motivated crew. Together, they go on to discuss the pivotal role of social media in building a strong reputation and attracting clients, as well as how Travis successfully combines quality workmanship with strategic social media utilization to showcase his completed projects and stand out in the industry. The daily responsibilities of an excavating business owner, the balance between being on-site and managing operations, and the secrets to maintaining a thriving business are shared as well. Today’s episode offers a wealth of insights into the challenges, rewards, and essential factors that contribute to success in the dirt industry. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an industry professional, Travis's story here today will undoubtedly inspire you to pursue your own passion and allow you to gain valuable insights into building a successful business in the world of excavation.
Topics:
Travis's transition from the corporate world to entrepreneurship
Factors influencing Travis's decision to start an excavating business
Challenges and financial considerations in starting a business
The importance of building a reliable and skilled team in the industry
The impact of family support and work-life balance on Travis's journey
The recession-proof nature of the wastewater and septic industry
Social media’s role in showcasing projects and attracting clients
Some of the challenges in running a construction business and managing employees
Quotes: "There's so much work, there's so much expense, there's so much cash flow that you really can't let your finger off the pulse." "I will work 24 hours a day to not fail." "It's not even really the 25 people you have employed. It's multiplied by their family, multiplied by X amount of different things that that's going to impact." "There are days that it's like if I just had one guy with me, how simple this would be." "It's one of those deals where it's like, I don't know how you can afford to rent. You're better off buying everything." "I love cheering you on. I'm in the background. I love watching what you do, and I love watching these other guys and talking to them." "People are going to talk about you at the dinner table, whether you like it or not. It's going to be your decision whether it's a good conversation or a bad conversation."
Links:
Taylor White on LinkedIn
To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights
Komatsu Homepage
Walnut Grove Excavating
Taylor welcomes Luke Eggebraaten and Luke Payne, both successful business owners within the construction industry. Luke E is the Founder & Managing Partner of Phaser Marketing, which is a digital marketing agency for construction companies. Luke P, on the other hand, is the owner of the construction businesses: Black Iron Dirt & Demolition & Western Excavation LLC. They both share a passion for the “dirt world,” and they work and grow together with every mutual project. Tune into this episode to hear all about this perfectly complementary partnership. What started out as a close friendship grew to become a strong partnership. And as both Luke E and Luke P say, the goal has always been to grow together, bring people together, and play off each other’s weaknesses. With so many successful years in the field, they’re now committed to sharing their wealth of knowledge with the construction world. In this episode, they share a lot of golden tips for construction companies looking to expand their online presence and build a bulletproof business so if you’re one of them, make sure you join Luke E, Luke P, and Taylor for this enlightening conversation.
Topics:
The beginning of a beautiful partnership
Niching down and becoming an industry expert
Deciding when to purchase new equipment
Improving cash flow
Careers in construction
The importance of a digital presence
Building a sustainable and strong business
Quotes:
“It's one of those business partnerships where we kind of just set the money aside, and we say, ‘Okay, let's get to work.’ Everything is like we're growing together.”
“Your website is your gatekeeper. If someone wants to know more about you, they're going to Google you. And the more powerful you are on that site, I feel like it establishes more of the trust.”
“People are hungry to learn, they're willing to pay for it, and we're seeing that firsthand.”
“If you want to work, construction is a great industry to go into because you have to work to make it happen.”
“It's a lot about the technology, and it's a lot about what's new because, again, with the construction industry, you have to adapt to survive.”
“Bad times do come, and bad times do happen. So how can we try and set you up best to pivot or to make the most out of these situations?”
Links:
Taylor White on LinkedIn
Black Iron Dirt and Demolition
Western Excavation
Phaser Marketing
Dirt Bags Podcast
Turf Wars Racing
Luke Eggebraaten on LinkedIn
Luke Payne on LinkedIn
To learn more about the 2023 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Show and to register, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience
Taylor welcomes construction veteran and legend, Jeff Cavanagh, to the podcast to talk about the history of his family firm, Thomas Cavanagh Construction, the importance of building vibrant communities, and investing and trusting in the right people. The pair open the episode by discussing Cavanagh’s company history and familiarity with vertical integration. Since the late 20th century, the firm has done nothing but grow, and Jeff owes a lot of that success to his tough team that runs 1200 people deep. Since his father let him join the family business, Jeff has dutifully taken the time to hire and invest in the right people, and according to him, that’s made all the difference in the company’s success. Not only does Thomas Cavanagh Construction strive to develop vibrant communities around Ottawa at large, but they also aim to foster the same positive atmosphere within their organization. After all, taking care of Cavanagh employees is paramount to the company’s success. Given that Jeff and his family have been in the game for decades, Taylor and Jeff spend the remainder of the episode reminiscing on early land development lessons, market recessions, how they prepared for them, and the future of Jeff’s ever-expanding business. Filled with wisdom informed by extensive experience, Jeff truly has so much to offer listeners here today - you don’t want to miss this one! Topics:
Cavanagh Construction’s history of vertical integration
Building vibrant communities
The importance of delegation
Investing in the right products and people
Taking care of Cavanagh employees
Early land development mistakes
Preparing for residential market recessions
The future of Cavanagh Construction
Quotes:
“We do all things construction. We do home building. We're into land development– building houses. We backfill houses, dig basins. We have aggregates, pits, and quarries, asphalt, and all types of heavy equipment.”
“Lots of times, you know, you see things going wrong. But lots of times you see things going right, so there's more right than wrong.”
“So that's building vibrant communities; it's more than just the community itself. We're building a community inside of Cavanagh construction.”
“I found that I was becoming too much of a micromanager for the size of our business. And we were able to empower the people that work for us, in particular the bosses in that sector.”
“So we tried to buy what was best in class. Because we were using the product and basically wearing it out, fixing it and wearing it out, then selling it. So we didn't want to work on junk anymore.”
“When we're building you a house, when you move into that house, there's good value in that product. When we develop a lot, we do it efficiently so that when we are able to sell that lot, it’s good value for the consumer. So, if you can provide good value for what they're buying, they'll come back and buy some more.”
Links:
Taylor White on LinkedIn
Cavanagh Construction Homepage
To learn more about the 2023 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Show and to register, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience
Joining Taylor White on the podcast this week is Ryan Priestly, President of Priestly Demolition, who you may know from the show Salvage Kings on the History Channel. Ryan kicks off the episode by discussing the scope of Priestly Demolition’s work, from bringing down power plants to bridge demolitions to asbestos abatement - taking on projects both big and small along the way. He shares his background as a second-generation industry member, having taken over the business from his father fifteen years ago, and how he’s worked to hone his workers’ skills and create a harmonious team who work together effectively. He also discusses Salvage Kings, the impact the show had on his business, the challenges involved in making it, and why Priestly won’t be returning for its third season. Next, Taylor and Ryan delve into some of the big issues facing the industry right now, including the impact of inflation and the likelihood of an economic course correction. They also chat about stress relief and how to achieve a work/life balance and maintain your well-being in an industry that doesn’t always make it easy to sit back and appreciate your achievements. Taylor then asks Ryan to share some of his most memorable “Oh, man” projects, the ones that caused the biggest headaches, and Ryan describes some of the unique and challenging projects he’s been involved in over the years along with the lessons he learned from them. And finally, Ryan closes the show by sharing what’s up next for him and the business, including some ambitious plans for growth and bringing on the next generation of Priestly Demolition employees, including his son and nephews. Topics:
Inheriting the family business
The impact of Salvage Kings
Inflation and its impact on the industry
Ryan’s most memorable “Oh, man” project
What’s next for Ryan and Priestly Demolition
Quotes: “I guess the biggest issue for them, it’s just not their specialty, it’s just not their skill set. So at the same token, it’s not really something they want to put a whole lot of time and energy into. Whereas we thrive on it, we want to come up with a plan that’s going to work for everyone, and we want to come up with a plan that’s going to make it efficient and safe and get done on time.” “The question with inflation that really, as a business owner, is like, what’s the number? Is it 3%? Is it 8%? Is it 5%? Is it 22%? Is it 13%? And, you know, I just feel like there’s a real disconnect on what’s happening, percentage-wise.” “Not a lot makes sense right now, and I think there’s got to be some kind of correction coming just with real estate and priced-up fuel and inflation. But I don’t think it’s going to be huge. I don’t think the correction is going to be 50% or anything like that.” “As far as facing challenges on a daily basis, the contracting business is pretty out there for that, as far as I’m concerned. It’s just a very challenging job day in and day out. It’s the amount of hills you’ve got to climb on a given day.” “I learned that you need to have a goal. At least then, we’re all going in the same direction. You don’t want to lose complete touch with reality. It’s great to have a goal and stuff like that, but at the end of the day, if it’s not in the cards, it’s not in the cards.” “It's just nice to see that people are enjoying their time here and that people are making a career out of Priestly, which is super awesome.”
Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn Priestly Demolition Inc To learn more about the 2023 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Show and to register, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience
On this very special second episode of the podcast, Taylor welcomes Nick Drew, the man behind the infamous 'Digger Man Blog’, to talk about his early start in construction, his late blooming blogging skills, the realities of the construction industry, and, of course, CONEXPO. Nick opens up the episode by fondly remembering his childhood and the days he used to spend with his father at his job working on construction sites. It wasn’t until he was much older and more seasoned in the construction industry, however, that Drew got his start in his true calling, construction journalism. In 2008, Drew got his big break and hasn’t looked back since. As an illustrious construction blogger, he now gets approached to travel the world and report on the newest machinery, construction news, and conventions, like CONEXPO, which Taylor and Nick are both looking forward to. They go on to explain how special the convention is, noting that nowhere else can you find so many leaders and friends in the field that put you in contact with new machinery and communities. And in the wake of the COVID-19 construction boom with new developments popping up overnight and product demand rapidly increasing, that’s now more important than ever. Episode overview:
Drew’s early start in construction
Tilt rotator technology
Shifting the narrative around construction work
Journalism in the construction industry
Drew’s blogging career
The future of diesel alternatives
North American and European machinery
The COVID-19 construction boom
Quotes: “We need to show people that necessarily wouldn't want to be exposed or work in the construction, blue collar industry– show them what it's like, and show them how it can be. I think a part of that is also a lot of businesses and construction companies need to make it a place that these young people want to come and work for.” ”At the time, there wasn't anyone else doing it.” “Yeah, well, you know, the blog, by its nature, is a host of various topics. I don't try to focus on anything special in particular, you know, I like to keep it very interesting.” “There's a lot of interesting people there and machinery and technology. And it's a really good place for people to showcase that. But also, I feel like just putting a face to people as well.” “You'll meet industry leaders and friends. And you're also going to build new relationships in the community. And you'll find the equipment, services, and people within your construction field.” Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn Earth Movers Magazine Digger Man Blog on Twitter Digger Man Blog on Instagram To learn more about the 2023 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Show and to register, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience
On this highly anticipated episode of the podcast, Taylor White takes on the hosting duties and is joined by his very special guest, Scott Colclough. The pair talk about Colclough’s life, his business, his experiences with CONEXPO-CON/AGG, and the upcoming 2023 show. Upon getting his start in construction as an operator in Alberta, Scott acquainted himself with all of the skills, tools, and techniques that he could. Now after years and years in the industry, Colclough has taken to social media under the username @pushysix to teach people about construction and inspire others. He’s always felt that he had a purpose larger than himself, and unlike most people, Scott practices what he preaches. He loves helping others, noting that CONEXPO-CON/AGG is a perfect place to do so and agreeing with Taylor that it’s the best trade show worldwide. They love meeting colleagues from the other side of the globe, but it’s also nice to see friendly faces from the town over. And for Colclough, that’s what it’s all about: people. Authenticity and caring for others is absolutely paramount to him. And with the advent of social media that’s now easier than ever. Scott’s been online for quite a bit now, and he’s seen how online construction content has evolved. TikTok now encourages users to create bite-sized videos instead of the longer form ones that he’s used to. And while that makes jobs like Colclough’s a little harder, he’s still just as passionate about producing content and sharing it with others - something that, thankfully, he plans on continuing to do for a long time to come. Episode overview:
Scott’s varied construction experience
Making moves for the future of the industry
CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023
Coming up in Alberta’s heavy construction scene
Authenticity and caring for others
Changes in construction content
Quotes: “So, I've just always been trying to find a way to help teach people about construction and inspire people, like yourself” “I'm just trying to pass down knowledge.” “You know how to operate on a construction site and you also know how to do the multimedia side of it. That is such a niche that I think people don't understand.” “I think what's so cool about a CONEXPO is that you realize how much of a small world it is when you go down there and you see somebody from one town over.” “It's like all the cool stuff that you see on people's Instagram but in person.” “What happens is I have ideas. I work towards it. If it fails, I pick the next one. It's just this constant moving ahead trying to succeed at things and build.” “So, yes, we used to make sick edits with tons of production time going into it. Now they've changed everything to compete with TikTok so it's all now the short base stuff.” “It's really hard to teach people or connect with people with a short little clip.” “Yeah, that's what we are, rough and tough blue collar, right? So, going from that to electric with no noise. I don't know. It kind of kills the whole vibe for the thing.” Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn
Scott Colclough on LinkedIn Pushysix on Instagram Pushysix Homepage Pushysix on YouTube
To learn more about the 2023 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Show and to register, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience
Kevin Gray took a leap of faith when he purchased a dying asphalt paving and sealcoating business in 2011. A small business loan, some rundown equipment, and entrepreneurial grit were all they had during the first few years. Now, thanks to the organizational processes and culture initiatives Kevin has implemented, Louisville, Kentucky-based ADC Paving is thriving. Kevin and host Missy Scherber talk about getting your office and crew in order to jumpstart your economic engine. They also cover: Making customer experience a priority Committing to training and investing in your staff Open and transparent communication
Heath Hanna’s passion for dirt runs deep. He spent the first part of his career working as a Caterpillar dealer instructor before making the leap into starting his own construction business. With some serious work ethic and grit, his company, Contour Mining & Construction, has transformed from startup to one of the largest heavy civil contractors in South Carolina in 9 years. Heath and host Missy Scherber discuss the leadership and culture that has made that business growth possible. They also cover: Going the extra mile to do what your competitors won’t Being intentional about roles to be a better partner Building operational systems to scale your business Using your culture and flexibility as a recruitment and retention strategy
Randy Blount, president of Arizona-based Blount Contracting grew up around the construction industry, helping at his family’s business during high school and college. When his dad received a cancer diagnosis, Randy was thrust into a leadership role at a young age. Now 10 years later, we’re getting the scoop on how far the company has come and what’s in store for the next 10 years. Randy joins host Missy Scherber to discuss: Learning from your mistakes as a young business owner Handling critical conversations the right way Examining your profit margin and leaning into your niche Being well-read and applying those lessons from great leaders Finding a mentor to be candid with Investing in your people
Justin Ozinga is president of Ozinga, a fourth-generation family business best known for its red and white striped concrete mixer trucks. While involved in the company since a young teen, Justin moved up the ranks and was recently appointed as president of all of Ozinga operations, including ready mix concrete, aggregates and cement. Ozinga has more than 2,000 employees, primarily in operations in the Midwest and Florida. Justin and host Missy Scherber discuss strategic growth, making a positive impact on communities and leadership. They also cover: Passing on a company legacy to a 5th generation Retaining your company culture and values as you grow Infusing Amazon-style customer engagement technology in your business Being less transactional and more personal Investing in yourself and finding mentors
Herb R. Sargent is the president and CEO of Sargent Corporation, an infrastructure construction firm based in Stillwater, Maine. Founded by his grandfather Herb E. Sargent in 1926 with a used dump truck and a strong work ethic as his assets, the company now has hundreds of employees owners working in New England and the mid-Atlantic regions. Herb and host Missy Scherber dig into workforce development, the advantages of employee stock ownership plans and the importance of investing in the well-being and prosperity of your people. They also discuss: Buying back the family business Being intentional about training your workforce and creating career paths Hiring managers that allow you to focus on the bigger picture Leading through difficult situations
The youngest Black woman to receive California’s CSLB (A) General Engineering license, Jennifer Todd, serves as LMS General Contractors Founder and President. Jennifer heads the company’s management team and is responsible for developing & executing LMS’s strategic growth. Jennifer is a strong advocate for job creation and employee development. Her Greener Tomorrow apprenticeship program is geared toward the advancement of unemployed and underemployed people of color, and she is a recognized speaker and top professional in the industry. Jennifer and host Missy Scherber take a deeper dive into her thoughts on workforce development and diversity in the construction industry. They discuss: Tackling every roll from estimating to ownership Managing profit and organic growth Being intentional about your workforce development Taking as situational approach to supporting and training your team Having critical conversations about bias, barriers, and representation
Brian Hess, founder and president of The Pavement Group and Top Contractor School is shaking things up when it comes to sales, marketing and client relations in the asphalt and concrete paving industry. At The Pavement Group, Brian’s team takes a data-driven approach to solving customer problems and maintaining the highest level of service. He’s taken what he’s learned and helps other contractors build more successful businesses through Top Contractor School – a training, coaching and community platform for industry newcomers and veterans alike. In this episode of CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio, Brian and host Missy Scherber discuss how training and development is fundamental to business success, as well as building an innovation mindset to see the opportunity everywhere. They also cover: Moving from Corporate America to construction Turning your business into a sales and marketing engine Attracting like-minded people as employees, customers and mentors Creating a structured training plan to produce predictable results Overcoming doubt and the naysayers
Mikel Bowman has been a life coach, pastor, mentor, and culture guru. He has devoted his life to helping others realize their true potential. In this episode Mikel and host Missy Scherber dig into leading with joy and humility, as well as building a culture based on honesty, ethics and respect. Mikel's straightforward approach to everyday problems will help organizations of all sizes usher a great work environment for those in blue collar professions. They discuss: A career switch from counseling to construction Driving greatness out of your staff and creating clear lines of accountability Making culture in a priority in an industry with limited good examples of it Bringing professionalism to the jobsite and making marginalized groups feel safe and comfortable Building bridges between the office and the field through proactive communication Being honest and fair in your recruiting process Taking personal responsibility to grow in your role
Based in Irwin, Pennsylvania, Brex Enterprises is a WBE certified pipeline maintenance and services company founded in 2012 by Alicia Brentzel and her husband AJ. Alicia joins host Missy Scherber to talk about business growing pains and how leaning into your core values and unique strengths can help accelerate growth and build stronger teams. They also discuss: Going from AJ working solo and living in a camper to managing 40 employees Putting processes in place to improve your efficiency and profitability The importance of modeling your culture every day Making critical conversations with employees a priority Navigating your roles as both business partners and spouses Helping your employees achieve their full-potential and providing growth opportunities Getting over imposter syndrome and being honest with where you are right now
While Priestly Demolition is in the business of tearing things down, the crew’s first job onsite is hunting for treasure. Salvage and sustainability has always been a cornerstone of the business for Vic Priestly, the company’s founder. Today, the King City, Ontario-based company has grown into one of the largest demolition contractors in Canada, under the leadership of Vic’s son Ryan Priestly. The company has a staff of about 300 people and a fleet that includes around 100 excavators. Notably, the company is the focus of the History Channel Canada’s original-series Salvage Kings, and they’re bring the spectator sport of demolition to the masses on national television. Ryan joins host Missy Scherber to discuss: Advancing the science of safe demolition Showcasing careers in construction to the next generation Creating a culture of safety and incentivizing it Learning from the generation that came before you Using technology for fleet management and operational efficiencies Leading with happiness and confidence
Mary Katherine Harbin caught the attention of the industry when she established the nation’s first all-female paving crew. The area manager and equal employment opportunity officer for Tennessee-based, Maymead Inc., has worked her way up the ranks and built a successful career in construction. As a nationally-recognized speaker on workforce development, Harbin joins host Missy Scherber to share expertise on mentoring employees, mitigating bias and discrimination and taking a progressive approach to hiring. They also discuss: Building your confidence as a leader Creating unity among the office and the field Breaking down barriers between your crew members Advice for women in construction
Growing up, Matt Stanley and his three brothers were "raised on blacktop", working alongside their parents from the time they could hold a shovel at their Danbury, Connecticut-based paving business, American Pavement Specialists. Since then, the small company has grown into a big name in the paving world, starting their own clothing brand and sponsoring NASCAR driver Spencer Boyd. Matt runs everything from field operations to marketing, and he shares how building strong relationships with your family, crew and OEMs helps maximize your quality of work and success. Matt joins host Missy Scherber to discuss: - Making working with your family cool again - Training employees from the ground up - Instilling pride and values in your crew - Improving relationships with OEMs and dealers through top-notch marketing - Tips for honing your brand identity on social media
You may know him on Instagram as “Technology Sandbox” --- and Britton Lawson’s day-to-day job is just that ---- working with current and emerging construction technologies from grade control to telematics to bring efficiency to the jobsite. As director of construction technology at Veit & Company, Britton is the internal technology champion. He helps the organization get the best technology return on investment and evolve their processes for the future. Britton joins host Missy Scherber to discuss the current and future state of construction tech. They also cover: Moving from 2D to 3D grade control Advice for implementing new technology Troubleshooting technology problems Communicating about technology with your field team Highlights from CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2020
Under Stacey Tompkins’ leadership, Tompkins Excavating out of Putnam County, New York has grown from a lawn mowing service provider to a woman-owned and family-operated, full-service commercial and residential excavation and landscape construction company. When she’s not dealing with dirt, she’s an active volunteer and mentor in her community and has been honored with numerous business and leadership awards. Stacey and host Missy Scherber discuss: - Investing in machine control technology - Developing a strong corporate culture - Increasing revenue 8x in six years - Balancing family and business Stacey will be participating in an influencer panel discussion and meetup taking place on Wednesday, March 11, as well as an executive leadership panel taking place on Friday, March 13 at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2020.
While Chris Lane’s company employs more than 430 West Virginians and Pennsylvanians, he says their goal isn’t to be the biggest, just the most complete pipeline contractor in the region. The 27-year-old of vice president, Ronald Lane Inc. say creating a turnkey experience for clients has been the secret to their success. The company has 13 locations, over 500 pieces of equipment and handles every aspect of pipelaying including clearing land, processing trees, directional drilling, painting, welding, backfilling and hydrotesting. Chris and Guest Host Dusty Weis also discuss: The pros and cons of a family business The importance of having dedicated safety staff Installing environmental controls Digitizing asset management Taking pride in your people Road tripping to CONEXPO-CON/AGG
He goes by “Chief Dirt Nerd” and he’s taking the construction world by storm with his unique ability to tell stories about the hard-working men and women mining for our materials and building our communities. While Aaron Witt hasn’t taken a traditional path into the industry, it’s one he loves, and one he thinks others should love too. His goal as President of BuildWitt Media Group is to inspire others to think about construction and mining as a way of life through his photography, videos and lighthearted approach. Aaron and Host Missy Scherber discuss using social media to educate and inspire your current and future workforce. They also cover: Taking responsibility for the changes happening in the industry The biggest mistakes construction companies make when it comes to marketing The importance of being authentic and vulnerable Considering the safety implications of your employee’s mental wellbeing Aaron’s first trip to CONEXPO-CON/AGG and how it helped launch BuildWitt
With more than three decades of heavy civil construction experience, Don Swasing knows a thing or two about building high performance teams. As Chief Operating Officer at Schlouch Incorporated, Don has developed safety and leadership training programs and built a culture of open communication. Don will be presenting three education sessions at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2020 on profitability, conflict resolution and fleet management. Don and Host Missy Scherber dig into the topic of “crucial conversations” and why you need to master your interpersonal skills to drive better results. Once you learn how to effectively navigate high-stakes conversations, you’ll build credibility and strengthen relationships with your customers, peers, direct reports and superiors. They also cover: The "Gray Tsunami" and the impending skills gap When to say "no" to work Coaching and facilitating conversations to strengthen your team Providing authentic care, trust and help to your employees Reflections on 20+ years of attending CONEXPO-CON/AGG
Armed with a Blackberry and mad operating skills, Scott Colclough started PushySix® in 2012 as a YouTube channel affectionately named after his Caterpillar D6. Scott has grown PushySix® into a globally recognized brand with a mission of inspiring the next generation of heavy equipment operators. Scott joins host Missy Scherber to talk about his passion for equipment and technology, as well as his vision for workforce development. They also dig into: The most critical factor for successful technology implementation The technologies that will bring the most dramatic change to the industry in the next five years The untapped talent pool you’re overlooking How your managers and corporate culture are driving away good employees Tips for your trip to CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2020
Are your legacy operators hesitant to use machine control? Are you worried the barrier to entry is too high? Ryan Goodfellow, owner of Rock Structures Utility & Excavating, joins Host Missy Scherber to talk about what technology to take advantage of now to increase productivity for your business. They also cover: Mastering the groundwork to move from laborer to operator Building your clientele and repeat customers Persevering through times of economic turmoil Investing in your staff for improved performance and morale Planning your trip to CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2020 And six things you didn’t know about Ryan from his first job to his gas station guilty pleasure!
Are you losing bids or struggling to recruit new employees? Is new technology passing you by? It’s time to channel your energy into the right areas to supercharge your business. Keaton Turner, president of Turner Mining Group, joins Host Missy Scherber for the inaugural episode of “Contractor Conversations” on CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio. They discuss: Taking the leap into starting your own business Where the mining industry is headed in the next 24 months Estimating, bidding and dealing with losses What technology and equipment is changing the game for Turner Using social media to tell your story and recruit your workforce
With the emergence of the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, machine learning, predictive analytics, and prescriptive analytics, wireless connectivity is the foundation that is needed to make all these connected strategies successful. Host Peggy Smedley and Marc Eisenberg, CEO, ORBCOMM, discuss how the industry is continuing to evolve, the different types of wireless connectivity available today and still emerging for the future, and trends that will continue to drive automation and digitization forward in construction.
Fred Fakkema, vice president, compliance, Zonar, joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio to dive into the topic of telematics—and how it can help improve safety and compliance on construction projects, answering if digital records do in fact help with audits. Fakkema and Host Peggy Smedley dig into the top areas that telematics can help a construction fleet become safer, as well as the barriers to adoption. They also identify what a construction company should look for when investing in a telematics solution.
No matter the size of your aerial fleet, managing equipment is a priority. This podcast digs into how telematics can help monitor how equipment is performing, how often a piece is being used, where each unit is located, and if it is ready for maintenance. Host Peggy Smedley and Christine Zeznick, Genie Senior Product and Business Development Manager, Terex AWP, talk about telematics and the company’s new Genie Lift Connect. They also discuss how we are moving from a world where information is currently descriptive to one that is more predictive and prescriptive.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are here and they are changing the way businesses operate. Host Peggy Smedley and Ganesh Bell, president, Uptake, talk about what exactly they will look like for construction—and the drivers and big opportunities that exist. They also provide key advice for executives who are considering emerging technology, while also addressing the results AI can provide and the main risks at play.
This episode identifies some of the biggest obstacles for contractors when it comes to supply-chain management—and how it has evolved in the past few years. Peggy Smedley and Alexander Schuessler, founder of SmartEquip and president of its International Group, talk about how technology can help increase efficiency from parts ordering to building materials delivery to equipment rentals —both today and in the future. They also offer tangible advice and strategies for contractors who are looking to get started using technology such as this—and the best steps to implementation.
Learn practical strategies for how to choose the right machine control on equipment such as bulldozers. Host Peggy Smedley and guests Richie Snyder, solutions marketing manager, CASE Construction Equipment, and Max Winemiller, director of CASE’s Road & Site Prep Division, talk about if it is best for contractors to invest immediately in more advanced systems and go all in—or if there are ways to take a more entry level approach and build from there. They also discuss what dozer owners and operators can do to improve their experience and enhance the machine’s value.
Technology is helping construction companies break down silos on the jobsite and improve labor-productivity growth. Kris Lengieza, director of business development for the Marketplace at Procore, joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio to discuss why collaboration technology is important and the challenges with user adoption today. He also identifies the practical ways that a construction company can ensure the successful implementation of new software and the areas where it will provide immediate value.
There has been an uptick in construction companies leveraging fleet monitoring and management. Michael Ross, director of product, Takeuchi, joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio to discuss trends in the space, share best practices for how companies can get started with fleet-management technology today, and provide examples of how construction companies have benefited. He also dives into the most important factors to consider when selecting the right equipment for the construction job.
While slipform pavers have been around for a long time, many contractors still hand form concrete pavements and sections. Wade Bowman, national sales manager, Wirtgen America, joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio to talk about the benefits that slipforming can provide and the challenges contractors face. He also dives into the topic of stringless paving and discusses if its time has come, identifying how a contractor can ensure success with stringless.
A number of big trends are already emerging in 2018—and they have set the course for what is to come in 2019 and beyond. Ken Simonson, chief economist, Associated General Contractors joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio to discuss the overall outlook for the construction industry. He also discuss how trade disputes and tariffs are affecting the industry, the change in the labor market situation, and events that might make 2019 a better year for construction.
Lean construction first began roughly 20 years ago; and it developed out of the need for principles and practices for design and management. Today, it can help workflows become more predictable. Michael Carr, president of MOCA’s software products division, Touchplan joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio to discuss lean construction, last planner, and how to forecast the future of construction. Carr shares obstacles and benefits to using lean and where the industry needs to go to be successful.
Today’s construction equipment has more capabilities to get more done and with fewer machines. The challenge is successfully implementing new technology. Andrew Kahler, product marketing manager, John Deere WorkSight and ForestSight joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio to discuss the biggest equipment technologies impacting the construction industry today and how it will impact work being done out at the construction jobsite. He also address how construction companies can go about implementing solutions and training operators.
Why has it taken so long for contractors to embrace technology at the construction jobsite? Chad Hollingsworth, CEO and cofounder, Triax Technologies, joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio to discuss the connected jobsite and what it means for the construction industry. He identifies what kind of data is being collected today and how it is adding value. Hollingsworth also shares some of the best safety practices he has seen implemented on the jobsite and how technology providers are working together today to create a connected ecosystem.
The construction industry needs to help build the new America. The challenge is the industry is facing a skilled worker shortage. This is where technology enters the equation. Peggy Smedley and Ralph Gootee, cofounder and CTO, PlanGrid, talk about the skilled labor shortage and how technology can help with recruiting. They also broach the topic of how technology can be used on many of America’s infrastructure projects, helping solve some of the challenges that teams face today.
Construction companies need to know where their assets are—and in the past this information hasn’t been readily available. Now, technology can help centralize all this information. Host Peggy Smedley and Doug Seyler, senior business analyst, B2W Software, talk about collaborative scheduling and dispatching in the heavy, civil construction sector. He gives some real-world examples of how a centralized software solution can connect schedulers and dispatchers with teams in the field to help optimize crews, equipment, and materials.
The way major transportation infrastructure projects are being planned is changing at a rapid pace with the help of new technologies. This podcast focuses on advances in transportation construction including railways, roads, bridges, and more. Host Peggy Smedley and Terry Bills, global transportation industry manager, Esri, talk about major changes in transportation infrastructure projects, the integrations of new technologies, and the trend toward the “sensorization” or the digitalization of transportation assets and how that will impact the industry.
Minimal waste and an efficient workflow are two of the top priorities when working with materials such as cement and concrete. Contractors need a reliable solution that decreases the time of the labor force and reduces pollution. Mark Roberts, director of Verifi Research and Development, GCP Applied Technologies, chats with CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio Host Peggy Smedley about how it is advancing sustainability with connected devices and the future of devices in the concrete and ready mix industry.
From equipment, to materials, to technology, and everything in between, asphalt and concrete paving is changing in the construction industry. Peggy Smedley and Andrew Jeffries, vice president of construction, Kansas Asphalt Inc. (K.A.I.), discuss everything from emerging technologies with paving equipment to how the materials have changed and the impact on the environment. They also address how the skillset requirements for worker to supervisor has changed and trends with workforce development associated with paving.
Digital transformation is happening in the construction industry today. This podcast zeros in on helping teams get ready for the change. Peggy Smedley is joined by Claire Rutkowski, chief information officer, Bentley Systems. They discuss why the construction industry is behind, what is driving change and why construction is under pressure to leverage digital transformation to increase productivity. They also identify how to help teams through the change.
Earthmoving is incredibly expensive. Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) produces ground that is at the correct slope, height, compaction and moisture faster for contractors. This podcast identifies how machine guidance technology works as well as applications for the construction industry. David Rowlett, U.S. manager for the Machine Control Division of Leica Geosystems joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG radio to discuss trends in the construction industry, the impact of technology, and the role of GNSS in construction, offering tips for the jobsite and insights for the future.
Each year, 1.25 million people are killed on roads. Another 50 million are injured—but this can be solved with the help of technology. Road safety management, safer vehicles, and safer users are the first steps to reducing road accidents. David Braunstein, president, Together for Safer Roads, joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio to talk about road safety in the construction industry. Braunstein and host Peggy Smedley discuss training, technologies, and equipment safety.
Mining technology and data collection has evolved in the last 15 years. Mining construction and operations contractors are now better able to predict extraction costs, increase machine efficiency and accuracy, and reduce their environmental impact. Steve Heap, vice president of commercialization for specialty excavation, pipeline, recycling, and forestry, Vermeer, joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio to discuss how technology advances can improve equipment operator performance and lead to a safer and more productive jobsite. He discusses the four pillars of mining technology, and how remote machine operations lends itself to a generation of new operators that has grown up playing video games.
Construction companies face a unique set of challenges when it comes to asset management. Ensuring people, materials and equipment are in the right place at the right time is critical to the success of a project. Radio-frequency identification (RFID) can help automatically identify and track tags that are attached to objects. With RFID, contractors can reduce the amount of time it takes to find tools or equipment and eliminate reorders of misplaced materials. David Beaton, director of construction services, Atlas RFID, joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio to discuss how RFID can increase labor productivity on construction sites and how a company can best deploy this technology today.
Grade control and machine diagnostics can improve productivity and safety in construction. The challenge is learning how the technology works and implementing it on projects. Andrew Kahler, product marketing manager, John Deere WorkSight joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio to talk about what this technology means for today’s contractor and the jobsite, discussing challenges, benefits and opportunities for the future.
Construction jobsites are humming with a number of different pieces of heavy machinery. The use of machine control can help accurately position machinery based on design models and GPS systems. This podcast will address how technology is continuing to evolve, and how heavy equipment operators can gain greater efficiency and accuracy on jobsites. Murray Lodge, senior vice president and general manager of the Construction Business Unit, Topcon, joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio to discuss how contractors can stay competitive and make big productivity gains in 2018.
There is a big change happening today with the way construction workers interact with data, and it is impacting the dynamic of how work is done at the jobsite. Many contractors are already aware of this, but don’t necessarily know where to start. This podcast addresses the challenges and solutions. Isaac Barlow, founder and CEO, busybusy, joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio to discuss how smartphones are changing construction technology and the best way to adopt mobile apps.
2017 has been a big year for the construction industry, as the market has begun to pick up. This podcast will look to the future and identify trends about what to expect in the year ahead. Ken Simonson, chief economist, Associated General Contractors of America joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio to discuss the construction market outlook for 2018, addressing trends related to labor availability, natural disasters, infrastructure funding, and emerging technologies.
Labor productivity growth in construction has averaged only 1 percent a year during the past two decades. Big data and intelligent machines can help support construction companies out at the jobsite. How can your operators harness it? This question, and many more, will be addressed in this podcast. Karl-Johan Timbäck, productivity services business manager, Volvo Construction Equipment, joins CONEXPO-CON/AGG Radio to help operators understand how to interact with all this data.
Since the early days of 3D printing, discussion has emerged about the potential benefits, hurdles, and opportunities for implementing additive manufacturing technology into the construction of full-scale buildings. While the technology is still in its infancy, it has the potential to significantly improve current construction methods. Will 2018 be the year of 3D printing for construction? Will this change how business is done out at the jobsite? Omid Davtalab, PhD candidate at University of Southern California and R&D software engineer and data scientist at Contour Crafting Corporation, joins host Peggy Smedley to discuss everything contractors need to know about additive manufacturing and 3D printing.
Construction equipment is coming installed with more technology than ever before, but one question remains: Who owns the data? Is it the rental company, the manufacturer, or the construction company? Host Peggy Smedley is joined by Ronak Amin, business solutions professional, Komatsu America Corporation, to discuss all the considerations construction companies will need to keep in mind when leveraging data from equipment, including security, implementation, training, and more. Amin's unique vision will influence the way end users perceive and consume data, making them more agile in their decision making.
The construction jobsite is changing, as new sensors, telematics, and advances in fleet management emerge. Fred Fakkema, vice president, compliance, Zonar, joins host Peggy Smedley to discuss safety and compliance, the ELD (electronic logging device) mandate, and what operators need to know about the changing construction jobsite. They take a deep dive into creating operating efficiencies and how to leverage the latest advances in equipment, all while meeting mandates and regulations.
Where is there opportunity for improvement in your construction operation? Telematics technology is rapidly evolving, supplying massive amounts of data about your jobsite. Tony Nicoletti, director, strategy and business development, DPL Telematics joins host Peggy Smedley to discuss how telematics usage has moved from machine system monitoring to driver behavior and performance. Tony shares best practices for technology implementation, with a focus on safety and efficiency improvement.
Welcome to the next industrial revolution. Industry 4.0 is transforming the construction industry, and will increasingly impact workers and operators on your jobsite. Host Peggy Smedley is joined by Jose Blanco, associate partner from McKinsey, who leads the company's engineering and construction and digital efforts for North America. The two of them discuss why construction is one of the least digitized sectors and which technologies have the greatest potential in the short and medium term.
Last year, the FAA changed its rules on drone use. Now, the construction industry has the ability to fly them for everyday business, opening up new opportunities to leverage endless amounts of data. But there is still a lot to take into consideration. How do you get started? What steps should you take to train your staff? What do the FAA regulations really say—and what do you still need to be careful of? George Mathew, chairman and CEO of Kespry joins host Peggy Smedley to discuss all of this, and more.
Every six minutes, an underground utility line is damaged because someone didn't call 811 at least two days before digging. This episode, featuring David Wisniewski, VP of utility commercialization at Vermeer Corporation, focuses on what contractors need to know in order to create a safer jobsite, in advance of August 11 National Safe Digging Day.