In this episode, Stephen sits down with Al Ricci, Global Director of Customer Success at Oracle, for a wide-ranging conversation that starts with Canadian Thanksgiving and porchetta — and ends with three decades of hard-earned lessons from the frontlines of construction tech. Al shares how empathy became his most powerful leadership strategy, why sales and customer success must work hand in hand, and what founders often miss when building customer-centric teams. Together, they trace the industry’s evolution from point solutions to SaaS, explore how AI is reshaping entry-level roles, and unpack what it really means to build long-term trust between vendors and contractors. Whether you’re leading a startup, managing a team, or rethinking your approach to growth, this episode offers timeless insights on people, process, and progress in construction tech.

Alex Belkafor shares his journey from project engineer to leading digital strategy at McCarthy, explaining how a field-first approach to BIM and VDC drives better project planning, integration with owners, and streamlined construction delivery.He discusses measuring value through reduced downstream risk (the "cost of goals not scored"), the rise of connected jobsite technologies, the promise and caution of AI and data, and practical advice for the next generation entering construction technology.

In this conversation, David Tibbetts, Chief Safety Officer at Highwire, shares insights on the evolving landscape of safety in the construction industry. He discusses his career journey, the importance of collaboration between owners and contractors, and the role of technology in enhancing safety practices. The conversation delves into the significance of prequalification processes, understanding serious injury potential, and the impact of AI on safety management. David emphasizes the need for a cultural shift towards proactive safety measures and the importance of education in driving change within the industry.   National Safety Council SIF Prevention Model   Construction Safety Research Alliance   Edison Electric Institute   Board of Certified Safety Professionals SIF Prevention Webinar Series (3-parts)   Highwire Shift to SIFs Blog Post   Highwire SIF Webinar

Stuart Maggs, Director of Commercial Product of Field AI and former architect discusses their $405 million raise, his path from architecture to robotics, and early hands‑on experiments that sparked a career redefining how buildings get made. The episode explains Field AI’s software “brain” for robots, how navigation and perception unlock real jobsite use cases, the API/SDK future for specialized apps, and what needs to change in construction for wider robot adoption.   Subscribe to our newsletter: https://constructionbriefs.substack.com/

Senior Project Manager John Riggs (Suffolk) shares his journey from plant genetics and political science to leading complex construction projects. He unpacks what’s really happening on today’s jobsites, from subs to GCs, and how curiosity and hands-on learning shaped his career.John breaks down where tech helps—and where it adds friction—covering BIM and digital delivery, reality capture and drones, punch lists, scheduling, and the promise and limits of AI. He explains how owners, designers, and builders can align early to get real value.We close with practical advice on time management, delegation, and leadership, plus a candid look at life as a new dad. If you build, buy, or design, this episode shows how to cut through the hype and focus on what works.

Welcome back to Construction Conversations. In this episode, we discuss the crucial role of mentorship and coaching in the construction industry with Chris and Tim Smith, two experienced leaders from Ellis Don. Tim, with 30 years of experience and previously an executive vice president, now dedicates his time to coaching and leadership development. Chris, a general superintendent, shares his journey of working with Tim and the impact it has had on his leadership style. The conversation delves into the differences between mentorship and coaching, emphasizing the importance of having safe spaces for open, honest discussions in leadership development. Chris and Tim reflect on the value of experienced-based coaching and how it accelerates potential, helping leaders navigate technical and personality-based challenges more effectively. They also discuss how companies can cultivate such environments to foster development and teamwork. Tune in to explore how coaching and mentorship can transform project culture and leadership, fostering a more connected and successful team environment in construction.   Newsletter: Construction Briefs on Substack

Welcome to this episode of Construction Conversations, where we dive into the story of Raise Robotics, a trailblazer in the field of construction automation. Join hosts Lars and Stephen as they chat with Conley and Gary from Raise Robotics about their journey from a chance LinkedIn connection to redefining construction workflows with cutting-edge robotics technology. Discover how Conley and Gary's backgrounds in autonomous vehicles and construction led them to create a unique solution that addresses common challenges on job sites. Learn about the evolution of their mobile manipulator robots, designed to perform tasks in difficult-to-reach areas, and how they iteratively developed their product using real-world insights from their early projects. Hear firsthand about the ups and downs of starting a hardware company, the importance of patient iteration, and how Raise Robotics is delivering immediate value to their customers by focusing on solving genuine job site problems, informed by Conley's time in the field. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and construction innovation.

In this episode of Construction Conversations, we chat with Joe Wilson of Projexion, diving into the data challenges within the construction industry. We explore Joe's origin story, from managing projects on the field to developing a product that enhances project outcomes through data clarity and efficiency. Discover how aligning technology with construction processes can dramatically reduce risks and improve project success rates. Join us to understand the pivotal role data plays in shaping the future of construction.   Newsletter: Construction Briefs on Substack

Join us in an insightful episode of "Construction Conversations" as we sit down with Matt Graves, popularly known as the Construction Yeti, to explore his unique journey from a civil engineer to a creative force in the construction industry. In this episode, we delve into Matt's experiences at Texas A&M, his early days navigating the construction world without formal guidance, and how he built Construction Yeti into a platform for innovative industry insights and humor. Through engaging discussions, we uncover the essence of construction innovation at the trade level and the power of humor and creativity in transforming dry topics into engaging knowledge. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, Matt's journey and the Construction Yeti's content provide valuable perspectives on the industry's evolution and the role of technology and humor in driving engagement and education.   Newsletter: Construction Briefs on Substack    

In this conversation, Jackie Guilbault, Sr. Product Marketing Manager at Document Crunch shares her unique journey into the construction tech industry, emphasizing the importance of field experience, curiosity, and effective storytelling in marketing. The discussion covers various aspects of construction roles, the significance of mentorship, and the evolving landscape of hiring practices. Jackie highlights the need for authenticity in marketing, particularly in an industry often misunderstood as being behind in technology. The conversation concludes with advice for newcomers, especially women, entering the construction field, advocating for humility and a willingness to learn.  

In this conversation, we discuss with Brian Skripac the evolution of BIM and VDC within the construction industry. Brian shares his journey from architecture to industry advocacy, highlighting the importance of collaboration and technology in improving project outcomes. We explore the challenges of implementing BIM, measuring success, and the cultural barriers that hinder technology adoption in construction. The discussion emphasizes the need for a shift in mindset to fully leverage the benefits of BIM and VDC in delivering successful projects. In this conversation, Brian Skripac, Lars, and Stephen Poppe discuss the integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) into project delivery, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and technology in the construction industry. They explore the challenges faced by the industry, the role of AI in enhancing workflows, and provide insights for future generations entering the field. The discussion highlights the need for a shift in mindset towards collaborative delivery models and the potential for significant improvements in efficiency and productivity.

In this conversation, Nitin Bhandari, CEO of Planera shares his journey into the construction tech industry, discussing the challenges and opportunities he encountered while developing technologies in other industries. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, intellectual curiosity, and understanding industry pain points. Nitin also highlights the need for a focused go-to-market strategy and the significance of empowering project teams with technology to improve efficiency and decision-making. The discussion touches on the complexities of the construction industry, the role of technology in addressing these challenges, and lessons learned from his entrepreneurial journey.

Join us in a captivating conversation with Jeff Sharp, the CEO and co-founder of Qnect, as he shares his unique entrepreneurial journey that started as a dishwasher at 14. In this insightful episode, Jeff discusses his diverse experiences across various industries, including tech, biofuels, and structural engineering. He reveals how a common thread of entrepreneurship ties these ventures together, fueled by his passion for efficiency and innovation. Delve into the revolutionary impact of Qnect in the construction industry. Discover how Qnect's advanced technology enhances project efficiency, precision, and sustainability by optimizing steel connections. Jeff explains the inception of Qnect, its market reception, and the role of AI in today’s construction landscape, providing a glimpse into the future of construction technology. Gain valuable insights as Jeff discusses the importance of resilience, mentorship, and the role of strategic investments in building successful ventures. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an industry professional, this episode offers a rich tapestry of wisdom and inspiration.

Join us for a captivating episode of Construction Conversations as we delve into the remarkable career of Hannu Lindbergh, the maestro of construction technology at DPR. Discover how Hannu's diverse experiences, from working on the field to leading tech innovations at Disney and DPR, have shaped his approach to integrating technology in construction. Explore the unique title-free culture at DPR and its impact on fostering creativity and continuous improvement within the organization. Hannu shares insights into the challenges and benefits of this unconventional structure, offering valuable lessons for the industry. Gain a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of construction technology, the role of BIM, prefab innovation, and the potential of AI in transforming the industry. Whether you're a construction enthusiast or a tech guru, this episode offers thought-provoking insights into the future of construction.   Takeaways Hannu’s early experience in the field using tech showed him the power of tech used effectively DPR’s title‑less “rock‑climb” career model accelerates growth but makes it hard for newcomers to navigate organizational roles. Viewing each project as a “living lab” sparks innovation, but without a formal playbook those wins remain isolated. Defining workflows as “recommendatory” rather than mandatory preserves governance while empowering experimentation. Real horizontal integration only succeeds when all key stakeholders agree on processes before rolling out new tech. Cleaning and structuring historical cost and schedule data is the foundation for meaningful AI‑driven forecasting. Prefab scales effectively only with repeatable designs and early regulatory planning, as seen in DPR’s Sherpod bathroom pods. Managing dozens of point solutions creates “tech fatigue,” underscoring the urgent need for a consolidated platform. Models remain secondary artifacts because current contracts don’t treat them as enforceable deliverables. Today’s most practical AI use cases in construction are voice, image, and text analytics for automated percent‑complete tracking. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hany Lindberg and His Journey 02:38 Career Path and Passion for Construction 04:42 The Evolution of Construction Technology 08:01 DPR's Title-Free Organizational Structure 12:28 The Benefits and Challenges of a Title-Free Culture 17:52 Innovation and Technology Integration at DPR 24:53 Navigating Change and Encouraging Ideas 28:45 The Evolution of General Contracting 29:45 Preparing for the Future: AI and Technology in Construction 34:17 Data-Driven Decision Making in Construction 39:12 The Role of Prefabrication in Modern Construction 42:51 BIM and the Future of Design and Construction 50:53 Advice for the Next Generation in Construction 52:11 Innovative Technologies Shaping the Industry

In this conversation, Stephen Poppe, Lars Herman, and Aaron Toppston discuss the evolving landscape of venture capital in the construction industry, the challenges and opportunities presented by new technologies, and the importance of mentorship and team dynamics. They explore the skepticism surrounding VC investments, the role of AI, and the future of robotics in construction, while emphasizing the need for effective go-to-market strategies and understanding workflow. The discussion highlights the industry's strengths, such as collaboration and safety, and concludes with advice for young professionals entering the field. Takeaways Venture capital plays a crucial role in stimulating innovation in construction. Understanding workflow is essential before implementing new technologies. The construction industry is unique in its interpersonal dynamics and decision-making processes. AI can enhance efficiency but requires a shift in how capital is viewed. Investors look for teams that understand both product and industry. Common mistakes include not having a clear understanding of the market and being defensive. Mentorship is vital for growth and understanding the complexities of the industry. The future of construction will involve more robotics and automation. The industry excels in teamwork and getting the job done safely. Young professionals should focus on learning and understanding the industry before proposing changes. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Spring Reflections 01:06 The Role of Venture Capital in Construction Tech 04:58 Innovative Go-to-Market Strategies in Construction 10:55 Challenges of Early Stage Startups in Construction Tech 13:08 The Impact of AI on Capital Efficiency 19:31 Common Mistakes in Seeking Investment 22:11 The Future of General Contractors and Technology 28:59 Creating Outcomes Through Technology 30:21 The Future of Tech in Construction 33:00 Efficiency in Office Operations 35:16 Managing Change Orders and Cash Flow 37:21 Standardization and Risk Management in Construction 40:49 Mentorship and Learning in the Industry 43:57 Preparing the Next Generation for Technology 49:16 Overcoming Challenges in Career Development 53:49 The Exciting Future of Construction Technology  

Summary In this conversation, Chris Masse, a Senior Superintendent at EllisDon, shares his journey in the construction industry, discussing the evolution of technology, the challenges of tech adoption, and the importance of planning and communication. He emphasizes the need for mentorship, collaboration, and creating a positive work environment to foster innovation and efficiency in construction projects.

In this episode of Construction Conversations, hosts Stephen and Lars Herman are joined by Hamad Chaudhry, a seasoned expert in construction innovation and technology. Together, they delve into the pressing challenges facing the construction industry in the US and Canada, including technology integration, labor issues, and cultural shifts. The discussion sheds light on how traditional construction methods are falling short and explores ways in which leadership and innovation can bridge these gaps. They also touch on the importance of fostering a collaborative environment, where new technologies like AI and BIM play a pivotal role in improving efficiency and project management. This episode offers valuable insights for industry professionals looking to understand and navigate the evolving construction landscape, emphasizing the need for a paradigm shift in leadership, culture, and technology adoption.   Chapters 01:27 State of the Construction Industry 05:11 Leadership Challenges in Construction 07:36 Attracting the Next Generation to Construction 11:50 Cultural Perceptions of Construction Careers 16:57 Innovation in Construction: Opportunities and Gaps 20:30 Defining Abundance in Construction 23:00 Time as a Critical Resource 26:12 Bridging the Gap Between Management and Project Delivery 34:22 Rite of Passage in Engineering 35:00 Team Dynamics vs Project Management 36:33 Envisioning the Future of Construction 38:34 The Importance of Ground-Level Perspectives 40:53 Reevaluating the Construction Paradigm 42:15 Vision, Culture, and Leadership in Construction 43:51 The Basics: Missed Opportunities in Construction 44:04 Innovation and Margins in Construction 46:41 Decoupling Information for Field Efficiency 48:05 Incentivizing Collaboration in Construction 49:22 BIM Adoption and Digital Coordination 51:26 Aggregating Projects for Better Outcomes 53:05 Mentorship and Hard Work in the Industry 54:05 Tech Tools for Efficiency 58:14 AI and Meeting Efficiency 01:00:34 Connecting with Hammad Chaudhry   Hammad Chaudhry   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hammad-chaudhry-a4957365/ Email: Hammad.chaudhry@timescapes.co  

Join us in this exciting episode as we sit down with Ralph Montague, director at ArcDocs and co-founder of the BIM Coordinator Summit, for an insightful discussion on Building Information Modeling (BIM) in 2024. Ralph shares his perspective on the current state of BIM across the globe, highlighting the disparities in adoption and the key drivers behind its implementation, particularly in Europe. Dive into the challenges faced by various sectors and regions, and explore the potential solutions provided by technology and standardization in the construction industry. Ralph sheds light on the role of international communities like BIM Heroes in promoting standardized practices and knowledge sharing, while discussing the critical importance of cross-discipline and cross-region collaboration. Discover how advanced technologies such as AI and blockchain are influencing BIM workflows and reshaping the future of construction. Ralph provides fascinating insights into the psychology of the industry and the necessity for changes in procurement models to optimize productivity. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation on the evolving landscape of BIM and the innovative practices paving the way forward. Takeaways BIM adoption varies significantly across regions, resembling a two-state country. Productivity and sustainability are key drivers for BIM adoption in Europe. Standardization of practices is crucial for small companies operating in multiple regions. Global conversations about best practices in BIM are essential for progress. Construction often operates with incomplete designs, leading to inefficiencies. Manufacturing principles can greatly improve construction processes. Fragmentation in the construction industry hinders effective collaboration. AI and blockchain have the potential to revolutionize BIM workflows. BIM Heroes serves as a community for sharing knowledge and experiences. Technology should enhance human productivity rather than replace it. Chapters 00:00 The State of BIM: A Two-State Country 05:54 Building Global Communities in BIM 12:02 Fragmentation in Construction: A Barrier to Progress 18:02 The Role of Problem Solvers in BIM 24:00 Regulation, Standardization, and Long-Term Thinking 30:05 Regulation and Responsibility in the Construction Industry 38:52 AI's Influence on BIM Workflows 49:55 Building a Community: The BIM Heroes Initiative

In this engaging episode, join us as we sit down with Michael Pink, founder of SmartPM, to explore his unique journey from celebrating Thanksgiving in Georgia with his family to revolutionizing the construction industry through data-driven scheduling. Michael shares personal anecdotes about family traditions and cultural insights with a focus on the importance of optimizing processes in construction projects. Discover how his background in industrial engineering and early experiences at KPMG laid the foundation for creating innovative solutions that aim to improve efficiency and avoid costly delays in construction projects. Dive into discussions about the evolution of SmartPM from its conceptual beginnings to a full-fledged technological platform that seeks to empower contractors by providing real-time analytics and improving scheduling efficiency. Michael explains the challenges faced by the construction industry and how SmartPM's approach in education and innovative technology is helping bridge gaps in scheduling expertise. This episode sheds light on the future of construction tech, the impact of artificial intelligence on project management, and the ways in which companies can better navigate the nuances of technical scheduling to achieve on-time, on-budget project completion. Tune in to gain valuable insights into tackling the complexities of the construction world through smart scheduling solutions. 00:00 Thanksgiving Traditions and Family Culture 06:01 The Role of Data in Project Management 12:12 Identifying Misalignments in Project Scheduling 21:11 Market Readiness for SmartPM 27:36 Pathway to Value Realization with SmartPM 38:16 Educational Initiatives in Scheduling Best Practices 43:30 The Future of SmartPM and AI Integration

Welcome to Construction Conversations! In this episode, we are delighted to host Andrew Rener, an executive team member at Architectural Metals and an expert in prefabrication. Join us as Andrew shares his journey into the construction industry, from his family's roots in construction to his current role as a prefab specialist. We delve into the evolution of prefabrication, discussing its current state, challenges, and the potential for future growth. Andrew offers a unique perspective on how prefab can address labor shortages, improve efficiency, and drive value in construction projects. Additionally, we explore the importance of mentorship in the industry, the role of technology and AI in construction, and how emerging innovations can make the field more attractive to the next generation of professionals. Whether you're a construction veteran or new to the field, this episode provides valuable insights into the transformative power of prefabrication and technology in the construction industry. Don't miss it!   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:09 Andrew Renner's Journey in the Construction Industry 07:25 The Importance of Mentorship 15:48 The State of Prefab in 2024 19:43 The Role of Different Stakeholders 23:21 The Need for a Paradigm Shift in Project Procurement 26:30 The Challenges and Opportunities in Prefab 30:36 The Potential of Prefab Construction and its Role in Onshore Manufacturing 31:07 Addressing the Logistical Challenges of Shipping Larger Prefab Components 32:22 The Need for Standardization and Automation in the Prefab Industry 36:13 The Impact of AI and Emerging Technologies on Prefab Construction 41:16 Considering the Human Perspective in Implementing New Technologies 43:58 The Future of the Construction Industry: Optimism and Expectations