Why does one of the world’s most critical industries still struggle to attract, support, and retain women? And what would it take for construction to finally move beyond being labelled “male-dominated” and instead just be… construction? In this episode of Smarter Building, host Nicole sits down with Amanda Bulow, founder of Awesome Women in Construction (AWIC), to explore the grassroots movement that’s changing the face of the industry. Amanda shares how a simple breakfast with 14 women grew into a national network, why connection and mentorship matter more than ever, and how AWIC’s school roadshows are inspiring the next generation to see that building isn’t all “dirty trucks and tool belts.” Along the way, Amanda reflects on leaving behind the security of a 25-year career to run a non-profit, the challenges women face re-entering the workforce, and why male allies, visibility, and collaboration across borders are essential to making change stick. We also dive into AWIC’s ambitious goal of 40% female representation by 2040, what government and industry support gets right (and wrong), and why sometimes the most powerful impact comes from small gestures—like providing a pair of boots or a toolkit to someone starting out.
Can the construction industry finally move past Excel, siloed teams, and point solutions and start building with data instead of bricks? Why is such a complex industry, still run on spreadsheets and what’s the real cost? In this episode, Richard sits down with Mo Shana'a, CEO and co-founder of Morta, to unpack one of the biggest digital blind spots in construction: broken processes hidden inside spreadsheets. Mo shares his unexpected journey, from trying to leave construction entirely to becoming one of its most passionate digital reformers. As Mo puts it, “The industry isn’t under-digitized because it’s slow, it’s because it’s the most complex on earth.” He explains why planning and tracking are the most neglected (but most important) layers in the project lifecycle, why compliance isn’t the real problem with regulations like the Building Safety Act, and how the right kind of tech—especially modular, integrated systems—can close the gap between design and delivery. We also dive into AI (not the hype, the real use cases), the myth of the single system, and why even the most advanced contractors are still running billion-pound projects on Excel. If you’re a construction professional struggling with information chaos, disconnected teams, or tech fatigue, this episode is for you. View more podcasts here: A podcast hosted by Symetri: Smarter Building | Symetri.co.uk
What does it take to build a smarter, more inclusive future in construction and architecture? In this special episode live from Symetri's BIM Summit event, host Nicole caught up with Mairead Gallagher Morgan from Grimshaw, to dive into the evolving world of construction and architecture where cutting-edge innovation meets the realities of workforce wellbeing and inclusion. From the engineering marvel of the Elizabeth Line to the growing importance of data-driven design, we explore how technology is reshaping the way we build.We also confront some of the industry’s toughest challenges: mental health in high-pressure environments, the need for stronger mentorship, and the ongoing fight for gender equality in construction. Mairead shares first-hand experience navigating the sector as a woman, and why mentoring the next generation is more vital than ever.Whether you're an industry professional, a student of architecture, or simply curious about the forces shaping our cities—this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and a call to build smarter, safer, and more inclusive spaces.
View more podcast here: A podcast hosted by Symetri: Smarter Building | Symetri.co.uk
What does it take for the construction industry to build real cyber resilience against evolving threats like AI-driven phishing and deepfakes before a breach happens?In this special episode recorded live at Symetri’s BIM Summit, host Nicole chats with Jack Cooke from Kaseya about a challenge construction can’t ignore: Cyber Security. Jack shares a shocking CFO impersonation scam and practical advice for staying protected as threats evolve rapidly.As Jack says, “We don’t want to terrify—we want to demystify. Understanding the threat is the first step in defending against it.” He explains why Cyber Essentials isn’t enough, how to shift from compliance to real-time readiness, the importance of disaster recovery and a zero-blame culture, and what to do when a breach happens.If your business relies on digital data, cloud platforms, or collaboration tools, this is your wake-up call. Cyber Security is now everyone’s responsibility—not just IT’s.
View more podcast here: A podcast hosted by Symetri: Smarter Building | Symetri.co.uk
What does it take to digitise a century-old NHS estate? Edward Payne from Kettering General Hospital joins our host Richard to share the journey.From laser-scanning legacy buildings, to implementing smart Facilities Management systems and piloting sensor-driven energy strategies. We talk digital twins, asset data, government mandates, and the reality of modernising hospitals on tight budgets. This is a deep dive into how innovation, collaboration, and clever thinking are redefining what a "modern hospital" really looks like.
View more podcast here: A podcast hosted by Symetri: Smarter Building | Symetri.co.uk
In this episode of the Smarter Building podcast, Andrew Compton, CEO of Cortida, discusses the critical importance of cybersecurity in the AECO (Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operations) industry
In this special episode of the Smarter Building podcast, host Nicole is joined by the Symetri US team to share insights from Autodesk University. They talk about the benefits of networking, the value of the user community, and how technology is used in construction and manufacturing. The discussion highlights Autodesk's "Big" investment in Artifical Intelligence (AI) covering Project Bernini and Autodesk Assistant and how the industry is demanding more practical applications of this technology. They also examine global and cross-industry approaches to sustainability and digital twins, the issues caused by data siloes, and the changing role of AI in the industry. View more podcasts here: https://www.symetri.co.uk/campaigns/smarter-building-a-podcast-hosted-by-symetri/
In this special episode of the Smarter Building podcast, Richard is joined by the Symetri team to share insights from Autodesk University. They discuss the integration of AI and sustainability, the importance of networking and customer engagement, and empowering women in the industry. The conversation also covers innovations from the event, the role of data, and the need for clarity in AI, wrapping up with thoughts on the future of Autodesk University and emerging technologies. View more podcasts here: https://www.symetri.co.uk/campaigns/smarter-building-a-podcast-hosted-by-symetri/
We caught up with Rhys Lewis, Director at Revizto, a 2D and 3D collaboration platform, as he delves into the latest advancements of BIM within today’s construction landscape. He discusses how the concept of BIM is now perceived similarly to Digital Twins and why he prefers to use the term "digital excellence" for achieving efficiency instead.
Rhys also dives into the challenges and breakthroughs of adopting digital solutions from overcoming the fear of change, to proving value to clients. This conversation offers a refreshing look at the future of construction technology and the mindset shifts necessary to thrive.
View more podcasts here: https://www.symetri.co.uk/campaigns/smarter-building-a-podcast-hosted-by-symetri/
In this special series of the Smarter Building podcast, hosts Nicole & Richard sat down with a few of the fantastic line up of guest speakers live from Symetri's Nordic BIM Summit in Stockholm, Sweden. Watch the fourth episode, where we chat with Jochen Teizer, a professor of Construction Technologies and Director of Construction Automation at the Technology University of Denmark. Hear how a life changing moment inspired his interest in advancing construction safety and how digital twins can contribute. They also discuss the benefits of using virtual reality and gamification in construction safety training, emphasising the need for organisations to start small and collaborate with academia to implement digital twin technology effectively.
In this special series of the Smarter Building podcast, hosts Nicole & Richard sat down with a few of the fantastic line up of guest speakers live from Symetri's Nordic BIM Summit in Stockholm, Sweden. Watch the third episode, where we chat with Ben Grubert, Architect, CEO & Founder of Ben Grubert Architecture, on how generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools are reshaping the future of architecture. In this episode, we explore how AI tools empowers architects to push design boundaries, foster innovation, and create sustainable architecture. Delve into making architecture more playful & fun, and the impact of great design on everyday life.
In this special series of the Smarter Building podcast, hosts Nicole & Richard sat down with a few of the fantastic line up of guest speakers live from Symetri's Nordic BIM Summit in Stockholm, Sweden.
Watch the second episode where we chat with Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) experts Àstridur Elin Àsgeirsdottir from Per Aarsleff A/S & Ingibjörg Birna Kjartansdóttir from Istak. Hear them delve into the importance of making VDC available to all and its impact on productivity and sustainability, their experiences with digital tech implementation on-site highlighting knowledge sharing, collaboration and end-user focus and why "laziness" is key for better, faster construction.
In this special series of the Smarter Building podcast, hosts Nicole & Richard sat down with a few of the fantastic line up of guest speakers live from Symetri's Nordic BIM Summit in Stockholm, Sweden. Watch this first episode where we chat with Josef Carlson, Solar Park Engineering Team Leader at Svea Solar - one of Europe's leading solar companies. Hear them delve into the importance of implementing cloud technology for solar park construction, the do's and don'ts, and why the future is solar.
Watch more presentations from the Nordic BIM Summit at: https://www.symetrigroup.com/campaigns/nordic-bim-summit-on-demand/?s=2024 GET IN TOUCH: Website: www.symetri.co.uk Email: info@symetri.co.uk Telephone: 0345 370 1444 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/smarter-building-podcast/
Join our host Richard as he speaks to Pål Janson, a Computer Aided Facilities Management (CAFM) expert from Service Works Global, diving into the transformative potential of digital twin strategy in the building industry and how to integrate it into your everyday workflow. Discover actionable insights for building and estate owners, from leveraging accurate BIM data, to revolutionising decision-making and sustainability improvements, as well as government support for digital twin adoption.
View more podcasts here: https://www.symetri.co.uk/campaigns/smarter-building-a-podcast-hosted-by-symetri/
We caught up with entrepreneur and CEO of Bimify, Aleksandar Balicevac, to find out what you need to do to prep for a digital twin to assist with smarter building operations and maintenance within the construction industry.
Listen to this episode to find out:
⚪Bimify’s journey and role in utilising machine learning to create and maintain digital building models
⚪The need to start with simple digitisation steps for your estate and expand gradually
⚪How this can contribute to sustainability goals and the initial creation of a digital twin
⚪Advice for other entrepreneurs on what to expect when starting up a business
View more podcasts here: https://www.symetri.co.uk/campaigns/smarter-building-a-podcast-hosted-by-symetri/
From AI, BIM to sustainability and more, we caught up with Dr. Stephen Hamil, Innovation Director at NBS to look at the future of the construction industry and the trends to look out for in 2024 including: ⚪BIM and digital construction play a crucial role in the construction industry, enabling better collaboration and information management. ⚪Technology, such as cloud computing and AI, can help address challenges in the industry and improve efficiency. ⚪The importance of maintaining compliance with standards and specifications. ⚪Companies should have buy-in from top-level management, advocates within the organisation, and invest in training and consultancy to integrate technology effectively. ⚪NBS is focused on providing high-quality content and solutions to help companies stay up to date with standards and specifications. ⚪The future of the industry lies in sustainability, off-site construction, and digital twins. View more podcasts here: https://www.symetri.co.uk/campaigns/smarter-building-a-podcast-hosted-by-symetri/
We caught up with Robert (Kwasi) Kumapley, the Chief of Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) Program at The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey (PANYNJ), who is also notably a survivor of the 9/11 tragedy, where he explores: - Which assets PANYNJ look after around New York & New Jersey, from bridges to pumps and more - What the term "asset" means to different disciplines - The difference between Asset Management and Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) - This difficulties and benefits of putting an asset management strategy in place - How their EAM strategy helps keep the region moving
View more podcasts here: https://www.symetri.co.uk/campaigns/smarter-building-a-podcast-hosted-by-symetri/
In this episode of the Smarter Building podcast, we caught up with Richard McGuinness at HP, on the evolution of remote working, how the Architecture & Construction sectors have developed in this space since Covid, and the lessons we can learn from the media and entertainment industry.
View more podcasts here: https://www.symetri.co.uk/campaigns/smarter-building-a-podcast-hosted-by-symetri/ For more information, contact us via the details below: Website: www.symetri.co.uk Email: info@symetri.co.uk Telephone: 0345 370 1444 Follow Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/symetri-europe Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/symetriltd/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/SymetriUK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/symetri.addnodegroup/
In this episode of the Smarter Building podcast, our host Richard Brayshaw spoke with Amy Marks, Executive Vice President of Global Strategy at Symetri USA, also known as the Queen of Prefab, to discuss all things prefabrication, modular and offsite construction. Tune in to discover global adoption trends, from the UK's "glitch" to Singapore's successes, highlighting opportunities for wider adoption of industrialised construction and the role of clients, economic conditions, and government initiatives in shaping the industry. View more podcasts here: https://www.symetri.co.uk/campaigns/smarter-building-a-podcast-hosted-by-symetri/ For more information, contact us via the details below: Website: www.symetri.co.uk Email: info@symetri.co.uk Telephone: 0345 370 1444
In this episode of the Smarter Building podcast, our host Nicole Georgiou spoke with Panu Pasanen, CEO at One Click LCA, on the key topics surrounding sustainable construction, including the challenges the industry faces.
Tune in to hear how we can make it easier for the industry to improve its carbon performance in the built environment, how Finland are leading the way in this space, and why you should start investing in LCAs from today.
View more podcasts here: https://www.symetri.co.uk/campaigns/smarter-building-a-podcast-hosted-by-symetri/
For more information, contact us via the details below:
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Email: info@symetri.co.uk
Telephone: 0345 370 1444
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