In this episode of Steel & Whiskey, we discuss the essential strategies for finding and retaining top talent in the steel industry. We are joined by Natalie Campbell from Bauer Underground, who shares personal experiences, innovative approaches, and practical advice on attracting skilled professionals and keeping them engaged. Whether you're a detailer, fabricator, or industry manager, this episode offers valuable insights to help you build and maintain a strong and motivated workforce.&n...

Join us on this episode of Steel & Whiskey as we welcome Ricky Horton, an industry expert with extensive experience in SDS2 and its integration with Tekla PowerFab . Ricky shares his insights and valuable knowledge gained from years of hands-on work and collaboration with professionals like SDS2’s James Schwartz. Tune in for an engaging discussion about the latest advancements in steel detailing, project management, and the seamless integration of these powerful tools. Whether you're a st...

In this enlightening episode of "Steel and Whiskey," host David sits down with Nick Coffee, a seasoned detailer with over 23 years of experience and co-founder of United Structural LLC. Nick shares his journey from enduring a toxic work environment to establishing his own thriving business. Discover how United Structural Design LLC's revolutionary 32-hour workweek has transformed productivity and employee satisfaction. They delve into the intricacies of running a successful detailing firm, ba...

In this episode of Steel & Whiskey, we blend the worlds of steel detailing and whiskey crafting with the team behind Grain and Barrel Spirits' Chicken Cock Whiskey. Discover how the precision and craftsmanship in steel detailing with SDS2 parallels the meticulous process of creating exceptional whiskey. We'll dive into the inspiration behind their unique spirits, the detailed production process, and the principles guiding their brand. Learn how they ensure consistent quality, the role of ...

Join us as we unveil SDS2 Tech Treks! Dive into our latest episode where David talks with SDS2 Technical Consultants Jordan and Mark about our latest customer success initiative, coming to a city near you! This series of day-long seminars is designed to elevate your steel detailing expertise. From mastering the latest SDS2 release to enhancing productivity with cutting-edge tools, learn why this event is a must-attend for all levels of SDS2 users. and innovation. Jordan and Mark share t...

In this episode of Steel & Whiskey, David Zabka sits down with Josh Hawley, a senior technical consultant at SDS2. They dive into his background in steel detailing – from taking an internship with a joist manufacturer in high school to joining SDS2 a little over a year ago - and everything in between, including Josh’s teaching stint at a local community college and time spent on his local school board. The two discuss the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the ever-evolvi...

Join us on another episode of "Steel and Whiskey" as we chat with Dave Eckrote from IDEA StatiCa. Discover the innovative world of IDEA StatiCa and their recent release, which includes a new integration with SDS2. Learn how this collaboration is enhancing the experience for both SDS2 and IDEA StatiCa users and improving the connection design process across the steel construction industry. Eckrote shares insights into IDEA StatiCa’s connection library, their plans for the future, and how they'...

Join us for a special episode of Steel & Whiskey, recorded on-site at SDS2 Summit 2023 in Omaha, Nebraska. Hosts David Zabka and Michelle McCarthy catch up with customers, speakers, and sponsors halfway through the event to hear what SDS2 Summit means to the steel community and what they’ve loved most about the event so far. Tune in and learn why SDS2 is the premiere learning and networking of the year for the steel community--and why you should mark your calendars for next year’s event i...

In this episode of "Steel and Whiskey," host David Zabka welcomes Randy Warnaar, co-founder of FabStation, for an insightful conversation about the innovative use of augmented reality in the steel fabrication industry. They discuss how FabStation's technology is transforming the way steel structures are inspected and assembled, increasing accuracy and efficiency. Randy shares his background in the steel industry, the challenges faced by fabricators, and how FabStation's cloud-based solution i...

Meet Chris Riley, a steel detailing veteran whose journey began under his father's, equipping him with skills that span generations. With roots dating back to the 1950s, Chris's evolution from traditional drafting to cutting-edge software like SDS2 and paperless workflows using Bluebeam showcases his innovative spirit. An early adopter and close industry insider, Chris shares stories of some of his favorite, challenge, and current projects and showcases the creative thinking that continues to...

This week we’re sharing a glimpse behind the curtain with Chris Rodgers, certified “Scrum” master who keeps our development teams running smoothly by coordinating projects, challenging processes, and keeping the paths of progress clear of external obstacles. He discusses the unique challenges posed by the many customized workflows in our customers’ steel shops and explains the Scrum methodology driving SDS2’s development teams through direct communication, problem-solving, and team accountabi...

Paul Hemenway’s dynamic journey at Delta Structural Steel Services is a close mirror of the company’s technological evolution. Starting out as a detailer, he now spearheads client relations and manages estimating while championing innovative solutions. Listen in as he shares his journey—with a few humorous detours—and explains Delta’s commitment to innovation, which began with their early adoption of SDS2 and later, SDS2 Cloud and other technology. Hear why it’s so important to be tech-savvy ...

In this podcast episode, Marv Moreno and Mike Olson from Bluebeam discuss various topics, including introductions, Bluebeam's place in the Nemetschek portfolio, the relationship between Bluebeam and SDS2, and the efficiency of project communication using Bluebeam's features. They delve into how Bluebeam aids in drawing and document management, design review, QA/QC processes, and how SDS2 customers can benefit from these workflows. They also explore what Marv and Mike want to learn about SDS2 ...

Today's episode features two guests as SDS2’s Nate Bloch sits down with Chris Legnon, a fellow member of the Steel Erectors Association of America. Learn how Chris got started in the field as an early intern at Cooper Steel and has climbed the ladder to serve as their VP of technology 20 years later. Shoutout to local fabricator Midwest Steel Works for Nate's start, too! Chris discusses the value of the SEAA membership, including networking opportunities, access to a wealth of shared knowledg...

Join Geoffrey Blumber, the Technical Sales Manager for Hexagon's 2D/3D Design and Analysis Solutions, as he discusses how technology, like SDS2, is revolutionizing construction. Discover how data interoperability is streamlining piping and industrial design, leading to better business outcomes and superior structures. Explore the challenges faced in P&ID, such as design sequencing and information flow to steel detailers. Gain valuable insights from Geoff, an industry visionary transformin...

Join us in our most recent podcast episode as we highlight our newly appointed Head of Support and her relentless commitment to enhancing response times for customer tickets. With an unwavering focus on ensuring customer satisfaction, she unveils her strategies for optimizing processes, harnessing technology, and empowering our support team to deliver swift and impactful resolutions. Don't miss out on valuable insights and inspiration as we embark on a transformative journey to elevate our cu...

From planning to execution, the Nemetschek Group has what you need to be successful in the AEC industry. Take it from Matt Wheelis, Senior Vice President of Strategy for the build and construct division. Today Matt talks about driving business growth through organic and inorganic synergies and what's in store for the future—think 5G, AI, Chat GPT, and Dall-e technologies as well as generational shifts as digital natives become decision makers. The vision of the Nemetschek Group is to lean int...

David Zabka and Doug Evans discuss the history of steel detailing, taking us back in time to the very beginning of CAD and BIM and its delivery. Learn the who/what/why of a steel detailer, what we really sell, and how the value of SDS2 has changed as the function of a steel detailer has evolved.

Hear what went down in Charlotte, North Carolina at the outstanding NASCC Steel Conference April 12- 14. As the lanyard sponsors, SDS2 had a significant presence and enjoyed the opportunity to mingle with our partners and hear about new efficiencies with everything from load planning and site planning tools to robotics. Don't forget to mark your calendar for next year's Steel Conference in San Antonio, Texas, from March 20-22.

As Director of Technology Integrations for AISC, Luke Faulkner has been at the forefront of steel technology for over 18 years. Today, with the advent of technology like Chat GPT and other AI solutions, the technology landscape is advancing faster than ever. Sit down with David and Luke as they open some special occasion whiskey and take a deep dive into the steel tech of today and tomorrow. Join us at NASCC to continue the conversation!