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How can one of the busiest airports in the world lead the charge toward sustainability? Recorded live at Autodesk University 2024, Kendra Brown and Robert Brown join the podcast to discuss how Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is breaking ground on visionary sustainability initiatives. From the construction of the new Electric Central Utility Plant (E-CUP) to achieving Net Zero Carbon by 2030—20 years ahead of global targets—DFW is setting the bar for sustainable airport infrastructure.
Kendra Brown is a BIM Coordinator at Keville Enterprises, Inc. and the ACC System Administrator for DFW International Airport. She coordinates civil projects such as the 17R Runway rehabilitation, International Parkway Right Exits, and Southwest End-Around Taxiway.
Robert Brown is Sr. Project Controls System Manager at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). He is a certified Remote Pilot and Weightlifting Performance Coach, and he has additional experience as Survey Party Chief, Engineering Tech III, and Construction Education Adjunct Professor.
TODD TAKES
Real World Demands and Ambitious Goals: The team at DFW Airport knows the stakes are high—balancing real-world demands with ambitious targets, like reaching net-zero emissions by 2030 instead of 2050. Big goals create urgency, keeping everyone motivated to push harder and innovate.Failing Forward and Building Buy-In: Getting leadership support for bold initiatives is crucial, but so is creating a culture where it’s okay to fail. At DFW, they embrace the idea that failure is part of progress, which allows their team to take calculated risks and explore new tech solutions without fear.Leveraging Technology to Connect and Adapt: DFW uses tools like Autodesk Construction Cloud and digital twins to keep everyone—from field crews to executives—connected and aligned on projects. The focus is on creating seamless communication and adaptability, ensuring all parts of the team work as one well-oiled machine.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
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Keville Enterprises
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With the rebranding of Autodesk University, innovation in construction, and advancements in cloud technology, what lies ahead? Live from Autodesk University 2024, Rachel Tuller of Autodesk joined the podcast to discuss the importance of the company’s reinvention, a closer look at the hybrid model of cloud and desktop solutions, and how successful global partnerships are crucial to solve complex customer problems.
Rachel Tuller is Vice President, Global Channels at Autodesk. With a background at Cloudera, Rachel carries a history of wins in AI ISV and Cloud Alliances, driving daily success with partners. Her expertise lies in strategic leadership and building high performing teams, skills honed through direct experience with global partner sales and ecosystem strategy.
TODD TAKES
Reinvention is Key in Construction: In today’s construction world, staying the same just isn’t an option. The companies that keep pushing forward—updating their tools, refining their processes, and keeping an open mindset—are the ones that thrive. Reinventing continuously helps tackle industry challenges head-on, creating room for exciting new opportunities and growth.Data and AI: Game Changers with a Plan: Data and AI have huge potential to reshape construction, but without a clear plan, they can create more noise than value. The key is to know exactly what data to gather, how to use it, and what insights matter most. When approached strategically, AI and data aren’t just trendy tools—they’re the powerhouse behind smarter, faster decision-making.Leverage the Power of Partnerships: No company needs to go it alone; in fact, working with trusted software providers and partners is where the magic happens. Partners bring specialized knowledge and solutions that can be fine-tuned to fit local needs, making innovation easier to implement and scale. With the right partners, companies can stay agile, grow stronger, and meet changing demands head-on.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
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Autodesk
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What does the future hold for the world of Design and Make—and how is Autodesk working to shape that future? Straight from Autodesk University 2024, we’re joined by Dara Treseder, Chief Marketing Officer at Autodesk, to explore the company’s leadership and proactivity. Dara shares insights into the rebranding of Autodesk University to AU: The Design & Make Conference, Autodesk's partnership with the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games, key takeaways from the State of Design & Make Report, along with a spotlight on AI innovation and what’s next for Autodesk in 2025.
Dara Treseder is a proven technology business leader with expertise in building and leading high performing global marketing, communications, consumer, and commercial organizations. She is currently Chief Marketing Officer of Autodesk — a leading, innovative technology & software company changing how the world is designed and made. In 2024, she became the first Black person to be inducted into the Forbes CMO Hall of Fame. In 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020 she was recognized by Forbes as one of the World’s Most Influential CMOs based on a weighted aggregate of 12 indicators. A champion of public health, women's issues, and diversity initiatives, Dara is the Chair of the board of the Public Health Institute (PHI). She also serves on the board of Robinhood. Dara graduated cum laude from Harvard University with highest honors in field and holds an MBA from Stanford University.
TODD TAKES
Industry Transformation: The construction industry has so much to be proud of, especially with its ongoing transformation into a high-tech powerhouse. This shift has been in progress for years, but it's now picking up significant momentum and redefining how we build.AI as an Inspiration: AI is not something to fear, but rather something to inspire us. Though we're still in the early stages, AI is gaining speed and is here to stay. Embracing this technology is key to staying ahead in the industry.LA28 Olympics and Autodesk: The LA28 Olympics present an incredible opportunity for the construction industry, and it’s exciting that Autodesk is part of it. This is a chance to impact not only a city but the world, while showcasing the innovation and power that construction brings to life.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
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Having access to clean, potable water is a basic human right—so how do we bridge the gap and make water more accessible on the job site? Join Todd and guest Alan Pyle of WaterFleet, LLC as they discuss the critical nature of water management in construction, the successful implementation of water reuse systems in WaterFleet, and the endless potential of concepts like emergency preparedness and continuous water treatment.
Alan Pyle is Founder and Executive Chairman at WaterFleet, LLC. The company’s innovative technology and green solutions have transformed the remote-location water and domestic wastewater industry, significantly improving remote workforce living conditions and reducing the cost and environmental risk of traditional wastewater services. WaterFleet operates a technology-as-a-service platform by leasing its systems to customers and providing ongoing compliant treatment and remote monitoring services.
Todd Takes
Clean Drinking Water is a Basic Human Right and Jobsite Necessity: Clean drinking water is essential for the health, safety, and well-being of every worker on a construction site. Beyond being a basic human right, having easy access to safe water enhances productivity and reduces health risks. By focusing on more efficient ways to supply and reuse water, construction sites can significantly reduce waste while improving the quality of life for workers. This not only leads to a healthier workforce but also contributes to more sustainable jobsite operations, reducing the environmental footprint of the project. The Circular Water Economy in Construction is Both Possible and Necessary: As Alan mentioned, creating a circular water economy in the construction industry is not just possible, but crucial. A circular approach involves recycling and reusing water as much as possible, minimizing the strain on local water resources. However, to achieve this, the industry needs better education on the technology and systems that make water reuse feasible. By embracing water recycling, construction sites can reduce costs, conserve water, and promote sustainability—helping to build a future where water efficiency is standard practice, not an afterthought. Modeling the Future of Sustainability in Construction: Alan’s point about being a model for the future of sustainability is a powerful call to action for the construction industry. To create a more sustainable future, we must rethink how we handle resources like water. This means developing cleaner, more efficient construction processes that prioritize water conservation and reuse. By reducing waste, the industry can lessen its environmental impact, align with global sustainability goals, and set the standard for how future projects are executed. Sustainability isn’t just an option—it’s a responsibility that must be modeled across every stage of construction.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
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WaterFleet,LLC
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How important is it to prioritize a positive company culture? When it comes training to the new workforce, it can make the difference between a company surviving or thriving. Join Todd and guest Mat Gates as they discuss insights on recruitment, retention, and the future of construction technology, especially when it comes to the need for better trades worker training programs.
Mat Gates is President of Erickson-Hall Construction Co. He joined the company in 2004 and quickly rose through the ranks due to his expertise in managing complex projects and solving challenges before they arise. A Civil Engineering graduate from San Diego State University, Mat holds both CCM and LEED accreditation. As President since 2019, he oversees company growth, employee development, and the implementation of cutting-edge technology to ensure Erickson-Hall remains an industry leader.
Todd Takes
Building a Culture of Innovation: Creating a company culture that not only tolerates but actively encourages new ideas is crucial for innovation. This requires setting egos aside and genuinely listening to diverse perspectives. By fostering this environment, you unlock a powerful source of creativity and problem-solving within your team.Embracing the "Summer Sprint" Mentality: Every project should adopt the urgency and focus of a "Summer Sprint" approach. Taking time at the outset to align all stakeholders, build trust, and set a unified direction is key. This early effort ensures smoother execution and a more cohesive team throughout the project.Aligning Team Goals for Success: Getting everyone’s individual goals on the table is essential to creating a unified project team goal. A shared vision acts as a common north star, aligning all parties and fostering collaboration. Leading with empathy and actively listening strengthens the team, making it greater than the sum of its parts.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
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Erickson-Hall Construction Co.
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Breaking the stigma around mental health issues in construction is crucial and often overlooked. In this episode, Todd and guest Elizabeth Crowley of the Building Trades Employers Association discuss the critical importance of addressing mental health in the construction industry. Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of breaking the stigma around this discussion, the role of leadership and company culture in fostering a supportive environment, and the legislative actions needed to better address these challenges.
Elizabeth Crowley is President and CEO of the Building Trades Employers’ Association, representing 1200 union contractors in New York City. She is the first woman to lead the organization, advocating for increased union-led construction, safety, and diversity in the industry. Previously, Elizabeth served on the New York City Council, where she championed construction safety and expanded opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses.
Todd Takes
Speak Up and Seek Help: If you’re struggling, please reach out for help as soon as possible. It's important to understand that it’s okay to not be okay, and no one should feel ashamed about needing support. As Elizabeth emphasized, real strength comes from being open and vulnerable with those around you.The Employer’s Role in Mental Health: Employers have a significant responsibility and opportunity to foster healthier conversations about mental health. It’s essential for workers to feel valued as individuals, knowing that their well-being matters more than just the company’s bottom line. Creating a supportive environment where employees feel the company "has their back" can make a profound difference.Building Authentic Relationships: We are not robots who can simply shut off our emotions when we arrive at work. It’s important to take the time to get to know the people behind the job titles and build genuine relationships with those we work alongside. By fostering authentic connections, we create a more supportive and understanding workplace culture.Thank you for joining us for this important conversation. Remember, if you or someone you care about is facing a mental health crisis, you don’t have to face it alone. Reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988, or speak with a mental health professional. There’s always help and hope available, and you matter.
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Building Trades’ Employers Association NY
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The labor shortage is an ongoing issue—but what are the most realistic reasons behind it? In this episode, Tatanisia Lumley joins the podcast to discuss the relationship between employment and getting answers to housing instability, food insecurity, and lack of childcare; the Building Skills NY Construction Career Accelerator Program; working to change the perception of construction in order to attract a more diverse workforce, and more.
Tatanisia Lumley is Director of Training and Operations for the workforce development nonprofit Building Skills NY. She spearheaded the establishment of the Building Skills NY Construction Career Accelerator Program in 2021. The program provides free, advanced training to help New York City job seekers launch construction careers. Her hands-on support has ensured that hundreds of residents facing employment barriers don't slip through the city's cracks. Outside of work, she is an avid crafter, Halloween enthusiast, and a devoted mother of three.
Todd Takes
Marketing Construction to New Audiences: We need to do a better job of promoting the opportunities in construction to those outside the industry. This means making the field more accessible and inclusive for all. By partnering with schools, we can showcase the exciting aspects of construction and spark interest in future generations.Supporting Skills Development in Construction: Investing time and resources into programs like the Construction Career Accelerator is crucial. It's about coming together as an industry to support training and skills development, ensuring people are not just entering construction but are prepared for the jobs of tomorrow. By upleveling skills, we create a stronger, more capable workforce.Leveraging Technology to Attract Talent: Technology is a powerful tool for drawing new talent into construction. VR, AI, robotics, and other innovations are not only attention-grabbing but make the industry exciting and relatable. By embracing these tools, we can reshape the perception of construction and make it appealing to a broader audience.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
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Building Skills NY
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You’re probably familiar with building assessments and forensic engineering, but what’s the essential role they play in long-lasting infrastructure? In this episode, Stanley Stoll of Knott Laboratory, LLC joins the podcast for an in-depth discussion on identifying and preventing structural failures, how preventative is “too” preventative, the problem of water management, and a new take on what it means to be innovative.
Stanley Stoll is CEO of Knott Laboratory, LLC. He was a combat engineer and SAPPER in the U.S. Army. He attended the J.B. Speed School of Engineering at the University of Louisville in Louisville, KY and graduated with both a B.S. in Civil and Environmental Engineering and a Masters of Engineering Degree. At Knott Laboratory, he leads a team of forensic engineers who investigate infrastructural failures throughout the Western US.
Todd Takes
Proactive Building Maintenance: Take the time to learn and implement best practices in building maintenance, ensuring a proactive approach to analyzing the structure. Stay vigilant for any areas of concern, as early detection and action can prevent costly and dangerous issues down the line.Building Trust and Credibility: Establishing trust and credibility is essential before people will listen and act on your insights. When you identify a problem and have already built trust, the conversation becomes much smoother, leading to quicker and more effective resolutions.Treat Maintenance Like Construction: Stanley emphasizes the importance of treating property maintenance with the same level of care, attention, and critical eye as the building process itself. This mindset ensures that maintenance is not an afterthought but a crucial part of preserving the building's integrity.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
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Knott Laboratory, LLC
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In construction, what gives a particular tech or process the ability to “stick around”? Should we lean into change, stick to tradition, or reconcile the two? Join Todd and guest Scott Cannon as they discuss some key reasons for the industry’s reliance on older methodologies, how logistics are impacted by new technologies, keeping up with KPIs as construction evolves, and tackling the labor shortage by fostering an innovative environment.
Scott Cannon is the CEO of BigRentz, a leading online equipment rental marketplace that revolutionizes how construction companies access heavy machinery. With over 2 decades of experience in executive leadership roles, Scott is known for his strategic vision and commitment to driving innovation in the construction industry. Under his leadership, BigRentz has become a pioneer in leveraging technology to streamline logistics and improve efficiency in construction operations. Scott’s deep understanding of industry challenges and his passion for digital transformation make him a voice in shaping the future of construction.
TODD TAKES
Education as a Catalyst for Overcoming Change Resistance: Change often meets resistance because people lack a clear understanding of its purpose and benefits. Educating your team about the 'why' behind the change is crucial for easing this resistance. Utilize concrete data to paint a vivid picture of potential success, helping to reinforce the value and need for the change.AI: A Tool, Not a Disruptor, in Construction: Scott’s perspective that AI is "more tool than disruptor" in construction is spot on. AI is often perceived as intimidating, but its true potential lies in enhancing efficiency within the industry. By embracing AI, construction professionals can unlock new levels of productivity without the fear of disruption.Building Trust Through Data in Digital Transformation: Trust is the foundation of a successful digital transformation. To establish this trust, start by using clear data and key performance indicators (KPIs) to demonstrate small, achievable successes. Once trust is built and success is proven on a smaller scale, you can confidently expand your digital initiatives.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
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We are revisiting a recent favorite episode this week…Construction: is it only slow to innovate due to tradition, or is there another conversation to be had? In this episode, Sarah Buchner joins the podcast to discuss the industry’s outlook on new technology, the difference between AI and “IA,” how to leverage artificial intelligence as a tool in your career, the worldwide issue of construction data inconsistencies, and her company, Trunk Tools, Inc.
Sarah Buchner, Ph.D. is CEO of Trunk Tools, Inc. With 20 years of experience in the construction industry, she has founded four live construction technology applications. She holds a Doctorate in Civil Systems Engineering/Data Science from Technische Universität Wien and an MBA from Stanford University Graduate School of Business. She was recently listed on Forbes’ 30 Under 30.
Todd Takes
Embracing Innovation: Innovation should not be seen as a threat but rather as an opportunity for growth in construction. It paves the way for advancements that can transform traditional practices.Technology Adoption in Construction: The construction industry is receptive to adopting technology when the immediate benefits and reasons are clear. This dispels the myth that construction is inherently resistant to innovation.AI as a Collaborative Partner: At its best, AI serves as a powerful partner that enhances human capabilities. It allows humans to focus on critical thinking while it augments and processes data efficiently.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
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Trunk Tools, Inc.
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We are revisiting a recent favorite episode this week…What are the “limits” of design software—and why push those limits? What makes Las Vegas, Nevada an untapped goldmine for BIM professionals? Join host Todd and guest Alain Michalak as they discuss recruitment of the next generation, the full rundown on StrucSoft, and striking a balance with being reactive, proactive, and responsive to industry demands.
Alain Michalak is a BIM Senior Specialist at Performance Contracting, Inc. He is an Architectural and Construction Specialist with passion for practicing early architectural techniques and concepts to modern innovative technology. He has 17 years of experience in Architecture and Structural Design and 9 years of experience in the United States Army.
Todd Takes
Establishing Strong Rapport for SuccessBuilding a solid foundation with stakeholders and team members is crucial for the long-term success of any project. This involves taking the time to genuinely understand and connect with your team, listening attentively to their needs and concerns. Such efforts not only foster a positive working environment but also enhance efficiency and effectiveness, especially when navigating through change management processes. Establishing strong rapport lays the groundwork for a collaborative and supportive project atmosphere, where everyone feels valued and heard.
Cultivating Curiosity and InnovationEmbracing a mindset of continuous inquiry is key to driving innovation. Don't hesitate to question the status quo and explore new possibilities by asking "why" and experimenting with different approaches. This natural curiosity stimulates creative thinking, leading to the discovery of innovative solutions that might not be immediately apparent. Encouraging yourself and your team to remain curious and open-minded can significantly impact the project's ability to adapt and thrive in a constantly changing environment.
Embracing Simplicity as InnovationKeeping things simple is often more challenging than it appears, yet it is a powerful strategy for innovation. In a world cluttered with complex solutions and processes, the ability to streamline and simplify can set your project apart. Simplicity leads to clearer understanding, easier implementation, and better user experience. By focusing on the essentials and removing unnecessary complications, you can achieve more efficient, effective, and innovative outcomes. Remember, simplicity is not just an objective; it's a mindset that can drive groundbreaking ideas and solutions.
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What does it take to build a lasting legacy in an industry that never sleeps? Peter Lehrer, a legendary name in construction, joins us in our latest episode to discuss. Tune in for Peter’s insights and experiences from decades spent in the industry, a conversation on the importance of the “human element” in every phase of a job, the current need for high-level professionals, Peter’s involvement in rebuilding the Statue of Liberty, and a closer look at what it means to consider your legacy and reputation in this line of work.
Peter M. Lehrer is an internationally recognized and highly respected leader in managing large-scale, complex construction projects. He is currently the Chief Executive Officer of PML LLC. Throughout his career, Peter Lehrer has been at the forefront of managing construction for some of the world’s most iconic projects. On a pro-bono basis, he has chaired several government commissions focused on reducing costs and improving efficiency for multi-billion-dollar capital programs.
Todd Takes
The Importance of Human Connection in Construction: The human element remains the central factor for success in the construction industry. Effective communication and the ability to understand different perspectives are crucial for achieving project goals.The Power of Empathy and Expression: Having the courage to care, showing empathy, and expressing your opinions effectively are undervalued skills. As Peter said, "It is too easy to let things just passively evolve. Stand up and take ownership."Ego-Free Decision Making: Keeping ego and emotion out of decision-making are key ingredients to developing a successful career and leaving a lasting legacy. Making objective decisions helps foster trust and respect in the industry.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
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How interconnected are the ideas of innovation and storytelling? In our latest episode, Danielle O’Connell of Skanska joins the podcast to shed some light on concepts like the practical side of using new tech for safer sites, the importance of continuous education on the job, the commonalities between construction and art, and the potential of AI (as long as it’s tempered by human intervention).
Danielle O’Connell is Sr. Director of Emerging Technology at Skanska USA. She has additional experience as an Account Services Manager at Bluebeam, Inc., Design Technologies Manager at Massachusetts Port Authority, Project Manager at Gilbane Building Company, and BIM Manager at Consilgli Construction. She holds a BFA in Architecture and Design from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
TODD TAKES
Integrating Innovation into Company Culture: Innovation shouldn't be isolated; it needs to be woven into the very fabric of a company to truly flourish and be fully leveraged. Making innovation part of the company's DNA ensures it becomes a sustainable and impactful practice.Prioritizing Technology Implementation: Effective technology implementation requires prioritizing platforms based on urgency and impact. Focus on addressing real pain points for end users and ensure that decisions are supported by data to achieve meaningful results.Treating Employees Like Professional Athletes: Supporting employees' mental and physical well-being is crucial. The concept of treating employees like professional athletes makes sense as it emphasizes comprehensive support for their safety and overall health.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
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Skanska
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What’s the connection between STEM education and the trades? When it comes to recruiting the new generation, that connection may actually be crucial to the future of the industry. In this episode, Mike McCarthy of Design Communications, Ltd. joined the podcast and sparked an important discussion about the balance between creativity and practicality, the impact of experiential design in large-scale projects, and some surprising ways in which art, engineering, and construction all intersect.
Mike McCarthy is Vice President of Design Communications Ltd (DCL), an internationally recognized custom manufacturer of architectural specialty products with locations in Boston, New York, Los Angeles, Seattle, Austin, and Orlando. Mike has been involved with thousands of projects over his 25 year career with DCL. This includes work for Walt Disney World, SoFi Stadium, TD Garden, Madison Square Garden, Gillette Stadium, Netflix, Linked In, Amazon, Facebook, Coca-Cola, Hasbro, Logan Airport and many others.
Todd Takes
The Power of Clear Communication: Clear communication upfront is essential for creating alignment and ensuring success. Visual plans are particularly effective in cementing the vision. Long-Term Vision for Building Use: It’s important to have a long-term view of the building’s use case, considering how people will move and interact with the space while ensuring it remains relevant. Adaptation and Innovation for Success: Adaptation is crucial for innovation and long-term success. Attracting and retaining top talent, while making the industry attainable and relatable, can spark interest in construction.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
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Design Communications, Ltd.
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There are many ways to get involved and carve out your ideal career in the AEC industry. Where do you begin? In our latest episode, Chris Ryan of Ryan Studio, LLC joins the podcast to discuss the best ways to foster an environment of collaboration across teams, how to reconcile the different perspectives between architects and owners, the reality of making your own ideal career in the field, and more.
Chris Ryan is the Founder of Ryan Studio, LLC. He is a Building Design & Development Consultant with over 20 years of professional experience creating unique projects and building meaningful spaces that combine work and play. He is a licensed Architect, registered contractor, former commercial development executive, college professor, and national-level competitive athlete.
TODD TAKES
Finding Your Passion in Construction: Chris emphasizes the importance of finding your passion and making your career your own in construction. His advice to explore the diverse options and paths in the industry is invaluable. Don't feel constrained by a standard career flow—find what works best for you.The Importance of Trust in Construction: Trust is the cornerstone of relationships in construction, a team sport that requires everyone working in unison. The most successful teams and projects connect the dots early with all stakeholders, balancing diverse perspectives for optimal outcomes.The Power of 'Narrative Architecture': Chris's concept of 'narrative architecture' is spot on. Clearly defining the project's intent and bringing it to life tells a compelling story that resonates with all involved.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
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Ryan Studio, LLC
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It’s a common misconception that precon is solely a numbers-and-computers industry. How do we get the word out that in reality, it’s far more complex and full of opportunities? Live from Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Ryan Diekemper of Poettker Construction joins the podcast to spark a conversation about the many different options you have in a precon career, how to tackle communication when the chain of command seems to be a mile long, and why refusing to evolve with the times means “you’ll always be a dinosaur.”
Ryan Diekemper is Vice President of Preconstruction at Poettker Construction Company. He has additional experience in the Electrical field, in which he worked for over 15 years. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Missouri University and Science and Technology.
TODD TAKES
Adoption of AI in Preconstruction: Like in many other sectors, AI is increasingly being integrated into preconstruction. This technology is revolutionizing how we plan and execute projects, offering smarter ways to approach building design and management.Importance of Collaboration: Effective collaboration and continuous communication among all stakeholders are essential in preconstruction. Ensuring everyone is on the same page helps in managing the complexities of construction projects more efficiently.Efficiency and Planning in Preconstruction: Preconstruction is crucial for establishing efficiency and preparing for unforeseen challenges. It involves detailed planning and a deep understanding of where and how to streamline processes to ensure project success.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
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Is failure something to be avoided at all costs—or is it vital to growth? In this episode, recorded live at Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Manasi Pitkar joins the podcast to discuss the “next big thing” in construction technology, how to make the best case for tearing down data siloes, the hurdles of time, talent, and escalation that are facing preconstruction, how to create an environment that welcomes growth and innovation, and more.
Manasi Pitkar is Sr. Preconstruction Director at McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. with nearly a decade of experience at the company. She has additional experience as a Sr. Preconstruction Manager at Clark Construction, Estimator at RQ Construction, Sr. Estimator at Gilmore Construction Corporation, Lead Estimator at Saunders Construction, Estimator II at M.A. Mortenson Company, and Field Engineer at Turner Construction.
TODD TAKES
Embracing Failure as a Path to SuccessIt's okay to fail; in fact, failing quickly and learning from it is a crucial part of growth. As a leader, demonstrating vulnerability by acknowledging and sharing your failures can build trust within your team. This transparency not only fosters a supportive culture but also encourages others to take calculated risks without fear. Staying Current with Emerging TechnologiesKeeping up with emerging technologies in any field is challenging, but making the effort to stay informed is invaluable. Attending conferences, listening to industry-specific podcasts, and engaging with community resources are all worthwhile investments. These activities help you stay at the forefront of innovation, ensuring you're always equipped with the latest tools and knowledge. Celebrating the Construction IndustryConstruction is a dynamic and impactful industry that deserves more recognition and enthusiasm. It's an exciting field that constantly benefits from fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. We should actively share our pride in this industry, encouraging more people to explore the diverse opportunities it offers.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
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Other Relevant Links:Manasi Pitkar’s LinkedIn
McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.
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What’s the key to achieving a relevant, active, and connected career in the industry? The answer lies in your own level of commitment. Live from Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Wes Mayes of The Brandt Companies joins the podcast to discuss the importance of networking, the ways we’re seeing prefabrication and preconstruction overlap with each other, whether AI will make it to the forefront of construction within the next decade, and one of the most interesting and overlooked trends in the industry recently.
Wes Mayes is Director of Preconstruction at The Brandt Companies. He has worked at The Brandt Companies for over a decade. He has previous experience as an Estimator and Senior Estimator.
Todd Takes
Critical Importance of Data Management in PreconstructionEffective data management and interoperability are essential in the preconstruction phase to streamline workflows and enhance project outcomes. These practices enable seamless sharing and utilization of data across different platforms, ensuring all team members are on the same page. The Promise of AI in PreconstructionArtificial Intelligence holds promising potential to revolutionize preconstruction by providing advanced analytics and predictive capabilities. This technology can lead to more accurate planning, cost estimation, and risk management, significantly improving project efficiency. Cultivating Early CollaborationCreating a culture of early and frequent collaboration is crucial for engaging all stakeholders in the construction process. This approach helps in building consensus and ensuring that every participant has a voice in critical decisions, thus enhancing project buy-in and satisfaction.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
Bridging the Gap Website
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Thank you to our sponsors!
Applied Software
Applied Software LinkedIn
Other Relevant Links:Wes’ LinkedIn
The Brandt Companies
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We’re in a new era of construction—does that imply a new era of data management, as well? Live at Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Darrell Torres of Irvine Company joins the podcast to discuss the balance between ambition and “keeping it simple,” the power of data management platforms to set companies apart from their competitors, and the most effective ways to achieve buy-in when you introduce new processes and technology.
Darrell Torres is Sr. Director of Preconstruction at Irvine Company. He has more than two decades of experience in the construction industry in California and Colorado. His diverse range of project expertise includes residential, office/mixed-use developments, higher education, healthcare and cultural buildings.
TODD TAKES
Essential Data Management in PreconstructionProper data management is foundational for success in preconstruction, ensuring that all project details are accurately tracked and accessible. Interoperability between systems allows for seamless integration of data, streamlining communication and decision-making processes across various construction platforms. Leveraging AI in PreconstructionArtificial Intelligence offers transformative potential in the preconstruction phase, enhancing precision in project planning and risk assessment. By integrating AI, teams can predict outcomes more accurately and optimize resources more effectively, paving the way for smarter construction practices. Building a Collaborative Culture Early OnEstablishing a culture of collaboration early in the project lifecycle is critical for aligning all stakeholders and fostering commitment. Regular and open communication among all parties encourages proactive problem-solving and ensures that everyone's interests are represented and addressed.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
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Thank you to our sponsors!
Applied Software
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Other Relevant Links:Darrell’s LinkedIn
Irvine Company
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What does it mean when a new tech sweeps the industry? Times are changing, but the way we interact with technology on a wider scale seems to be similar. Live from Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Devin Sherman joins the podcast to discuss the way AI is received in construction, the riskiness involved in preconstruction startups, and how to utilize networking to become stronger in our craft.
Devin Sherman is VP of Preconstruction/BIM/VDC at Lee Lewis Construction, Inc. In his role, he handles and oversees all estimating and VDC operations including conceptual estimating, model based takeoffs, budgeting, bidding, drone operations, 4D scheduling, clash detections, and laser scanning.
TODD TAKES
The Real Role of AI in ConstructionArtificial Intelligence is a powerful tool, but it's important to understand that it's not a magic solution that can solve all problems instantly. It requires strategic implementation and thoughtful integration into existing processes to truly enhance construction operations. Addressing Construction's Marketing ChallengeAs frequently discussed, construction faces a significant marketing problem that needs to be addressed to attract new talent and interest. It's essential to rebrand the industry as exciting and innovative, highlighting the vast opportunities available to potential workers. The Value of Networking in ConstructionNetworking within the industry is crucial for personal and professional growth, allowing you to gain diverse perspectives that can challenge and improve your processes. Engaging with others not only broadens your understanding but also sparks new ideas and enhances your capabilities.Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts.
Bridging the Gap Website
Bridging the Gap LinkedIn
Bridging the Gap Instagram
Bridging the Gap YouTube
Todd’s LinkedIn
Thank you to our sponsors!
Applied Software
Applied Software LinkedIn
Other Relevant Links:Devin’s LinkedIn
Lee Lewis Construction, Inc.
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