The ConTechCrew Automating 8 Weeks of Work Almost Got Him Fired for Innovation with Joshua Weyand
In this episode of The ConTech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Jonathan Marsh sit down with Joshua Weyand, Director of Emerging Technologies at Suffolk Construction. They get into Joshua's unconventional journey from aspiring software developer to construction technologist and the creative problem-solving that fuels his work. Joshua shares how his passion for automation, data analytics, and leadership development is reshaping the construction industry, emphasizing the importance of imagination, adaptability, and collaboration between IT and field teams. If you're a tech-forward thinker looking to drive change in construction, this episode is packed with insights.
Key Takeaways:
- Joshua’s journey from a civil engineering hopeful to a leader in construction technology.
- The importance of bridging creativity and leadership in solving industry challenges.
- How tinkering with software like Bluebeam and low-code solutions helped him automate redundant tasks.
- Lessons from nearly getting fired for an automation project and how it reshaped his approach.
- The critical role of IT collaboration in technology adoption.
- How playing Dungeons & Dragons helped Joshua develop a new perspective on innovation and leadership.
- The need for forward-thinking vision in navigating industry challenges like tariffs and AI adoption.
- Why companies must balance structured leadership with space for experimentation and R&D.
Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:
[02:12] – Joshua Weyand and his background in emerging technologies.
[07:23] – How Joshua got into construction through an unexpected encounter.
[13:57] – The challenge of implementing tech solutions.
[22:02] – How industry crises drive innovation and the next big challenge for construction.
[24:49] – The necessity of vision and leadership in uncertain times.
[29:30] – Balancing creativity, leadership, and tech adoption in construction.
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