The Preconstruction Podcast - Commercial Construction.

Recorded live at Precon World 2025 in Irvine, Texas, this episode features Nick Papadopoulos, Founder and CEO of Eos Group, as he shares practical takeaways from his session “Demystifying AI: Practical Predictive Analytics for Better Estimates.” Nick unpacks how preconstruction teams can apply AI with structure, governance, and purpose.Discussion Highlights:Governance and structure around AI implementationCommon pitfalls contractors face when adopting AIUnderstanding where teams stand in their AI journeyFoundational steps for those starting to integrate AI into preconstructionYou can also revisit Nick’s first appearance on The Preconstruction Podcast from a few years ago to see how his perspective on innovation and data in preconstruction has developed since then. LINK: https://www.nichessp.com/pre-construction-podcast/33-nick-papadopoulosYou can reach out to Nick via his Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickjpapadopoulos/That’s a wrap for our Precon World 2025 series.Thank you for tuning in to this special lineup of conversations with industry leaders. Stay with us for more episodes of The Preconstruction Podcast featuring the people shaping the future of preconstruction.

Brent Pilgrim, National Director of Preconstruction at The Beck Group, shares his extensive expertise in integrated estimating workflows. He discusses the shift from concept to real-world application and highlights collaborations with Texas A&M and Colorado State for academic validation. Brent reveals the launch of a new funded case study involving top firms and emphasizes the importance of transparency in client relations. His innovative ROI formula shows significant value gains, proving that design freedom can coexist with efficient project management.

Ale Macias, a Senior Preconstruction Specialist at Ryan Companies, dives into the transformative role of AI in preconstruction during her discussion. She shares her journey from project coordinator to tech advocate, emphasizing the importance of training and standardization. Ale also highlights the challenges of adopting new software and the collaborative spirit of the Precon Roundtable. Additionally, she discusses leveraging historical bid data for better estimates and how AI can free estimators for strategic thinking, enhancing project outcomes.

Recorded live at Precon World 2025, this week’s episode features Stewart Carroll, Chief Customer Officer at Beck Technology. Host Gareth McGlynn sits down with Stewart to talk about significant developments shaping the company and its vision for the full preconstruction lifecycle.Discussion Highlights:Pamlico Investment: What the recent investment means for Beck Technology’s future direction and scalability.Workpack Acquisition: How the integration of Marty Cornish’s AI takeoff tool strengthens Beck Tech’s suite of solutions.Preconstruction Lifecycle: Beck Tech’s strategy to expand across every stage of preconstruction.Precon World 2025: Key takeaways from this year’s Beck Technology conference in Texas.For further questions or inquiries, connect with Stewart Carroll directly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stewartacarroll/

Gareth McGlynn sits down with Daniel Beatty, Founder of Constructive Leadership Solutions, to talk about leadership, management, and growth in construction. With 36 years in heavy civil infrastructure, Daniel brings a wealth of perspective on what it takes to strengthen organizations from the inside out.The critical role of middle management in construction and why it is often overlookedDefining great leadership and how it shapes recruitment, retention, and staff developmentTraits that set successful managers apart in today’s industryWhy everyone is a salesperson, from internal teams to external stakeholdersYou can connect with Dan via his Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danbeattycls/

Ben Evelsizer, Senior Preconstruction Manager at Poettker Construction, joined Gareth McGlynn for a conversation recorded at Advancing Preconstruction 2025 in San Diego. Ben shares his perspective on several core aspects of preconstruction, from logistics planning to engaging trade partners.Discussion Highlights:Site Logistics in Estimating: How much attention it requires during preconstruction.Project Focus: K-12, municipality, and federal government construction.Historical Data: Why it’s a major passion of Ben’s and how Poettker is using it.Artificial Intelligence: Views on its role in preconstruction.Trade Partner Engagement: Why bringing them in too early can actually frustrate the process.For further questions, you can connect with Ben via his Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-evelsizer-262a6267/

Our host, Gareth McGlynn, sat down with Ben Neff, Director of Preconstruction at Motz, during Advancing Preconstruction 2025 in San Diego. Together, they discussed the complexities behind creating world-class sports turf systems.Discussion Highlights:Beginnings in Construction: From studying business at the University of Kentucky to a pivot into construction management and early hands-on fieldwork.Joining Motz: Transitioning from vertical construction to leading preconstruction at Motz.About Motz: A 100% employee-owned specialty contractor building natural grass and synthetic sports fields.Turf Systems: What it really takes to deliver a professional-quality field.Mechanics & Maintenance: The engineering and upkeep involved in maintaining top-level surfaces.Recent Project: Insights from Motz’s work on the Oakland A’s minor league ballpark.You can connect with Ben via his Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-neff-14043214/

Gareth McGlynn catches up with Andrew Zukoski, CEO & Co-Founder of JOIN, at Advancing Preconstruction 2025 in San Diego.Andrew returns to The Preconstruction Podcast to share updates on JOIN’s progress since his last appearance, with discussion around:New features and market momentumFeedback from general contractorsFuture vision for JOINHis passion project book - his book Not All Builders Drive 'DozersYou can connect with Andrew via his Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewzukoski

Matt Boeggeman, Senior Preconstruction Manager at Holder Construction, shares his wealth of experience in data center projects and HVAC. He discusses the challenges of inflation, supply chain, and electrical demands in construction. Boeggeman highlights the transformative impact of historical data and AI on project efficiency. He also reflects on his early HVAC experiences, combining technical expertise with a hands-on approach. The conversation emphasizes innovation in chip cooling technologies and calls for a mindset shift towards embracing technology in construction.

Gareth McGlynn sits down with Paul Christen, Preconstruction Director at McCarthy Building Companies in Los Angeles, for a live conversation recorded at Advancing Preconstruction in San Diego.This episode centres on culture and middle management -two areas that play a key role in building strong preconstruction teams.Discussion Highlights:The importance of middle management in selling preconstruction services, building successful teams and driving technology adoption.How company culture influences team performance.Personality assessments and DISC profiling.The onboarding process and its impact on culture.For any follow-up questions, connect with Paul on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-christen-59245a1a/