The Preconstruction Podcast - Commercial Construction.

Our host, Gareth McGlynn, sits down with Ted Rusch, Vice President of Preconstruction at Batson-Cook Construction, for a conversation shaped by more than 26 years in the industry. Ted’s path from a decade in project management to leading preconstruction at one of Atlanta’s major healthcare builders gives him a perspective rooted in both field delivery and front-end planning.Discussion Highlights:A decade in the field as a Project Manager before transitioning fully into preconstruction.His progression at Batson-Cook, now serving as VP of Preconstruction.Technology on the precon side. What he uses, what’s working, and tools he has tested over the years.The role of tech in design phase reviews, value engineering, estimating and takeoffs.Building a data strategy over the past two and a half years and how it now supports conceptual and schematic estimates within 2–3 percent accuracy.How this accuracy improves service for clients and strengthens early decision making.You can connect with Ted Rusch on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-rusch/If you enjoyed this episode, feel free to like, share, and subscribe for more conversations from across preconstruction.

This week's episode features Michelle Abii, Senior Data Center Construction Manager at Switch, for a look at her path into construction and the scale of work she now leads in the data center field in Las Vegas.Discussion Highlights:Transitioning from a healthcare background into construction.Complexities involved in data center constructionManaging a large Greenfield build covering 2,800 square feet across three campuses. Tools and processes Michelle uses at Switch for coordination, collaboration and scheduling.Why Michelle is committed to supporting women in construction, especially minority women, and encouraging more to enter the industry, particularly preconstruction.You can connect and engage with Michelle via her Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-c-abii/

Our host Gareth McGlynn sits down with Samuel Liesmer, Hyperscale Estimator at National Technologies (a Connex Company), to discuss the growing demand for low voltage expertise in hyperscale data center construction.Discussion Highlights:The surge of AI and data center growth driving electrical and low voltage packages.Understanding Division 27 low voltage systems in large-scale builds.The complexities of structured cabling, fiber optics, and media systems.How CCTV, security, and access control systems are managed within hyperscale projects.Working with owners and general contractors to balance delivery, design, and management challenges.And much, much more.Connect with Sam Liesmer:🔗Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuel-l-424b8a146/🌐National Technologies: https://www.ntitech.com/

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/