The Preconstruction Podcast - Commercial Construction.

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/

Bid leveling is handled differently in nearly every company, with plenty of confusion and no clear standard across the industry. After a recent pre-con roundtable webinar on the topic, Gareth McGlynn sat down with Dan Shaw, CEO & Co-Founder at Bridgeline, at Advancing Preconstruction in San Diego to get straight answers on how technology can simplify this essential step.Discussion Highlights:Automating Bid Leveling: How Bridgeline handles the data movement so teams can spot scope gaps faster.Real-World Impact: What Bridgeline’s traction at APC 2025 reveals about industry demand.AI Features: Where artificial intelligence fits into the process.Value for Owners and Subs: The benefits beyond just GCs.Looking Ahead: What's next for Bridgeline in preconstruction tech.To connect with Dan Shaw, You can check out his Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danshaw1/For more conversations with innovators shaping the future of preconstruction, subscribe to The Preconstruction Podcast.

Sean Boyer, VP of Preconstruction at Pomerleau, joins Gareth McGlynn for a conversation recorded live at Advancing Preconstruction 2025 in San Diego. As the only GC to present on AI at the conference, Sean brings a unique perspective on how artificial intelligence is actively reshaping the preconstruction process.He shares:What it meant to be the only GC presenting about AI at the eventHis team’s preconstruction tech stack and the journey into AI adoptionHow they’re focused on developing internal intelligence and actively leveraging itThe ways AI is reshaping preconstruction - making it more efficient, data-driven, and transforming roles from technical to analyticalThe development of an internal AI roadmap designed to enhance decision-making, boost estimate accuracy, and increase team capacityFor follow-ups on the topics discussed, connect with him on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-boyer-eng-pqs-8552a617/

Gareth McGlynn sits down with Geoff Devlin, EVP – Head of Growth at SUSA International, to discuss how sustainability is becoming a strategic advantage in preconstruction.SUSA International may be new - just three years in - but they’re already making an impact. Specialising in sustainability, they step in during the decommissioning phase of a project to recycle materials and resell them, helping companies turn what’s usually a cost into a profit.Discussion Highlights:The business model behind SUSA International and how they generate revenue from recycled materials.Career Journey: From carpenter to estimator to executive - Geoff’s path through the industry.What it means to be at the forefront of sustainability in construction.A great conversation with someone who’s seen the industry from every angle.You can connect with Geoff via Linkedin.

Prama Kumar, the Vice President of Preconstruction at Hill & Wilkinson, brings over 20 years of experience to the table. She shares her transformative journey from estimator to leadership, highlighting the significance of mentorship and hard work. The conversation touches on the rise of artificial intelligence in preconstruction, revolutionizing processes and decision-making. Prama also addresses the vital role of women in the industry, advocating for visibility and opportunities, while balancing her career with personal passions like martial arts.

Our host, Gareth McGlynn, sits down with Joe Ledger, Vice President of Project Controls at Intel, as part of our Advanced Tech Series on The Preconstruction Podcast.This episode offers a look inside one of the most complex and high-stakes project controls roles in the industry.What’s covered:Joe’s early years as an electrical engineer and his transition into design work across top engineering firmsHow further education in finance, management, and economics shaped his approach to large-scale programme deliveryThe scope of his current role at Intel, overseeing $17–$30 billion worth of active projects across multiple countriesManaging a global team of 100+ professionals, most of them based in ArizonaDay-to-day operations and how he structures his workload around multi-billion-dollar initiativesThe impact of global tariffs on project strategy and deliveryHiring and keeping the right people engaged at scaleWhere AI fits into Intel’s estimating, scheduling, and risk functionsA closer look at how preconstruction is integrated into Intel’s global planningFor follow-ups on any of the topics discussed, you can contact Joe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-joe-ledger-cpe-7715306/Watch out for more engaging conversations, industry challenges, and behind-the-scenes stories each week on The Preconstruction Podcast.

Gareth McGlynn sits down with Katie Coulson, EVP - General Manager, to discuss her journey and current role leading Skanska Advanced Technology (SAT) - a unit focused on high-tech project delivery across the U.S.Discussion Highlights:Her education at the University of Wisconsin - Madison as a Civil and Environmental Engineer.Her background delivering high-tech projects for Skanska for over 27 years.What her role as Director of Risk, Project Controls, and Project Analytics taught her.What’s next for tariffs - and how the CHIPS Act could affect Skanska.The challenges ahead as she leads Skanska Advanced Technology Group.For follow-ups on the topics, connect with her via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecoulsonuw/

Clay Shumake, Preconstruction Manager at Gates Construction Co., shares his wealth of knowledge from the electrical and masonry trades. He dives into the intricacies of masonry construction, emphasizing the need for strong communication with subcontractors. Clay reveals the impact of tariffs on veneer materials and showcases useful preconstruction technology like PlanSwift and Bluebeam. He also discusses how to tackle water issues in renovations and the importance of collaboration for efficient project outcomes.