Building Design & Development Consultant Chris Ryan emphasizes finding passion in construction and making your career your own. Trust is key in successful construction relationships, with narrative architecture driving impactful projects.

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. 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: Ryan’s LinkedIn Poettker Construction  

Manasi Pitkar, a Senior Preconstruction Director at McCarthy with nearly a decade of experience in construction technology, shares invaluable insights. She discusses how embracing failure can lead to innovation and growth within teams. By acknowledging mistakes, leaders can build trust and foster collaboration. Manasi emphasizes the crucial need for integrating emerging technologies and standardization in construction, while addressing current challenges like labor shortages. Her perspective encourages a supportive culture that welcomes calculated risks and continuous learning.

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 Preconstruction Effective 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 Preconstruction Artificial 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 Collaboration Creating 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 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: Wes’ LinkedIn The Brandt Companies  

Darrell Torres, Sr. Director of Preconstruction at Irvine Company, shares insights from his two decades of experience in the construction industry. He discusses the transformative effects of AI on project planning and risk assessment, emphasizing its potential to enhance accuracy. The importance of robust data management systems for interoperability and streamlined communication is highlighted. Darrell also stresses the need for a collaborative culture for successful project execution and effective buy-in when implementing new technologies.

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 Construction Artificial 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 Challenge As 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 Construction Networking 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.

How can we be sure we’re collecting “the right” data to drive future success? The secret lies in when (and how) we gather that data in the first place. Live from Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Will Lehrmann of Procore Technologies joins the podcast to break down the best ways to prevent data siloes, the ongoing issue of worker safety in construction, and the importance of standardizing processes for the future of the industry.   Will Lehrmann is VP of Product – Preconstruction & Construction Documents at Procore Technologies. His career experience is highlighted by product leadership, building world-class product teams, developing industry-leading products, executing against sales goals, bringing a customer-first approach to customer success, and delivering against commitments for customers and the business.   TODD TAKES 1. Strategic Data Mapping and Management Before diving into data, it's crucial to strategically determine which questions need answers, guiding how you map and analyze your data. Effective data management paired with interoperability between datasets is essential, ensuring information flows smoothly and accurately across systems. 2. Fostering a Culture of Innovation in Preconstruction It's vital to cultivate a culture that supports innovation, particularly in preconstruction, to enhance process improvement and foster broader advancements. This culture shift can lead to significant efficiencies and better outcomes throughout the construction lifecycle. 3. Enhancing Communication Through Collaboration Promoting collaboration is key to maintaining clear and effective communication among all project stakeholders. By working together from the start, all parties can ensure their perspectives are heard and integrated, leading to more cohesive project execution.   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: Will’s LinkedIn Procore Technologies

Live from Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Steve Dell’Orto of ConCntric joins the podcast to discuss some of the most common misconceptions surrounding precon, how top-of-the-line technology truly benefits those who are the backbone of the construction industry, and how a resistance to change can be reframed towards a desire to be a champion of innovation. Steve Dell’Orto is the founder and CEO of ConCntric. Since launching ConCntric in 2021, Steve has built a dynamic global team and secured support from strategic and notable investors. Steve and his team are on a mission to make the built world more affordable, predictable and sustainable, and are uniquely positioned to transform the future for the construction and real estate industry. TODD TAKES Importance of Strategic Thinking: Allocating time for whitespace strategic thinking and planning is essential. This approach allows for creativity and innovation, providing the space needed to develop and refine strategies effectively. People and Opportunities in Preconstruction: Preconstruction is filled with talented individuals and exciting opportunities. It’s a field that continually attracts skilled professionals who drive the industry forward with their expertise and vision. Technology and Data in Preconstruction: Leveraging technology and data represents the next major challenge in preconstruction. Harnessing these tools is crucial for enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and overall project outcomes. 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: Steve’s LinkedIn ConCntric

The younger generation may be full of people who would shine as construction professionals—what if they just don’t know it yet? When it comes to considering the trades as a viable profession, a huge factor tends to be whether you “see yourself” there. In this episode, Colleen Martindale of McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. shares her experience as someone who moved from the arts to the trades: which hurdles faced her early on, the advice she’d give to teams and individuals facing hurdles of their own, and her take on preventing supply chain issues. Colleen Martindale is VP of Preconstruction at McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. She is an experienced preconstruction professional with a demonstrated history of working in the construction industry. She is skilled in HCSS Heavybid, Subcontracting, Value Engineering, CMAR Delivery, and Client Experience. In addition, she is a leader of a regional resource group for women, the McCarthy Partnership for Women, and is passionate about advocating for diverse talent in the construction industry. Todd Takes Diversity in Backgrounds: Diverse perspectives are key to success. Colleen's transition from the music industry to construction exemplifies this principle. Her unique viewpoint not only brings fresh ideas but also demonstrates how incorporating a variety of perspectives can lead to more innovative and effective solutions in construction. Personal Connections: Recognizing that we are all human seems straightforward, yet it's fundamental. Getting to know the person behind the employee builds trust and fosters collaboration. By focusing on mutual success, we create a work environment that encourages better communication and teamwork. Early Stakeholder Engagement: Bringing all stakeholders into the project at an early stage to define terms, workflows, and processes is vital for success. This strategy not only streamlines project management but also increases the overall chances of achieving project goals effectively. 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: Colleen’s LinkedIn McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.  

Sarah Buchner, CEO of Trunk Tools, Inc. and a trailblazer in construction technology, discusses how innovation should be seen as an opportunity for growth rather than a threat. She explores the critical difference between AI and intelligence augmentation, highlighting how AI can enhance human capabilities and improve decision-making. The podcast addresses the industry's data inconsistencies and emphasizes the importance of adopting technology for greater efficiency. With two decades of experience, Sarah encourages embracing AI as a collaborative partner to transform traditional practices.