Bridging the Gap: Insights & Innovations in Construction

In this episode of Bridging the Gap, live from Advancing Prefab 2025, Todd sits down with Dr. Andrew Rener to discuss the evolution of prefabrication in construction, the misconceptions that hold the industry back, and the shifts needed to drive true collaboration. From breaking away from outdated procurement cycles to fostering real partnerships between owners and contractors, Andrew shares how technology, mindset shifts, and better communication can revolutionize project outcomes. Plus, this conversation dives into the genius simplicity of a single question that could transform industry relationships. 🔹 Why traditional procurement methods fail modern construction 🔹 The key mindset shift for achieving predictable project outcomes 🔹 How empathy and collaboration drive efficiency and innovation 🎧 Tune in to discover how prefabrication is shaping the future of construction. Andrew Rener, PhD, PE, DBIA, F. ASCE is an experienced construction professional focused on building teams and projects while ensuring schedule, quality and budget are achieved. He is Management Team Member at Architectural Metals Inc. TODD TAKES Owners Need to Lead the Prefab Revolution: If we want prefab to scale, owners have to stop treating procurement like a bidding war. Andrew made a strong case that owners need to commit to long-term partnerships instead of just chasing the lowest price. It’s about collaboration, not just cost-cutting—because the real value is in certainty, speed, and quality. Breaking Free from the Bid Mentality: One of the biggest roadblocks in prefab adoption? The constant bid cycle. Too many projects still compare prefab to traditional stick-built methods without factoring in time, labor, and jobsite congestion. If we shift the focus to total value instead of just upfront cost, we’ll unlock real innovation. Prefab Isn’t Just About Cost—It’s About Certainty: The biggest advantage of prefab isn’t just saving money—it’s about certainty of outcome. With prefab, you get fewer delays, better quality, and reduced jobsite risks. But for that to happen, the industry needs to rethink how it measures success beyond just price tags.   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: Andrew’s LinkedIn Architectural Metals Inc.    

In this episode, straight from Advancing Prefabrication 2025, Todd welcomes back Amy Marks, the Queen of Prefab, for an insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of industrialized construction. Amy shares how prefabrication is becoming the norm, the critical role of strategic partnerships, and why culture fit is key to success in the industry. 🔹 Why partnering—not just cost-cutting—drives real value 🔹 The rise of prefab and industrialized construction on a global scale 🔹 How AI and automation are reshaping the construction industry 🔹 The explosion of data centers and why prefab plays a pivotal role 🔹 Key metrics every construction leader should be tracking Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how the best in the business are transforming construction through innovation and collaboration. Amy Marks is the SVP, Innovation at Compass Datacenters. Compass builds hyper scale and cloud data centers tailored to customers' needs, delivering dedicated buildings and campuses through a tightly coupled supply chain and customer-centric network. Amy has defined the language, process and frameworks adopted by companies, universities and countries reflecting the convergence of Design-Make-Operate models. As the CEO of XSite Modular, she pioneered a path as the world’s preeminent prefabrication consultant and is often called the Queen Of Prefab - creating the first prefabrication consultancy. TODD TAKES Trusted partnerships are the foundation of success: Let’s be real—if we keep treating prefab partnerships as just another low-bid contract, we’re missing the whole point. Scaling industrialized construction requires deep collaboration, where companies align on culture, strategy, and investment to truly co-create value. The best partnerships aren’t about squeezing margins—they’re about shared wins, long-term trust, and building something bigger than a single project. AI isn’t replacing creativity—it’s enhancing it: There’s a common fear that AI and automation will take over jobs, but in reality, they’re giving us the freedom to be more creative problem-solvers. AI is speeding up the repetitive tasks that bog us down, allowing teams to focus on design, strategy, and higher-level decision-making. The companies that embrace AI as a collaborative tool, not a competitor, will be the ones pushing innovation forward. Industrialized construction is the key to solving major industry challenges: Construction is at a breaking point—labor shortages, supply chain chaos, and sustainability pressures aren’t going away. Prefabrication and industrialized construction offer a real, scalable solution by streamlining processes, reducing waste, and making projects more predictable. The industry leaders of the future will be the ones who embrace repeatability, optimize for efficiency, and rethink the way we build from the ground up.   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: Amy’s LinkedIn Compass Datacenters Xsite Modular  

Hari Vasudevan is a serial entrepreneur and engineer leading innovations in AI for construction. He dives into whether AI is a job disruptor or a tool for human empowerment. The discussion highlights how AI can improve safety, optimize key processes with the 80/20 rule, and enhance collaboration between field crews and office staff. Hari emphasizes that technology is meant to support workers, not replace them, and shares insights on using data to improve team dynamics and project management in the construction industry.

In this episode, Todd and guest Pat Miller discuss Pat’s inspiring journey in the construction industry. Pat provides great insights into being a woman in a male-dominated field, the importance of resilience, and her advocacy for women to pursue more diverse career paths within construction. This episode also highlights the evolving landscape of the industry, particularly the recent rise of data centers, and the need for continuous education and networking in construction. Pat Miller is President of Blue Diamond Construction in New Jersey. Blue Diamond specializes in Structural Metal Framing, Interior Metal Framing, Wood Framing, Drywall, Acoustical Ceiling, Insulation, Fire Spray, Doors/Frames/Hardware exclusively within the Commercial sector. Pat offers over 30 years’ experience within the commercial construction industry. She is highly organized, quality-minded and committed to her clients’ best interest.   TODD TAKES Let’s Make Construction Cool: The construction industry needs to do a better job showing how exciting it really is. It’s not just about swinging hammers anymore—it’s about using cutting-edge tech like AI, VR, and AR. By sharing behind-the-scenes stories and highlighting all the career paths—whether it’s safety, project management, or business development—we can attract the next generation and show them how dynamic and rewarding this field can be. Stay Open to Reinvention: One of Pat’s big messages is that you’ve got to be ready to adapt. The industry is constantly changing, and whether it’s pivoting to projects like data centers or embracing innovations like prefabrication, the key is staying ahead of the curve. It’s all about finding smarter, faster, and better ways to get things done. Never Underestimate Networking: Building relationships is everything. Pat’s journey proves how vital it is to connect with others in the industry. Whether it’s attending conferences, joining local programs, or just reaching out to peers, networking can open doors you didn’t even know existed. And for anyone just starting out? Get involved early—it’ll set you up for 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: Pat’s LinkedIn Blue Diamond Construction  

What does it take to truly innovate in construction? Should innovation be confined to one team or department, or should it become a collaborative, company-wide effort? In this episode of Bridging the Gap, Todd sits down with Trent Miskelly to explore these questions and the transformative power of AI in the construction industry. Together, they discuss how AI is revolutionizing workflows, enhancing project management, and unlocking new efficiencies. Trent also shares insights on the evolution and future potential of AI and robotics, as well as lessons from his journey with Document Crunch, a company dedicated to improving risk management in construction. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation about the future of innovation and technology in the industry!   Trent Miskelly is Chief Technology Officer at Document Crunch. He has over 20 years of experience in software development, product management, and operations, with a passion for building and scaling B2B software businesses. As the Chief Technology Officer at Document Crunch, he leads the strategy, execution, and growth of the first-of-its-kind solution transforming construction contracts and agreements into actionable insights, powered by a proprietary AI/ML engine. In addition to his role at Document Crunch, he is also an Operating Partner at Integr8d Capital, an early-stage venture capital firm that partners with extraordinary entrepreneurs driven to build enduring businesses. 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: Trent’s LinkedIn Document Crunch  

How can the construction industry strike the perfect balance between tradition and innovation—especially with AI in the mix? Join Todd and this week’s guest, Eric Helitzer of SubBase, for a great discussion on the evolution of technology. This episode delves into cost management, how experimentation and innovation go hand-in-hand, and the challenges inherent in adopting new technology. Eric Helitzer is Founder & CEO of SubBase. He is passionate about transforming the construction material management process with innovative, efficient, and user-friendly technology. He has over 12 years of experience in the construction and development industry, where he has honed his skills in value engineering, budgeting, operations, and CPM scheduling.   TODD TAKES Leadership Buy-In is Essential: Getting top-tier leadership to champion technology adoption is crucial for success. Their support enables alignment with business goals and ensures smoother downstream implementation. Start with Gentle Disruption: Begin technology adoption incrementally to avoid overwhelming the team. Focus on integrating basics first, then layer on advanced features step-by-step as familiarity grows. Proactive Data Management for Budget Control: Utilizing data proactively provides real-time insights into budgets, preventing overruns and improving cost management. Centralized systems streamline workflows and enhance decision-making efficiency. 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: Eric’s LinkedIn SubBase  

What if you could switch from a 43% success rate to 98.9%? And what if that switch was as simple as adopting BIM? Join Todd and guest Brian Chapman as they discuss the evolution of construction innovation, particularly when it comes to Building Information Modeling (BIM). Brian has extensive experience in the construction industry, and he emphasizes that BIM is not just for large projects but can be beneficial for all sizes. Brian Chapman is Founder of Lunix3D, a consulting firm specializing in ArchViz, BIM, and 3D Modeling. With over 25 years of experience, Brian’s journey into the construction industry began as a CAD specialist for AFS Fire, ensuring clash-free projects in a pre-BIM era. He then progressed to programming CAD applications and, later, creating 3D models for prominent multi-family developers and engineering firms. Brian expanded his expertise by serving as an on-site project engineer, and then as a project manager, on various multi-family projects. Recognizing the demand for BIM and 3D visualization services that truly address the challenges and requirements of the field, Brian founded Lunix3D to bridge the gap between cutting-edge tools and practical solutions. With a diverse background blending hands-on experience and technical expertise, Brian brings a unique perspective and unmatched insight to 3D technology application and coordination. TODD TAKES Communication and Willingness to Learn: Good communication and a mindset open to learning are the cornerstones of embracing a BIM workflow. Success often comes from teams willing to adapt and collaborate as they navigate new processes together. Building Buy-In with Leadership and Teams: When gaining buy-in for BIM, it’s all about speaking the language of your audience. Tailor the conversation to showcase the ROI in ways that resonate with decision-makers, whether that’s time savings, cost reductions, or increased efficiency. The Speed of Trust: I love the phrase “the speed of trust.” When you complete a project successfully while fostering strong relationships, it builds credibility. That trust creates momentum, acting as a snowball for future growth and collaboration.   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: Brian’s LinkedIn Lunix3D  

What is the most valuable resource in any organization, including construction? Human beings remain, and have always been, our best investment. Join Todd and guest Ed DeAngelis as they discuss several insights on creating a supportive environment, the need for continuous innovation in the industry, and the positive legacy of those who care for employees while achieving success in their business. Ed DeAngelis is CEO and Founder of EDA Contractors, Inc. Ed’s innovative personality has allowed EDA Contractors, Inc. to become a leader in its industry. Always looking for another challenge, Ed has continually provided his customers with knowledgeable and qualified employees that share his unique vision. EDA Contractors, Inc. has been recognized for the past three straight years in the top five as a Top Workplace in Philadelphia by the Philadelphia Inquirer. Ed holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Saint Joseph's University.   TODD TAKES Humanity is a Strategy: To bring your best self to work, you need to bring your whole self—emotions, life experiences, and work experiences. Ed’s powerful phrase, “Humanity is a strategy,” emphasizes the importance of embracing authenticity and emotional intelligence as a cornerstone of leadership and workplace culture. Embracing the Messiness of Emotions: Handling emotions well requires mindfulness and intentionality, especially in a high-pressure industry like construction. While emotions can be messy, construction professionals are some of the most creative problem solvers, uniquely equipped to navigate the complexities of human interaction. The Power of Being Exceptionally Average: Ed’s idea of being “exceptionally average” highlights the value of consistent, intentional effort over perfectionism. It’s about excelling in the fundamentals, which takes discipline and focus, ultimately leading to sustainable 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: Ed’s LinkedIn EDA Contractors, Inc.  

How do aging infrastructure and access to clean water relate? The two are more intertwined than you might think. Join Todd and guest Kenneth Driscol as they discuss the need for investment in public infrastructure, how access to water may look by the year 2050, and how sustainable AI solutions may come into play. Kenneth L. Driscol is a Sr. Civil Application Engineer at Applied Software, GRAITEC Group. He has a demonstrated history of working in the computer software industry. He is skilled in AutoCAD, Revit, Autodesk Software, Drainage, and Modeling. He is a strong engineering professional with a Civil Engineering/ Construction Technology focused in Transportation and Highway Engineering from The University of Akron. TODD TAKES Addressing Aging Infrastructure Proactively: Aging infrastructure isn’t something we can afford to ignore or push aside. It’s not an "out of sight, out of mind" problem—it’s a challenge we need to face head-on. By taking a proactive approach, we can ensure our systems stay safe, efficient, and built to last. Getting the Most Out of Your Data: When it comes to data, start by asking yourself: what do I want to learn? Once you’re clear on your goals, you can map out the right questions and create a framework for managing your data. With good governance and a little help from AI, those insights become game-changers. Feelings Aren’t Facts: “Feelings aren’t facts.” That one really hits home, doesn’t it? It’s so human to believe our emotions are the ultimate truth, but staying grounded in reality is what leads to smart decisions and better 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: Kenneth’s LinkedIn Applied Software, GRAITEC Group

What are the most essential ingredients in successful tech implementation? It’s tough to strike the balance between hard numbers and fostering company culture. Join Todd and guest Emily Edelstone as they discuss the importance of strategy, change management, and mentorship in construction. Emily Edelstone is a Technical Solutions Executive at Autodesk. In her role, she helps architecture, engineering, construction firms and owners leverage the power of Autodesk's software to improve their project outcomes, efficiency, and sustainability. With over 10 years of experience in the industry, she has a strong background in estimating, planning, and managing complex and large-scale projects. TODD TAKES Crawl, Walk, Run Approach to Technology Adoption: When implementing new technologies, start small with a "Crawl, Walk, Run" strategy. This phased approach allows for greater agility, the ability to learn from early steps, and the momentum to scale effectively. Ensure you have a strategic vision, clearly identifying who should be involved and the specific goals the new technology will help achieve. The Power of Consistency in Technology Workflows: Consistency is key to repeatability and success in technology implementation. Establish standard operating procedures for your technology workflows to maintain quality control and reliability. These standards ensure your team can execute with confidence and deliver predictable results every time. Embracing Diverse Perspectives through Reverse Mentorship: Building a culture of innovation requires openness to different perspectives and fresh ideas. Reverse mentorship, where younger employees mentor senior team members on emerging trends and technology, is a powerful way to foster collaboration and a forward-thinking mindset. Companies that embrace diverse ideas and adapt quickly are the ones leading in the technology race.   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: Emily’s LinkedIn DesignBuildLadies Autodesk