The ConTechCrew

The hosts reflect on 2025 as a challenging year, likening it to a 'dumpster fire' while highlighting major industry shifts. AI's hype contrasts sharply with the need for realistic outcomes in construction. Contractors are increasingly leveraging data for smarter decision-making. Prefabrication has gained traction, especially in mechanical and electrical sectors, addressing labor shortages. Mergers and acquisitions are shaping the landscape, pushing for industry scalability. The crew emphasizes a hopeful outlook for collaboration and practical innovation moving forward.

Usman Shuja, CEO of Bluebeam, shares his extensive experience in AI and construction technology. He discusses the importance of respecting domain expertise while navigating digital transformation in the construction industry. Usman highlights challenges in tech adoption, offering change management strategies like clear communication and training. He also delves into Bluebeam's plans for 2025, emphasizing ethical AI use, productivity gains, and the potential pitfalls of unregulated AI. The conversation is a rich exploration of the future of technology in construction.

In this enlightening conversation, Tooey Courtemanche, CEO of Procore Technologies and a leader in construction tech, discusses the industry's transformative journey. He highlights the impact of mobile technology, AR, and robotics in reshaping construction workflows. Tooey emphasizes the importance of mental health initiatives and shares Procore's mission to enhance well-being in the sector. The discussion also delves into how generative AI is optimizing project management and the need for strong leadership in driving innovation and addressing workforce gaps.

In this festive discussion, the crew dives into the coolest tech gifts for construction enthusiasts. They highlight innovative wearables like Oura Ring and WHOOP for health tracking. The benefits of cold plunges and portable saunas take center stage alongside practical gadgets like Bluetooth beanies. Retro gaming consoles make an appearance as fun breaks on job sites. The hosts also stress the importance of rest, play, and giving thoughtful gifts during the holidays, blending tech enthusiasm with wellness.

Join Ross Helleberg and Alex Belkofer from McCarthy Building Company as they delve into innovative scheduling and visual planning in construction. Ross, with over 14 years in scheduling, emphasizes the importance of on-site schedulers for better forecasting and collaboration. Alex discusses bridging pre-construction with operations using VDC and 4D scheduling to visualize project timelines. They also share success stories in adopting these methods, highlighting how strong team relationships and structured processes drive efficiency in project delivery.

Scott Kaplan, Founder of Jerry's Kitchen, shares insights from his journey of providing large-scale catering for construction sites. He discusses the challenge of feeding 1,500 workers in just 30 minutes and how technology enhances efficiency. Kaplan explains the importance of predictability in catering operations and how this focus has boosted productivity and morale on job sites. He also highlights the positive impact on local economies and the value of human-centric service in the age of app-driven food delivery.

Jen Clark, Project Integration Manager at General Sheet Metal, shares her unconventional journey from civil engineer to tech leader. She discusses the power of low-code applications in modernizing construction workflows and how curiosity has been her guiding force. Jen also dives into the balance between operations and IT, tackling shadow IT and driving tech adoption in a traditional industry. With insights on building effective tech roadmaps and acting as a 'human API,' her experience inspires new ways to innovate in construction.

Nitin Bhandari, Co-founder and CEO of Planera, revolutionizes construction scheduling through innovative technology. He discusses the challenges faced in traditional scheduling and how Planera utilizes AI to create seamless connections between field and office operations. Nitin emphasizes shifting scheduling from a compliance tool to a business decision tool, empowering teams with data-driven insights. He also touches on the importance of role-based access for owners and the potential of natural language processing to enhance user interaction with scheduling.

Tyler Williams, a member of DPR Construction's Corporate Innovation team, has a rich background as a union carpenter and superintendent. He dives into the transformative role of robotics on construction sites, highlighting ergonomic benefits and improved safety. Tyler explains how teleoperated robots handle high-risk tasks and discusses innovative technologies like co-botic scaffolding and material movers that enhance efficiency. He also addresses the importance of education-led tech adoption and preserving craft knowledge in the age of AI.

Don Tiefenbrunn, a seasoned architect-turned-construction leader, and Steve Botz, a construction tech expert, dive into the often-overlooked pre-construction phase. They discuss how RMOne emerged from real frustrations with fragmented data in construction planning. The duo emphasizes the importance of integrating technology at the start of projects, the pitfalls of relying on Excel, and the practicality of their user-centric platform. They also touch on how small contractors can access affordable solutions while capturing non-job costs to safeguard profitability.