The ConTechCrew

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, Jeff Sample and Jacob D'Albora sit down with John Price to discuss the evolution of BIM, CAD, and digital transformation in engineering. John shares his journey from a non-traditional start in drafting and design to leading BIM transformation.He emphasizes the importance of bridging communication gaps between IT, leadership, and engineers, and how learning to "influence without authority" has been crucial in driving technology adoption. From his early days navigating AutoCAD to implementing BIM for the Navy and beyond, John reveals the hard lessons and rewarding moments that have shaped his approach to solving complex problems. Top Takeaways:The shift from drafting to model-based workflows requires a paradigm shift, not just a software change.Miscommunication is often the biggest barrier to successful tech implementation. Educating stakeholders on terminology and processes is key.Rather than trying to centralize all data in one place, focus on streamlining connections between different data silos.Building trust with leadership, IT, and finance teams is critical for getting new tools approved and adopted.The goal of BIM and data tools isn't just efficiency but creating better, more informed workflows.Episode Highlights:[00:00] – Intro of the episode. [01:26] – Jeff kicks off the show with John Price[02:31] – John’s unconventional journey into BIM and engineering[07:02] – The early challenges of transitioning from CAD to BIM[17:25] – Data management and avoiding information silos[27:09] – "Influence without authority" the key to driving change[34:08] – The role of leadership, IT, and finance in tech implementation[36:15] – Closing thoughts and wrap-upFollow the Guest: John Price (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-p-3ba7355a/ Follow the Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/Follow the Co-Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobdalbora/  

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample is joined by Nathan Wood and Trevor Baggett from Spring Valley Construction Company to discuss the latest developments in construction technology. They discuss Planera's free scheduling software for universities, the impact of tech adoption in education, and the importance of tech-forward trade schools. Trevor also shares his thoughts on Procore integration in high schools, upcoming construction tech events, and the growing influence of AI and reality capture in the field.Key Takeaways:Planera offers free cloud-based scheduling software to universities.Procore’s push into high schools is helping students gain hands-on experience with construction software.The value of early exposure to technology for students entering the construction field.ENR FutureTech & Procore Groundbreak.Texas State Technical College launches a construction technology program, bridging hands-on training with digital tools.How AI-powered tools like Otter.ai are shaping how teams document meetings and track progress.The role of data in construction: How smart tools can improve training, productivity, and safety.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:00] – Introduction to the Construction Technology News of the Week.[06:00] – GBCA Construction Tech Expo (May 15th): What to expect at this major industry event.[07:35] – Trevor’s upcoming events: ENR FutureTech & Procore Groundbreak in Houston.[09:10] – Texas State Technical College launches a new construction technology program.[12:50] – How data from smart tools can improve training and worker performance.[15:23] – Grow with google: career dreamer site. [19:28] – Trevor’s take on AI in construction and how he uses it for note-taking.[21:27] – Conclusion.Follow the Guest:Trevor Baggett (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-baggett-40914a6a/Spring Valley Construction Company (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/spring-valley-construction-company/ Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/SpringValleyConstructionCompany Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/enjoysvcc/ Twitter (Company): https://twitter.com/svccdallas Follow the Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/Follow the Co-Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanaec/ Hashtags:#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #DigitalTransformation #AI #RealityCapture #EducationTech #Procore #Outbuild #ConstructionInnovation

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample and co-host Nathan Wood sit down with Trevor Baggett from Spring Valley Construction Company. Trevor shares his journey from building sheds with his uncle as a kid to becoming a Construction Technology Manager. He discusses how SkillsUSA shaped his career, his transition into teaching, and how he’s driving technology adoption in the construction industry. From Procore implementation to digital scheduling and OpenSpace reality capture, Trevor explains how his team is streamlining operations while keeping the field teams engaged.Key Takeaways:How early hands-on experience led Trevor to a career in construction technology.The role of SkillsUSA in developing teamwork and leadership in the industry.Lessons learned from Procore implementation and why buy-in from the field is critical.The shift to Outbuild for digital scheduling and its impact on project efficiency.How OpenSpace reality capture is transforming remodels and site monitoring.The importance of patience, continuous learning, and cross-industry knowledge in construction technology roles.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:00] – Introduction to the episode. [02:27] – Trevor’s early start in construction: Building sheds at 11 & learning electrical work.[03:39] – Competing in SkillsUSA and how it prepared him for the industry.[08:16] – First job in construction and first experience with Procore implementation.[09:45] – Transition to Spring Valley Construction and joining the tech committee.[15:00] – Leaving construction to become a SkillsUSA instructor and what he learned.[20:03] – Integration between Outbuild and Procore for seamless scheduling.[27:14] – Expanding reality capture with OpenSpace for remodels and site documentation.[31:48] – Why diverse career experiences make you a better construction technologist.[33:20] – Final advice for tech leaders: Patience, research, and continuous learning.Follow the Guest:Trevor Baggett (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-baggett-40914a6a/Spring Valley Construction Company (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/spring-valley-construction-company/ Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/SpringValleyConstructionCompany Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/enjoysvcc/ Twitter (Company): https://twitter.com/svccdallas Follow the Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/Follow the Co-Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanaec/ Hashtags:#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #DigitalTransformation #RealityCapture #Scheduling #SkillsUSA #Procore #Outbuild #OpenSpace

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample and co-host Trent Leinenbach welcome Ken Gray, Co-Founder of Dig Robotics and former Chief Innovation Officer at Caterpillar. Ken shares his journey from childhood dreams of working with heavy equipment to leading innovation in the construction and mining industries. The conversation discusses how Dig Robotics is revolutionizing excavation by using AI, machine vision, and automation to enhance operator performance and efficiency. Ken explains why construction isn’t slow to adopt technology; it just demands real, measurable value.Key Takeaways:Ken’s journey from engineering at Caterpillar to co-founding Dig Robotics.The evolution of heavy equipment from mechanical machines to high-tech systems.How AI, machine vision, and automation improve excavation productivity.The importance of defining innovation in construction technology.Why construction companies adopt new tech only when it provides clear business value.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[01:29] – Introduction to Ken Gray and his background in heavy equipment innovation.[02:05] – AI excellence in Construction Summit next week on April 2nd.[02:54] – Ken’s early passion for construction equipment and engineering.[09:54] – Advice on career growth and leadership in construction technology.[15:08] – The evolution of heavy equipment from mechanical to digital.[25:20] – Dig Robotics’ mission: Enhancing human operators, not replacing them.[34:42] – How AI-driven feedback helps operators achieve peak efficiency.[44:43] – The future of automation and operator training.[48:49] – Final thoughts on approaching innovation in construction.AI Excellence in Construction Summit: PlacerSolutions.ioFollow the Guest:Dig Robotics (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/digrobotics/Ken Gray (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/kengrayinclusiveinnovation/ Follow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrewTwitter (X): https://x.com/TheConTechCrewHashtags:#ConTechCrew #Excavation #ConstructionTech #AI #Automation #HeavyEquipment #Innovation #DigRobotics

In this special episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample welcomes Josh Levy, Co-Founder & CEO of Document Crunch, to discuss the impact of tariffs on the construction industry. They get into how contractors can protect their projects, the importance of auditing contracts for risk exposure, and strategies for maintaining resilience in uncertain times. Josh also shares how Document Crunch is offering a free tool to help contractors assess tariff related risks and make informed decisions.Key Takeaways:How tariffs are affecting material costs and construction contracts.The importance of auditing contracts for price escalation clauses.Strategies for mitigating risk and maintaining project stability.Why industry collaboration is essential in overcoming economic challenges.The role of technology in making contract analysis more efficient.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:00] - Introduction to the episode.  [02:25] - Tariff work at document crunch. [09:31] - Understanding the financial risks of tariffs in ongoing projects[17:25] - How Document Crunch’s free tool helps contractors assess risk exposure.[23:22] - The importance of proactive contract management.[26:40] - Final thoughts: How construction professionals can stay ahead.Direct Tariff link with embed: https://www.documentcrunch.com/2025-tariffs?utm_campaign=9672881-ConTech Crew Podcast&utm_source=Jeff Sample Newsletter&utm_medium=Sponsored Ad&utm_term=Tariffs Demo&utm_content=March 2025Special link: https://www.documentcrunch.com/contechcrewFollow the Guest & Company:Document Crunch (Website): https://www.documentcrunch.comDocument Crunch (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/document-crunch/ Document crunch (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/documentcrunch/  Document crunch (Twitter): https://x.com/DocumentCrunch Document crunch (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/documentcrunch/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-levy-/Follow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrewTwitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrewHashtags:#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #Tariffs #ContractManagement #RiskMitigation #DocumentCrunch #ConstructionIndustry #AEC #Innovation

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample welcomes James Cosman and Kendall Bachman from VeilSun to discuss the evolving role of technology in the construction industry. They explore how companies can move beyond outdated processes, leverage low-code solutions, and avoid the pitfalls of traditional software development. James and Kendall share their experiences on reducing data silos, improving business workflows, and why adaptability is critical in today’s rapidly evolving construction tech landscape.Key Takeaways:The three stages of technology adoption in construction.Challenges with traditional software and the benefits of low-code, no-code solutions.How construction companies can streamline workflows and reduce inefficiencies.The importance of maintaining a company’s unique processes while adopting new technology.Why businesses need to prepare their data now for future AI advancements.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:00] – Introduction of the episode.[00:05] – Introduction to James Cosman and Kendall Bachman from VeilSun.[02:56] – James’ background and VeilSun’s focus on low-code solutions for construction.[06:11] – The three stages of technology adoption in the construction industry.[11:59] – Full-stack development vs. low-code solutions: The cost and efficiency debate.[15:59] – The “LEGO” analogy: Pre-built vs. custom-built software solutions.[24:04] – Reducing data silos and maintaining a company’s competitive advantage.[28:57] – The potential of technology to transform project-level collaboration.[35:02] – The role of AI in construction and why companies need to prepare now.[38:11] – Final thoughts and where to find VeilSun.Follow the Guests:VeilSun (LinkedIn):  https://www.linkedin.com/company/veilsun-inc-/ VeilSun Website: https://www.veilsun.comJames Cosman (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamescosmanKendall Bachman (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendallbachmanFollow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrewTwitter (X): https://x.com/TheConTechCrewHashtags:#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #LowCode #DigitalTransformation #AI #Innovation #ProcessImprovement #TechnologyIntegration

In this special news edition of The ConTech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Jacob D’Albora are joined by Katelyn Sanchez to discuss the latest advancements in construction technology, workforce development, and AI-driven facility management. They discuss SkillsUSA's expanding role in preparing the next generation of tradespeople, the growing demand for facility management professionals, and how adaptability is key in an evolving industry. Plus, they highlight Veridi’s efforts in training disadvantaged communities for careers in renewable energy.Key Takeaways:The expansion of Facilithon through SkillsUSA and its impact on facility management careers.The role of digital tools and AI in optimizing facility operations.How adaptability is driving change in facility management and construction.The importance of clear communication in leadership and technology adoption.How Veridi is transforming workforce development in underserved communities.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[01:04] – Facilithon expands to 20 states, introducing high schoolers to facility management.[03:24] – Katelyn’s take on SkillsUSA and its role in bridging trade gaps.[05:35] – Emerging facility management technology trends in 2025.[07:44] – The importance of data and AI in facility optimization.[14:45] – Why CTOs need to communicate technology strategies in business terms.[18:43] – Leadership lessons in simplifying complex technology concepts.[24:08] – How Veridi is creating green job opportunities in disadvantaged communities.[28:33] – Final thoughts on workforce training and industry growth.Follow the Guest & Topics Discussed:VIATechnik (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/viatechnik/VIATechnik (Website): https://www.viatechnik.com/VIATechnik (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/VIATechnik SkillsUSA: https://www.skillsusa.org/Facilithon: https://www.fmpipeline.org/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelyn-sanchez-srvdcmanager/ Follow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrewTwitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrewHashtags:#ConTechCrew #ConstructionNews #SkillsUSA #FacilityManagement #AI #DigitalTwins #TechLeadership #GreenJobs #WorkforceDevelopment

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Jacob D’Albora welcome Katelyn Sanchez, Senior VDC Manager at VIATechnik. They discuss Katelyn’s journey from woodworking to becoming a leader in construction technology, the importance of early BIM adoption, and how owners can drive better project outcomes. Katelyn shares her experiences on collaboration, navigating industry challenges, and why adaptability is key in the evolving AEC landscape.Key Takeaways:Katelyn’s transition from woodworking to BIM and VDC leadership.The value of early BIM adoption and owner-driven coordination.Overcoming industry resistance to new technology.The impact of customer service skills on construction collaboration.How work-life balance contributes to long-term career success.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[02:16] – Katelyn’s background: From woodworking to construction technology.[10:08] – Lessons from early career experiences in BIM coordination and owners. [16:40] – Technology changes and approach to the projects. [26:27] – The importance of owner-driven BIM initiatives.[30:49] – The role of mentorship and leadership in career growth.[43:33] – Final thoughts.Follow the Guest:VIATechnik (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/viatechnik/VIATechnik (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/VIATechnik VIATechnik (Website): https://www.viatechnik.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelyn-sanchez-srvdcmanager/ Follow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrewTwitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrewHashtags:#ConTechCrew #BIM #ConstructionTech #DigitalTransformation #VDC #TechnologyIntegration #AEC #Workflows #Innovation

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood are joined by Hammad Chaudhry, Vice President of Market Development and Partnerships at Timescapes, to discuss the latest developments in construction technology, including the impact of tariff fears, economic interdependence in North America, and the evolving role of AI in construction. The conversation gets into global political and economic trends and their influence on the construction industry, while also highlighting how technology can help find these changes.Key Takeaways:How tariff speculation is already driving construction material costs higher.The economic interdependence of the U.S. and Canada and its implications for construction.The role of politics in shaping the future of business and innovation.AI and automation: The rise of AI-driven workflows and their impact on the industry.Why construction firms must adapt to technological advancements for long-term success.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [01:08] – Tariff fears and the biggest construction cost jump in two years. [06:50] – The role of technology in government and its inefficiencies. [12:55] – Government restructuring and its potential effects on tech regulation. [21:18] – AI and automation: The rise of AI-driven workflows and their impact. [27:24] – How companies should prepare for AI-driven transformations in the industry. [30:00] – Closing thoughts. Follow the Guest (Hammad Chaudhry)Timescapes(LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/timescapes/ Timescapes(Website): https://www.timescapes.co/ Timescapes(Youtube): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRsWndvE3n68hMTCVXApW-A LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/hammad-chaudhry-a4957365/ Twitter: https://x.com/hammadachaudhry Follow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrew Twitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew Hashtags:#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #Tariffs #Economy #DigitalTransformation #AI #ConstructionInnovation #ProjectManagement #FieldTech #TechnologyIntegration

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood welcome back Hammad Chaudhry, Vice President of Market Development and Partnerships at Timescapes. They discuss the challenges of construction data management, the evolving role of innovation in the industry, and the importance of integrating new technology into project workflows. Hammad shares his journey from architecture to construction technology leadership, on how digital solutions can bridge the gaps in project efficiency.Key Takeaways:Hammad’s transition from project coordination to construction innovation leadership.The challenges of implementing new technology on construction sites.How AI and automation are influencing construction workflows.The importance of data transparency and collaboration in the industry.The role of digital tools like Timescapes in improving project visibility and efficiency.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[01:00] – Welcoming Hammad Chaudhry back to the show.[03:10] – Hammad’s background: From architecture to construction innovation.[08:51] – Lessons from early career experiences on the job site.[12:37] – Transitioning from project teams to corporate innovation roles.[19:07] – Overcoming challenges in data sharing and technology adoption.[24:41] – The impact of computer vision and digital tools in construction.[31:18] – Achieving the "aha moment" with new technology.[35:15] – Final thoughts on the future of construction technology.Follow the Guest:Timescapes(LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/timescapes/ Timescapes(Website): https://www.timescapes.co/ Timescapes(Youtube): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRsWndvE3n68hMTCVXApW-A LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/hammad-chaudhry-a4957365/ Twitter: https://x.com/hammadachaudhry Follow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrew Twitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew Hashtags:#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #DigitalTransformation #AI #ConstructionInnovation #ProjectManagement #FieldTech #TechnologyIntegration