The ConTechCrew - podcast cover

The ConTechCrew

Jeff Sampleredcircle.com
The Future is Built! Learn more at: https://thecontechcrew.com/

Welcome to The ConTechCrew, hosted by Jeff Sample!

Here, we discuss innovation and all things construction tech, including hardware, software, devices, apps, and the strategies for applying them to construction projects.

Tune in each week to get your latest construction tech news update.

Follow us on social media and join the conversation: @TheConTechCrew
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Episodes

Google’s AI Policy Change is Reshaping Construction Site Monitoring with Trent & Travis

In this special mashup of The ConTech Crew and Construction Dorks , host Jeff Sample teams up with Travis Voss and Trent Leinenbach to discuss the latest in construction technology news. From billion-dollar investments in data centers to shifts in energy production and AI advancements, this episode covers the hottest topics making waves at the MEP Innovation conference. The trio unpacks industry trends, shares personal experiences, and delivers a hefty dose of humor, all while discussing the cha...

Feb 13, 202531 min

AI and Data Are Taking Over MEP Leadership and VDC Tech | Travis & Trent

In this special crossover episode of The ConTech Crew and Construction Dorks , Jeff Sample teams up with Travis Voss and Trent Leinenbach to recap their time at MEP Innovation in Los Angeles. They discuss the biggest takeaways from the event, including the evolution of leadership in the MEP industry, the growing importance of data, and how AI is reshaping the construction landscape. With stories from the conference floor, reflections on the best sessions, and even a little swag critique, this ep...

Feb 11, 202538 min

The $500B Data Center Expansion Is at Risk Due to a Massive Construction Labor Shortage with Robert Brown

In this episode of The ConTech Crew News, hosts Jeff Sample, Jacob D’Albora, and guest Robert Brown get into the most pressing trends shaping the construction technology landscape. They discuss how advancements in technology are driving diversity and inclusion, creating new opportunities for underrepresented groups, and addressing labor shortages. They also tackle the industry’s readiness to handle massive investments in data infrastructure. Key Takeaways: How technology and flexible policies ar...

Feb 06, 202525 min

How DFW Airport Used BIM and AI to Revolutionize a $15 Billion Construction Project with Robert Brown

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample, alongside Jacob D’Albora, welcomes Robert Brown, Senior Tech Lead at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). Robert shares his journey from land surveying to leading the BIM and digital transformation efforts at one of the busiest airports in the world. Packed with humor, insights, and lessons learned, this conversation gets into the challenges and triumphs of implementing innovative technology in construction and operations. Key Take...

Feb 04, 202541 min

AI Solutions for Construction Professionals to Eliminate Waste and Improve Safety with Angel Say

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample is joined by Ariel Castillo and guest CEO at Resolve Angel Say to deliver this week’s top construction technology news. The discussion covers groundbreaking AI developments from EarthCam, a new platform connecting academia with industry, reflections on net neutrality, and insights on achieving productivity through better planning and flow state. Key Takeaways: Blending Safety and Technology: Learn how EarthCam’s visual AI is revolutionizing j...

Jan 30, 202532 min

VR Solutions for Construction Leaders to Eliminate Costly Errors with Resolve by Angel Say

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample, joined by Ariel Castillo, sits down with Angel Say, CEO and Co-Founder of Resolve. Together, they get into the transformative role of Virtual Reality (VR) in Building Information Modeling (BIM) and how Resolve is bridging the gap between design and operability in construction. Angel shares his views on creating issue-free models, improving user experience, and advancing coordination processes. Key Takeaways: Angel’s Journey: From FIRST Robot...

Jan 28, 202540 min

Labor Shortages and Innovation in the Rise of Subscription Services and AI Ethics with Peyton Kringlie

In this episode of The ConTech Crew , hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood and guest Peyton Kringlie Vice President of Corporate Strategy at LS Black, discuss the latest trends, predictions, and challenges the construction technology is facing as we step into 2025. The conversation covers the rise of interoperability, advancements in precise positioning, and the growing importance of worksite safety technology. Listeners will get information about the shifting dynamics of labor shortages, the evolu...

Jan 23, 202524 min

How The Tinkering Mindset Solves Complex Construction Problems with Peyton Kringlie

In this episode of The ConTech Crew , Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood sit down with Peyton Kringlie, Vice President of Corporate Strategy at LS Black, to discuss the evolving role of technology in construction. Peyton shares his journey from a family-owned materials supply background to becoming a tech-enabled leader shaping the strategic direction of a $150 million general contractor. This episode gets deep into Peyton's unique approach to leadership, problem-solving, and fostering a culture of inn...

Jan 21, 202535 min

Essential Skills for Construction Professionals to Succeed in the Age of AI with Susan Brattberg

In this episode of The ConTech Crew Podcast, host Jeff Sample, joined by Nathan Wood and special guest Susan Brattberg, gets into the latest trends and breakthroughs in construction technology. Susan, the founder of Global eTraining, brings her expertise to discuss how cross-pollination, collaboration, and innovative tools are reshaping the AEC industry. The conversation also highlights the importance of using data effectively, leveraging AI and robotics, and the growing role of sustainability a...

Jan 16, 202531 min

How Virtual Training Is Revolutionizing Construction Learning with Susan Brattberg

In this episode of The ConTech Crew , host Jeff Sample, joined by Nathan Wood sits down with Susan Brattberg, founder and Chief Customer Officer of Global eTraining. Together, they discussed the transformative role of digital learning in the construction industry, emphasizing the power of blended learning approaches, AI-powered custom training, and project-specific solutions to enhance technology adoption. Susan discusses her journey in founding Global e-Training, the challenges of moving from i...

Jan 14, 202541 min

AI Tools for Contractors to Streamline Projects with Tooey Courtemanche in 2025

In this insightful episode of The ConTech Crew , host Jeff Sample engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Tooey Courtemanche, CEO of Procore Technologies. Together, they explore the evolution of the construction industry over the last decade, the transformative power of technology, and the role of leadership in fostering innovation. Tooey reflects on Procore's journey, industry trends, and the importance of mental health awareness in construction. Whether you're a construction professio...

Jan 07, 202551 min

Digital Collaboration Tools for Contractors to Master Real-Time Problem Solving with Alex Sidorov

In this episode of The ConTech Crew , host Jeff Sample is joined by Nathan Wood and special guest Alex Sidorov the COO and CFO of Gamma AR , a leading company in augmented reality for construction. They explore critical topics such as the challenges of BIM integration, the future role of AI in construction, and how human collaboration can reshape the industry. The conversation highlights key challenges within construction projects, including fragmented workflows, the need for open data integrati...

Jan 02, 202535 min

Improving Construction’s Image with B1M’s Fred Mills

In today’s episode, we are delighted to be joined by a huge figure in the construction industry: Fred Mills from B1M! B1M has over 2 million subscribers and is one of the largest channels in the construction industry. Fred is an entrepreneur and founder of B1M and TomorrowsBuild. He has become a global figure in construction video and a role model to millions of people interested in or already working in construction. His mission is to fundamentally alter the perception of construction on planet...

Dec 31, 20241 hr 12 min

Can AI Be the Brain of Your Construction Project? | Dr. Sarah Buchner, CEO & Founder at Trunk Tools

EPISODE 420: How do general contractors (GCs) spend most of their time? A recent study conducted on job sites reveals that GCs spend only 8% of their time in the field. The rest is consumed by tasks such as documenting discrepancies (16%), searching for the right information (15%), and meeting preparation (13%). Why are we wasting so much of these skilled professional’s time doing paperwork? Enter Trunk Tools–a platform designed to optimize workflows, enhance collaboration, and achieve a high le...

Dec 26, 20241 hr 12 min

AR Tools in Construction for Project Managers to Eliminate Rework with Alex Sidorov

In this episode of The ConTech Crew , hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood are joined by Alex Sidorov , the COO and CFO of Gamma AR , a leading company in augmented reality for construction. Together, they explore the evolving role of AR, the challenges in adopting new technologies, and the importance of integrating innovation into the construction workflow. Alex shares his fascinating transition from a corporate finance background to the construction technology sector. He discusses the myths, real...

Dec 24, 202438 min

The Innovation Blueprint for Contractors to Reinvent Processes with Charlie Dunn

In this episode of The Contech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood sit down with Charlie Dunn, a construction industry expert passionate about integrating technology and leadership to shape the future of construction. Charlie shares his journey, the challenges faced in modern construction projects, and how embracing innovation can lead to transformative growth in the industry. Discover how Charlie's leadership strategies, combined with cutting-edge tools, can inspire teams and drive projects...

Dec 19, 202439 min

Visual Planning Secrets for Project Managers to Maximize Efficiency with Charlie Dunn

In this engaging episode of The ConTech Crew , hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood sit down with Charlie Dunn, a thought leader in the construction industry and a self-described "project storyteller." Charlie shares his journey from nuclear projects to construction, focusing on how visual planning and collaborative approaches can transform projects and drive efficiency. From lessons learned in manufacturing and nuclear sectors to pioneering collaborative techniques in construction, Charlie reveals...

Dec 17, 202440 min

AI-Powered Solutions for Contractors to Overcome Paper Processes with Bob Salaj

In this engaging episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample is joined by Bob Salaj, Director of Customer Advisory for Construction at QuickBase, for a comprehensive recap of Procore Groundbreak. The conversation explores industry trends, innovative technologies, and the practical application of cutting-edge tools in construction. With a focus on bridging the gap between field operations and technology, Bob and Jeff discuss how solutions like QuickBase and Procore are transforming workflows an...

Dec 10, 202444 min

From Robotics to AI: The Surprising Advances in Construction Tech in 2024

EPISODE 437: How did 2024 shape the construction tech world? Did it live up to its promise? Join us in this special episode with co-hosts Ariel Castillo and Nathan Wood as we revisit our predictions for the “Year of Information” and spotlight the groundbreaking innovations transforming construction. From AI-driven compliance tools to autonomous robotics like TyBOT, this conversation explores how technology is reshaping one of the world’s oldest industries. We also discuss some major breakthrough...

Dec 03, 202452 minEp. 437

How Storytelling Can Break Tech Fears and Drive Inclusion with Meaghan Ziemba, Founder of Mavens of Manufacturing Podcast

EPISODE 436: Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the rapid pace of automation? You’re not alone! Many worry about the impact of technology on their jobs. But what if you could turn that fear into opportunity? In this week’s episode, my co-host Nathan Wood and I sit down with Meaghan Ziemba, founder and host of the Mavens of Manufacturing Podcast. Meaghan shares how storytelling is reshaping industries, empowering women in STEM, and engaging the next generation through creativity and play. From con...

Nov 26, 202441 minEp. 436

Why Cloud-Based Estimating is Changing Construction Forever | Dustin DeVan, CEO of Ediphi

EPISODE 435: Are you still using outdated tools like Excel for estimating? Time to switch to the cloud! In this week’s episode of The ConTech Crew, my co-host Nathan Wood and I sit down with Dustin DeVan, CEO of Ediphi, a cloud-based estimating tool. Dustin, who also founded BuildingConnected (later acquired by Autodesk), shares his journey from general contracting to pioneering cloud-based tools for cost estimation. Ediphi’s cloud-based platform offers a collaborative, adaptable approach to man...

Nov 19, 202445 minEp. 435

Ignoring Industry Expertise Could Ruin Your Construction Tech Strategy–Here’s How | Usman Shuja

EPISODE 434: We are in an exciting, transformative era where new technologies, like AI, are reshaping industries at every level. But is the construction industry truly prepared to embrace these advances without fear? In this week’s episode, Jeff Sample chats with Usman Shuja, the CEO of Bluebeam, about how AI and technology impact the construction industry. With a background in AI development across high-stakes industries, Usman provides a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities f...

Nov 12, 202438 minEp. 434

Why Construction Owners Must Rethink Their Data Strategy Now | Nick Caravella of Avicado

EPISODE 433: Imagine a construction site where every tech tool talks to each other seamlessly–no re-entry, no manual updates–just data flowing effortlessly. Sounds ambitious, right? In this episode of The ConTech Crew, Nathan Wood and I sit down with Nick Caravella, Director of Growth and Industry Strategy at Avicado, a company dedicated to helping construction owners and teams create a connected digital workflow. Today, Nick shares how his background in architecture shaped his understanding of ...

Nov 05, 20241 hr 5 minEp. 433

Groundbreak 2024: The Future of Construction Technology Unveiled w/ Wyatt Jenkins, Chief Product Officer at Procore

EPISODE 432: Is your construction process as efficient as it could be? In this week’s episode, Wyatt Jenkins, Chief Product Officer at Procore, shares insights into how Procore is revolutionizing the construction industry with its latest innovations and what to expect at Groundbreak 2024. With deep roots in construction, Wyatt brings a personal touch to the discussion, highlighting Procore’s commitment to creating safer, more productive job sites through cutting-edge technology, like AI and auto...

Oct 31, 20241 hrEp. 432

Is Automation Making Your Job Obsolete?! | Construction Dorks

EPISODE 431: Have you ever wondered if robots are quietly replacing jobs across industries like construction, shipping, manufacturing, or even tech? In this week’s special episode of The ConTech Crew, we team up with our friends at The Construction Dorks Podcast for a deep dive into the shrinking SaaS market and the rise of automation. Industry experts Jonathan Marsh, Trent Leinenbach, and Travis Voss discuss why companies are reconsidering their software strategies, whether robots should be tax...

Oct 22, 202439 minEp. 431

Build vs. Buy: What Big Construction Companies Aren’t Telling You About Software Development | Samantha Erlich & Kersti Nurka of EllisDon

EPISODE 430: Are you looking to design a software solution that perfectly fits your construction business needs? In this week’s episode, we dive into how EllisDon, a Canadian-based construction leader, has quietly developed its own digital tools to streamline operations and maximize efficiency. To give us an in-depth look at how EllisDon does it, we’re joined today by Samantha Erlich, Director of Product, and Kersti Nurka, UX Manager, who both represent the software development arm of EllisDon C...

Oct 15, 202447 minEp. 430

Hidden Dangers of the Pro Codes Act–What You Need to Know | Scott Reynolds, Co-Founder & CEO of UpCodes

EPISODE 429: Have you ever been knee-deep in a project, only to discover you’ve missed a crucial building code? It’s frustrating and costly, right? What if you could avoid those mistakes with just a few clicks? Meet Scott Reynolds, co-founder & CEO of UpCodes, who’s leading a revolution in construction by providing open access to building codes through an online platform. In this episode, my co-host Nathan Wood and I sit down with Scott to discuss the critical role building codes play in con...

Oct 08, 20241 hr 4 minEp. 429

THIS AI Tool Will Change Everything You Know About Workforce Management with Lou Perez, Founding Member of Lumber

EPISODE 428: Ever dreamed of ditching the headaches of managing your construction crew to focus on what you do best–building? Today’s guest has the perfect solution to your problem. In this week’s episode, my co-host Nathan Wood and I sit down with Lou Perez, a former pro snowboarder turned tech entrepreneur. Lou shares his story of transitioning from pro snowboarding to carpentry and ultimately co-founding Lumber, an AI-powered workforce management platform built specifically for the constructi...

Oct 01, 202453 minEp. 428

Why Most Digital Twins FAIL (And How to Do It Right) | Dylan Underhill, BIM/VDC Advisor at Trillium Advisory Group

EPISODE 427: Digital twin has become a buzzword–but what does it really mean? In this episode, my co-host, Tannis Liviniuk, and I sit down with Dylan Underhill, a BIM and VDC consultant at Trillium Advisory Group, to break down the concept of digital twins. Today, we’ll explore how digital twins function more as a workflow and methodology, the best strategies in building a digital twin, and the challenges of bridging the generational gap in construction–especially when it comes to adopting new t...

Sep 24, 20241 hr 12 minEp. 427

Can Technology Solve Construction’s Communication & Collaboration Crisis? (A Live Episode)

EPISODE 426: Research shows that 13% of a construction professional’s workday is spent looking for information that they need to do their jobs. Let that sink in. But is technology alone the answer to this crisis? In this week’s special episode, live from The ECC Future Leaders Conference, I’m joined by industry experts Tannis Liviniuk and Nathan Wood to discuss the ongoing challenges in construction communication and collaboration. We’ll dive into how construction teams are often bogged down by ...

Sep 17, 202451 minEp. 426
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