The Matthew Byrd Podcast

In this episode of the Matthew Byrd podcast, former owner and president of Visual Precision Solutions, Matthew Craig, shares an in-depth look at his career journey from being a draftsman in 1978 to pioneering laser scanning technology. Matthew discusses the evolution of CAD systems, the early challenges and advancements in reality capture, and the critical importance of practical application over technology. He reflects on the importance of education, training, and effective work processes. This episode provides valuable insights into the constant need for adaptation and innovation in engineering and construction industries, emphasizing the significance of communication, humility, and continuous learning for young professionals.00:00 Introduction and Accusations04:07 Early Career Beginnings09:19 Challenges and Innovations in Reality Capture13:15 Adoption and Evolution of Laser Scanning18:44 Technological Advancements and Industry Impact23:34 Adapting to Change in the Industry34:42 Interactive Planning and Technology Integration35:51 Challenges in Implementing Dimensional Execution Strategy38:33 Future of Industry: Data Capture and Robotics43:30 Better, Faster, Cheaper, Safer: Business Models45:25 Leadership and Mentorship in Engineering53:21 Adapting to Technological Changes01:04:39 Advice for Young Professionals01:10:17 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this week's episode of the Matthew Byrd Podcast, innovator and highly driven entrepreneur Josh Lustig joins Matthew in the studio. Josh discusses his journey from growing up in a small town in central Idaho to building and eventually selling his insurance business for nearly $50 million. Josh shares how hard work, instilled by his farm upbringing, and a passion for personal development helped him succeed. He emphasizes the importance of taking action and stepping out of your comfort zone. Together, Matthew and Josh explore insights on mentorship, the value of soft skills, and inspiring the next generation through personal development and practical human skills. Don't miss this inspiring conversation filled with actionable advice for both seasoned entrepreneurs and young dreamers.

Join Matthew Byrd for an incredible conversation with Brad Adams, Senior Vice President of Transportation at Sanborn Geospatial, as he shares his remarkable journey from lifeguard to laser scanning pioneer. Brad was there when some of the first CAD systems arrived at TxDOT and owned laser scanner #24 in the world back in 2003!key Topics Covered:- Early CAD Implementation - Being on the ground floor of digital transformation in transportation engineering- LiDAR Pioneer Stories - From Project Pegasus in Dallas to building the industry from scratch- Technology Adoption Challenges- Why some brilliant professionals still haven't seen a point cloud- Innovation Philosophy - "Yeah, we can do that" mentality and figuring it out as you go- Data Integration Future - Building the digital conduit for transportation safety- Public Speaking & Leadership - Essential skills for advancing geospatial technology- Industry Evolution - From assumed coordinate systems to real-world integrationGuest Bio: Brad Adams is Senior Vice President of Transportation at Sanborn Geospatial, where he blends aerial mapping, LiDAR, GIS consulting, and content programs into comprehensive transportation solutions. With over 20 years in geospatial technology, Brad has been instrumental in digital transformation across major DOT projects and was a key figure in early laser scanning adoption.Timestamps:0:00 Introduction2:30 From lifeguard to construction to engineering8:15 Early CAD implementation at TxDOT12:45 Getting into laser scanning at Bohan18:30 Project Pegasus and proving LiDAR25:20 Technology adoption challenges32:10 Innovation and "figuring it out"40:15 Data integration and metadata48:30 Future vision for transportation safety52:45 Leadership principles and teamwork58:20 Advice for young professionals

Join us in this episode of the Matthew Byrd Podcast as we sit down with Dan Mall, founder of Make More Money, Design System University, and Dan Mall Teaches. Dan reflects on his journey, beginning with his early creative endeavors and his near-hiring experience with Facebook under Mark Zuckerberg. Discussing his love of basketball, Philly culture, and his creative inspirations, Dan shares how he grew from internships to running his successful agency. Now, he focuses on teaching others how to monetize their creativity. Along the way, we dive into his ideas on combating negativity in design critiquing, the importance of intrinsic motivation, and his newfound passion for improving parenting through design principles. Dan also reveals his future aspirations and the impact he hopes to achieve. Don’t miss out on this candid conversation filled with insights and inspiration for anyone in the creative field.

In this week's episode of the Matthew Byrd's Podcast, join host Matthew Byrd and special guest Trevor Owen, Reality Capture leader at Rogers O'Brien, as they delve into the world of construction technology. Trevor shares his journey from early interests in robotics and technology to becoming a leader in project tracking AI, object recognition, and reality capture in the construction industry. Learn about the challenges and innovations in integrating new technologies on-site, the future of construction tech, and valuable career advice for budding innovators. Don't miss this deep dive into the future of building and the transformative power of technology in construction.00:00 Introduction to the Episode00:11 Meet Trevor Owen: Reality Capture Leader02:25 Trevor's Early Fascination with Technology04:15 Transition to Construction and Early Career05:38 Embracing BIM and Coordination09:58 Joining Hilti and Learning Marketing11:24 Current Role at Rogers O'Brien13:36 Challenges and Strategies in Technology Adoption17:03 Building a Reality Capture Team23:09 Training and Overcoming Labor Shortages32:17 Outsourcing and Service Providers32:47 Adopting Technology Successfully33:32 Cubix Platform and Data Integration35:25 Industry Adoption and Ecosystems39:27 Reality Capture Services Expansion53:59 Challenges and Future Technologies56:12 Career Advice for Innovators

On this weeks episode, we sit down with John Brown, Reality Capture Supervisor at General Motors. John shares his journey from traditional land surveying to pioneering the use of laser scanning technology. They discuss the evolution of digital twins and the future of data management in large-scale industries. Tune in for insights on leadership, the importance of trust and collaboration, and the transformative impact of reality capture technology.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:57 Meet John Brown: Reality Capture Supervisor at General Motors02:12 John Brown's Career Journey: From Surveying to Reality Capture03:58 The Impact of Laser Scanning Technology06:25 Early Adoption and Challenges in Laser Scanning09:49 Expanding Applications of Laser Scanning12:46 Integrating Laser Scanning into General Motors22:41 Building a Business Model within GM32:36 Making Data Accessible to All33:09 Challenges in Data Collection34:39 Transition to Cloud Services35:16 Impact of COVID-19 on Operations36:03 Current Progress and Future Growth38:16 Transitioning to Maintenance Mode40:08 The Future of Data Management50:57 Leadership and Team Dynamics57:56 Encouraging the Next Generation

Join us in this episode as Matt sits down with Alex Goldberg, a senior technical product manager for spatial computing at Blue Origin. Alex shares his intriguing journey from his early days in New Jersey, his passion for video games and technology, to his extensive career in the gaming industry with companies like Sega and Sony, and eventually his impactful work in XR and augmented reality. They dive deep into the importance of community, the current state of XR, its applications in heavy manufacturing, and the exciting potential future of these technologies. If you're passionate about the intersection of technology and creativity, this episode is a must-watch!00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:40 Building Community and Relationships01:26 Diving into Career Beginnings02:29 Early Influences and Interests04:38 Journey into the Gaming Industry10:55 Transition to Mobile and Startups17:50 Exploring Augmented Reality at REI26:24 Joining Blue Origin and Current Role29:55 The Future of XR and Industry Applications39:47 The Impact of 3D Visualization in Various Industries40:33 Challenges of Workforce Transition and Knowledge Transfer41:05 Augmented Reality and Reality Capture Technologies42:46 The Evolution and Adoption of AR Headsets45:33 Future Prospects and Use Cases for AR56:01 Balancing Technology and Personal Well-being01:03:47 Encouraging Passion and Self-Learning in Technology01:08:53 Dream Projects and the Future of AR01:14:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

What happens when you get some of the most experienced voices in laser scanning around one table? You get stories you’ve never heard, lessons you won’t find in textbooks, and hard-earned wisdom that helped shape the reality capture industry!In this first-ever group episode, we sit down with true pioneers of the laser scanning industry. Leaders who’ve been scanning since the early 2000s, helped define some of the standards we use today, and have seen it all, from the broken scanners, the bad registrations, the costly lessons, and the breakthroughs that made it all worth it.We talk about-The wild early days of laser scanning-The tech that worked (and the stuff that didn’t)-Why education, accuracy, and survey fundamentals still matter-What the future holds with AI, automation, and digital twins-And how we grow the next generation of industry talentWhether you’re just getting started or you’ve been in the game for decades, this episode is packed with insight, humility, and a surprising amount of humor.

Join our conversation with Austin Lay as he shares his journey from a marketing intern to a leader in construction technology at Layton Construction. In this episode, Austin dives into how he got started in the construction industry, the evolution of drone technology, the importance of leadership buy-in for technological adoption, and the significance of fostering a culture of collaboration and learning.Austin also provides insights on the future of construction tech, emphasizing patience, constant learning, and the importance of a supportive work environment.00:00 Introduction and Background00:24 First Steps into Construction02:10 Discovering Drone Technology03:36 Technical Journey and Innovations05:57 Community and Collaboration12:38 Challenges and Learning Experiences18:24 Leadership and Buy-In32:40 Understanding Control in Construction Projects33:02 The Importance of Industry Expertise and Guidelines33:56 Balancing Technology and Surveying Expertise36:12 The Role of Community and Collaboration37:03 Leadership Principles and Team Collaboration41:33 The Value of Being Teachable48:41 Exciting Future of Technology in Construction53:16 Advice for Young Professionals57:55 The Importance of Work Culture01:01:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

On this episode of the Matthew Byrd Podcast, host Matthew Byrd sits down with Jason Young, a seasoned business leader with a military background, to discuss the technologies and values driving their industry forward. Topics range from the importance of digital twins in modern construction to the role of integrity and teamwork in building successful enterprises. Jason shares his journey from serving in the United States Air Force to becoming a key figure in the tech and construction sectors. The conversation also delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies, the significance of inspiring and educating the next generation, and the ultimate goal of fostering a collaborative industry environment. Don't miss this insightful discussion packed with valuable lessons and forward-thinking ideas.00:00 Introduction to Digital Twins00:13 Core Values and Business Mindset00:36 Gold Discovery and Industry Challenges00:58 Guest Introduction and Background01:39 Military Service and Core Values02:25 Transition to Business and COVID Impact03:11 Building Relationships and Business Philosophy05:04 Importance of BIM in Construction08:38 Embracing Technology and AI32:38 Inspiration, Inform, and Empower45:18 The Future of Industry Mindsets45:47 The Economic Impact of Major Projects46:54 The Role of AI and Technology in Construction48:37 Understanding Digital Twin Technology54:17 The Importance of Collaboration and Networking01:03:13 Personal Insights and Leadership01:11:09 Expanding Global Reach and Personal Branding

Welcome to another episode of the Matthew Byrd Podcast! Join host Matthew Byrd as he sits down with Dominique Meyer, CEO of Looq AI, to discuss their pioneering work in 3D mapping and photogrammetry. Dominique shares insights into the origins of Looq AI, beginning with archaeological projects and evolving into cutting-edge 3D capture technology. They delve into the challenges and successes of running a startup, the applications of Looq AI's technology in surveying, construction, and utilities, and the importance of building trust in innovative solutions. Tune in to be inspired by Dominique's journey and vision for the future of the industry.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:00 Dominique's Journey from Archaeology to Technology03:18 Founding the Company and Early Prototypes06:43 Challenges and Innovations in Photogrammetry09:10 Ensuring Accuracy and Reliability13:32 Unique Features and Industry Applications15:42 Future Directions and Overcoming Challenges23:06 Solving Problems and Proving Value24:56 Understanding the Process of Saving 43%26:39 Building Trust with Clients27:01 Challenges in the Market29:04 Exploring Advanced Technologies39:57 Future of Survey and Construction Industries45:33 Advice for Innovators and Entrepreneurs47:41 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsStay Connected with Reality Capture Network🔗 Explore more at: https://realitycapturenetwork.com/📲 Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/realitycapturenetwork/?viewAsMember=true📸 Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realitycapturenetwork/Subscribe for more insights! Stay updated on the latest in reality capture, AEC innovations, and emerging tech. Hit that like button and subscribe for future content!

Easter Island, Career Journeys, and the Future of Reality Capture Join Matthew Byrd on this week's episode as he delves into the inspiring journey of Pete Kelsey, owner of VCTO Labs, and his deep passion for reality capture technology. From the early days of struggling with a geology degree and glam metal to becoming a driving force in bringing high-end tech solutions to storytelling, Pete shares his tumultuous yet exciting career path. Discover how a trip to Easter Island became a life-changing event, see the intersection of passion and profession, and hear insights on the future of reality capture in various industries. This episode encapsulates transformation, innovation, and the powerful impact of a good story.00:00 Introduction and Career Beginnings01:49 Early Career and Transition to Technology05:15 Teaching and Consulting Journey07:03 Autodesk and the Evolution of Civil 3D10:39 Special Projects and Reality Capture18:00 Challenges and Reflections on Change36:37 Inspiration and Community Building01:01:32 Inspiring Action Through Storytelling01:04:28 The Power of Reality Capture01:07:57 Opportunities in the Industry01:15:14 The Future of Digital Twins01:23:49 Exploring New Projects and Ideas01:48:01 Lessons from Failure and Success01:53:11 Final Thoughts and AdviceStay Connected with Reality Capture Network🔗 Explore more at: https://realitycapturenetwork.com/📲 Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/realitycapturenetwork/?viewAsMember=true📸 Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realitycapturenetwork/Subscribe for more insights!

What if your startup’s mission was tied to preventing World War III?In this powerful in-studio conversation, Clark Yuan, US Army Veteran and founder of Stitch 3D, joins Matthew to unpack how his experiences in military intelligence, national security, and Silicon Valley have converged into building a mission-driven tech platforms.From the pain of 7-day-old point clouds delivered on hard drives in Afghanistan, to shaping a cloud-based system that simplifies and scales access to 3D data, Clark shares his journey, mindset, and why accessibility is the greatest multiplier in modern defense and construction.00:00 Introduction and Overview01:03 Guest Introduction: Clark's Background01:57 Clark's Military Experience and Transition03:40 Entrepreneurial Journey and Stitch 3D06:17 Challenges and Solutions in Data Management14:50 Government Contracts and Opportunities26:00 Dual-Use Technology and Market Expansion29:02 Founding a Business: Risks and Motivations42:48 Building User-Friendly Software for the Air Force43:20 Adoption Challenges in Construction and Industry45:09 Growing the Market and Educating Users47:32 Horizontal vs. Vertical Platforms53:02 Leadership Principles from West Point58:19 Career Advice from Secretary Ash Carter01:07:12 The Future of Reality Capture and Digital Twins01:18:41 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsLearn more about Stitch 3D - https://www.stitch3d.ioStay Connected with Reality Capture Network🔗 Explore more at: https://realitycapturenetwork.com/📲 Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/realitycapturenetwork/?viewAsMember=true📸 Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realitycapturenetwork/Subscribe for more insights! If you enjoyed? Leave a review!

In this episode, Matthew Byrd sits down with Gary Cowan, Head of Digital Construction at Kane Group to uncover the truth about where construction tech is headed.Gary shares how Kane Group transformed their workflows by adopting reality capture, BIM, prefab, AR/VR, and precision layout tools—treating buildings more like manufactured machines than traditional jobsites. He outlines his “three-legged stool” methodology for successful digital construction and opens up about what it really takes to modernize an MEP business.From setting out 1,500 points per floor with millimeter precision to training school leavers into BIM experts, Gary’s story is full of practical insight, innovation, and a passion for elevating the industry.🔷 Prefabrication strategies that cut install time from 8 weeks to 1🔷 Why AR, VR & AI are the next major tools in the construction workflow🔷 How to avoid wasting money on the wrong tech🔷 The future of training the next-gen workforce in reality capture🔷 Real stories from global projects where scanning saved the day🎧 Whether you’re in BIM, VDC, surveying, or just getting started in the industry—this episode is packed with insight that will help you stay ahead of the curve.00:00 Introduction to Modern Construction Challenges01:21 Meet Gary Cohen: Career Journey and Inspirations02:37 Early Career and Transition to Engineering05:35 Discovering Digital Construction and BIM08:13 Implementing Reality Capture and Prefabrication10:48 Challenges and Innovations in Digital Construction14:08 Precision Measurement and Reality Capture21:07 Adopting New Technologies and Overcoming Skepticism25:18 Collaborative Efforts and Industry Evolution36:40 Future of Construction: Integration and Collaboration39:47 Exploring New Technologies in Construction41:20 Challenges in Technology Adoption44:16 The Role of Education in Digital Construction01:03:03 AI and Automation in Construction01:11:53 Final Thoughts and AdviceSubscribe for more insights from upcoming episodes!

For Joe Wolf - it’s all a sales job.Whether pitching the client, the company, or a partner, persuasion is foundational to not just tech adoption - but tech optimization.And as Digital Project Manager at Allen3D (Previously a VDC Systems lead at Hansen-Rice, Inc), Joe knows every trick of the trade. He and Matt explore early jobs in CAD and the oil industry, survey backgrounds, as-built fails, demand & hiring, over asking, the evolution of laser scanning, multi-use data, industry leaders vs. industry followers, how people see sales the wrong way, and much more. Episode Timeline0:58 Joe & Matt’s history, and what Joe wanted to do growing up2:12 Early oil industry jobs, and discovering CAD in electrical school4:51 Technology dumbing us down…or not6:25 Learning about scanning, working with Matthew Byrd, and the overload of challenges8:29 The benefits of starting in survey9:42 Joe’s experience stepping into a huge role within a construction firm13:16 Issues construction companies face by not having accurate information, with a shocking case study15:47 Costs, and the changing criteria for when to use technology18:13 A huge shift occurring21:26 The effect of demand on hiring, and scaling23:49 The value of internal expertise - even if subbing out24:52 Verifying someone truly knows what they’re doing27:16 A unique hope of the RCN Committees, and the dangers of not sharing30:36 “Anything worth doing is worth doing poorly for a short time.”31:29 How Hansen-Rice approaches project workflows and subs33:26 Overasking36:25 ADHD & success, technologies currently exciting Joe, and where he sees them going39:28 Mobile scanning today vs. scanning yesterday41:06 Mixing types of scanners, and age gaps of subs44:35 What the future could look like46:57 3D vs. 2D, and a Hansen-Rice strategy48:32 As-builts’ present and future51:00 Multi-use data52:29 Adaptation and lessons from CAD’s release53:57 Industry leaders vs. industry followers57:22 Patience, and not being an island1:00:46 How technology can touch a little bit of everything1:03:10 Josh’s parting advice1:05:09 Sales and honesty

Ashley Crowder, co-founder & CEO of VNTANA, talks to Matthew Byrd about her company’s capabilities & growth, the impact of a Daft Punk show, working with Mark Cuban and Amazon, entrepreneurship, retail & architecture, industrial manufacturing, 14 patent filings, and more.

Construction technology expert Erin Khan, Founder of Erin Khan Consulting, details the value of exploration, her path to civil engineering, resistance to innovation, the Women in Construction Technology organization, Shiny Object Syndrome, guiding startups, and much more.

In a continuation of his career and life story interview, Matthew Byrd discusses education and learning, from his own life to the reality capture industry, with RCN Senior Copywriter Ellis Malmgren.

In Episode 72,  the Advanced Research and Technology Leader for McElhanney Kevin Grover discusses his geospatial roots, advocating for new tech, data standards, the state of the survey industry, hardware & software potential, financial costs, and much more.

In episode 71, VDC Manager for JTM Construction Morgan Drivas details her path from mixed martial arts to construction technology, sharing insights on problem-solving, women in construction, education, Singapore’s BIM & smart cities, AI & upcoming innovations, inspiring younger generations, and much more.