Construction Conversations

In this conversation, Lars, Stephen, and Michael discuss various themes surrounding technology, construction, and personal experiences. They explore the importance of relationships in construction, and the role of technology and AI in the industry. Michael shares insights on the disconnect between C-suite executives and field workers, emphasizing the need for a human touch in technology and the value of craftsmanship. The discussion also touches on the future of construction, the importance of field experience, and the aspiration for a more efficient and fulfilling work environment.

In this conversation, Stephen Poppe hosts Patrick Murphy and Jeremy Crumley to discuss the evolving landscape of pre-construction in the construction industry, particularly focusing on the integration of technology and AI. They explore the increasing value of pre-construction services, the impact of technology on efficiency and productivity, and the importance of data strategy. The discussion also touches on the future role of general contractors and offers advice for the next generation entering the construction field.

In this engaging conversation, Sarah Buchner, CEO of Trunk Tools, shares her journey from a blue-collar worker on a farm to leading a tech startup in the construction industry. The discussion covers the cultural differences in construction practices between Europe and the US, the importance of feedback from field workers, and the role of AI in transforming workflows. Sarah emphasizes the need for collaboration over competition in the construction tech space and highlights the significance of data ownership and intellectual property. She offers valuable advice for young professionals to leverage AI for career growth and reflects on the future of construction, advocating for a balance between technology and human skills.

In this episode, Tim Straub, Senior Technical Program Manager at Google, discusses his transition from general contractor to owner-side leadership, how that shift changed his approach to quality and commissioning, and the challenges of delivering data centers in the fast-paced AI/ML era. Tim covers leadership through influence, the evolving priorities of testing and lifecycle risk, labor and equipment constraints, and practical advice for young engineers: seek to understand, adopt a growth mindset, and be patient.

In this episode, Stephen sits down with Al Ricci, Global Director of Customer Success at Oracle, for a wide-ranging conversation that starts with Canadian Thanksgiving and porchetta — and ends with three decades of hard-earned lessons from the frontlines of construction tech. Al shares how empathy became his most powerful leadership strategy, why sales and customer success must work hand in hand, and what founders often miss when building customer-centric teams. Together, they trace the industry’s evolution from point solutions to SaaS, explore how AI is reshaping entry-level roles, and unpack what it really means to build long-term trust between vendors and contractors. Whether you’re leading a startup, managing a team, or rethinking your approach to growth, this episode offers timeless insights on people, process, and progress in construction tech.

Alex Belkafor shares his journey from project engineer to leading digital strategy at McCarthy, explaining how a field-first approach to BIM and VDC drives better project planning, integration with owners, and streamlined construction delivery. He discusses measuring value through reduced downstream risk (the "cost of goals not scored"), the rise of connected jobsite technologies, the promise and caution of AI and data, and practical advice for the next generation entering construction technology.

In this conversation, David Tibbetts, Chief Safety Officer at Highwire, shares insights on the evolving landscape of safety in the construction industry. He discusses his career journey, the importance of collaboration between owners and contractors, and the role of technology in enhancing safety practices. The conversation delves into the significance of prequalification processes, understanding serious injury potential, and the impact of AI on safety management. David emphasizes the need for a cultural shift towards proactive safety measures and the importance of education in driving change within the industry.   National Safety Council SIF Prevention Model   Construction Safety Research Alliance   Edison Electric Institute   Board of Certified Safety Professionals SIF Prevention Webinar Series (3-parts)   Highwire Shift to SIFs Blog Post   Highwire SIF Webinar

Stuart Maggs, Director of Commercial Product of Field AI and former architect discusses their $405 million raise, his path from architecture to robotics, and early hands‑on experiments that sparked a career redefining how buildings get made. The episode explains Field AI’s software “brain” for robots, how navigation and perception unlock real jobsite use cases, the API/SDK future for specialized apps, and what needs to change in construction for wider robot adoption.   Subscribe to our newsletter: https://constructionbriefs.substack.com/

Senior Project Manager John Riggs (Suffolk) shares his journey from plant genetics and political science to leading complex construction projects. He unpacks what’s really happening on today’s jobsites, from subs to GCs, and how curiosity and hands-on learning shaped his career. John breaks down where tech helps—and where it adds friction—covering BIM and digital delivery, reality capture and drones, punch lists, scheduling, and the promise and limits of AI. He explains how owners, designers, and builders can align early to get real value. We close with practical advice on time management, delegation, and leadership, plus a candid look at life as a new dad. If you build, buy, or design, this episode shows how to cut through the hype and focus on what works.

Welcome back to Construction Conversations. In this episode, we discuss the crucial role of mentorship and coaching in the construction industry with Chris and Tim Smith, two experienced leaders from Ellis Don. Tim, with 30 years of experience and previously an executive vice president, now dedicates his time to coaching and leadership development. Chris, a general superintendent, shares his journey of working with Tim and the impact it has had on his leadership style. The conversation delves into the differences between mentorship and coaching, emphasizing the importance of having safe spaces for open, honest discussions in leadership development. Chris and Tim reflect on the value of experienced-based coaching and how it accelerates potential, helping leaders navigate technical and personality-based challenges more effectively. They also discuss how companies can cultivate such environments to foster development and teamwork. Tune in to explore how coaching and mentorship can transform project culture and leadership, fostering a more connected and successful team environment in construction.   Newsletter: Construction Briefs on Substack

Welcome to this episode of Construction Conversations, where we dive into the story of Raise Robotics, a trailblazer in the field of construction automation. Join hosts Lars and Stephen as they chat with Conley and Gary from Raise Robotics about their journey from a chance LinkedIn connection to redefining construction workflows with cutting-edge robotics technology. Discover how Conley and Gary's backgrounds in autonomous vehicles and construction led them to create a unique solution that addresses common challenges on job sites. Learn about the evolution of their mobile manipulator robots, designed to perform tasks in difficult-to-reach areas, and how they iteratively developed their product using real-world insights from their early projects. Hear firsthand about the ups and downs of starting a hardware company, the importance of patient iteration, and how Raise Robotics is delivering immediate value to their customers by focusing on solving genuine job site problems, informed by Conley's time in the field. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and construction innovation.   Newsletter: Construction Briefs on Substack

In this episode of Construction Conversations, we chat with Joe Wilson of Projexion, diving into the data challenges within the construction industry. We explore Joe's origin story, from managing projects on the field to developing a product that enhances project outcomes through data clarity and efficiency. Discover how aligning technology with construction processes can dramatically reduce risks and improve project success rates. Join us to understand the pivotal role data plays in shaping the future of construction.   Newsletter: Construction Briefs on Substack

Join us in an insightful episode of "Construction Conversations" as we sit down with Matt Graves, popularly known as the Construction Yeti, to explore his unique journey from a civil engineer to a creative force in the construction industry. In this episode, we delve into Matt's experiences at Texas A&M, his early days navigating the construction world without formal guidance, and how he built Construction Yeti into a platform for innovative industry insights and humor. Through engaging discussions, we uncover the essence of construction innovation at the trade level and the power of humor and creativity in transforming dry topics into engaging knowledge. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, Matt's journey and the Construction Yeti's content provide valuable perspectives on the industry's evolution and the role of technology and humor in driving engagement and education.   Newsletter: Construction Briefs on Substack    

In this conversation, Jackie Guilbault, Sr. Product Marketing Manager at Document Crunch shares her unique journey into the construction tech industry, emphasizing the importance of field experience, curiosity, and effective storytelling in marketing. The discussion covers various aspects of construction roles, the significance of mentorship, and the evolving landscape of hiring practices. Jackie highlights the need for authenticity in marketing, particularly in an industry often misunderstood as being behind in technology. The conversation concludes with advice for newcomers, especially women, entering the construction field, advocating for humility and a willingness to learn.  

In this conversation, we discuss with Brian Skripac the evolution of BIM and VDC within the construction industry. Brian shares his journey from architecture to industry advocacy, highlighting the importance of collaboration and technology in improving project outcomes. We explore the challenges of implementing BIM, measuring success, and the cultural barriers that hinder technology adoption in construction. The discussion emphasizes the need for a shift in mindset to fully leverage the benefits of BIM and VDC in delivering successful projects. In this conversation, Brian Skripac, Lars, and Stephen Poppe discuss the integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) into project delivery, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and technology in the construction industry. They explore the challenges faced by the industry, the role of AI in enhancing workflows, and provide insights for future generations entering the field. The discussion highlights the need for a shift in mindset towards collaborative delivery models and the potential for significant improvements in efficiency and productivity.

In this conversation, Nitin Bhandari, CEO of Planera shares his journey into the construction tech industry, discussing the challenges and opportunities he encountered while developing technologies in other industries. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, intellectual curiosity, and understanding industry pain points. Nitin also highlights the need for a focused go-to-market strategy and the significance of empowering project teams with technology to improve efficiency and decision-making. The discussion touches on the complexities of the construction industry, the role of technology in addressing these challenges, and lessons learned from his entrepreneurial journey.

Join us in a captivating conversation with Jeff Sharp, the CEO and co-founder of Qnect, as he shares his unique entrepreneurial journey that started as a dishwasher at 14. In this insightful episode, Jeff discusses his diverse experiences across various industries, including tech, biofuels, and structural engineering. He reveals how a common thread of entrepreneurship ties these ventures together, fueled by his passion for efficiency and innovation. Delve into the revolutionary impact of Qnect in the construction industry. Discover how Qnect's advanced technology enhances project efficiency, precision, and sustainability by optimizing steel connections. Jeff explains the inception of Qnect, its market reception, and the role of AI in today’s construction landscape, providing a glimpse into the future of construction technology. Gain valuable insights as Jeff discusses the importance of resilience, mentorship, and the role of strategic investments in building successful ventures. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an industry professional, this episode offers a rich tapestry of wisdom and inspiration.

Join us for a captivating episode of Construction Conversations as we delve into the remarkable career of Hannu Lindbergh, the maestro of construction technology at DPR. Discover how Hannu's diverse experiences, from working on the field to leading tech innovations at Disney and DPR, have shaped his approach to integrating technology in construction. Explore the unique title-free culture at DPR and its impact on fostering creativity and continuous improvement within the organization. Hannu shares insights into the challenges and benefits of this unconventional structure, offering valuable lessons for the industry. Gain a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of construction technology, the role of BIM, prefab innovation, and the potential of AI in transforming the industry. Whether you're a construction enthusiast or a tech guru, this episode offers thought-provoking insights into the future of construction.   Takeaways Hannu’s early experience in the field using tech showed him the power of tech used effectively DPR’s title‑less “rock‑climb” career model accelerates growth but makes it hard for newcomers to navigate organizational roles. Viewing each project as a “living lab” sparks innovation, but without a formal playbook those wins remain isolated. Defining workflows as “recommendatory” rather than mandatory preserves governance while empowering experimentation. Real horizontal integration only succeeds when all key stakeholders agree on processes before rolling out new tech. Cleaning and structuring historical cost and schedule data is the foundation for meaningful AI‑driven forecasting. Prefab scales effectively only with repeatable designs and early regulatory planning, as seen in DPR’s SurePod bathroom pods. Managing dozens of point solutions creates “tech fatigue,” underscoring the urgent need for a consolidated platform. Models remain secondary artifacts because current contracts don’t treat them as enforceable deliverables. Today’s most practical AI use cases in construction are voice, image, and text analytics for automated percent‑complete tracking. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hany Lindberg and His Journey 02:38 Career Path and Passion for Construction 04:42 The Evolution of Construction Technology 08:01 DPR's Title-Free Organizational Structure 12:28 The Benefits and Challenges of a Title-Free Culture 17:52 Innovation and Technology Integration at DPR 24:53 Navigating Change and Encouraging Ideas 28:45 The Evolution of General Contracting 29:45 Preparing for the Future: AI and Technology in Construction 34:17 Data-Driven Decision Making in Construction 39:12 The Role of Prefabrication in Modern Construction 42:51 BIM and the Future of Design and Construction 50:53 Advice for the Next Generation in Construction 52:11 Innovative Technologies Shaping the Industry

In this conversation, Stephen Poppe, Lars Herman, and Aaron Toppston discuss the evolving landscape of venture capital in the construction industry, the challenges and opportunities presented by new technologies, and the importance of mentorship and team dynamics. They explore the skepticism surrounding VC investments, the role of AI, and the future of robotics in construction, while emphasizing the need for effective go-to-market strategies and understanding workflow. The discussion highlights the industry's strengths, such as collaboration and safety, and concludes with advice for young professionals entering the field. Takeaways Venture capital plays a crucial role in stimulating innovation in construction. Understanding workflow is essential before implementing new technologies. The construction industry is unique in its interpersonal dynamics and decision-making processes. AI can enhance efficiency but requires a shift in how capital is viewed. Investors look for teams that understand both product and industry. Common mistakes include not having a clear understanding of the market and being defensive. Mentorship is vital for growth and understanding the complexities of the industry. The future of construction will involve more robotics and automation. The industry excels in teamwork and getting the job done safely. Young professionals should focus on learning and understanding the industry before proposing changes. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Spring Reflections 01:06 The Role of Venture Capital in Construction Tech 04:58 Innovative Go-to-Market Strategies in Construction 10:55 Challenges of Early Stage Startups in Construction Tech 13:08 The Impact of AI on Capital Efficiency 19:31 Common Mistakes in Seeking Investment 22:11 The Future of General Contractors and Technology 28:59 Creating Outcomes Through Technology 30:21 The Future of Tech in Construction 33:00 Efficiency in Office Operations 35:16 Managing Change Orders and Cash Flow 37:21 Standardization and Risk Management in Construction 40:49 Mentorship and Learning in the Industry 43:57 Preparing the Next Generation for Technology 49:16 Overcoming Challenges in Career Development 53:49 The Exciting Future of Construction Technology  

In this engaging episode of 'Construction Conversations,' hosts Stephen and Lars sit down Chris Massey, Senior Superintendent from Ellis Don, to explore the evolution of a career in construction. Chris reflects on his childhood aspirations and the journey that led him to become a leader in the industry, emphasizing the impact of a construction background and the critical role of on-the-ground experience. The discussion dives deep into the industry's resistance to technology adoption, juxtaposed with the recent acceleration due to circumstances like the COVID-19 pandemic. Chris shares personal insights on the importance of tech in modernizing workflows and improving efficiency, while retaining the essential human element in construction planning. He highlights how Ellis Don stays ahead by adopting new technologies and fostering a culture of innovation. Furthermore, Chris emphasizes the significance of meticulous planning in construction projects, offering a glimpse into his planning strategies that ensure project success. The episode also sheds light on the value of mentorship, the necessity of effective communication, and the joy of overcoming challenges collaboratively, providing a rich narrative on navigating the future of construction. Takeaways Chris Masse grew up in a construction background and always wanted to pursue it. Field surveying as a good starting point for a construction career. How COVID accelerated the adoption of technology in the construction industry. EllisDon aims to stay ahead of the curve in tech adoption. Planning is crucial for efficiency in construction projects. Communication and collaboration are key to successful project management. Mentorship plays a significant role in professional development in construction. Young professionals should focus on learning from field experiences. Creating a fun work environment enhances team productivity. Technology should complement human effort, not replace it. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Construction Conversations 02:18 Chris Masse's Journey in Construction 04:55 Tech Adoption in Construction 07:34 The Impact of COVID on Tech Usage 10:16 Ellis Don's Approach to Technology 13:01 Pilot Projects and Tech Partnerships 15:46 Transforming Project Management with Tech 18:24 Enterprise-Wide Tech Adoption Challenges 21:11 The Value of Time in Construction 23:58 Creating a Culture of Innovation 26:51 The Future of Tech in Construction 29:29 The Role of Technology in Construction 31:08 Balancing Efficiency and Morale in Tech Adoption 34:33 Planning as the Key to Efficiency 44:34 Integrating Technology with Construction Planning 44:50 The Future of Construction Technology 46:13 Advice for the Next Generation of Superintendents 54:07 The Importance of Mentorship in Construction