Bridging the Gap: Insights & Innovations in Construction

How interconnected are the ideas of innovation and storytelling? In our latest episode, Danielle O’Connell of Skanska joins the podcast to shed some light on concepts like the practical side of using new tech for safer sites, the importance of continuous education on the job, the commonalities between construction and art, and the potential of AI (as long as it’s tempered by human intervention). Danielle O’Connell is Sr. Director of Emerging Technology at Skanska USA. She has additional experience as an Account Services Manager at Bluebeam, Inc., Design Technologies Manager at Massachusetts Port Authority, Project Manager at Gilbane Building Company, and BIM Manager at Consilgli Construction. She holds a BFA in Architecture and Design from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. TODD TAKES Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: Danielle’s LinkedIn Skanska

What’s the connection between STEM education and the trades? When it comes to recruiting the new generation, that connection may actually be crucial to the future of the industry. In this episode, Mike McCarthy of Design Communications, Ltd. joined the podcast and sparked an important discussion about the balance between creativity and practicality, the impact of experiential design in large-scale projects, and some surprising ways in which art, engineering, and construction all intersect. Mike McCarthy is Vice President of Design Communications Ltd (DCL), an internationally recognized custom manufacturer of architectural specialty products with locations in Boston, New York, Los Angeles, Seattle, Austin, and Orlando. Mike has been involved with thousands of projects over his 25 year career with DCL. This includes work for Walt Disney World, SoFi Stadium, TD Garden, Madison Square Garden, Gillette Stadium, Netflix, Linked In, Amazon, Facebook, Coca-Cola, Hasbro, Logan Airport and many others. Todd Takes Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: Mike’s LinkedIn Design Communications, Ltd.

There are many ways to get involved and carve out your ideal career in the AEC industry. Where do you begin? In our latest episode, Chris Ryan of Ryan Studio, LLC joins the podcast to discuss the best ways to foster an environment of collaboration across teams, how to reconcile the different perspectives between architects and owners, the reality of making your own ideal career in the field, and more. Chris Ryan is the Founder of Ryan Studio, LLC. He is a Building Design & Development Consultant with over 20 years of professional experience creating unique projects and building meaningful spaces that combine work and play. He is a licensed Architect, registered contractor, former commercial development executive, college professor, and national-level competitive athlete. TODD TAKES Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: Chris’ LinkedIn Chris’ YouTube Ryan Studio, LLC

It’s a common misconception that precon is solely a numbers-and-computers industry. How do we get the word out that in reality, it’s far more complex and full of opportunities? Live from Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Ryan Diekemper of Poettker Construction joins the podcast to spark a conversation about the many different options you have in a precon career, how to tackle communication when the chain of command seems to be a mile long, and why refusing to evolve with the times means “you’ll always be a dinosaur.” Ryan Diekemper is Vice President of Preconstruction at Poettker Construction Company. He has additional experience in the Electrical field, in which he worked for over 15 years. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Missouri University and Science and Technology. TODD TAKES Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: Ryan’s LinkedIn Poettker Construction

Is failure something to be avoided at all costs—or is it vital to growth? In this episode, recorded live at Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Manasi Pitkar joins the podcast to discuss the “next big thing” in construction technology, how to make the best case for tearing down data siloes, the hurdles of time, talent, and escalation that are facing preconstruction, how to create an environment that welcomes growth and innovation, and more. Manasi Pitkar is Sr. Preconstruction Director at McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. with nearly a decade of experience at the company. She has additional experience as a Sr. Preconstruction Manager at Clark Construction, Estimator at RQ Construction, Sr. Estimator at Gilmore Construction Corporation, Lead Estimator at Saunders Construction, Estimator II at M.A. Mortenson Company, and Field Engineer at Turner Construction. TODD TAKES Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: Manasi Pitkar’s LinkedIn McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.

What’s the key to achieving a relevant, active, and connected career in the industry? The answer lies in your own level of commitment. Live from Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Wes Mayes of The Brandt Companies joins the podcast to discuss the importance of networking, the ways we’re seeing prefabrication and preconstruction overlap with each other, whether AI will make it to the forefront of construction within the next decade, and one of the most interesting and overlooked trends in the industry recently. Wes Mayes is Director of Preconstruction at The Brandt Companies. He has worked at The Brandt Companies for over a decade. He has previous experience as an Estimator and Senior Estimator. Todd Takes Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: Wes’ LinkedIn The Brandt Companies

We’re in a new era of construction—does that imply a new era of data management, as well? Live at Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Darrell Torres of Irvine Company joins the podcast to discuss the balance between ambition and “keeping it simple,” the power of data management platforms to set companies apart from their competitors, and the most effective ways to achieve buy-in when you introduce new processes and technology. Darrell Torres is Sr. Director of Preconstruction at Irvine Company. He has more than two decades of experience in the construction industry in California and Colorado. His diverse range of project expertise includes residential, office/mixed-use developments, higher education, healthcare and cultural buildings. TODD TAKES Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: Darrell’s LinkedIn Irvine Company

What does it mean when a new tech sweeps the industry? Times are changing, but the way we interact with technology on a wider scale seems to be similar. Live from Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Devin Sherman joins the podcast to discuss the way AI is received in construction, the riskiness involved in preconstruction startups, and how to utilize networking to become stronger in our craft. Devin Sherman is VP of Preconstruction/BIM/VDC at Lee Lewis Construction, Inc. In his role, he handles and oversees all estimating and VDC operations including conceptual estimating, model based takeoffs, budgeting, bidding, drone operations, 4D scheduling, clash detections, and laser scanning. TODD TAKES Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: Devin’s LinkedIn Lee Lewis Construction, Inc.

How can we be sure we’re collecting “the right” data to drive future success? The secret lies in when (and how) we gather that data in the first place. Live from Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Will Lehrmann of Procore Technologies joins the podcast to break down the best ways to prevent data siloes, the ongoing issue of worker safety in construction, and the importance of standardizing processes for the future of the industry. Will Lehrmann is VP of Product – Preconstruction & Construction Documents at Procore Technologies. His career experience is highlighted by product leadership, building world-class product teams, developing industry-leading products, executing against sales goals, bringing a customer-first approach to customer success, and delivering against commitments for customers and the business. TODD TAKES 1. Strategic Data Mapping and Management Before diving into data, it's crucial to strategically determine which questions need answers, guiding how you map and analyze your data. Effective data management paired with interoperability between datasets is essential, ensuring information flows smoothly and accurately across systems. 2. Fostering a Culture of Innovation in Preconstruction It's vital to cultivate a culture that supports innovation, particularly in preconstruction, to enhance process improvement and foster broader advancements. This culture shift can lead to significant efficiencies and better outcomes throughout the construction lifecycle. 3. Enhancing Communication Through Collaboration Promoting collaboration is key to maintaining clear and effective communication among all project stakeholders. By working together from the start, all parties can ensure their perspectives are heard and integrated, leading to more cohesive project execution. Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: Will’s LinkedIn Procore Technologies

Live from Advancing Preconstruction 2024, Steve Dell’Orto of ConCntric joins the podcast to discuss some of the most common misconceptions surrounding precon, how top-of-the-line technology truly benefits those who are the backbone of the construction industry, and how a resistance to change can be reframed towards a desire to be a champion of innovation. Steve Dell’Orto is the founder and CEO of ConCntric. Since launching ConCntric in 2021, Steve has built a dynamic global team and secured support from strategic and notable investors. Steve and his team are on a mission to make the built world more affordable, predictable and sustainable, and are uniquely positioned to transform the future for the construction and real estate industry. TODD TAKES Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: Steve’s LinkedIn ConCntric

The younger generation may be full of people who would shine as construction professionals—what if they just don’t know it yet? When it comes to considering the trades as a viable profession, a huge factor tends to be whether you “see yourself” there. In this episode, Colleen Martindale of McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. shares her experience as someone who moved from the arts to the trades: which hurdles faced her early on, the advice she’d give to teams and individuals facing hurdles of their own, and her take on preventing supply chain issues. Colleen Martindale is VP of Preconstruction at McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. She is an experienced preconstruction professional with a demonstrated history of working in the construction industry. She is skilled in HCSS Heavybid, Subcontracting, Value Engineering, CMAR Delivery, and Client Experience. In addition, she is a leader of a regional resource group for women, the McCarthy Partnership for Women, and is passionate about advocating for diverse talent in the construction industry. Todd Takes Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: Colleen’s LinkedIn McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.

Construction: is it only slow to innovate due to tradition, or is there another conversation to be had? In this episode, Sarah Buchner joins the podcast to discuss the industry’s outlook on new technology, the difference between AI and “IA,” how to leverage artificial intelligence as a tool in your career, the worldwide issue of construction data inconsistencies, and her company, Trunk Tools, Inc. Sarah Buchner, Ph.D. is CEO of Trunk Tools, Inc. With 20 years of experience in the construction industry, she has founded four live construction technology applications. She holds a Doctorate in Civil Systems Engineering/Data Science from Technische Universität Wien and an MBA from Stanford University Graduate School of Business. She was recently listed on Forbes’ 30 Under 30. Todd's Takes Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: Sarah’s LinkedIn Trunk Tools, Inc.

What’s the best process of leveraging your software to its fullest potential? How do stakeholder communication and project transformations fit in? In this episode, delve into Adrian Mangan's Advance Steel-centric YouTube channel, the impacts he's observed since its launch, and his ultimate goal in sharing knowledge about both Advance Steel and its counterpart, GRAITEC PowerPack. Adrian Mangan began his career in Ireland in carpentry field with experience in AutoCAD from college. He has worked as an Ironworker in New York City for the past fourteen years, ten of which he has also been a Foreman. He is now looking to learn and pursue a career in Steel Detailing, 3D Modeling, and BIM. Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: Adrian’s LinkedIn Adrian Mangan on YouTube

If the world is in 3 dimensions, and we think in 3 dimensions, why would we work in only 2? Join Todd and guest Jonathan Jasinski as they unpack the inherent advantages of BIM, how Advance Steel and its GRAITEC PowerPack have benefited the production at Mezzanines By Design, some of the best ways to navigate the stakeholder sign-off process, and much more. Jonathan Jasinski has worked at Mezzanines By Design for over a decade. With a passion for precision, he has dedicated thirteen years to crafting structures that are not only functional, but also innovative. Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: Jonathan’s LinkedIn Mezzanines By Design

Technology stacks are transforming the construction industry. In the years to come, what benefits in decision-making and project efficiency might we see from this transformation? Join Todd and guest Edward Garcia for an in-depth conversation on traditional vs. transformative methods, how to foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptability, cross-collaborating with engineering and fabrication teams to ensure feasibility, and much more. Edward Garcia is a seasoned professional in the field of building materials, currently serving as the Senior Engineering Manager for Synergi. With a rich background in project management and a keen focus on innovation and technology integration within the construction industry, Edward brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the forefront of architectural advancements and efficient building solutions.

As AR and AI continue to sweep the construction industry, what are some of the best and most proven ways to leverage this enigmatic technology? Could it, in fact, help us address some of the largest and most persistent pain points of the industry at large? Join Todd and guest NK Chaitanya as they discuss the connection between data and AI, NK’s company ConstructN.ai, how AR can be leveraged to increase onsite safety, and the burgeoning benefits of artificial intelligence. Chaitanya Naredla Kirshan, widely known as NK, stands at the forefront of the rapidly evolving technology industry. As the Co-Founder and CEO of Constructn.ai, NK is pioneering the future of construction monitoring, bringing simplicity and automation to complex processes across the build timeline. His rich experience weaves together advanced domains such as robotics, computer vision, extended reality (XR), machine learning/artificial intelligence (ML/AI), and the Internet of Things technologies.

Where do most training programs fall short? The answer may lie in the way we’ve been approaching the subject of training at large. Straight from GRAITEC Innovate2Build with Amy Powell of Well Works, this episode takes a closer look at what it means to truly and effectively train workers, how to support the “learning transfer” in every stage of training, and how emotional intelligence comes into play. Amy Powell is the founder of Well Works, bringing to her position nearly two decades of construction experience, primarily as a Project Manager for a Commercial GC. Recognizing the gap in training tailored to the unique challenges faced in construction, Amy decided to roll up her sleeves and do something about it by going back to school to earn her Masters in Adult Education. She has crafted a specialized leadership program for field leaders. This program equips industry professionals to excel in their roles now and in the future to lead their diverse teams effectively.

Now that prefabrication is taking off, we’re looking for ways to make it a seamless process. Is there yet a “perfect software” that has everything you need for a prefab project? Often, we don’t streamline our workflows until something raises the alarm bells. In this episode from Advancing Prefabrication 2024, we sit down with Chris Fischer to discuss some of the biggest hurdles facing widespread, cross-industry adoption of the prefab movement. Chris Fischer is Prefabrication Manager at Ready Electric Company, Inc. He has been in the electrical construction field since 1997 and completed his 5-year IBEW Electrical Apprenticeship in 2003. In his current role as Prefabrication Manager, he works with the BIM department to continue to improve and grow the Ready Electric Company, Inc. prefabrication process.

Prefab has demonstrated itself to be a valuable addition to the construction industry, but there’s still some pushback against it. When we’re certain of the benefit of new processes, we just need to be persistent. As they say, “the proof is in the pudding.” In this episode, Mike Barrett of CRB joins us to discuss how the cumulative successes of prefab will ultimately be key to widespread adoption. Mike Barrett is Vice President of Technical Innovation and Delivery at CRB. He is passionate about excellence through project delivery and develops and drives innovative project delivery strategies across the entire project execution value stream. He brings a lean-thinking mindset to continuously seek out waste in project delivery processes, practices, tools, and methods in order to position CRB as a global leader in Life Science Project Execution.

The productization of prefab will be a tricky and incremental process. Can we still bring our creativity to the table when there are so many unknowns? In this episode, Todd Mustard joins us at Advancing Prefabrication 2024 and sparks a discussion about repurposing supply chains, the power of BI dashboards, and growing widespread interest in IBEW Local 48. Todd Mustard is Executive Manager at Oregon Columbia Chapter NECA. He represents over 200 electrical contracting businesses that employ over 6,000 union professionals in northern Oregon and southern Washington. He is passionate about advancing the interests and values of the electrical construction industry.