Future Construct: Thought Leaders Discuss BIM and Construction Solutions for the AEC Industry

Imagine breaking new ground in a field that's ripe for innovation and brimming with opportunities. Sara Hedge, CDI Contractors' BIM VDC Coordinator and a trailblazer for women in construction, joins us to share her transformative journey from architecture and interior design to spearheading digital construction. Her story is not just about personal triumph but also about how she's leveraging her expertise to foster diversity and inspire a new generation through technology and engagement in organizations like NAWIC and WLI. This episode isn't just about shattering glass ceilings; it's also about shattering old norms of construction practices. Sara takes us through the initial resistance her team faced while shifting to 3D modeling and how they overcame operational challenges, leading to project successes that set a new benchmark for innovation at CDI. We peer into the intricate process of reimagining an underground utility tunnel with cutting-edge scanning technology and discuss the necessity of internal buy-in for adopting such transformative tech. It's a candid look at the trials and triumphs of embracing change. As we wrap up our conversation, Sara, who has managed projects worth over $1.5 billion, forecasts the exciting role of AI, AR, and VR in the construction industry's future. While acknowledging the hurdles of technology adoption, she highlights the importance of empathy and education in smoothing the transition. Join us as we explore the not-so-distant dream of teleportation devices and reflect on the significant time-saving and connectivity potential such innovations could offer. It's an episode packed with vision, expertise, and a glimpse into the future of construction technology. Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

Discover the blueprint for the future as we sit down with Mostafa ElAshmawy, WSP Middle East’s visionary in BIM and GIS, to unravel the evolution of digital transformation within the construction industry. Witness Mostafa's riveting transition from an enthusiastic engineering student to an influential force in digital engineering, sharing the ins and outs of his career trajectory and the expansive role digital models play in enhancing data-driven decision-making. Learn how these advancements are changing the game in project estimation and coordination, and get a peek into Mostafa's pioneering strategies and his aspirations for seamless project management that could revolutionize how we build our world. Embrace the excitement of managing colossal construction marvels as Mostafa gives us a front-row seat to the cutting edge of mega project management in the Middle East's AGC industry. From the sustainability-focused ambitions of the Future Ready program to the digital wizardry of Digital Twins and the promising efficiencies of modular construction, we dissect how these technologies are crafting a new era of design. Get an exclusive look into the grandeur and complexities of Saudi Arabia's giga projects like the Red Sea project and NEOM, while also delving into the sustainability practices that are setting new standards in construction. Mostafa's personal vision for health-enhancing technologies that connect generations offers a stirring close to our far-reaching discussion, all of which points to an industry at the cusp of a monumental leap forward. Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

Discover the remarkable transformation of Dr. Carrie Sturts Dossick, who went from an undecided college major to an esteemed figure in construction management and technology. In a candid conversation, Carrie recounts the pivotal moments of her career, from her early intrigue with materials in architecture to the invaluable guidance of her mentor, Bud Griffiths. Her story is an ode to the profound impact mentorship can have and a celebration of the innovative spirit that defines her path, offering listeners a unique perspective on the evolution of construction management education. Join us for a deep dive into the complexities and triumphs of creating the National BIM Standard as Carrie opens up about her experiences merging teaching, research, and administrative duties at the University of Washington. She navigates through the challenges of harmonizing disparate industry groups into a cohesive framework and offers a glimpse into the future of digital construction. Her insights are a guiding light for those interested in the synergy of policy, project management, and the progression of industry standards. In our episode, technology and personal passions intersect, revealing how Carrie's lab tackles the intricacies of IoT, digital twins, and the evolution of BIM. She discusses the symbiotic relationship between technology and human interaction within building operations and the necessity of cybersecurity in today's connected world. Listen as Carrie shares how her love for dance mirrors the creative processes in construction innovation, and don't miss her insights into the collaborative approach to education that's fostering the next wave of industry change. Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

To kickstart Season 4 of the Future Construct Podcast, Women in Construction Week, and Women's History Month, we highlight some of the industry's most influential women. Unlock the secrets to revolutionizing construction workflows and saving costs as we sit down with the trailblazing Kelli Lubeley from Cupertino Electric Inc. From her beginnings in drafting to her current role as a Construction Technology Manager, Kelli's insights are a goldmine for anyone keen on understanding the intersection of technology and construction. Her personal drive to optimize processes and mentorship in the field of BIM has not only reshaped her company’s standards but has also set a benchmark for the industry. Journey with us through the unexpected lessons of tomato gardening and the steadfast pursuit of rock hunting, drawing parallels to architecture and construction. These narratives are more than just hobbies; they're a testament to the importance of innovation and sustainability in our industry. The stories of change management in the garden and the meticulous craft of turning rocks into jewelry mirror the precision and adaptability required in AEC. These reflections serve as a reminder that growth, whether in nature or technology, demands patience and a willingness to adapt. Finally, we take a visionary leap into the future of construction design, where virtual reality and mind-to-display technologies are just around the corner. With Kelli Lubeley's expertise, we discuss the transformative potential these tools hold for architects, engineers, and construction professionals. Join us for this compelling exploration into the innovations that are set to redefine the way we conceive and construct the spaces of tomorrow. Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

Have you ever wondered how the confluence of technology and construction is reshaping our built environment? Brian Skripac, a luminary in the BIM and VDC domains, stops by to enlighten us on the revolution within the building industry. His journey from architect to tech evangelist showcases the transformative potential when architects, engineers, and construction managers unite under the banner of innovation. Brian dives into his experiences of promoting a model-centric approach to project delivery, highlighting how smoother workflows are achieved through close-knit collaboration and technological integration. The episode takes an intriguing turn as we examine the fusion of modular construction with Building Information Modeling. Brian provides a behind-the-scenes look at a recent project where this synergy played a pivotal role, enhancing transparency and efficiency from conception to realization. The conversation unveils the evolution of project documentation, emphasizing the shift towards fabrication-ready models and the intricacies involved, from legalities to risk management. We also peer into the future, speculating on the continued growth of modular construction and its burgeoning relationship with BIM as a staple in contractual deliverables. Wrapping things up, we reflect on BIM's broader impact on the construction industry, from driving cost avoidance to optimizing resource utilization. Brian shares insights from the successes at Ohio State University and muses on the hypothetical technology that could streamline decision-making in project management. As we express our gratitude for the rich dialogue and Brian's insightful contributions, we look forward to the innovative strides that await us on the horizon of construction and technology. Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

Embark on a transformative exploration of architecture and technology with Paul Doherty, the visionary at the helm of the Digit Group. Our latest episode of Future Construct showcases Paul's fascinating shift from an architecture enthusiast to a tech entrepreneur, illuminating the untold stories behind the evolution of smart cities. As we converse, Paul unveils the intricate dance between brick-and-mortar structures and digital innovation, from the early use of modems on construction sites to the creation of interconnected urban landscapes. Woven throughout this episode is the narrative of digital tools reshaping the architectural world, with Paul Doherty as our guide. The journey begins with the birth of parametric CAD and continues through the rise of Building Information Modeling, the foretelling of the metaverse, and the implementation of smart city technologies. Paul regales us with tales of software pioneering that led to the realization of futuristic cities in China, reminding us that at the core of urban design lies a deep, humanistic intent. His experiences serve as a testament to how embracing technological advancements can transform not just the skyline but the very fabric of urban living. As the episode unfolds, Paul and I turn our gaze to the horizon, pondering the future of technology and its potential to enhance the human experience. In this thought-provoking exchange, we discuss the importance of attracting new talent to industries poised for innovation, the role of AI in bridging generational knowledge gaps, and the ways in which technology could enrich our collective intellect. Paul's forward-thinking vision suggests a world where technology serves as a catalyst for societal growth, and his voice is an inspiring call to action for those ready to build the smart cities of tomorrow. Join us for this compelling narrative and envision the boundless opportunities that technology holds for us all. Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

Picture this: you're an apprentice with a knack for tools and building, and one day, you find yourself being a director at a company that's revolutionizing the construction industry. Welcome to the world of Andy Lambert, director of Product for One Key and Construction Technology at Milwaukee Tool. Lambert's remarkable journey is not just a testament to his tenacity and passion, but it's also a peek into the heart of Milwaukee Tool and its determination to reshape the construction landscape. Ever wondered what it would be like if your tools could communicate with each other? OneKey, Milwaukee Tool's innovative solution, has made this a reality. Its robust Bluetooth tracking network, featuring asset ID tags and geo-fencing capabilities, is turning heads in the industry. But what's even more astonishing is how the company is harnessing the power of data and AI. From utilizing machine learning algorithms that enhance safety measures to optimizing resource use, Milwaukee Tool is truly at the forefront of construction technology. But what does the future hold for the construction industry? According to Lambert, it's all about collaboration. Whether it's unions, trade associations, recruiters, or government agencies, everyone has a part to play in tackling workforce challenges and creating safer environments through the use of tools, drones, sensors, and wearables. And let's not forget about the profound impact of AI. With its potential to improve construction automation and predict maintenance and quality issues, AI is a force to be reckoned with. Tune in for an exhilarating exploration of technology's role in construction, seen through the lens of Lambert's experiences and Milwaukee Tool's innovations. Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

Can you imagine a world where automation and efficiency form the backbone of architectural practices? Let's explore this exciting intersection of tech and architecture with our guest, Brian Stridam, the Digital Practice Manager and Senior Associate at FX Collaborative. Brian's passion for data and technology and his unique perspective on teaching will guide us on a journey through his career, from tech-enthusiast to a leader in digital practice. But we're not stopping there. We're also hosting Micah Kahlo, the AEC Technical Director at Esri, who's ready to share his insights on the role of GIS in digital transformation. From his humble beginnings as a GIS Technician to leading digital transformations at Arcadis and now Esri, Micah's journey is filled with lessons to inspire us all. Prepare for a deep dive into how location forms the core of design and construction and the critical role it plays in integrating data and executing new projects. Hang on, there's more! We're wrapping up the episode with Mike Kahlo, also an AEC Technical Director at Esri, who's going to unveil the fascinating world of graph databases and their revolutionary impact on digital twins. Here's a chance to grasp the power of location in digital transformation and understand the immense potential of GIS and BIM integration. So, sit back, tune in, and get ready to be inspired, informed, and intrigued by the captivating world of digital transformation. Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

In this week's captivating episode of our highly anticipated Geo Week 2023 series, we had the privilege of interviewing two industry experts who are at the forefront of innovation. Joining Mark Oden, Carla Lauter, Content Manager and Conference Chair at Geo Week, and Shawana Johnson, the President at Global Marketing Insights, engaged in enlightening discussions on a wide range of topics, including the challenges in finding presenters/topics for conference sessions, what attendees learned from the conference's keynote, how technologies covered at Global Marketing Insights tie into BIM, and research reports. This is a conversation you definitely don't want to miss! About Carla Lauter Carla Lauter is co-Conference Chair for Geo Week and the editor of Geo Week News. As editor, she creates and curates content and newsletters in support of Geo Week. Before joining Diversified Communications, Carla spent 10 years on NASA and National Science Foundation funded projects focusing on Earth science and communication. She has worked on web-based outreach and online interactives for NASA Earth Science, including products for satellite missions measuring sea level, salinity and hyperspectral ocean color. About Shawana Johnson Dr. Shawana P. Johnson, GISP, is a global commercial remote sensing subject matter expert providing Geospatial Business Intelligence Expertise™ assisting government clients with the vast range of data available from open source intelligence and commercial spaceborne, airborne and terrestrial based sensors and their interoperability with the government and global business community focused on AI/ML usage of sensors for 5G and communications, national security, climate, energy resources, global food security and water sustainability; and logistics and supply chain. In these interviews, our guest host, Mark Oden, delved into a diverse range of topics with Carla and Shawana. Some of the captivating topics they discussed include: SHOW NOTES 0:12 - Mark Oden introduces Carla Lauter, Content Manager and Conference Chair at Geo Week. 2:00 - Mark: "I'm very impressed with the speakers and topics. What are some of the challenges in finding presenters and developing topics?" 3:59 - Mark: "So you spoke a little bit about the core topics at the keynotes. I'd love to hear a little bit more about what we learned from the specific keynote?" 8:57 - Mark Oden introduces Shawana Johnson, President at Global Marketing Insights. 12:32 - Mark: "In terms of your per view on technologies, it looks like you personal and your company covers many different types of technologies. What are some examples of those and how can we tie those into the BIM world?" 18:50 - Mark: "To bring Global Marketing Insights and Geo Week together, you work on very specialized and commissioned research reports. Is there one or two reports that you'd like to highlight that are highly related to Geo Week?" Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

In this week's exciting episode of our highly anticipated Geo Week 2023 series, we interviewed two industry experts, Marc Goldman, the AEC Industry Solutions Director at Esri, and Colin Romberger, the Solutions Engineering Manager at Skydio. Joining Mark Oden, these two senior leaders engaged in captivating discussions on a wide range of topics, including Esri's recent toolsets and Marc's thoughts on GIS, practical use cases, and training opportunities in [GIS and BIM] intersection for BIM managers and BIM detailers, Skydio's history, and Colin's presentation at Geo Week. Get ready for an enlightening and thought-provoking conversation that you won't want to miss! About Marc Goldman Marc Goldman is the Director of AEC Industry Solutions at Esri. He works with a global team to define and deliver the strategy for Esri’s products and solutions serving architecture, engineering, and construction users. Mr. Goldman is a leading expert in Building Information Modeling (BIM), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and their impact on the processes and business of the planning, design, and construction industry. About Colin Romberger Prior to joining the Solutions Engineering team at Skydio, Colin served as Chief Pilot and Senior sUAS Operations Consultant for DARTdrones Inc., where he was responsible for the development and delivery of sUAS training and consultative services for the company’s enterprise clients across a variety of industries including energy, utilities, engineering, communications, security, and public works. Colin began his professional career with unmanned aircraft in 2015 under the terms of a Section 333 Exemption from the FAA for approved operations in south-central Pennsylvania, where his company, Precision Aerial UAS, LLC, provided a range of aerial imaging services to clients in the construction and engineering industries. During these two engaging interviews, our guest host, Mark Oden delved into a wide range of compelling topics with Marc and Colin. Some of the intriguing subjects they explored together include: SHOW NOTES 2:28 Mark: "I've been personally so impressed with what I've seen of Esri and their toolsets. They've had some recent toolsets that they've released and there's some combination of GIS and BIM that are blending together. I'd love to hear about those new toolkits and your thoughts on GIS." 5:18 Mark: "If we were to address the BIM managers and BIM detailers of the world, what would be some practical use cases in GIS and BIM intersection, and what kind of training would you point them to?" 11:33 Mark Oden introduces Colin Romberger, Solutions Engineering Manager at Skydio. 17:29 Mark: "Tell us a little bit more about Skydio, what they've accomplished lately, and at scale how large they are, and maybe we can dive into some of the products and solutions." 22:44 Mark: "So as we transition into Geo Week, I understand you have a presentation. Could you tell us a little bit about it and some of your takeaways?" Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

In this week's episode of our special Geo Week 2023 series, we have the pleasure of hosting Konrad Wenzel, Director of R&D in Stuttgart at Esri, and Ted Knaak, Founder and President at TopoDOT. Join Mark, Konrad, and Ted as they engage in insightful discussions on a range of topics, including Konrad's involvement in ArcGIS, how Esri is involved in the evolution of digital spaces in construction, Ted's background, and his takeaways from panel conversations. About Konrad Wenzel Konrad Wenzel is the Director of the Esri R&D Center in Stuttgart, Germany, focusing on reality capture and Photogrammetry technology, such as the SURE engine. The technology turns imagery and lidar into 3D and 2D products and is well known for its market-leading precision. It is used worldwide for drone and aerial imagery for sites, cities, and entire countries. Konrad studied Geodesy and Geoinformatics and received a Ph.D. in Photogrammetry from the University of Stuttgart in 2016. In 2013 he co-founded nFrames, which joined Esri through an acquisition in 2020. About Ted Knaak Ted Knaak is currently president and owner of TopoDOT LLC, a Florida software company founded in 2011. TopoDOT software is employed worldwide as a comprehensive solution to geospatial point cloud data processing. Ted has over 25 years of experience in the industry, having founded Riegl USA in 1993 to market and apply Riegl lidar technology across North America. Earlier in his career, Ted was a control systems analyst for GE Space Systems. Ted holds Master of Science Degrees in electrical and mechanical engineering from Brown and Drexeluniversities. Throughout the interviews, Konrad and Ted discussed numerous topics with our host Mark Oden, including: Esri is the global market leader in geographic information system (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping. Since 1969, they have supported customers with geographic science and geospatial analytics, what they call The Science of Where. They take a geographic approach to problem-solving, brought to life by modern GIS technology. They are committed to using science and technology to build a sustainable world. At TopoDOT, they pride themselves on their connections with those they work with in both their own company and in the LiDAR industry. They are a tight-knit company that works hard on building relationships and supporting their community. They are passionate about LiDAR technology and want to share that passion and excitement through their software solutions. SHOW NOTES 4:28 Mark: "If we look at Esri's acquisition of nFrames, what was your role in working on ArcGIS reality?" 9:24 Mark: "I would love to understand what your key takeaways were from the Empowering Digital Twins panel that we were presenting on." 12:57 Mark Oden introduces Ted Knaak, Founder and President at TopoDOT. 13:11 Mark: "I would love to hear about your background Ted, and what brought you into founding TopoDOT?" 23:48 Mark: "I would love to understand what some your key takeaways were from our panel and the other speakers who presented." Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

On this week's guest list, for Season 3, Episode 16, we are delighted to welcome to the show Kourosh Langari, Project Engineer at Caltrans, and Douglas Dunrud, Vice President and Technical Principal at the WSP USA (26-minute episode). The insightful discussions between Mark, Kourosh, and Douglas covered several topics, ranging from how Caltrans integrates technology and their challenges for the next few years, to WSP utilizing BIM in infrastructure projects and how they approach training with the adoption of new technology. About Kourosh Langari Kourosh Langari has 30 years of experience in A&E infrastructure Planning, Design & Construction Management with focus on integration of engineering/survey/GIS software applications (i.e. Autodesk, Bentley & ESRI) to establish industry’s best practices and increase efficiencies in workflow of Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) process. Kourosh has been and is working as Civil Engineer/ BIM Manager Transportation Surveyor at public sector (California Department of Transportation) and has worked as senior project engineer in private sector for AECOM (formerly URS) for the past decade. About Douglas Dunrud Mr. Doug Dunrud is a BIM Engineering Specialist with 34 years of experience as a bridge engineer in the highway transportation sector. He joined WSP in 2018 following his previous position as Branch Chief in Structure Design for Caltrans. During his time at Caltrans, he implemented the “Civil 3D Best Practices” in his branch and developed a BIM Implementation Plan for the Division of Engineering Services. Mr. Dunrud is a pioneer in the development of BIM for bridges and structures and Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) which promises to improve quality, accelerate project schedules and increase value to clients on transportation infrastructure projects. Throughout the interviews, Kourosh and Douglas discussed numerous topics with our host Mark Oden, including: SHOW NOTES 0:12 - Mark Oden introduces Kourosh Langari, Project Engineer at Caltrans. 2:21 - Mark: "Speaking of topologies and different climates, here at Geo Week, it's a big focus on topology, LIDAR scanning and BIM. So, how does Caltrans integrate technology into the performance of their service?" 7:26 - Mark: "What do you see as some of the major challenges for Caltrans over the next few years?" 11:59 - Mark Oden introduces Douglas Dunrud, Vice President and Technical Principal at WSP USA. 15:13 - Mark: "So can you drive into some of the use cases, especially how you're using the model and component of BIM into your infrastructure projects? Could you also share a little bit about your experience and how you help influence the tools and technologies that the market sees?" 19:39 - Mark: "So moving on to speak a little bit about Bentley and the agnostic approach that WSP is taking with software, I'm curious how you approach the training component when you're moving from Civil 3D to Bentley, for example?" Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

Summer is approaching, and our special Geo Week 2023 series is heating up! This week, for Season 3, Episode 16, we are thrilled to welcome to the show Kara Fragola, Field Engineer at Skanska USA, and Jason Stoker, a Physical Scientist at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The naturally flowing conversations between Mark, Kara, and Johnny took a deep dive into numerous topics, from our guests' career origin stories and how Skanska USA and USGS are involved in the future of construction, to their specific participation in presentations at Geo Week and key takeaways from the conference. About Kara Fragola Kara Fragola is a field engineer at Skanska USA Civil, working primarily in the northeast region. During her time at Skanska, she has worked on numerous noteworthy projects such as LaGuardia Airport Redevelopment, Hunt’s Point Interstate Access Improvement Contract 1, and Harmon Shop Replacement. About Jason Stoker Dr. Jason Stoker is a US Geological Survey Physical Scientist for the National Geospatial Program. Jason is currently the Elevation Science and Applications Lead for the National Geospatial Program. Jason oversees strategic planning, development and coordination of the 3D Elevation Program and related data, tools, and services. Jason provides technical expertise, prepares roadmaps and plans for elevation products and services, and helps determine the long-term vision for 3DEP products and services. Throughout the interviews, Kara and Jason discussed numerous topics with our host Mark Oden, including: - What is important and of paramount focus for Skanska this year - Some of Skanska's best practices when it comes to information sharing - How the ROI from USGS collected data is being returned to the community - Jason's findings from a survey he presented at Geo Week Skanska is one of the largest, most financially sound construction and development companies in the U.S., serving a broad range of clients, including those in transportation, power, industrial, water/wastewater, healthcare, education, sports, data centers, government, aviation, and commercial. Skanska is an industry-leading innovator in both safety and project execution and offers competitive solutions for both traditional and complex assignments to help build a more sustainable future for our customers and communities. Created by an act of Congress in 1879, the USGS provides science for a changing world, which reflects and responds to society’s continuously evolving needs. As the science arm of the Department of the Interior, the USGS brings an array of earth, water, biological, and mapping data and expertise to bear in support of decision-making on environmental, resource, and public safety issues. SHOW NOTES 3:37 Mark: "Kara, can you tell us a little bit about Skanska, itself, the organization at scale? And what is of key importance to Skanska this year?" 7:26 Mark: "What are some best practices that Skanska has when it comes to share information with other colleagues?" 17:46 Mark: "Jason, could you share some use cases on where data [that USGS has collected] has been consumed and used, and the ROI that you're seeing is being returned back to the community?" 20:10 Mark: "So you recently participated in a study that you'll be presenting at Geo Week. Would you like to give us a synopsis of your findings and what you studied?" Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

Hot off the press, we have another episode of the Future Construct Podcast! This week for Season 3, Episode 15, our guest host Mark Oden, was elated to be joined by Dave Davia, the CEO and EVP of the Rocky Mountain Mechanical Contractors Association, to the show (15-minute interview). The conversation between Mark and Dave took an introspective look into various topics, from Rocky Mountain MCA's (RMMCA) work with contractors and Dave's thoughts on relationship building with labor to insights into a college the organization is developing and Dave's goals for this year. About the RMMCA The Rocky Mountain Mechanical Contractors Association (Rocky Mountain MCA) is a professional trade association serving over 160 member companies involved in heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, ventilation, plumbing, piping, and mechanical service throughout Colorado. While their general mission is to make the Rocky Mountain region the best place to be a mechanical contractor, their work is primarily focused on legislative and regulatory advocacy, labor relations, education and training, and fostering relationships within the industry. About Dave Davia Dave Davia is a passionate leader with a diverse background in public and private organizations. He has a strong track record of accomplishments in strategic partnerships, government relations, coalition building, business and legislative analysis, collective bargaining, public policy, and association management. Currently, Dave Davia serves as the CEO and EVP of the Rocky Mountain Mechanical Contractors Association, a nationally recognized leader in trade organizations. In this role, he founded the Western States College of Construction, an employer-sponsored accredited training program that prepares workers in four states for lucrative careers in several construction trades, addressing a significant gap in the workforce. Throughout the interview, Dave discussed numerous topics with our guest host, Mark Oden, including: SHOW NOTES 0:12 - Mark Oden introduces Dave Davia, the CEO and EVP of the Rocky Mountain Mechanical Contractors Association. 1:14 - Mark: "Could you let us know how you work with contractors and unions in the Colorado area?" 3:25 - Mark: "What do you think are some of the key strategic elements of building a healthy relationship with labor?" 5:34 - Mark: "One of your many accomplishments is a college that you've been working. Could you share what the college is, what the goal of the college is, how much work has been done to get to where you are, and what you see as the future of the college?" 9:44 - Mark: "In fact, your team just worked on this Economic Impact Study for Colorado. What key takeaways do you have from this report?" 11:06 - Mark: "As we wrap up here, just looking into the future, what are some goals you have for the year? And what is the future for the industry whether it comes to employment, technology, or otherwise?" Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

It's almost April, and we are excited to launch a new series of episodes featuring our guest host, Mark Oden (CEO of BIM Designs, Inc), and several keynote speakers we met at Geo Week 2023 in Denver, CO! This week, for Season 3, Episode 13, we are thrilled to welcome back to the show Danielle O'Connell, the Senior Director of Emerging Technology at Skanska USA, and Johnny Fortune, the BIM Program Director at the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) (24-minute episode). The naturally flowing conversations between Danielle and Johnny took an introspective look into various topics, from guests' backgrounds and the work Skanska USA and NIBS do to involvement in presentations at Geo Week and points of excitement from the conference. About Danielle O'Connell In 2020, Danielle was listed as one of 17 women that are changing the face of construction. In her career, Danielle has provided leadership, supervision, input, and guidance on integrating, incorporating, and adopting new and emerging technologies relevant to needs in the design and construction of facilities. She has overseen teams dedicated to providing design and construction-related services, including GIS, BIM, CAD, document management, and various graphic requests. Danielle has directed and managed consultants and sub-consultants GIS, CAD, and BIM submissions; and reviewed and investigated the integration of these design/construction technologies. About Johnny Fortune Johnny Fortune is a technology leader and subject matter expert in building information management (BIM) for the architecture, engineering, construction, and owner/operator industry. He serves as the Director of the U.S. National BIM Program with the National Institute of Building Sciences, where he focuses on the program launch and implementation plan to improve efficiencies in the design and construction industry. Johnny over 20 years of experience in computer-aided design and BIM management. Throughout the interviews, Danielle and Johnny discussed numerous topics with our host Mark Oden, including: SHOW NOTES 0:12 Mark Oden introduces Danielle O'Connell, the Senior Director of Emerging Technology at Skanska USA. 4:05 Mark: "Can you guide us through how you personally see change management and how you've implemented that at Skanska and seen the successes from that?" 9:32 Mark: "So, speaking of other things Geo Week-related, what else have you taken away, and what else are you excited about seeing?" 12:05 Mark Oden introduces Johnny Fortune, the BIM Program Director at the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS). 16:27 Mark: "Would any designer, general contractor, or owner be a consumer of this [BIM] standard? Who would be the typical users?" 20:46 Mark: "Switching gears to Geo Week, you were on the keynote panel, and a huge portion of the conversation was about making the right decisions in adopting technology and change management. What were your key takeaways?" Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

We're halfway through Season 3 of the Future Construct Podcast. This week, for Season 3, Episode 12, our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR), was elated to be joined by Aaron Anderson, the Director of Innovation at Swinerton, to the show (30-minute interview). The conversation between Aaron and Amy took an introspective look into an array topics, from Aaron's philosophy on innovation in construction and how Swinerton divides it's focus on future tech and current implementation, to also discussing how owners play a pivotal role in the cohesion of the construction process. About Aaron Anderson Aaron joined Swinerton in 2018 to work with their self-perform services in order to exploit his passion for connecting design to business processes using automation and standardization. His work today centers around balancing innovation with the objectives of the business model and Swinerton’s talented people. In his tenure with Swinerton, he has helped develop the application technology and repeatable elements for their parking structure product, Perq. Aaron is also a founding member of Swinerton’s Sustainability Task Force and a contributor to the growth of the Self-Perform Hub. Over the course of the interview, Aaron discussed numerous topics with our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR), including: Swinerton provides commercial construction and construction management services throughout the United States and is a 100% employee-owned company. Recognized nationally since 1888, Swinerton is the preferred builder and trusted partner in every market it serves—proudly leading with integrity, passion, and excellence. Since their inception, Swinerton has been on the cutting edge of innovation, operating with accountability and integrity. With 19 regional offices across the United States, their ability to respond to unique project challenges, regardless of size, location, or complexity, is how they provide peace of mind to their clients. SHOW NOTES 0:12 - Amy Peck introduces Aaron Anderson, the Director of Innovation at Swinerton. 2:16 - Amy: "Do you see any parallels where we are today, moving from these 2D screens to 3D, to the metaverse, and Web3? I think we're at another nexus." 5:48 - Amy: "So I'd love quote your LinkedIn profile, because you don't talk about your experience the way everyone else does...You say 'Inventing the next wave of construction project delivery through a cycle of wisdom, wonder, and getting deep in the weeds.' So where does that come from, because I think those are words to live by?" 10:30 - Amy: "In your day-to-day in innovation, what percentage off your day is about 'what can technology do for us' and what is 'how do we incrementally improve what we do on a daily basis,' because there is an incremental component to it?" 13:30 - Amy: "What are the things that are exciting you today? Is it technology, is it new process? What makes you leap out of bed in the morning?" Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

Hot off the press, we have another episode of the Future Construct Podcast! This week, for Season 3, Episode 11, our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR), was delighted to welcome Ryan McMahon, the General Manager of the Manufacturing Informed Design Group at Autodesk, to the show (21-minute interview). The conversation between Ryan and Amy was a deep dive into several engaging topics, including how companies are leveraging manufacturing informed design, the divide between companies pushing the envelope and those that are remaining stagnant, where digital twins fits into developing end-to-end data sharing and optimization mechanisms, as well as compelling technologies that Ryan wants to adopted more. About Ryan McMahon Ryan is the General Manager of the Manufacturing Informed Design Group working on building new solutions to enable Industrialized Construction and productization for construction. He has worked for Autodesk for 12 years building and delivering manufacturing products including Factory Design Utilities, Process Analysis, Fusion Production, Factory Digital Twin and Generative Factory layout capabilities. Prior to Autodesk, Ryan worked for several startups delivering products for digital music, medical devices, IT compliance, and high-performance computing. Ryan holds 3 patents, has an MBA from the University of Washington, and a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Washington State University. About Autodesk Autodesk is changing how the world is designed and made. Their technology spans architecture, engineering, construction, product design, manufacturing, media, and entertainment, empowering innovators everywhere to solve challenges big and small. From greener buildings to smarter products to mesmerizing blockbusters, Autodesk software empowers innovators to design and make a better world for all. But they’re restless to do more. At Autodesk, they don’t believe in waiting for progress, they believe in making it–by combining technologies, unleashing talent, unlocking insights, and empowering their customers to find solutions to the challenges they face today. Their software provides customers with the right tools to work, the ability to think flexibly, and the power to transform what actually needs making. SHOW NOTES 6:13 - Amy: "So when you talk about your title, Manufacturing Informed Design, how are companies leveraging it now, and how are you optimizing the process?" 8:38 - Amy: "The thing that I'm always confused by in the AEC industry is that you have these companies that are really pushing the envelope on the art of the possible, building in all of these deficiencies, using and BIM and all these new technologies, but then there's that faction that 'if it ain't broke don't fix it.' Is this software going to help bring some of those companies along?" 11:54 - Amy: "Talking about optimization both manufacturing and bringing the two together, I personally have a focus on leveraging digital twin. The goal is to get this end-to-end data sharing and optimization mechanism, but really transparency between teams and factions. Where does digital twins fall into that, from your perspective?" 16:24 - Amy: "I'm sure you have a kind of birds eye view, given your experience, on a lot of tangential technologies that are impact the industry, AI, blockchain, XR. Are there things for you, that are really compelling for you, and that you want to see more adoption of?" Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

The team at BIM Designs, Inc. produces the Future Construct Podcast. We will be at Geo Week 2023, and this week's podcast guest Johnny Fortune will also be at speaking as a part of the Opening Keynote Presentation: How Ready is the AEC Industry for Digitalization? where a panel of experts will discuss what has and hasn't changed in technological innovations, how they've seen organizations define the value of a shift into the digital age, whether or not certain companies and users are ready for it and much more. Use promo code SPEAKER100 for a free expo hall pass or $100 off a Full Conference Pass. Geo Week is a conference you won't want to miss! It's a new week, and that means another episode of the Future Construct Podcast! For Season 3, Episode 10, our host Amy Peck(@AmyPeckXR), was thrilled to welcome Johnny Fortune, the BIM Program Director at the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS), to the show (22-minute interview). The conversation between Johnny and Amy touched on a handful of thought-provoking topics, including adoption ratings, inefficiencies, industry standards, and challenges, as well as their impact. They also discussed a roadmap from BIM to, ultimately, the AR cloud and some transcendent industry technologies. About Johnny Fortune Johnny Fortune is a technology leader and subject matter expert in building information management (BIM) for the architecture, engineering, construction, and owner/operator industry. He serves as the Director of the U.S. National BIM Program with the National Institute of Building Sciences, where he focuses on the program launch and implementation plan to improve efficiencies in the design and construction industry. Johnny has more than 20 years of experience in computer-aided design and BIM management. Throughout his career, he has successfully helped many professionals adopt various levels of design and construction technology, from hand drafting to virtual design and construction. During the interview, Johnny discussed numerous topics with host Amy Peck(@AmyPeckXR), including: SHOW NOTES 0:12 Amy Peck introduces Johnny Fortune, the BIM Program Director at the National Institute of Building Sciences. 2:15 Amy: "So what do you attribute the slow adoption rating and inefficiencies to, because there aren't a lack of standards? And what are the challenges, because it's such a behemoth of an industry?" 4:19 Amy: "And since you've been focused on standards, what are some of the standards that you've seen come about and enacted in the past decade that have been really impactful, and how do we rinse and repeat?" 15:08 Amy: "In terms of your own interest in the industry, what are some of the technologies that you think are having the most impact, and do you think it's somewhat of a slow burn for some of these technologies?" Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

It's a new year, and we at Future Construct and BIM Designs, Inc. want to welcome you to 2023. This year, we'll dive deeper into the industry's hottest topics and cutting-edge technological advances as we interview some it's most insightful and forward-thinking leaders. To kickstart it, for Season 3, Episode 9, our host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR) was thrilled to welcome Ron Mann, the Vice President of Modular Systems at TD Industries, on to the show (22-minute interview). Ron and Amy engaged in a technologically profound conversation as they touched on many insightful topics during the interview, covering how may need to begin thinking differently about working with data and tech, AI deployment, how blockchain may push the industry forward, and Star Trek. About Ron Mann Ron Mann leads the Modular division and is responsible for business development, design and production of industrial and data center modular solutions. He has over 25 years of experience in product design, project development and manufacturing. Before joining TDIndustries, Ron was VP of Engineering at TAS Energy, Inc. developing modular IT data center and industrial solutions. Additionally, he helped to launch Vertiv's new data center infrastructure business and spent 20 years at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, leading infrastructure and modular data center initiatives. During the interview, Ron discussed numerous topics with host Amy Peck (@AmyPeckXR), including: - A potential point at which we may have to think differently about how we work with data and progressing technology - Whether artificial intelligence is being deployed and how it's being leveraged to balance redundancies - How blockchain and racks of servers may become productized, whether that pushes the industry forward, and some dangers we could be missing - How Star Trek influenced his origin story with technology SHOW NOTES 0:12 - Amy Peck introduces Ron Mann, the Vice President of Modular Systems at TD Industries. 6:44 - Amy: "So just by your history, it's clear where you got your geek stripes, but the origin story might be right behind you. Can you tell us what's going on back there?" 9:00 - Amy: "Is there a point at which we have to fundamentally have to think differently about how we work with all of this data and technology? Is it going to be the data centers that we know today or are they going to be on a wafer?" 13:25 - Amy: "Are you seeing AI (artificial intelligence) being deployed or have heard a lot of balancing around redundancies and leveraging AI to do that. You're saying some of these servers are at 95% capacity. How do you maintain critical up-time while offloading or managing compute?" 17:10 - Amy: "Blockchain and individual minors who are now putting racks of servers in their basements...that is the definition of inefficiency. Do you see that becoming productized? Is that pushing things forward, or because there's so much experimentation with minors, there might be some dangers that we're missing?" 20:08 - Amy: "If you could project yourself 20 to 25 years into the future, and you could bring with you any product or service that would just make you personally happy or make your life better in some way, what would it be, and what would it do?" Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!

In celebration of Veterans Day, this week, for Season 3, Episode 8, our host Amy Peck welcomed Mike Hazard, the UA ITF Training Specialist for the United Association Veterans in Piping (VIP) Training Program, onto the show (26-minute interview). Mike and Amy covered reintegrating veterans into civilian life, challenges attracting millennials and Generation Z, technology as a recruitment tool, and the evolution of technology. About Mike Hazard In 1988, Mike joined the United States Navy. He served as an Aviation Rescue Swimmer and H-46 Helicopter Mechanic for 11 years before being honorably discharged in 1999 as a Petty Officer First Class. In 1999, Mike returned to the UA as a Journeyman Pipefitter. As a member of the UA working in the construction field, Mike was promoted to the position of Foreman in 2000, General Foreman in 2001, and in 2002 to the position of General Superintendent. In 2005, Mike accepted a position with the Southern California Plumbers and Pipefitters Apprenticeship & Journeymen Training Trust Fund (A&J Training) as a Training Coordinator. During the interview, Mike discussed numerous topics with host Amy Peck, including: To ease the transition back into civilian life, the United Association established the UA Veterans in Piping (VIP) Program to equip military service members preparing to leave the service with sought-after skills that can lead to lifelong careers in the increasingly in-demand pipe trades. Through 18-week accelerated courses - provided free of cost on military bases across the country - VIP participants earn industry-recognized certifications and direct entry into solid private-sector jobs with good pay and benefits. In October 2012, Mike accepted a position with the United Association as a Training Specialist assigned to the Veterans in Piping (VIP) Training Program. Mike manages the day-to-day operations of nine VIP training sites and serves as the United Association’s representative for Helmets to Hardhats. SHOW NOTES 4:24 - Amy: "So, from your own personal story, you mentioned that your whole family is in the industry, and you had that support system. Was this program created because, collectively, coming out of the military, you have incredible discipline, training, and skills, yet, the job market can be a challenge? When did this program start?" 9:34 - Amy: "Do you find it very common for family members to be in the trade because it seems like there are some challenges getting this next generation of digital natives to get in and work with your hands? Are you finding that as a challenge as well?" 12:31 - Amy: "We talk a lot about technology, especially in traditional industries. I think on the training side, there's been so much great data to support how training in virtual environments, although they are expensive and cumbersome, they're changing workflows. Do you see technology as a way to train more people and entice more people into the industry?" Contact the Future Construct Podcast Produced by BIM Designs, Inc!