Contechtrio - Talking Construction Tech

In this special roundtable episode of The ConTech Crew, Jeff Sample is joined by Jonathan Marsh, CEO of SteelToe Consulting and a technology strategist, Nathan Wood, Founder & Chief Enabling Officer At SpectrumAEC, Travis Voss, Director of Innovative Technology and Fabrication at SMACNA and Jacob D’Albora, Director of Digital Building Operations at VIATechnik for a spirited conversation on the convergence of AI and construction. With insights rooted in practical experience, the group digs into what’s hype, what’s real, and what’s starting to deliver value on jobsites and across the back office.The first half of the episode tackles the evolving conversation around AI - from technical distinctions between LLMs and traditional models, to the construction implications of large data center builds, labor disruption, and the accelerating demand for faster delivery. This isn't just a news recap - it's a temperature check on where the industry actually is with AI.Key Learnings:AI success depends on clearly

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood sit down with Jacob D’Albora, Director of Digital Building Operations at VIATechnik, to talk about their newest innovation: Voyager, a digital twin solution built with owners in mind. Jacob shares insights into bridging the construction-operations gap, the shift from BIM as a 3D model to BIM as a data source, and why the facilities side of the AEC industry needs tools designed specifically for their workflow. The conversation also covers cultural change, standards, AI integration, and Jacob's recent appointment to the National Institute of Building Sciences’ Digital Twin Integration Committee.Key Learnings:Digital twins should empower not overwhelm facility teams.Interoperability is more realistic and effective than forcing a single source of truth.The design and construction phases must hand off clean, validated data to ops.Data consumers (like Voyager) increase the value of data creators.Change management is just as vital as the technology

In this episode, Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood sit down with Benjamin Urban, the CEO of DIRTT, to explore how their innovative approach to off-site construction is pushing the boundaries of prefab with a focus on Design for Disassembly (DfD). Benjamin shares how DIRTT’s proprietary software and modular systems are revolutionizing how we build, adapt, and reuse spaces especially in healthcare, education, and commercial offices.DIRTT’s process enables cost certainty, labor efficiency, sustainability, and real-time reconfigurability. You’ll also hear fascinating insights into how DIRTT was quietly solving the same problems that caused others like Katerra to fail.Key TakeawaysDIRTT builds flexibility into buildings by focusing on Design for Disassembly, not just construction.Their tech stack allows real-time pricing, manufacturing instructions, and product design from a single software interface.Healthcare facilities can repurpose spaces within hours a game-changer for real-world patient care demands.Labor and cost

In this high-energy episode of The ConTech Crew, Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood welcome Tyler Campbell, Founder of FieldProof and host of the Construction Brothers podcast. From steel detailing to shaking up construction technology, Tyler opens up about the realities of field-level frustrations and how tech solutions often miss the mark. This episode dives deep into how Field Proof connects the boots on the ground with the people building the tools, creating feedback loops that actually work.Tyler shares his evolution from a salty steel detailer to a bridge-builder between the field and the tech world. The conversation covers arrogant tech rollouts, bloated platforms, broken processes, and why empathy might be the industry's greatest innovation tool. It’s part reflection, part industry rant, and all heart.Key LearningsGreat tech can’t thrive without listening to the people in the field.Tyler’s steel detailing background fuels his passion for user-centered technology.Arrogance is common in construction and it

In this special episode of The ConTech Crew, Jeff Sample is joined by Scott Reynolds, CEO and Co-Founder of UpCodes, and co-host Nathan Wood to unpack the evolving debate around building code accessibility and the controversial Pro Codes Act. The episode sheds light on the decades-long legal battle between public access advocates and standards development organizations (SDOs) over who really owns the building codes once they become law. Scott gives us an insider’s perspective on UpCodes’ mission, the origins of the copyright conflict, and why transparent access to legal codes is critical for innovation, fairness, and public safety.The trio also gets into another critical disruption, what some are calling the “death of SEO” and how it’s forcing companies, especially in construction, to rethink content distribution. From HubSpot’s 80% traffic loss to the rising importance of targeted, high-value content across multiple platforms, this episode is a deep dive into how legal, marketing, and technological shifts ar

In this episode, Jeff Sample sits down with Jon Chesser, Chief Growth Officer at Cumulus, to explore how connected tools are transforming construction QA/QC particularly in the booming data center space. With nearly 20 years of experience in construction technology and a successful exit from Jovix, Jon brings a deep understanding of solving field-level problems with practical tech.As AI accelerates the demand for faster, more efficient data center builds, Jon unpacks how Cumulus is eliminating legacy paperwork for electrical and mechanical contractors through Bluetooth-enabled tools. From torque verification to real-time digital records, this conversation gets into the real-world innovations helping contractors stay in flow, reduce rework, and scale with speed.Key LearningsConstruction tech success depends on solving field-level workflow problems, not just tracking data.Jovix gained traction by fixing procurement-to-installation disconnects using RFID and schedule integration.Cumulus is eliminating paper-base

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, Jeff Sample is joined by Dave McCool, Director of Product of Procore Technologies and Tore Hovland, co-founder of Novarender, for a detailed discussion into the global evolution of Building Information Modeling (BIM). Together, they explore the innovative tech that’s redefining how the construction industry interacts with massive models in real-time from civil tunneling projects in Norway to vertical builds in the US.The conversation unpacks how Novarender’s origin in oil and gas tech evolved into a game-changing BIM viewer capable of rendering “the universe,” and why the merger with Procore is a pivotal moment for democratizing BIM. The trio tackles philosophical differences in BIM adoption across countries, the potential to reduce rework and safety incidents, and the crucial move from reactive to proactive construction.Key Takeaways:Norway's BIM-first mandate is leading global adoption and shifting the construction paradigm.Novarender was built to stream massive data

From X-Con to Unbound, a new era for Bluebeam is taking shape ushering in innovation, AI transformation, and a deeper connection with the AEC community. In this episode, Jeff Sample is joined by Usman Shuja, CEO of Bluebeam, to unpack the evolution of the company and its commitment to putting users at the center of everything. They explore how Unbound isn’t just a revived conference, it's a strategic milestone that reflects Bluebeam’s next chapter of growth, collaboration, and community-driven innovation.Usman discusses how Bluebeam is embracing generative AI to automate tedious workflows, empower field teams, and enhance productivity. He also offers a glimpse into Unbound’s exciting speaker lineup, including innovation leaders from Disney, CBRE, and even Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak. Whether you're a long-time Bluebeam user, a construction tech enthusiast, or new to the scene, this conversation sets the stage for where the industry and Bluebeam is headed.Key Learnings Unbound is the evolution of X-

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, Jeff Sample sits down with Peter Lasensky, founder of Command Post and the original creator of NoteVault, to talk about revolutionizing documentation in construction. With decades of firsthand experience as a contractor and tech innovator, Peter shares how a tough legal lesson inspired him to create a voice-to-text solution that’s changing how field teams protect their projects and their bottom line.Peter gets into the power of real-time documentation, why adjectives don’t belong in daily reports, and how AI and multilingual support are shaping the future of construction communication. From solving disputes before they start to connecting teams with smart collaboration tools, this episode is packed with insights for anyone building in today’s high-risk, high-stakes environment.Key LearningsReal-time voice documentation can help contractors avoid litigation and get paid faster.Removing opinions and adjectives from reports makes them stronger in legal disputes.Documentation

In this episode, the ConTech Crew Host Jeff Sample Alongside Co-Host Rob McKinney gets into the evolving world of construction technology with returning guest Josh Kanner, Sr. Director, Product & Strategy, Construction & Engineering Intelligence at Oracle. Together with the crew, they discuss how innovation, AI, and real-time data are transforming the industry from top to bottom. The conversation explores lessons learned from years in the field, how startups scale in construction, and the tech adoption hurdles that continue to challenge the sector.From predictions on AI’s impact to the critical importance of understanding what happens on the jobsite, this episode is packed with insightful, future-facing perspectives. Whether you’re a contractor, a tech provider, or somewhere in between, the episode offers value on navigating construction’s digital transformation while staying grounded in real-world execution.Key TakeawaysAI adds value through visibility, not replacement.Jobsite photos and payroll data

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, Jeff Sample and co-host Nathan Wood sit down with Tracy Young, co-founder of TigerEye and formerly co-founder and CEO of PlanGrid, to explore the journey from building groundbreaking field technology to pioneering modern business intelligence. Tracy reflects on the early struggles of carrying massive blueprint rolls through job sites and how that frustration evolved into one of the most successful ConTech startups of its time.Now with TigerEye, Tracy is tackling an entirely different challenge giving go-to-market teams access to immediate, trustworthy, and actionable data. This conversation unpacks the lessons learned at PlanGrid, the importance of knowing your customer, and the shift from tech-for-tech's-sake to solving real, felt problems. With plenty of laughs and hard-earned wisdom, this episode is a must-listen for founders, builders, and innovators alike.Key Learnings:Innovation starts with solving a real-world problem, not chasing tech trends.Building a product

This episode of Construction Technology News features Artem Kuchukov CEO & Co-Founder of Kewazo joining Jeff Sample and Tannis Liviniuk to explore how emerging tech is reshaping the construction landscape. From increasing women’s participation in the industry to reducing labor strain through automation, the discussion spotlights how robotics, AI, and digital processes can enable more flexible, inclusive, and efficient work environments. Tannis shares a standout example of a Berlin-based company leveraging automation to support remote work and family-friendly scheduling, emphasizing the need for modernization to attract a new, tech-fluent workforce.The episode also gets into the resilience of contech funding, with $194M recently raised across six startups despite a tough economic climate. Jeff and Artem compare today’s tech demands to consumer expectations  drawing parallels with services like DoorDash and underscore the importance of data, GIS, and predictive logistics in enabling smarter, safer, and fast

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, we're lifting construction to new heights literally with Artem Kuchukov, CEO and co-founder of Kewazo. With a background in civil engineering and a master’s in construction robotics, Artem brings over a decade of experience in transforming how materials move on job sites using robotics and AI. He shares the incredible journey of Kewazo, a company revolutionizing vertical material movement, starting with scaffolding in industrial construction.Jeff and Tannis get into the inefficiencies of traditional material handling, the safety risks of scaffolding, and how Kewazo’s solutions are bridging the gap with automation and data. From humble Lego-inspired beginnings to enabling AI-driven insights in oil sands and manufacturing plants, Artem breaks down the tech, challenges, and the future vision for robotics in heavy industry.Key LearningsMaterial movement is one of the most inefficient and risky parts of construction, especially vertical movement.Scaffolding was a “low-hangi

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, Host Jeff Sample sits down with Mike Mantooth, Director of Capital Projects at Management Controls, Inc. With decades of experience managing high-stakes construction projects, Mike offers a get into the tools, philosophies, and leadership principles that have defined his career. From his early days in the field to leading enterprise-wide initiatives, Mike brings a boots-on-the-ground perspective to modern construction challenges.We explore how Mike blends data-driven decision-making with people-first leadership, his thoughts on digital transformation in capital projects, and why trust and collaboration remain at the heart of successful execution. Whether you’re a project leader or innovator in the construction tech space, this conversation delivers valuable insights on performance, culture, and strategy.Key LearningsMike’s career path highlights the power of persistence and versatility in construction leadership.Trust, transparency, and collaboration are more powerful than

In this special Construction Technology News episode of The ConTech crew Podcast, Jeff Sample is joined by Nathan Wood and Lou Perez, co-founder of Lumber, to unpack a major milestone in the company’s successful $15.5 million Series A funding round. The discussion kicks off with highlights from their celebration in New York, where NASDAQ gave them a literal spotlight in Times Square. With the acquisition of BuilderFAS, a digital credentialing wallet, the episode gets deep into the tech that’s reshaping workforce development in construction.As the industry faces a looming skills gap, Lou shares how Lumber is building tools to bridge the divide between the field and the back office. From AI-powered innovation to digital certifications and ERP integrations, the episode delivers key insights into how modern tech can empower craftworkers, enhance job site safety, and redefine construction career paths.Key LearningsLumber raised $15.5M in Series A funding to accelerate product growth and innovation.The acquisition

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, Jeff Sample hosts a special live show from the AGC National Convention in Columbus, Ohio. Joined by Rob McKinney from SALUS, Alex Belkofer from McCarthy, and Benjamin Crosby from Yates Construction, the crew gets into the latest in construction tech, leadership, and digital innovation. The conversation covers everything from robotics and data utilization to mental health and operational technology.With decades of combined experience and a passion for industry evolution, the guests reflect on key challenges, emerging tech solutions, and the urgent need for smarter data use. They also explore the changing culture of construction and how today’s tools from smart tools to AI-powered platforms are revolutionizing job sites. It's a high-energy, insightful episode about connecting the field, fostering innovation, and preparing for the next generation of digital builders.Key Learnings Connected job sites are being realized through robotics, AR/VR, and real-time data exchanges.

In this episode host Jeff Sample is joined by Ronen Vengosh SVP industry practices and solutions from Egnyte, to explore how IT and construction tech leaders must align to drive meaningful innovation. They get deep into the challenges and opportunities in the adoption of technology within the construction industry. They dissect why some companies scale tech successfully while others struggle and emphasize the vital role of change management, data governance, and cross-functional collaboration in transforming the AEC sector.Key LearningsTechnology fails in construction when IT and operations don’t align.Clear business goals must guide every tech decision and investment.Leadership responds to outcomes, not tech jargon or trends.AI is powerful only when it’s applied to real, specific problems.Data without structure or governance quickly becomes a liability.Security and compliance are now strategic advantages, not just safeguards.Timestamps[01:13] - Episode intro, background on Ronen’s career path[04:35] - Two ty

In Part 2 of this special edition, Jeff Sample continues the conversation with Travis Voss, Director of Innovative Technology and Fabrication at SMACNA and Trent Leinenbach Vice President of Customer Experience at Stratus as they unpack deeper industry-wide challenges and opportunities. The focus shifts to the future of BIM, what it means today, how it's often misused, and whether VDC might be the better path forward.They also discuss the need for better leadership structures to support women in construction, and highlight emerging safety innovations driven by AI and real-time jobsite data. If you're looking for thoughtful insights on where the industry is headed, this episode delivers.Key Learnings:“BIM” as a term is outdated and often misunderstood in the field.Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) may be a more functional evolution of BIM.Leadership styles directly impact retention, especially among women in construction.Many companies overestimate the effectiveness of their mentorship programs.T

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood sit down with James Hatfield, CRO at LiveSwitch, to unpack his incredible journey from painting houses to disrupting the tech space with real-time video communication tools. James shares how a financial blind spot in his early service business led him to co-found a fintech startup that soared to a billion-dollar valuation. From humble beginnings to leading-edge innovation, his story is one of hustle, grit, and bold pivots.But the episode goes far beyond the origin story. James reveals how LiveSwitch is revolutionizing emergency response, home services, and construction tech by eliminating friction in video communication: no apps, no hardware, just a tap. With real-world use cases spanning NASA, WWE, and the Super Bowl, he explains why “seeing what I see” is becoming a game-changing layer of accountability, transparency, and efficiency in the built world. Whether you're a techie, contractor, or startup founder, this conversation is pack

In this episode of Construction Tech News, host Jeff Sample teams up with two industry leaders to discuss how automation and artificial intelligence are influencing construction workflows.Travis Voss, Director of Innovative Technology and Fabrication at SMACNA and Trent Leinenbach, Vice President of Customer Experience at Stratus joined the conversation to explore topics ranging from autonomous forklifts to AI-driven news sourcing.The discussion also covers the introduction of CLARK, a large language model designed to assist engineers with codes and standards and analyzes the industry’s take on U.S. steel tariffs and their long-term implications for construction materials.Key Learnings:Autonomous forklifts are now a reality thanks to university-led research.AI tools like ChatGPT can support construction pros with smarter news sourcing.CLARK, a new large language model, aims to assist structural engineers.Engineering decisions still require human oversight, even with AI input.Steel tariffs may stabilize local