Right-Sized Solutions: Toyota, Not Ferrari

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample looks into the real-world application of AI in construction with industry leaders from Quantum Rise. While AI is generating excitement across industries, construction companies often struggle with where to start, what to automate, and how to ensure meaningful ROI. This conversation breaks down the path from curiosity to implementation, showing how AI can shift from buzzword to business advantage, if done right.

Hugh Seaton and Connor Schmeling from Quantum Rise join the show. Hugh brings years of experience in AI and digital transformation, with a sharp focus on aligning tech with business goals. Connor leads the construction vertical at Quantum Rise, leveraging a consulting and technology background (KPMG, fintech) to help contractors and subcontractors drive value through AI. Together, they offer a complementary blend of vision and execution.

Key Takeaways

• Why starting AI initiatives with business outcomes is the key to success.
• Common AI implementation pitfalls in construction and how to avoid them.
• The value of automating “boring” but necessary tasks to free up human expertise.
• How Quantum Rise uses a “Rapid AI Breakthrough Assessment” to identify high-ROI opportunities.
• Why future-proofing your AI stack matters and how modular solutions enable adaptability.

Timestamps

[00:00] - Episode Introduction

[02:34] - Hugh’s AI Journey and the Current Landscape

[04:34] - Meet Connor Schmeling and Quantum Rise’s Approach

[07:12] - Avoiding AI Failures: It’s Not Just About Tech

[11:34] - The Importance of Business Strategy Before AI Strategy

[16:31] - Automating the Right Tasks: Small Wins, Big Impact

[23:34] - Future-Proofing AI Solutions and Modular Model Design

[28:10] - Human-Centric Design: Making AI Usable and Trusted

[35:05] - The Connected Jobsite and Using Data Intelligently

[41:05] - Conclusion: AI as a Strategic Partner in Construction

Follow Connor Schmeling:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connorschmeling/

Follow Hugh Seaton:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hughseaton/
• Website: https://hughseaton.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hughg.seaton.9
• X: https://x.com/hughseaton

Follow Quantum Rise:

• Website: https://www.quantumrise.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/quantumrise/

Follow the Host:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/

Follow The ConTech Crew:

• Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ 
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