The ConTechCrew

Jeff Sample
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Feb 25, 2025 • 41min

How Location-Based Tracking is Revolutionizing Construction and Fixing Rework with Matthew Hudelson

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Jacob D'Albora sit down with Matthew Hudelson, founder of Inertia Systems, to discuss the concept of datatization, a revolutionary approach to data structuring in construction. Matthew shares how his background in technology and California healthcare compliance led him to develop location-based tracking solutions that optimize project management. The conversation covers the importance of data organization, integrations, and the role of technology in reducing rework and improving efficiency in construction projects.Key Takeaways:How Matthew’s journey in tech and construction led to the creation of Inertia Systems.The origins of datatization and why structured data is critical for project success.Lessons learned from working in California’s highly regulated healthcare construction sector.The importance of integrating construction technology tools rather than competing with them.How location-based tracking and digital twins improve project efficiency and decision-making.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[02:36] – Matthew Hudelson’s journey into construction technology and Inertia.[09:43] – How IPD and Lean construction drive innovation.[14:49] – COVID’s impact on construction technology and remote project management.[22:12] – The concept of datatization and how object-based tracking improves efficiency.[32:09] – Bridging the gap between BIM, digital twins, and field adoption.[35:40] – Final thoughts on the future of construction technology and project certainty.Follow the Guest:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-hudelson-7b631738/Company(Linkedin): https://www.linkedin.com/company/inertia-systems/ Follow the Co-Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobdalbora/ Company(Linkedin): https://www.linkedin.com/company/viatechnik/ Follow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrew Twitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew 
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Feb 20, 2025 • 34min

How AI-Powered Cyber Attacks Are Putting Construction Businesses at Risk with Joshua Weyand

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample is joined by Jonathan Marsh and special guest Joshua Weyand, Director of Emerging Technologies at Suffolk Construction to discuss the latest construction technology news. They discuss the implications of AI in construction, the rise of cybersecurity threats, and how companies can better protect their data. Joshua shares insights on the future of AI-driven project management, the impact of cybercrime on the construction industry, and why data privacy is becoming a major concern. If you're curious about where construction tech is headed.What You'll Learn:How AI agents will revolutionize project management in constructionThe risks of data privacy in an AI-driven worldWhy construction companies are prime targets for cybercrimeThe rise of impersonation attacks and how businesses can protect themselvesHow IT and tech talent shortages are shaping the industry's futureThe shift from public cloud to private cloud solutions in response to AI demandsTimestamps:[00:25] – Deepseek-The risks of AI-driven data collection and privacy concerns[03:15] – The reality of no privacy in the modern digital world[10:10] – Major government takedown of cybercrime networks[18:40] – The rise of impersonation attacks and deepfakes in business[20:19] – AI agents and the future of project management[29:30] – The balance between automation and human effort in construction[33:00] – Final thoughts and where to learn moreNews: https://www.ciodive.com/ Follow The Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-weyand-construction/ Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/suffolk-construction/ Follow Co-Host(Jonathan Marsh)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdmsteeltoe/ Website: https://www.steeltoeconsulting.com/ LinkedIn(Business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/steel-toe-consulting-llc/ Follow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrew Twitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew
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Feb 18, 2025 • 36min

Automating 8 Weeks of Work Almost Got Him Fired for Innovation with Joshua Weyand

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Jonathan Marsh sit down with Joshua Weyand, Director of Emerging Technologies at Suffolk Construction. They get into Joshua's unconventional journey from aspiring software developer to construction technologist and the creative problem-solving that fuels his work. Joshua shares how his passion for automation, data analytics, and leadership development is reshaping the construction industry, emphasizing the importance of imagination, adaptability, and collaboration between IT and field teams. If you're a tech-forward thinker looking to drive change in construction, this episode is packed with insights.Key Takeaways:Joshua’s journey from a civil engineering hopeful to a leader in construction technology.The importance of bridging creativity and leadership in solving industry challenges.How tinkering with software like Bluebeam and low-code solutions helped him automate redundant tasks.Lessons from nearly getting fired for an automation project and how it reshaped his approach.The critical role of IT collaboration in technology adoption.How playing Dungeons & Dragons helped Joshua develop a new perspective on innovation and leadership.The need for forward-thinking vision in navigating industry challenges like tariffs and AI adoption.Why companies must balance structured leadership with space for experimentation and R&D.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [02:12] – Joshua Weyand and his background in emerging technologies.[07:23] – How Joshua got into construction through an unexpected encounter.[13:57] – The challenge of implementing tech solutions.[22:02] – How industry crises drive innovation and the next big challenge for construction.[24:49] – The necessity of vision and leadership in uncertain times.[29:30] – Balancing creativity, leadership, and tech adoption in construction.Follow The Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-weyand-construction/  Follow Co-Host(Jonathan Marsh)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdmsteeltoe/ Website: https://www.steeltoeconsulting.com/ LinkedIn(Business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/steel-toe-consulting-llc/ Follow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrew Twitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew 
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Feb 13, 2025 • 31min

Google’s AI Policy Change is Reshaping Construction Site Monitoring with Trent & Travis

In this special mashup of The ConTech Crew and Construction Dorks, host Jeff Sample teams up with Travis Voss and Trent Leinenbach to discuss the latest in construction technology news. From billion-dollar investments in data centers to shifts in energy production and AI advancements, this episode covers the hottest topics making waves at the MEP Innovation conference. The trio unpacks industry trends, shares personal experiences, and delivers a hefty dose of humor, all while discussing the challenges and opportunities facing the construction tech world.Key Takeaways:A lively breakdown of discussions from the MEP conference.Insights into the $500 billion data center investments and the ripple effects The shift towards domestic energy production, including nuclear energy's resurgence.Funding means for construction tech innovation, big data access.Discussing the good, the bad, and the potentially dangerous implications of AI.The controversial removal of Google’s pledge not to use AI for weapons.A heated debate on whether AI can avoid repeating social media’s mistakes.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:49] – Mashing up The ConTech Crew and Construction Dorks[04:17] – How reshoring and energy independence shape the industry..[09:59] – AI at the HR Expo-Travis’ unconventional prep using ChatGPT.[13:28] – Stratus’ $32 Million Series B-What’s next in construction tech innovation?[19:23] – Google Removes the pledge not to weaponize AI.[24:39] – Avoiding Social Media’s Mistakes.[30:07] – Final Thoughts-AI in construction.This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:Document Crunch: https://www.documentcrunch.com/Follow The Guest (Travis Voss)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travis-voss/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/travis.voss.336 Website: https://www.constructiondorks.com/ Follow The Guest (Trent Leinenbach)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-leinenbach-plmb-466018177/ Twitter: https://x.com/BimminAintEasy  Follow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrew Twitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew 
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Feb 11, 2025 • 38min

AI and Data Are Taking Over MEP Leadership and VDC Tech | Travis & Trent

In this special crossover episode of The ConTech Crew and Construction Dorks, Jeff Sample teams up with Travis Voss and Trent Leinenbach to recap their time at MEP Innovation in Los Angeles. They discuss the biggest takeaways from the event, including the evolution of leadership in the MEP industry, the growing importance of data, and how AI is reshaping the construction landscape. With stories from the conference floor, reflections on the best sessions, and even a little swag critique, this episode is packed for anyone in the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing space.Key Takeaways:Despite challenges, the decision to keep the conference in LA.The industry is seeing more executives, VPs, and C-suite leaders attend MEP Innovation.Stephanie McShane’s session from Maxim Consulting focused on building clear career pathways for young professionals in the industry.The conference emphasized the power of data in optimizing workflows and boosting profits.With sessions on everything from AI strategies to VDC standards, the conference provided opportunities for both seasoned pros and newcomers.Highlights from the work of MCAA, NECA, and SMACNA foundation.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:38] – Kicking off the MEP Innovation recap with the Construction Dorks.[09:38] – Building the future of MEP careers with Stephanie McShane.[16:29] – Evolving roles of CIOs, CTOs, and CEOs in construction.[27:45] – Best tech, demos, and swag from the expo floor.[30:19] – How MCAA, NECA, and SMACNA are pushing industry innovation.[36:24] – Why you should attend MEP Innovation next year in AustinThis Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:Document Crunch: https://www.documentcrunch.com/Follow The Guest (Travis Voss)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travis-voss/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/travis.voss.336 Website: https://www.constructiondorks.com/ Follow The Guest (Trent Leinenbach)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-leinenbach-plmb-466018177/ Twitter: https://x.com/BimminAintEasy  Follow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrew Twitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew 
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Feb 6, 2025 • 25min

The $500B Data Center Expansion Is at Risk Due to a Massive Construction Labor Shortage with Robert Brown

In this episode of The ConTech Crew News, hosts Jeff Sample, Jacob D’Albora, and guest Robert Brown get into the most pressing trends shaping the construction technology landscape. They discuss how advancements in technology are driving diversity and inclusion, creating new opportunities for underrepresented groups, and addressing labor shortages. They also tackle the industry’s readiness to handle massive investments in data infrastructure.Key Takeaways:How technology and flexible policies are creating opportunities for women and underrepresented groups in construction. Tech giants like OpenAI and Oracle are driving a $500 billion investment in U.S. data centers, pushing the industry to innovate and solve workforce challenges.Stratus’ $32 million Series B funding highlights the growing importance of prefabrication and streamlined workflows for smaller contractors.The implications of software bans, like TikTok’s shutdown, on technology and data policies in construction.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:00:38] – Introduction: Introduction to the hosts and this week’s topics.[00:08:49] – Data Center Investments: Discussion on $500 billion data center investments and their ripple effects.[00:12:45] – TikTok shutdown: Lessons in data security for construction.[00:20:11] – Funding: Stratus funding and its impact on the industry.[00:24:02] – Closing remarks: Final Remarks on the future of construction technology.This Episode is Kindly sponsored by:Document Crunch: https://www.documentcrunch.com/Follow The Guest:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-brown-9936ab10/ Email: RLbrown@dfw.comFollow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrew Twitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew 
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Feb 4, 2025 • 41min

How DFW Airport Used BIM and AI to Revolutionize a $15 Billion Construction Project with Robert Brown

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample, alongside Jacob D’Albora, welcomes Robert Brown, Senior Tech Lead at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). Robert shares his journey from land surveying to leading the BIM and digital transformation efforts at one of the busiest airports in the world. Packed with humor, insights, and lessons learned, this conversation gets into the challenges and triumphs of implementing innovative technology in construction and operations.Key Takeaways:A Humble Beginning: Robert transitioned from football dreams to a career in surveying, eventually finding his place at DFW Airport, where he began his digital transformation journey.BIM Beginnings: Starting in 2017, Robert spearheaded DFW’s BIM program and initiated the airport’s first standards manual and digital twin project.Overcoming Challenges: From navigating leadership changes to tackling skepticism, Robert emphasizes the importance of persistence and aligning technology with operational efficiency.The Role of “Play” in Innovation: Robert discusses the importance of funding proof-of-concept projects and the value of experimentation in driving meaningful change.Stakeholder Alignment: Insights into how digital twins and data alignment can support facility management teams and improve operational workflows.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:00:43] – Introduction: Meet Robert Brown and kick off the episode.[00:02:50] – Robert’s career journey: From football dreams to surveying.[00:09:25] – Leadership and BIM: Navigating leadership changes and maintaining momentum.[00:13:59] – Funding: The importance of executive buy-in and funding for innovation.[00:23:02] – Storytelling in technology: Aligning stakeholders with a shared vision.[00:36:10] – Lessons from COVID: Capturing and codifying institutional knowledge.[00:40:10] – Conclusion: Parting thoughts and where to connect with Robert.This Episode is Kindly sponsored by:Document Crunch: https://www.documentcrunch.com/ Follow The Guest:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-brown-9936ab10/ Email: RLbrown@dfw.comFollow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrew Twitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew 
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Jan 30, 2025 • 32min

AI Solutions for Construction Professionals to Eliminate Waste and Improve Safety with Angel Say

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample is joined by Ariel Castillo and guest CEO at Resolve Angel Say to deliver this week’s top construction technology news. The discussion covers groundbreaking AI developments from EarthCam, a new platform connecting academia with industry, reflections on net neutrality, and insights on achieving productivity through better planning and flow state.Key Takeaways:Blending Safety and Technology: Learn how EarthCam’s visual AI is revolutionizing job site monitoring by ensuring safety compliance and optimizing material tracking.Connecting Academia and Industry: Discover Humphex, the platform bridging the gap between researchers and construction professionals to foster innovation.Universal Internet Access: Understand the implications of net neutrality and why high-speed internet is vital for equitable opportunities.Enhancing Productivity: Explore the power of flow state and planning to improve efficiency and reduce friction in construction processes.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:00:46] – Introduction: Jeff welcomes Angel Say and Ariel Castillo to discuss the latest in construction technology news.[00:01:23] – EarthCam innovations: AI advancements in material and safety monitoring.[00:09:23] – Bridging the gap: Humphex’s role in connecting academia and construction.[00:14:24] – Net neutrality: The importance of universal internet access and its impact on innovation.[00:21:32] – Productivity and flow state: Imposing better planning for increasing workflow. [00:25:38] – Conclusion: Final thoughts and calls to action.This Episode is Kindly sponsored by:Document Crunch: https://www.documentcrunch.com/Follow The Guest:Website: www.resolvebim.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sayangel/ LinkedIn(Business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/resolvebim/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/angel.say.14/ Twitter: https://x.com/sayangel?lang=en Follow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrew Twitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew
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Jan 28, 2025 • 40min

VR Solutions for Construction Leaders to Eliminate Costly Errors with Resolve by Angel Say

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample, joined by Ariel Castillo, sits down with Angel Say, CEO and Co-Founder of Resolve. Together, they get into the transformative role of Virtual Reality (VR) in Building Information Modeling (BIM) and how Resolve is bridging the gap between design and operability in construction. Angel shares his views on creating issue-free models, improving user experience, and advancing coordination processes.Key Takeaways:Angel’s Journey: From FIRST Robotics to co-founding Resolve, Angel’s path was shaped by a passion for technology and solving real-world inefficiencies.Clash-Free vs. Issue-Free: Angel highlights the importance of going beyond clash-free models to address operability, safety, and maintenance issues.Resolve’s Mission: Leveraging VR for intuitive, real-time walkthroughs that allow stakeholders to address potential issues early in the design phase.Improving Coordination Processes: How Resolve enables field teams and facility managers to actively contribute to the design process with ease.Future of Construction Tech: Angel’s vision for advancing spatial intelligence and making tech more accessible to all stakeholders.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:01:18] – Introduction: Meet Angel Say and learn about Resolve’s innovative approach.[00:01:39] – Angel’s background: From robotics to BIM and VR innovation.[00:06:47] – Cleanroom inefficiencies: How early experiences influenced Resolve’s mission.[00:11:32] – Augmenting Navisworks workflows: Bringing operability into coordination.[00:16:18] – Clash-Free vs. Issue-Free: The value of holistic coordination.[00:18:23] – Heavy MEP projects: Why industrial facilities benefit most from Resolve and user end experience.[00:24:52] – Accessibility in VR: Making advanced tools user-friendly for non-technical stakeholders.[00:39:05] – Conclusion: Where Resolve is headed and how to learn more.This Episode is Kindly sponsored by:Document Crunch: https://www.documentcrunch.com/Follow The Guest:Website: www.resolvebim.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sayangel/ LinkedIn(Business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/resolvebim/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/angel.say.14/ Twitter: https://x.com/sayangel?lang=en Follow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrew Twitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew
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Jan 23, 2025 • 24min

Labor Shortages and Innovation in the Rise of Subscription Services and AI Ethics with Peyton Kringlie

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood and guest Peyton Kringlie Vice President of Corporate Strategy at LS Black, discuss the latest trends, predictions, and challenges the construction technology is facing as we step into 2025. The conversation covers the rise of interoperability, advancements in precise positioning, and the growing importance of worksite safety technology.Listeners will get information about the shifting dynamics of labor shortages, the evolution of subscription models, and the ethical implications of emerging technologies like AI. The trio discusses the need for cultural adaptation alongside technological integration to truly revolutionize the construction industry.Expect to Learn:The distinction between technology integration and interoperability and why it matters.How precise positioning and GPS tools are transforming field operations.The role of wearable technology in enhancing worksite safety.Ethical concerns surrounding AI and its potential impact on the workforce.The challenges posed by subscription services and how businesses are adapting.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:00:48] – Predictions for 2025: A discussion on AI, interoperability, and the growing role of APIs.[00:04:00] – Worksite Safety: Exploring wearable technology and its role in reducing injuries.[00:10:01] – Labor Shortage: Addressing inefficiencies and rethinking workforce management.[00:16:51] – Virtual Reality in Construction: Highlights of Mortenson’s innovative use of VR for clash detection and issue resolution.[00:20:17] – Ethics in AI: Why ethical considerations must be prioritized as AI adoption accelerates.This Episode is Kindly sponsored by:Document Crunch: https://www.documentcrunch.com/Check Out the Guests:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peytonkringlie/ Website (Business): https://www.lsblack.com/ inglie/Linkedin(Business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/ls-black-constructors/ Facebook(Business): https://www.facebook.com/LSBlackConstructors/ Instagram(Business): https://www.instagram.com/lsblackconstructors/ Twitter(Business): https://twitter.com/lsblackbuilds LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-peyton-kringlie/Follow The ConTech Crew:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrewTwitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew

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