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“All of the tech and the digital stuff that we do, all helps us build faster, build under budget, build on time” – Sellwyn Dsouza
In this episode of Building Stories, powered by Deep Space, we sit down with Sellwyn Dsouza, a passionate engineering professional and self-proclaimed construction nerd. Sellwyn takes us on a journey through his career, from his early fascination with how things are built to becoming an expert in BIM and 360 Reality Capture.
We discuss the importance of practical solutions for digital transformation, the future of reality capture in replacing traditional BIM for operations, and the challenges of introducing innovation to a historically traditional industry. Sellwyn also shares his insights on why data simplicity and mentorship are crucial for the next generation of construction professionals.
Key Sections:
Sellwyn’s Early Fascination with Construction – 02:08The Transition from BIM to Reality Capture – 12:01Practical Solutions for Digital Transformation – 19:33Challenges in Adopting New Technology – 24:00Mentorship and Knowledge Transfer in Construction – 32:45The Future of Sustainable Construction Materials – 36:43Quick Fire Round: Sellwyn’s Thoughts on Tools and Tech – 43:03Building Stories is Powered by Deep Space - Mission Critical Construction AI.
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“Data is anything that I can use to make a decision.” – Brett Settles
In this episode of Building Stories, powered by Deep Space, we sit down with Brett Settles, Director of Customer Success at Allied BIM. Brett shares his journey from traditional construction methods to embracing real-time data and automation in construction. He discusses how data isn’t just numbers, but a tool for smarter, faster decision-making that transforms project outcomes.
We dive into the challenges of adopting new technology in construction, how data-driven insights are changing the way we approach labor productivity and prefabrication, and the importance of practical solutions that make a real impact on-site. Brett offers a fresh perspective on how data can drive meaningful change in the construction industry.
Key Sections:
1. Brett’s Early Career in Construction and Move into Tech – 00:00
2. Understanding Data as a Tool for Decision-Making – 08:30
3. The Role of Automation in Site Efficiency – 17:15
4. Overcoming Technology Adoption Challenges – 24:40
5. The Power of Real-Time Data in Prefabrication – 33:05
6. Advice for Construction Professionals Embracing Data – 42:20
7. Quick Fire Round: Future Tech and Industry Insights – 49:55
Building Stories is Powered by Deep Space - Mission Critical Construction AI.
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“At the end of the day, AI doesn’t build anything—it just improves the data.” – Kristian Butcher
In this episode of Building Stories, powered by Deep Space, we sit down with Kristian Butcher, CEO and founder of BuildAI. Kristian takes us through his journey from traditional construction roles to becoming a leader in AI-driven construction technology. He shares how AI and technology aren’t replacing jobs but enhancing decision-making by improving the quality and accessibility of data.
We dive into the real-world challenges the construction industry faces, the slow adoption of technology, and how BuildAI helps teams optimize material movement and labor productivity. Kristian also discusses how data-driven decisions in the early stages of a project can have a transformative impact, unlocking major efficiency gains.
Key Sections:
1. Kristian’s Early Career and Move into Construction – 00:00
2. The Origins of Build AI and Embracing Technology – 13:20
3. AI’s Role in Improving Labor and Material Efficiency – 21:45
4. Why Early Adoption of AI and Data Matters – 34:50
5. Kristian’s Advice to the Next Generation of Builders – 44:08
6. The Future of AI in Construction – 37:18
7. Quick Fire Round: Tools and Technology – 49:05
Building Stories is Powered by Deep Space - Mission Critical Construction AI
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“Why create information if we’re not able to use it?” – Chris Pynn
In this episode of Building Stories, powered by Deep Space, we sit down with Chris Pynn, a leader with over 30 years of experience in engineering and digital construction. Chris takes us through his fascinating journey from a chance entry into the world of construction to his leadership roles in some of the world’s most iconic projects. We explore his thoughts on the evolution of BIM, data-driven design, and the ongoing challenge of improving project delivery through digital transformation. Chris also shares key insights on overcoming industry barriers, the importance of quality over quantity in engineering, and the power of collaboration in major infrastructure projects.
Key Sections:
1. Chris Pynn’s Early Journey in Construction – 00:00
2. The Role of Data in Modern Construction – 06:38
3. Managing Large Projects and the Evolution of BIM – 11:54
4. Challenges of Digital Engineering and Adoption – 18:40
5. Advice for Engineers and Consultants in the AEC Industry – 19:17
6. Future Opportunities in Data and Digital Workflows – 30:49
7. Quick Fire Round: Chris’s Thoughts on Tools and Technology – 49:52
Building Stories is Powered by Deep Space - Mission Critical Construction AI
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"If you love doing something, keep doing it, but automate the things you don’t enjoy.” – Stjepan Mikulić
In this episode of Building Stories, Luke Johnson interviews Stjepan Mikulić, founder of AI in AEC. Stjepan discusses his journey from working at prominent firms like Sweco and BIG to starting his own venture, which focuses on educating architects, engineers, and construction professionals about the transformative power of AI. Stjepan shares his unique business philosophy of sharing all his knowledge for free and only charging for custom solutions. He also explains how his platform, AEC AI Hub, became the world’s largest database of AI tools for the AEC industry, completely free to access. The episode dives deep into the future of AI in the AEC industry and its role in creating a more efficient and sustainable world.
Key Sections:
1. Introduction and Early Interest in Design and Construction – 00:00
2. The Evolution of Technology in the AEC Industry – 06:00
3. From Individual Projects to Global Impact – 13:46
4. Bridging the Gap: AI in AEC – 19:02
5. The AEC AI Hub: Empowering Professionals with AI Tools – 23:36
6. Unique Pricing Model: Lifetime Access and Updates – 28:01
7. Following Your Passion in the AEC Industry – 32:08
8. Data as a Means of Communication in AEC – 41:17Building Stories is Powered by Deep Space - Mission Critical Construction AI7f757a74839b1571f057f4facd5ce90a5cb7073f
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Menno de Jonge, Director of Digital Transformation Advisory at Saudi ConTech, shares his insights and experiences in the construction industry. He discusses his early fascination with engineering, influenced by his father's work, and his love for building dams and bridges. Video recording on Youtube at https://youtu.be/YgvmQ7D23qg Menno emphasizes the importance of balancing technology, processes, and people in driving digital transformation in organizations. He highlights the challenges of implementing change and the need for change management strategies. Menno also shares his pride in working on projects like NEOM and the Museum of the Future in Dubai. The construction industry is a great industry to work in, but it's important to take it slow and understand the industry as a whole before focusing on a specific career path. Mistakes can lead to course adjustments and valuable learning experiences. Data is essential in construction, and the industry is transitioning from collecting data to using it to make informed decisions. The future of construction involves digital transformation, industrialized design and construction, sustainability, AI, and data analytics. Saudi Arabia is attracting talent and focusing on upskilling its citizens to drive innovation. takeawaysBalancing technology, processes, and people is crucial for successful digital transformation in the construction industry.Implementing change in organizations requires change management strategies and a focus on re-engineering processes.The construction industry is slowly evolving with the adoption of digital technologies, but progress is slower compared to other industries.The construction industry plays a vital role in the global economy and is a key driver of economic activity.Projects like NEOM and the Museum of the Future showcase the scale and innovation in the construction industry. Take the time to understand the construction industry as a whole before focusing on a specific career path.Mistakes can lead to valuable course adjustments and learning experiences.Data is essential in construction and can be used to make informed decisions.The future of construction involves digital transformation, industrialized design and construction, sustainability, AI, and data analytics.Saudi Arabia is attracting talent and focusing on upskilling its citizens to drive innovation.
Sound Bites
"Making change happen in an organization only really works if you find the right balance between the topic of technology, process, and people.""NEOM is being the largest project currently being done in the world. So largest turnover, just looking at the unprecedented scale of this project.""I've always been at the forefront of these digital transformation activities.""The construction industry is a great industry to work in.""Don't go too fast. Try to understand the industry.""Mistakes can lead to course adjustments."
Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background of Menno De Jonge04:50 Early Fascination with Engineering and Construction08:47 Challenges and Strategies for Implementing Change11:30 Proud Moments in Menno's Career18:29 Leading Digital Transformation in the Construction Industry23:40 The Importance of the Construction Industry25:35 Navigating a Career in the Construction Industry27:18 Learning from Mistakes in Construction29:55 Saudi Contech and the Future37:36 The Role of Data in Construction43:31 Construction in Saudi Arabia48:16 The Future of Construction: Digital Transformation and Sustainability -
Summary
Mustafa Alishmawy, a senior BIM and digital delivery consultant, shares his journey in the construction industry and his passion for digital engineering. He discovered his interest in engineering at a young age and pursued a career in civil engineering. He became fascinated with digital modeling and BIM during his university years and continued to explore and master these technologies after graduation. Mustafa emphasizes the importance of flexibility and continuous learning in finding the right career path. He also highlights the value of data-driven decision-making and the potential of modular construction and standardization in the future of the industry.Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/WijJXM6DAUk
Takeaways
Flexibility and continuous learning are key in finding the right career path.Data-driven decision-making is crucial in construction and design.Modular construction and standardization have the potential to shape the future of the industry.Digital engineering is not just about the tools and technology, but also about understanding the value it brings to stakeholders.Balancing practical quick fixes with long-term solutions is important in the industry.The industry should focus on making education more aligned with real-life requirements.Mustafa's goal is to make a positive impact on future generations by helping them navigate the ever-changing industry.Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Background
02:10
Challenges and Finding the Right Job
06:05
Exploring Different Roles and Mastering Software
08:16
Transition to Consulting and Working on Large-Scale Projects
15:12
Moving to WSP and Adding Value
17:14
Digital Delivery and Project Management
19:34
The Importance of Process and People Skills
24:45
Bridging the Gap and Promoting the Value of Digital Practices
26:52
Understanding the Value of BIM and Digital Engineering
28:42
Clear Communication and Speaking the Language of Stakeholders
33:34
Balancing Quick Fixes and Long-Term Solutions
40:43
Making a Positive Impact on Future Generations
43:09
The Future of the Construction Industry: Standardization and Modular Construction
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David Foley, director of digital delivery and founder at IIMBE, shares his journey in the construction industry. Foley always had a fascination with buildings and wanted to be an architect. He ended up becoming an electrical engineer and learned drafting on the drawing board before transitioning to AutoCAD. Video version at https://youtu.be/PKqkG8Uc1Ik Foley emphasizes the importance of efficiency and problem-solving in his career. He faced challenges in self-belief and overcoming imposter syndrome but found success by treating people well and surrounding himself with good people. Foley is proud of the team and culture he has built at IIMBE. The conversation highlights the importance of gaining diverse experience in the construction industry and not getting siloed too early in one's career. It emphasizes the need for collaboration and empathy between different disciplines and the value of sharing knowledge and workflows. The discussion also touches on the challenges of adopting new technologies and the potential of AI and data in improving efficiency and decision-making. The guests share their experiences of making mistakes and the importance of owning up to them and finding solutions. Overall, the conversation encourages problem-solving, embracing new technologies, and continuous learning. takeawaysEfficiency and problem-solving have been key factors in Foley's career success.He faced challenges in self-belief and imposter syndrome but found success by treating people well and surrounding himself with good people.Gain diverse experience in the construction industry and avoid getting siloed too early in your career.Collaboration and empathy between different disciplines are crucial for successful construction projects.Share knowledge and workflows to improve efficiency and decision-making.Embrace new technologies, such as AI and data, to enhance productivity and problem-solving.Own up to mistakes, find solutions, and learn from them.Continuously learn and adapt to the evolving needs of the industry.Sound Bites"I wanted to be an architect when I was at school. I loved buildings.""I always had a fascination with buildings. I've always loved them.""I'm a problem solver. See your problem, fix it where you go.""Before you become a manager or a leader, you should have experienced every part of the project lifecycle.""BIM people, some of them are just BIM people now, and they actually don't have the background in construction or industry.""Having a mix and balance of young people and senior people in a business is important for knowledge transfer."Keywordsconstruction industry, journey, fascination with buildings, architect, electrical engineer, drafting, AutoCAD, efficiency, problem-solving, self-belief, imposter syndrome, treating people well, team and culture, construction industry, diverse experience, collaboration, empathy, knowledge sharing, workflows, new technologies, AI, data, efficiency, decision-making, mistakes, problem-solving, continuous learning Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background07:27 Early Fascination with Buildings13:07 Work Ethos18:19 Buildability21:41 Challenges and Overcoming Self-Doubt24:38 BIM Community in Australia32:20 The Importance of Collaboration and Sharing Knowledge34:05 Pride in Team and Culture at IIMBE34:43 Advice for Those Considering a Career in Construction34:58 Gaining Experience in All Phases of the Construction Industry42:52 The Challenge of Communication in the Construction Industry48:32 Owning Up to Mistakes and Responding to Adversity52:00 The Potential of Data and AI in the Construction Industry01:02:24 The Importance of Data for Design, Commissioning, and Handover01:05:22 Quick Fire01:09:33 The Future of the Construction Industry: Photogrammetry, AI, and Efficiency
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Summary
Adam Crouch, a BIM expert, shares his journey in the construction industry and the challenges he faced in implementing digital transformation. From a young age, Adam showed an interest in building and design, creating scale models and comics. He pursued a career in 3D animation before transitioning to civil engineering and BIM. Adam highlights the importance of changing people's mindset and overcoming resistance to change in the industry. He also discusses the satisfaction of seeing projects come to life and the long-lasting impact of civil infrastructure. In this conversation, Adam Crouch discusses the importance of learning from mistakes and pushing ideas further. He emphasizes the need for innovation and taking risks in order to achieve success. Adam also highlights the potential impact of robotics and automation in the construction industry, particularly in improving efficiency and reducing safety incidents. He suggests that construction companies should invest in data management systems and promote collaboration among project stakeholders. Additionally, Adam shares his interest in both electric vehicles and V8 engines, as well as his preference for timber in construction.
Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/Eq93suECza0
TakeawaysEarly interest in building and design led Adam Crouch to pursue a career in 3D animation and later civil engineering and BIM.Implementing digital transformation in the construction industry requires changing people's mindset and overcoming resistance to change.Seeing projects come to life and interacting with the built infrastructure is a rewarding aspect of working in the industry.Civil infrastructure has a long-lasting impact and can shape cities and communities for generations. Learn from mistakes and push ideas further to achieve success.Embrace innovation and take risks in order to drive progress.Robotics and automation have the potential to improve efficiency and reduce safety incidents in the construction industry.Invest in data management systems and promote collaboration among project stakeholders.Chapters00:00Introduction and Casual Conversation00:38Adam's Early Interest in Building and Design03:18Transitioning to Civil Engineering and BIM10:10Challenges and Resistance to Change in Implementing Digital Processes15:37Proud Moments: Cross River Rail and Building Critical Infrastructure26:44Advice for Those Interested in the Construction Industry29:32Embracing Innovation and Learning from Mistakes33:57The Impact of Technology on the Construction Industry40:32The Importance of Data and Collaboration in Construction51:25Preference for Timber in Construction -
Stewart Caldwell, an architect and digital engineer, shares his journey in the architecture and design industry. He discusses his early passion for architecture and how a teacher introduced him to CAD, sparking his interest in the intersection of creativity and technology. Stewart also talks about the challenges of implementing new technologies like Revit and the importance of collaboration and overcoming fear in the industry.
Video at https://youtu.be/zFeS6GJM4mc
He emphasizes the need to love what you do and not let other people's opinions dictate your path. Stewart is proud of his work in pushing the boundaries of architecture and giving others the opportunity to do great things. Stewart reflects on the importance of embracing failure and learning from mistakes. He shares a story of a major mistake he made early in his career and how he had to take responsibility for fixing it.
He emphasizes the value of humility and honesty in the face of failure. Stewart also discusses the future of the architecture industry, highlighting the need for connectors who can bring together diverse teams and navigate complex projects. He believes that while AI may replace certain technical skills, the ability to understand the human condition and foster collaboration will remain valuable.
Keywords architecture, design, technology, collaboration, fear, passion, failure, mistakes, humility, honesty, architecture industry, connectors, AI, human condition, collaboration
Takeaways
Passion and love for what you do are essential in the architecture and design industry.Overcoming fear and not letting other people's opinions dictate your path is crucial.Collaboration and teamwork are key to success in implementing new technologies.Failure is inevitable in a field that involves risk and experimentation, but it should not deter you from moving forward.Being proud of your work means creating opportunities for others to excel and pushing the boundaries of your field. Embrace failure and learn from mistakesHumility and honesty are crucial in the face of failureThe future of the architecture industry lies in the role of connectors who can bring together diverse teamsAI may replace certain technical skills, but understanding the human condition and fostering collaboration will remain valuableSound Bites
"I wanted to be an architect since I can remember talking about work.""I love the disruption. This is going to mess things up.""Working together collaboratively is not the common hymn sheet.""People want the accolades and the pats on the back and then don't want to get told you suck at something""Humility is a huge lesson learned when facing a major mistake""Failure is inevitable, but it's about putting your hand up and being honest about it"Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Stuart's Background
01:47 Early Interest in Architecture and Introduction to CAD
05:39 Transitioning to Digital Tools and Embracing Disruption
09:35 2D Drafting is Stupid
10:50 Challenges of Collaboration and Industry-Wide Buy-In
23:38 Advice for Those Interested in Architecture and Design
27:21 Humility and Not Caring About Wins or Failures
40:01 The Future of the Industry: Connectors and AI
42:48 The Value of Sharing Knowledge and Experiences
48:30 The Evolving Role of Digital Technology
52:26 Collaborative and Flexible Project Teams
56:35 The Shift Towards Digitally Enabled Traditional Job Roles
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In this conversation, Anthony Habashy, Group DE Manager at Mirvac, shares his journey in the construction industry and the challenges he has faced. He initially wanted to be a soccer player but ended up studying architectural technology and structural engineering. His career took a turn when he became proficient in Revit and started working as a BIM manager. He highlights the importance of embracing technology and being innovative in the industry. Anthony also discusses the challenges of implementing new technologies and the need for buy-in from stakeholders. He emphasises the value of learning from failures and continuously improving processes. Lastly, he advises newcomers to embrace technology and always look for new ways of doing things. In this conversation, Anthony Habashy discusses the practical ways in which Mirvac implements digital engineering (DE) strategies. He explains that they start by assessing the current state of DE in the company and gathering input from stakeholders. They then create a three-year strategy based on this input and communicate it to the rest of the organisation. Habashy emphasises the importance of getting buy-in from key stakeholders and presenting the strategy to various groups within the company. He also discusses the unique opportunity Mirvac has as a fully integrated business model to drive innovation at a large scale.
Watch Video here: https://youtu.be/fdqHnyrJ3rc
takeawaysEmbrace technology and be innovative in the construction industry.Implementing new technologies can be challenging, but it is important to get buy-in from stakeholders and demonstrate the value.Failures are opportunities for learning and improvement.Continuous improvement and refining processes are essential in the industry.Communication, education, and stakeholder engagement are crucial for successful implementation of new technologies.Think about the bigger picture and involve all relevant parties in the decision-making process. Assess the current state of digital engineering in the company and gather input from stakeholders to create a three-year strategy.Get buy-in from key stakeholders by presenting the strategy and communicating the value it will add to the business.Utilize various communication channels, such as presentations and meetings, to spread the message and gain support.As a fully integrated business model, Mirvac has a unique opportunity to drive innovation at a large scale. Chapters00:00Introduction and Background01:16Career Journey and Transition to Digital Transformation08:15Key Moments and Transformative Experiences13:38Pride in Career Progression and Project Implementations19:22Implementing Change and Overcoming Challenges21:19Timeframe for Commercial Benefits in Large Organizations23:25Education and Awareness29:12Getting the Message Out34:38Efficiency and Adapting to New Technologies39:35Centralizing Digital Engineering41:59Testing and Research44:36Working with Timber and Living in Steel -
Wesley Benn, architect and founder of the Digital Built Environment Institute, shares his journey in the architecture and construction industry. From a young age, Wesley had a passion for architecture and design, which led him to pursue a career in the field. He started his own architectural practice and later became an early adopter of Revit, which eventually led him to start the Revit Technology Conference (now known as BILT).
Video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9IZRUReKeM
Wesley's focus shifted towards improving the industry's productivity and efficiency, as well as addressing environmental concerns. However, he faced challenges such as the global financial crisis and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Wesley Benn discusses the challenges he faced in his career, including financial struggles, health issues, and personal hardships. He emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability in navigating difficult times. He also shares his passion for artificial intelligence and its potential impact on society.
Wesley reflects on his proudest achievement of being awarded the favorite teacher of the class he taught at the University of New South Wales and the satisfaction of inspiring and influencing the next generation. He advises individuals to learn to say no, recognize their true value, and embrace the power of data in decision-making. Wesley expresses excitement about the future of technology, particularly in the areas of drones, VR, and AI.
Takeaways
Wesley Benn's passion for architecture started at a young age and led him to pursue a career in the field.He became an early adopter of Revit and started the Revit Technology Conference (now BILT) to bring together professionals in the industry.Wesley's focus shifted towards improving productivity and efficiency in the industry, as well as addressing environmental concerns.He faced challenges such as the global financial crisis and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Resilience and adaptability are crucial in navigating career challenges.Financial struggles, health issues, and personal hardships can test one's capabilities and shape their character.Artificial intelligence has the potential to revolutionize society and raise questions about work, value, and human identity.Being recognized as a favorite teacher and inspiring the next generation is a source of great pride.Learning to say no, recognizing one's true value, and embracing data-driven decision-making are important skills in design and construction.Exciting advancements in technology, such as drones, VR, and AI, offer new possibilities and opportunities for exploration.Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background00:25 Early Years01:32 Why This Industry?09:29 Early Adoption of Revit14:59 Establishing the Revit User Group24:01 Improving Productivity and Efficiency in the Built Environment28:58 Navigating Career Challenges38:17 Proud Moments41:56 Excitement for the Future50:01 The Power of Data52:36 Quick Fire Round55:43 Exploring New Frontiers
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Ronan Collins, a pioneer in digital engineering and BIM, shares his journey in the construction industry and the challenges he has faced. He grew up in a family of builders and was exposed to CAD at a young age. He joined Arup's in 1996 and witnessed the rapid changes in technology. In 2003, he started his own company in Hong Kong, focusing on technology solutions for engineers and contractors. Ronan emphasizes the importance of understanding the value of technology and the need for proper training and education in the industry.
Video recording on Youtube at this link
Ronan shares his personal mistakes and lessons learned in the construction industry, including the importance of not getting too big too fast and the need to set up the right infrastructure before taking on international projects. He also discusses the future of the industry, highlighting the impact of cloud technology, remote working, offshore business models, reality capture, and data analytics. Ronan emphasizes the need for contractors and consultants to focus on solving specific problems and adding value to their projects, rather than chasing after shiny new technologies.
Takeaways
Ronan Collins grew up in a family of builders and was exposed to CAD at a young age, which sparked his interest in technology in the construction industry.He joined Arup's in 1996 and witnessed the rapid changes in technology, from shared computers to the introduction of 3D modeling tools like Rhino and Revit.In 2003, Ronan started his own company in Hong Kong, focusing on technology solutions for engineers and contractors, and played a role in promoting the adoption of BIM in the industry.He emphasizes the importance of understanding the value of technology and the need for proper training and education in the industry, as many professionals are still unfamiliar with BIM and other digital tools. Avoid getting too big too fast and ensure you have the right infrastructure in place before taking on international projects.The future of the construction industry will involve cloud technology, remote working, offshore business models, reality capture, and data analytics.Focus on solving specific problems and adding value to projects, rather than chasing after shiny new technologies.Train the younger generation by giving them small-scale projects to work on and learn from.Stay curious and open-minded to new technologies and trends in the industry.Sound Bites
"We've got to start speaking to that and again, it's getting that message back that we haven't moved all that far in 20 years.""We've got to be really clear that we still got to sell the value of these tools and these technologies.""There's still a culture where the engineers think that BIM and CAD are some secondary kind of process that they have nothing to do with.""Getting into BIM.""We got too big, too fast, too greedy.""We got ahead of ourselves here."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background02:18 Early Exposure to Technology04:02 Transition to Digital Engineering05:58 Setting Up Own Business in Hong Kong09:23 Challenges in the Construction Industry13:03 Responsibility and Impact in the Industry16:09 Challenges and Blockers in the Industry24:44 The Need for BIM Capable Engineers and Architects28:50 The Disconnect Between Traditional Design Teams and BIM Teams32:32 Advice for Newcomers in the Industry34:43 Mistakes and Lessons Learned37:08 The Impact of Cloud Technology and Remote Working38:30 The Future of the Industry: Reality Capture and Data Analytics45:39 Finding Solutions that Add Value51:43 Training the Younger Generation and Conducting Pilot Studies
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Travis Althouse, a construction technologist, shares his journey in the construction industry and his passion for driving digital transformation. From his childhood love for Legos and SimCity to his experience with Revit and other construction software, Travis has always been drawn to building and problem-solving. Video recording at https://youtu.be/2qsTshcA1lw He emphasizes the importance of standard operating procedures and effective communication in driving innovation. Travis also discusses the challenges of implementing new technology and the need to balance attitudes and relationships in the industry. He encourages young professionals to be prepared for negativity and to stand up for what they believe in. Travis shares his proudest moments, including his work at Revizto and his impact on the construction management program at his college. He advises others to gain field experience and prioritize the needs of the people building the project. In this conversation, Travis Althouse shares his insights and experiences in the construction industry, particularly in the field of BIM and VDC. He emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and being open to new technologies and processes. Travis discusses the challenges of implementing BIM in the field and highlights the need for effective communication and collaboration between different stakeholders. He also envisions the future of construction, with a focus on data, AI, and process optimization. Travis concludes by emphasizing the value of creativity and innovation in the industry. TakeawaysPassion for building and problem-solving can drive innovation in the construction industry.Standard operating procedures and effective communication are crucial for successful digital transformation.Implementing new technology requires balancing attitudes and relationships.Field experience and understanding the needs of the people building the project are essential for driving innovation. Learning from mistakes is crucial in the construction industry.Effective communication and collaboration are essential for successful implementation of BIM in the field.The future of construction lies in data, AI, and process optimization.Creativity and innovation play a significant role in driving change in the industry.Sound Bites"We could produce drawings that look like what we had with the Lego instructions.""Yeah, it's it saved me from trouble besides that first time again, Steve. Thank you for the lesson and being being patient.""Don't wear clean boots either. Like if you're coming as a tech person, don't wear clean boots."Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background03:39 From Legos to SimCity: The Early Signs of a Construction Technologist07:48 Driving Innovation and Adoption through Communication and Standard Operating Procedures10:50 Overcoming Resistance: Implementing New Technology in the Construction Industry24:05 Advice for Future Construction Technologists30:06 Understanding the Needs of the People on the Ground in VDC34:18 The Importance of Being in the Model37:16 The Future of Construction: Data, AI, and Innovation51:27 Quick Fire Round Keywordsconstruction, digital transformation, innovation, standard operating procedures, communication, technology implementation, attitudes, relationships, field experience, construction, BIM, VDC, mistakes, technology, communication, collaboration, data, AI, process optimization, creativity, innovation
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Andrew Hannell, a digital design, construction, and engineering expert, shares his journey in the industry. From a young age, Andrew showed an interest in building and designing, which eventually led him to study architecture. However, he realized that his passion lay in the technology side of things, and he transitioned into working with BIM and digital models.
Andrew discusses the challenges of implementing new technology in a traditional industry and emphasizes the importance of focusing on people and processes. He shares his pride in working on projects like the Sydney Opera House and offers advice to those interested in the design and construction space. In this conversation, Andrew Hannell discusses the importance of working with the right people and shares his insights on mistakes and lessons learned.
He also talks about the exciting opportunities for the future of construction, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. Andrew emphasizes the need for a cultural shift in the industry, where contractors and designers are willing to challenge the status quo and embrace change. He also highlights the value of freeing up highly qualified professionals to focus on higher-value work by leveraging technology and improving processes.
Takeaways
Follow your passion and do what you love in the design and construction industry.Implementing new technology in a traditional industry requires a focus on people and processes.Don't be afraid to pursue your own path and explore different opportunities within the industry.The people you work with are just as important as the work itself.Mistakes are a valuable learning opportunity and can lead to personal growth.The future of construction lies in leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to make incremental improvements.Contractors and designers need to be open to change and challenge the status quo.Technology can free up highly qualified professionals to focus on higher-value work.Quotes
"The people you work with are just as important as the work itself.""Mistakes are a valuable learning opportunity and can lead to personal growth.""The future of construction lies in leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to make incremental improvements."
Chapters
00:00 Andrew's Background and Early Interest in Building03:38 Architecture05:36 Challenges and Successes in Implementing Technology07:56 The Importance of People and Processes10:57 Advice for Those Interested in the Industry15:37 Mistakes and Lessons Learned19:32 AI in Construction29:59 Cultural Shift in Construction33:14 Future of Design38:58 Freeing Up Professionals with Technology40:46 Mentoring42:06 Quickfire
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Dave "Broadie" Broadhurst, a safety guru in the construction industry, shares his journey and insights on safety, leadership, and mental health. Growing up in a construction family, Dave was drawn to the industry from a young age. He emphasizes the importance of caring for people and building relationships in the workplace. Video recording at https://youtu.be/kLvE_ZuTheU Dave discusses the need for integrating safety with operational improvement and the benefits of getting safety right from the start. He also highlights the significance of addressing mental health issues in the construction industry. In this conversation, Broadie shares his experiences in the construction industry and the importance of human connection and communication. He discusses the challenges he faced on various projects and how he found innovative solutions to overcome them. Broadie emphasizes the need for self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and positive communication in the industry. He also talks about the power of words and the impact they have on change management. Broadie believes that the builder of the future needs to be more self-aware and focused on the human element of construction. He also expresses his preference for traditional tools like duct tape and concrete :) TakeawaysCaring for people and building relationships is crucial in the construction industry.Integrating safety with operational improvement leads to better productivity outcomes.Addressing mental health issues is essential for the well-being of construction workers.Getting safety right from the start and incorporating engineered controls can prevent rework and improve safety outcomes. The construction industry needs more self-aware and emotionally intelligent leaders who prioritize positive communication and human connection.Innovation and finding solutions to challenges are crucial in the construction industry.Change management should focus on positive language and effective communication to ensure successful digital transformations.Self-reflection and self-awareness are important for personal and professional growth.Quotes:"AI is a great tool, but let's not forget about HI - Human Intelligence, Human Intuition, Human Interaction.""Lads don't care how much you know until they know how much you care.""You're not touching that machine till you watch our video, because that'll show you how we do it around here.""People don't like badly communicated change.""I've had good experiences with duct tape."
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In the first episode of 'Building Stories,' hosts Michael and Luke dive into the essence of their new podcast, discussing their backgrounds and their journey from youthful aspirations to impactful careers in 3D modeling, architecture and structural engineering. They share personal stories—from Michael's early dreams of becoming a car designer to working for General Motors Holden, to Luke’s hands-on experiences and family influences. The discussion explores the evolution of tools like AutoCAD and Revit, their experiences with digital transformation in the industry, and the ongoing challenges and innovations within the architectural and construction fields. They reflect on key projects, including Adelaide Oval and the Royal Adelaide Hospital, and confront the significance of human interaction versus technological advancements in modern construction practices.
