Bridging the Gap: Insights & Innovations in Construction

What do you get when you combine marketing expertise with construction industry experience? You get the opportunity to bridge an enormous gap. In another live episode from Autodesk University 2024, join Todd and guest Kyle Seyler as they unpack how Autodesk Construction Cloud is transforming the industry, how AI is changing the game with upgrades to onsite safety, how the gap between the office and the field is steadily closing, and the art of using standardization and collaboration to innovate.

Kyle Seyler is a Senior Product Marketing Manager at Autodesk. With over 10 years of experience in growth, product, and lifecycle marketing, he is passionate about creating value propositions, go-to-market strategies, and customer journeys for innovative software solutions. In his current role, he is responsible for the go-to-market of Autodesk Construction's Building Information Modeling (BIM) offerings, which help architects, engineers, contractors, and owners collaborate and deliver better outcomes for their projects.

TODD TAKES

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As the industry forges toward more and more tech adoption, how do we keep track of these new goalposts, tools, and processes? In another live episode from Autodesk University 2024, Benny Baltrosky joins the podcast (in his second appearance) to discuss the oncoming adoption of prefab and offsite construction, the very recent transformation of DeWalt into a technology company, and how MSUITE plays into improving productivity for MEP contractors—even when brand-new tech is on the scene.

Benny Baltrosky is COO of MSUITE. He is a B2B Sales as a Service (SaaS) leader driving sales and growth. He is also VP of Partnerships and Go To Market at Stanley Black & Decker, Board Member & Cofounder of Construction Progress Coalition.

TODD TAKES

1. Offsite Construction and Prefabrication are on the Rise: A major trend in construction is the growing move toward offsite construction and prefabrication, which brings greater speed, safety, and efficiency to projects. By preparing components in controlled environments, teams can avoid on-site delays and reduce overall project risks. With labor shortages affecting both field and design teams, this shift to offsite work is becoming essential for meeting tight schedules and maintaining quality standards.

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How can one of the busiest airports in the world lead the charge toward sustainability? Recorded live at Autodesk University 2024, Kendra Brown and Robert Brown join the podcast to discuss how Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is breaking ground on visionary sustainability initiatives. From the construction of the new Electric Central Utility Plant (E-CUP) to achieving Net Zero Carbon by 2030—20 years ahead of global targets—DFW is setting the bar for sustainable airport infrastructure.

Kendra Brown is a BIM Coordinator at Keville Enterprises, Inc. and the ACC System Administrator for DFW International Airport. She coordinates civil projects such as the 17R Runway rehabilitation, International Parkway Right Exits, and Southwest End-Around Taxiway.

Robert Brown is Sr. Project Controls System Manager at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). He is a certified Remote Pilot and Weightlifting Performance Coach, and he has additional experience as Survey Party Chief, Engineering Tech III, and Construction Education Adjunct Professor.

TODD TAKES

1. Real World Demands and Ambitious Goals: The team at DFW Airport knows the stakes are high—balancing real-world demands with ambitious targets, like reaching net-zero emissions by 2030 instead of 2050. Big goals create urgency, keeping everyone motivated to push harder and innovate.

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Keville Enterprises

With the rebranding of Autodesk University, innovation in construction, and advancements in cloud technology, what lies ahead? Live from Autodesk University 2024, Rachel Tuller of Autodesk joined the podcast to discuss the importance of the company’s reinvention, a closer look at the hybrid model of cloud and desktop solutions, and how successful global partnerships are crucial to solve complex customer problems.

Rachel Tuller is Vice President, Global Channels at Autodesk. With a background at Cloudera, Rachel carries a history of wins in AI ISV and Cloud Alliances, driving daily success with partners. Her expertise lies in strategic leadership and building high performing teams, skills honed through direct experience with global partner sales and ecosystem strategy.

TODD TAKES

1. Reinvention is Key in Construction: In today’s construction world, staying the same just isn’t an option. The companies that keep pushing forward—updating their tools, refining their processes, and keeping an open mindset—are the ones that thrive. Reinventing continuously helps tackle industry challenges head-on, creating room for exciting new opportunities and growth.

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Autodesk

What does the future hold for the world of Design and Make—and how is Autodesk working to shape that future? Straight from Autodesk University 2024, we’re joined by Dara Treseder, Chief Marketing Officer at Autodesk, to explore the company’s leadership and proactivity. Dara shares insights into the rebranding of Autodesk University to AU: The Design & Make Conference, Autodesk's partnership with the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games, key takeaways from the State of Design & Make Report, along with a spotlight on AI innovation and what’s next for Autodesk in 2025.

Dara Treseder is a proven technology business leader with expertise in building and leading high performing global marketing, communications, consumer, and commercial organizations. She is currently Chief Marketing Officer of Autodesk — a leading, innovative technology & software company changing how the world is designed and made. In 2024, she became the first Black person to be inducted into the Forbes CMO Hall of Fame. In 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020 she was recognized by Forbes as one of the World’s Most Influential CMOs based on a weighted aggregate of 12 indicators. A champion of public health, women's issues, and diversity initiatives, Dara is the Chair of the board of the Public Health Institute (PHI). She also serves on the board of Robinhood. Dara graduated cum laude from Harvard University with highest honors in field and holds an MBA from Stanford University.

TODD TAKES

1. Industry Transformation: The construction industry has so much to be proud of, especially with its ongoing transformation into a high-tech powerhouse. This shift has been in progress for years, but it's now picking up significant momentum and redefining how we build.

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Having access to clean, potable water is a basic human right—so how do we bridge the gap and make water more accessible on the job site? Join Todd and guest Alan Pyle of WaterFleet, LLC as they discuss the critical nature of water management in construction, the successful implementation of water reuse systems in WaterFleet, and the endless potential of concepts like emergency preparedness and continuous water treatment.

Alan Pyle is Founder and Executive Chairman at WaterFleet, LLC. The company’s innovative technology and green solutions have transformed the remote-location water and domestic wastewater industry, significantly improving remote workforce living conditions and reducing the cost and environmental risk of traditional wastewater services. WaterFleet operates a technology-as-a-service platform by leasing its systems to customers and providing ongoing compliant treatment and remote monitoring services.

Todd Takes

1. Clean Drinking Water is a Basic Human Right and Jobsite Necessity: Clean drinking water is essential for the health, safety, and well-being of every worker on a construction site. Beyond being a basic human right, having easy access to safe water enhances productivity and reduces health risks. By focusing on more efficient ways to supply and reuse water, construction sites can significantly reduce waste while improving the quality of life for workers. This not only leads to a healthier workforce but also contributes to more sustainable jobsite operations, reducing the environmental footprint of the project.

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WaterFleet,LLC

How important is it to prioritize a positive company culture? When it comes training to the new workforce, it can make the difference between a company surviving or thriving. Join Todd and guest Mat Gates as they discuss insights on recruitment, retention, and the future of construction technology, especially when it comes to the need for better trades worker training programs.

Mat Gates is President of Erickson-Hall Construction Co. He joined the company in 2004 and quickly rose through the ranks due to his expertise in managing complex projects and solving challenges before they arise. A Civil Engineering graduate from San Diego State University, Mat holds both CCM and LEED accreditation. As President since 2019, he oversees company growth, employee development, and the implementation of cutting-edge technology to ensure Erickson-Hall remains an industry leader.

Todd Takes

1. Building a Culture of Innovation: Creating a company culture that not only tolerates but actively encourages new ideas is crucial for innovation. This requires setting egos aside and genuinely listening to diverse perspectives. By fostering this environment, you unlock a powerful source of creativity and problem-solving within your team.

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Erickson-Hall Construction Co.

Breaking the stigma around mental health issues in construction is crucial and often overlooked. In this episode, Todd and guest Elizabeth Crowley of the Building Trades Employers Association discuss the critical importance of addressing mental health in the construction industry. Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of breaking the stigma around this discussion, the role of leadership and company culture in fostering a supportive environment, and the legislative actions needed to better address these challenges.

Elizabeth Crowley is President and CEO of the Building Trades Employers’ Association, representing 1200 union contractors in New York City. She is the first woman to lead the organization, advocating for increased union-led construction, safety, and diversity in the industry. Previously, Elizabeth served on the New York City Council, where she championed construction safety and expanded opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses.

Todd Takes

1. Speak Up and Seek Help: If you’re struggling, please reach out for help as soon as possible. It's important to understand that it’s okay to not be okay, and no one should feel ashamed about needing support. As Elizabeth emphasized, real strength comes from being open and vulnerable with those around you.

Thank you for joining us for this important conversation. Remember, if you or someone you care about is facing a mental health crisis, you don’t have to face it alone. Reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988, or speak with a mental health professional. There’s always help and hope available, and you matter.

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Building Trades’ Employers Association NY

The labor shortage is an ongoing issue—but what are the most realistic reasons behind it? In this episode, Tatanisia Lumley joins the podcast to discuss the relationship between employment and getting answers to housing instability, food insecurity, and lack of childcare; the Building Skills NY Construction Career Accelerator Program; working to change the perception of construction in order to attract a more diverse workforce, and more.

Tatanisia Lumley is Director of Training and Operations for the workforce development nonprofit Building Skills NY. She spearheaded the establishment of the Building Skills NY Construction Career Accelerator Program in 2021. The program provides free, advanced training to help New York City job seekers launch construction careers. Her hands-on support has ensured that hundreds of residents facing employment barriers don't slip through the city's cracks. Outside of work, she is an avid crafter, Halloween enthusiast, and a devoted mother of three.

Todd Takes

1. Marketing Construction to New Audiences: We need to do a better job of promoting the opportunities in construction to those outside the industry. This means making the field more accessible and inclusive for all. By partnering with schools, we can showcase the exciting aspects of construction and spark interest in future generations.

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Building Skills NY

You’re probably familiar with building assessments and forensic engineering, but what’s the essential role they play in long-lasting infrastructure? In this episode, Stanley Stoll of Knott Laboratory, LLC joins the podcast for an in-depth discussion on identifying and preventing structural failures, how preventative is “too” preventative, the problem of water management, and a new take on what it means to be innovative.

Stanley Stoll is CEO of Knott Laboratory, LLC. He was a combat engineer and SAPPER in the U.S. Army. He attended the J.B. Speed School of Engineering at the University of Louisville in Louisville, KY and graduated with both a B.S. in Civil and Environmental Engineering and a Masters of Engineering Degree. At Knott Laboratory, he leads a team of forensic engineers who investigate infrastructural failures throughout the Western US. 

Todd Takes

1. Proactive Building Maintenance: Take the time to learn and implement best practices in building maintenance, ensuring a proactive approach to analyzing the structure. Stay vigilant for any areas of concern, as early detection and action can prevent costly and dangerous issues down the line.

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Knott Laboratory, LLC