The ConTechCrew

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 faster job site operations. From startup strategies to on-site innovation, this discussion paints a vivid picture of a rapidly evolving construction future.

• Automation and robotics are opening doors for women and caregivers to enter and thrive in construction.
• The next generation of workers expects digital tools, not paper and pens on job sites.
• Startup funding is still flowing, with a shift toward practical solutions like HR and payroll.
• Modern job sites must match consumer-level expectations for speed, flexibility, and convenience.
• GIS and spatial tracking are critical for optimizing safety, material movement, and logistics.
• Strong infrastructure for AI and robotics will power the next wave of construction innovation.

[00:44] - Tannis on women in construction and Berlin-based robotic cable-laying company

[06:57] - Work smarter, not harder; tech makes the industry cooler for young professionals

[08:33] - Tech expectations of the next generation entering the trades

[12:02] - Individual startups (BuildOps, Stratus, Lumber, Augmenta, Kaya AI, Triad)

[14:40] - Surviving vs. building real businesses in today’s funding climate

[18:19] - DoorDash analogy: consumer expectations shaping construction logistics

[24:05] - Material logistics: DoorDash-style expectations for tools and components

[29:04] - GIS and spatial awareness needed for smarter on-site decisions

[31:51] - High-angle rescue example: real use case for personnel tracking

[35:06] - Closing remarks

• Guest (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/artem-kuchukov/?originalSubdomain=de 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artem.kuchukov 
• Website: https://www.kewazo.com/ 
• LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/kewazo/ 
• Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/kewazo/ 
• Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/kewazorobotics/?hl=en 
• Twitter (Company): https://x.com/KewazoRobotics 

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

• 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 

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.

• Material movement is one of the most inefficient and risky parts of construction, especially vertical movement.
• Scaffolding was a “low-hanging fruit” use case for Kewazo to automate, drastically improving safety and labor efficiency.
• Industrial construction has better alignment and ROI potential for robotics than commercial construction.
• Setup flexibility is crucial. Kewazo's solution can be installed in minutes and even remain as a permanent fixture.
• Data transparency from robotic systems allows project managers to benchmark, plan, and optimize in real time.
• Extreme conditions are no barrier Kewazo robots operate reliably in both Northern Canada and hot climates like Texas and Mexico.
• 
  

[00:00] - Introduction 

[02:26] - Artem’s background and why he entered construction robotics

[04:10] - Identifying scaffolding as a major pain point in vertical material movement

[07:00] - Inspiration from Amazon-style material flow for on-site automation

[10:30] - Pivoting from commercial to industrial construction and why it matters

[21:47] - Fast setup times and the “laptop vs desktop” analogy for on-site deployment

[26:40] - Passive data collection and the power of AI in creating transparency

[29:36] - Reliability in harsh conditions: oil sands to Mexico

[31:53] - Predictions for the next five years and how to learn more

Follow the Guest:

• Guest (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/artem-kuchukov/?originalSubdomain=de 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artem.kuchukov 
• Website: https://www.kewazo.com/ 
• LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/kewazo/ 
• Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/kewazo/ 
• Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/kewazorobotics/?hl=en 
• Twitter (Company): https://x.com/KewazoRobotics 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tannisliviniuk/?originalSubdomain=ca 

• 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 

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.

• Mike’s career path highlights the power of persistence and versatility in construction leadership.
• Trust, transparency, and collaboration are more powerful than rigid control in project success.
• Real-time data and contractor time tracking can reduce waste and boost productivity.
• Technology must serve people, not replace them to be truly effective.
• Communication between owners, contractors, and field teams can make or break a project.
• Good leaders don’t need to have all the answers, they ask the right questions and empower their teams.

[00:00] - Introduction

[01:55] - Mike’s career journey: from intern to leadership

[03:11] - Transitioning from the oil and gas field to project management

[06:25] - Evolution of technology in the industrial sector

[11:14] - Bridging the gap between field work and executive decisions

[16:48] - Benefits- perspective of owner and vendor. 

[20:55] - Relationship building between owners and vendors

[27:11] - Transparencies and tracking work

[36:48] - Final thoughts and where to connect with Mi

• Guest (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-mantooth-a472aab1/  
• Website: https://managementcontrols.com/ 
• LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/management-controls-inc/ 
• Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/ManagementControlsInc/ 
• Twitter (Company): https://twitter.com/MgmtControlsInc?lang=en  

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

• 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 

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 BuilderFAX, 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.

• Lumber raised $15.5M in Series A funding to accelerate product growth and innovation.
• The acquisition of BuilderFAX introduces a digital wallet for craftworker certifications.
• Lumber integrates with ERPs, enhancing not replacing existing systems.
• Construction faces a workforce crisis, with 40% nearing retirement in five years.
• In-house AI development is central to Lumber’s next-gen construction tech strategy.
• Lumber offers free AI tech stack reviews to help contractors optimize their tools.
• Empowering workers with control over their data promotes transparency and mobility.

[00:00] - Introduction

[02:22] - Series A funding and goals

[05:38] - ERP integrations and strategy

[08:10] - Addressing workforce shortages and the stigma of construction jobs

[12:03] - AI innovation and team growth

[14:18] - Data ownership and future vision

[19:37] - Real-world use cases and feedback from craftspeople

[23:07] - How to access free AI tech reviews

[25:42] - Closing remarks

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loujperez23
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lou.perez.3762
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LouJPerez 
• Website: https://www.lumberfi.com/ 
• LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/lumberfi/ 
• Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/lumberfi.inc/ 
• Twitter (Company): https://x.com/lumberfi_inc 
• Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/lumberfi/ 

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

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

• 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 
• 
  

#ConstructionTechnology #AIinConstruction #StartupFunding #DigitalTransformation #FutureOfWork #WorkforceDevelopment #SmartConstruction

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.

• Connected job sites are being realized through robotics, AR/VR, and real-time data exchanges.
• Practical application of innovation in mega projects helps bridge the gap between vision and reality.
• The evolution of construction tech has shifted from being a burden to becoming essential to operations.
• Mental health in construction is being addressed through focus-enhancing apps and digital support.
• Data codification and interoperability are critical to build a shared, actionable knowledge base.
• Operational and IT teams must align to drive smarter, integrated workflows.
• Events like AGC and AEC TechCon foster community, innovation, and the upskilling of future professionals.

[00:00] - Introduction 

[02:52] - Discussion of AGC National and live events

[04:06] - Alex on the innovation lab and connected job sites

[05:34] - Benjamin shares real-world implementation of tech on mega projects

[10:16] - Rise of software and the digital transformation of trade shows

[14:25] - Alex previews the AEC TechCon 2025 in St. Louis

[18:31] - Importance of localizing innovation for regional impact

[20:41] - Announcement of AGC Technology Conference in Chicago (Aug 5-7)

[24:22] - Vision of future design informed by current constructability data

[30:23] - Highlight of Trimble, Procore, and data exchange examples

[32:30] - Salus, Document Crunch, Hilti, Quickbase, and fleet tech with Tena

[40:11] - Final thoughts and reflection on 10 years of industry transformation

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamincrosby/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/benjaminecrosby 
• Twitter: https://x.com/bimjamin 
• LinkedIn(Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/yates-construction/ 
• Website: https://www.wgyates.com/ 
• Facebook(Company): https://www.facebook.com/YatesBuilds/ 
• Instagram(Company): https://www.instagram.com/yatesbuilds/ 
• Twitter(Company): https://x.com/YatesBuilds 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conappguru/ 
• Twitter: https://x.com/conappguru 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conappguru 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conappguru/?hl=en 
• Company(Twitter): https://x.com/salussafetyapp 
• LinkedIn(Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/salussafety/ 
• Website: https://www.salussafety.io/ 
• Facebook(Company): https://www.facebook.com/salussafetyapp 
• Instagram(Company): https://www.instagram.com/salussafety.io/ 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexbelkofer/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABelkofer  
• LinkedIn(Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/mccarthy-building-companies-inc/ 
• Website: https://www.mccarthy.com/ 
• Facebook(Company): https://www.facebook.com/mccarthybuilding/ 
• Instagram(Company): https://www.instagram.com/mccarthybuild/ 

• 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 



#AGCNational2025 #ConstructionTech #ConnectedJobsite #DigitalBuilder #AECInnovation #SmartConstruction #ConTechCrew #DataDrivenBuilding #ConstructionLeadership #BIMtoField #TechInConstruction #AECCommunity #JobsiteRobotics #DigitalTransformation #AECEvents

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.

• Technology 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.

[01:13] - Episode intro, background on Ronen’s career path

[04:35] - Two types of IT in AEC: infrastructure vs. innovation

[10:48] - Aligning goals and building a collaborative tech team

[16:21] - Communicating tech benefits in business terms

[21:28] - Data sharing, security layers, and the impact of AI

[25:25] - Real-world AI implementation through use cases

[32:21] - Data governance and organizational blind spots

[35:25] - Security, compliance, and risks of being unprepared

[39:13] - Final thoughts, where to connect with Ronen & Egnyte

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronen-vengosh-8b952/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ronen.vengosh 
• Twitter: https://x.com/RonenVengosh 
• Linkedin(Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/egnyte/ 
• Website: https://www.egnyte.com/ 
• Instagram(Company): https://www.instagram.com/egnyte_inc/# 
• Facebook(Company): https://www.facebook.com/Egnyte/ 
• Twitter(Company): https://x.com/Egnyte 

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

• 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 

#ConstructionTech #ConTech #AIinConstruction #DigitalConstruction #SmartConstruction #DataGovernance #ITLeadership #AECInnovation #Cybersecurity #TechAdoption #DigitalTransformation #BuiltEnvironment #ConstructionGrowth #OperationalTechnology #InfrastructureInnovation #CIOInsights #ConstructionIT

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.

• “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.
• Transformational leadership yields stronger performance and morale.
• AI-driven safety platforms offer predictive alerts to reduce site risks.
• GPS-based tracking systems may redefine jobsite planning and coordination.

[00:00] - Introduction 

[00:50] - “BIM is Dead” – redefining BIM and its purpose  

[10:42] - Misuse of BIM vs. rise of VDC and digital collaboration  

[12:55] - Women in construction: leadership gaps and the need for sponsorship  

[22:23] - AI for jobsite safety and real‑time hazard detection  

[28:52] - The future of integrated planning and predictive safety tech 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travis-voss/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/travis.voss.336 
• Website: https://www.constructiondorks.com/ 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-leinenbach-plmb-466018177/ 
• Twitter: https://x.com/BimminAintEasy  

• https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/bim-dead-long-live-briefish-commentary-past-present-future-olcott-jbxmf/?trackingId=XSkRE3UsQiagIlk1W4wvtw%3D%3D
• https://www.enr.com/articles/60595-steel-construction-institute-announces-ai-clark-and-supports-tariff-policies 
• https://arxiv.org/abs/2503.14331
• https://www.businessinsider.com/ai-for-worker-site-safety-in-construction-2025-4

• 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 

#BIMIsDead #VDC #WomenInConstruction #LeadershipInConstruction #AIForSafety #JobsiteSafety #ConstructionLeadership #AIInConstruction #TechForSafety #GenerativeAI #PredictiveSafety #ConstructionInnovation

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 packed with takeaways.

• James started as a house painter and built his first tech business.
• Transitioning into tech meant leaving behind safety nets and going all in.
• James co-founded a nonprofit turning inmates into entrepreneurs, later featured on ABC.
• LiveSwitch prioritizes ease of use, no apps, no downloads, no hardware.
• Engineers need to understand the real jobsite for tech adoption to succeed.
• Situational awareness via instant video is reshaping operations across industries.
• LiveSwitch is the engine powering major platforms construction tech can plug right in.

[00:00] - Show introduction

[02:45] - James’ background in painting, home services, and his entrepreneurial roots

[08:04] - “Burn the boats” mindset and fully committing to tech

[15:20] - What is LiveSwitch? Use cases from WWE to NASA to 911

[22:20] - Pushback from the field and shifting mindsets with “instant replay”

[29:23] - Tradeoffs between apps vs. browser-based video tools

[31:45] - How small businesses can start using LiveSwitch instantly

[37:20] - Strategic value for contractors and service companies

[39:53] - Where to find James and final wrap-up

• James Hatfield (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-hatfield/ 
• Website: https://www.liveswitch.com/ 
• LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/liveswitch-inc/ 
• Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/liveswitchinc/ 
• Twitter (Company): https://twitter.com/liveswitchinc 

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

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

• 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 

#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #LiveSwitch #TechInnovation #FieldTech #VideoTech #SmartConstruction #DigitalTransformation #HomeServices #EmergencyTech #EntrepreneurshipJourney #StartupLife #TradesToTech #SecondChances #RealTimeVideo #APIIntegration #ConstructionSoftware #PhilanthropyInTech #EaseOfUse #NoAppRequired

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 manufacturing but introduce uncertainty.
• Industry leaders support tariffs for long-term competitive advantage.
• The future of sourcing materials hinges on balancing innovation and policy.

Timestamps:

[00:00] - Show intro and episode format  

[01:41] - Autonomous forklifts and robotics in construction  

[08:39] - CLARK: AI for engineering and code support  

[10:53] - The role of LLMs and AI responsibility in engineering  

[17:25] - U.S. steel tariffs and the global materials supply chain  

NCCER: https://ambitiontheory.com/building-better-report/ 

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  

Reference Links: 

• https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/bim-dead-long-live-briefish-commentary-past-present-future-olcott-jbxmf/?trackingId=XSkRE3UsQiagIlk1W4wvtw%3D%3D
• https://www.enr.com/articles/60595-steel-construction-institute-announces-ai-clark-and-supports-tariff-policies 
• https://arxiv.org/abs/2503.14331
• https://www.businessinsider.com/ai-for-worker-site-safety-in-construction-2025-4

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 

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample is joined by Anna Jochim, Director Future Workforce Development  ELECTRI, and Nelson Squires, Executive Vice President and General Manager at Electrical & Electronic Solutions at Wesco, gets into one of the most pressing issues facing the electrical construction industry: workforce development. With the electrical industry rapidly evolving due to increased electrification, data center expansion, and green energy demands, the conversation zeroes in on the urgent need to cultivate skilled talent through structured, scalable programs.

Anna introduces the groundbreaking Project Management Apprenticeship Program, a first-of-its-kind office-based apprenticeship designed to provide, real-world, structured training for future project managers. Nelson shares Wesco’s commitment to supporting this initiative through scholarships and industry partnerships, emphasizing that talent development is critical to meeting future demand. Together, they paint a compelling vision for the future of electrical construction and how mentorship, innovation, and strategic investment are key to solving the labor shortage.

• Electrification is exploding, creating urgent demand for skilled electrical.
• The Project Management Apprenticeship is a new structured path for training office-based leaders in the industry.
• Wesco is investing in workforce development, offering scholarships and mentoring programs via Wesco Cares.
• There’s a projected 14% workforce decline by 2030.
• Apprenticeship now extends to office roles, focusing on leadership, field-to-office transition, and structured learning.
• Mentorship is symbiotic, helping capture legacy knowledge .
• The industry must evolve to attract the next-gen workforce.
• Solving the labor crisis benefits the entire industry ecosystem.

[00:30] - Introduction

[02:27] - Anna introduces Electri and its mission

[05:46] - Nelson’s background and Wesco’s role in electrification

[07:55] - Projects Wesco supports: data centers, battery plants, hospitals

[14:06] - Why Electri created the PM Apprenticeship Program

[17:08] - Alarming labor stats: shrinking workforce, rising demand

[25:05] - Addressing misconceptions about office apprenticeships

[32:56] - Capturing mentor wisdom through documentation and shared learning

[37:36] - Final thoughts: where the program is headed and how to get involved

[40:45] - Outro and call to action

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annajochim/ 
• Company(LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/electriinternational/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ELECTRI.org/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/electri_org/?hl=en 
• Twitter: https://x.com/electri_org 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nelson-squires/ 
• Company(LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/wesco/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wesco.corp/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wesco.corp/?hl=en 
• Twitter: https://x.com/wescocorp 

• 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/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrew

Twitter (X): https://x.com/TheConTechCrew