The ConTechCrew

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, Jeff Sample and Jonathan Marsh get into the future of construction design automation with Aaron Szymanski and Francesco Iorio from Augmenta.ai. Augmenta.ai is pioneering AI-driven solutions to optimize the design and engineering of construction projects, starting with electrical Raceway systems. Their mission? To automate detailed, constructible designs and revolutionize efficiency in the industry.

The conversation covers the origins of Augmenta.ai, the challenges in digitalizing construction workflows, and the potential for AI to transform decision-making in design. The guests explain how their AI system learns from real-world contractor input, refines designs, and drastically reduces modeling time all while enhancing accuracy. If you’re interested in the intersection of construction, AI, and automation, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

Key Learnings:

• How AI-driven design automation is reshaping construction workflows.
• The importance of balancing human expertise with machine intelligence.
• Challenges in digitalizing construction and overcoming industry resistance.
• The impact of Augmenta’s technology on efficiency and accuracy.
• Future possibilities for AI in the construction industry.

Timestamps:

[00:00] - Introduction to the episode. 

[01:56] - Introduction to Aaron Szymanski and Francesco Iorio.

[15:16] - The origins of Augmenta and its mission.

[19:00] - The role of AI in automating electrical Raceway design.

[22:14] - The challenge of balancing machine intelligence with human expertise.

[33:27] - The future of AI in construction and its long-term potential.

[39:43] - Where to learn more about Augmenta.ai.

• LinkedIn(Aaron Szymanski): https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronszymanski/ 
• Twitter(Aaron Szymanski): https://x.com/AaronSzymanski 
• LinkedIn(Francesco Iorio): https://www.linkedin.com/in/francescoiorio/ 
• Twitter(Francesco Iorio): https://x.com/FrancescoIorio_ 
• Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmenta-ai/ 
• Company’s Twitter: https://x.com/AugmentaAI 

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

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

#ConstructionTech #AIinConstruction #Automation #Augmenta #TheConTechCrew #ConstructionInnovation #DigitalTransformation #MachineLearning #FutureofConstruction #BuildingSmart #TechPodcast

In this special announcement episode of The ConTech Crew, we’re excited to sit down with David Lincoln, Senior Vice President at Rosendin Electric, to talk about a major leap forward in construction technology. David gets deep into how Rosendin is leveraging robotics to streamline operations in remote, large-scale projects, reducing material touches, minimizing breakage, and ultimately saving time and labor costs. But this isn't just about efficiency, it’s about making work easier, safer, and more sustainable for the crews on the ground.

From micro laydowns to diesel hybrid electric units, David walks us through the real world application of these advanced tools, their impact on workforce deployment, and why they’re a game changer for the future of construction. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, contractor, or industry leader, this episode delivers valuable insight into how innovation is driving productivity while preserving the human element at the heart of the trade.

• Robotics in construction technology and its impact on large-scale, remote projects.
• How Rosendin is creating career paths from high school to professional leadership.
• The secrets behind running a successful internship program
• The unique mentorship culture within Rosendin
• Building a diverse and empowered workforce through mission-driven values
• How technology is reshaping the construction talent landscape
• The importance of internal mobility and retention strategies

[00:00] - Introduction to the episode and guest David Lincoln

[02:15] - David’s early career.

[06:07] - What drew David to the renewable side of the industry. 

[09:00] - Announcement of RTMIS- Robotic transitioning module installation system.

[18:15] - David Lincoln discusses the benefits of robotic solutions in construction.

[20:18] - Rosendin’s search for manufacturing partners to scale a new field innovation, inviting industry leaders to a media demo on April 17th in Abilene, Texas.

[30:47] - How robotics and AI are enhancing productivity and safety in construction.

[34:24] - Final thoughts from Jeff and David.

• Rosendin is hosting a Media Day on April 17 in Abilene, Texas to showcase the robotic technology live on-site.
• The event invites manufacturers, developers, GCs, and robotic tech companies to see the innovation in action and explore partnership opportunities.

• David Lincoln (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-lincoln-72755a20/
• LinkedIn(Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/rosendininc/ 
• Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/rosendininc/ 
• Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/rosendininc/ 
• Twitter (Company): https://twitter.com/RosendinInc 
• Website: https://www.rosendin.com/ 

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

#ConTech #ConstructionTech #Rosendin #GenerativeAI #NoCode #DataInConstruction #DigitalTransformation #ConstructionInnovation #AIinConstruction #SmartBuilding #ConstructionData #ConstructionSoftware #TheConTechCrew

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, Jeff Sample and Jacob D'Albora sit down with John Price to discuss the evolution of BIM, CAD, and digital transformation in engineering. John shares his journey from a non-traditional start in drafting and design to leading BIM transformation.

He emphasizes the importance of bridging communication gaps between IT, leadership, and engineers, and how learning to "influence without authority" has been crucial in driving technology adoption. From his early days navigating AutoCAD to implementing BIM for the Navy and beyond, John reveals the hard lessons and rewarding moments that have shaped his approach to solving complex problems. 

Top Takeaways:

• The shift from drafting to model-based workflows requires a paradigm shift, not just a software change.
• Miscommunication is often the biggest barrier to successful tech implementation. Educating stakeholders on terminology and processes is key.
• Rather than trying to centralize all data in one place, focus on streamlining connections between different data silos.
• Building trust with leadership, IT, and finance teams is critical for getting new tools approved and adopted.
• The goal of BIM and data tools isn't just efficiency but creating better, more informed workflows.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] – Intro of the episode. 

[01:26] – Jeff kicks off the show with John Price

[02:31] – John’s unconventional journey into BIM and engineering

[07:02] – The early challenges of transitioning from CAD to BIM

[17:25] – Data management and avoiding information silos

[27:09] – "Influence without authority" the key to driving change

[34:08] – The role of leadership, IT, and finance in tech implementation

[36:15] – Closing thoughts and wrap-up

• John Price (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-p-3ba7355a/ 

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

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

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample is joined by Nathan Wood and Trevor Baggett from Spring Valley Construction Company to discuss the latest developments in construction technology. They discuss Planera's free scheduling software for universities, the impact of tech adoption in education, and the importance of tech-forward trade schools. Trevor also shares his thoughts on Procore integration in high schools, upcoming construction tech events, and the growing influence of AI and reality capture in the field.

• Planera offers free cloud-based scheduling software to universities.
• Procore’s push into high schools is helping students gain hands-on experience with construction software.
• The value of early exposure to technology for students entering the construction field.
• ENR FutureTech & Procore Groundbreak.
• Texas State Technical College launches a construction technology program, bridging hands-on training with digital tools.
• How AI-powered tools like Otter.ai are shaping how teams document meetings and track progress.
• The role of data in construction: How smart tools can improve training, productivity, and safety.

[00:00] – Introduction to the Construction Technology News of the Week.

[06:00] – GBCA Construction Tech Expo (May 15th): What to expect at this major industry event.

[07:35] – Trevor’s upcoming events: ENR FutureTech & Procore Groundbreak in Houston.

[09:10] – Texas State Technical College launches a new construction technology program.

[12:50] – How data from smart tools can improve training and worker performance.

[15:23] – Grow with google: career dreamer site.

[19:28] – Trevor’s take on AI in construction and how he uses it for note-taking.

[21:27] – Conclusion.

• Trevor Baggett (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-baggett-40914a6a/
• Spring Valley Construction Company (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/spring-valley-construction-company/ 
• Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/SpringValleyConstructionCompany 
• Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/enjoysvcc/ 
• Twitter (Company): https://twitter.com/svccdallas 

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

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

#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #DigitalTransformation #AI #RealityCapture #EducationTech #Procore #Outbuild #ConstructionInnovation

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample and co-host Nathan Wood sit down with Trevor Baggett from Spring Valley Construction Company. Trevor shares his journey from building sheds with his uncle as a kid to becoming a Construction Technology Manager. He discusses how SkillsUSA shaped his career, his transition into teaching, and how he’s driving technology adoption in the construction industry. From Procore implementation to digital scheduling and OpenSpace reality capture, Trevor explains how his team is streamlining operations while keeping the field teams engaged.

• How early hands-on experience led Trevor to a career in construction technology.
• The role of SkillsUSA in developing teamwork and leadership in the industry.
• Lessons learned from Procore implementation and why buy-in from the field is critical.
• The shift to Outbuild for digital scheduling and its impact on project efficiency.
• How OpenSpace reality capture is transforming remodels and site monitoring.
• The importance of patience, continuous learning, and cross-industry knowledge in construction technology roles.

[00:00] – Introduction to the episode.

[02:27] – Trevor’s early start in construction: Building sheds at 11 & learning electrical work.

[03:39] – Competing in SkillsUSA and how it prepared him for the industry.

[08:16] – First job in construction and first experience with Procore implementation.

[09:45] – Transition to Spring Valley Construction and joining the tech committee.

[15:00] – Leaving construction to become a SkillsUSA instructor and what he learned.

[20:03] – Integration between Outbuild and Procore for seamless scheduling.

[27:14] – Expanding reality capture with OpenSpace for remodels and site documentation.

[31:48] – Why diverse career experiences make you a better construction technologist.

[33:20] – Final advice for tech leaders: Patience, research, and continuous learning.

• Trevor Baggett (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-baggett-40914a6a/
• Spring Valley Construction Company (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/spring-valley-construction-company/ 
• Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/SpringValleyConstructionCompany 
• Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/enjoysvcc/ 
• Twitter (Company): https://twitter.com/svccdallas 

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

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

#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #DigitalTransformation #RealityCapture #Scheduling #SkillsUSA #Procore #Outbuild #OpenSpace

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample and co-host Trent Leinenbach welcome Ken Gray, Co-Founder of Dig Robotics and former Chief Innovation Officer at Caterpillar. Ken shares his journey from childhood dreams of working with heavy equipment to leading innovation in the construction and mining industries. The conversation discusses how Dig Robotics is revolutionizing excavation by using AI, machine vision, and automation to enhance operator performance and efficiency. Ken explains why construction isn’t slow to adopt technology; it just demands real, measurable value.

• Ken’s journey from engineering at Caterpillar to co-founding Dig Robotics.
• The evolution of heavy equipment from mechanical machines to high-tech systems.
• How AI, machine vision, and automation improve excavation productivity.
• The importance of defining innovation in construction technology.
• Why construction companies adopt new tech only when it provides clear business value.

[01:29] – Introduction to Ken Gray and his background in heavy equipment innovation.

[02:05] – AI excellence in Construction Summit next week on April 2nd.

[02:54] – Ken’s early passion for construction equipment and engineering.

[09:54] – Advice on career growth and leadership in construction technology.

[15:08] – The evolution of heavy equipment from mechanical to digital.

[25:20] – Dig Robotics’ mission: Enhancing human operators, not replacing them.

[34:42] – How AI-driven feedback helps operators achieve peak efficiency.

[44:43] – The future of automation and operator training.

[48:49] – Final thoughts on approaching innovation in construction.

Dig Robotics (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/digrobotics/

Ken Gray (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/kengrayinclusiveinnovation/ 

Website: https://thecontechcrew.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg

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#ConTechCrew #Excavation #ConstructionTech #AI #Automation #HeavyEquipment #Innovation #DigRobotics

In this special episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample welcomes Josh Levy, Co-Founder & CEO of Document Crunch, to discuss the impact of tariffs on the construction industry. They get into how contractors can protect their projects, the importance of auditing contracts for risk exposure, and strategies for maintaining resilience in uncertain times. Josh also shares how Document Crunch is offering a free tool to help contractors assess tariff related risks and make informed decisions.

• How tariffs are affecting material costs and construction contracts.
• The importance of auditing contracts for price escalation clauses.
• Strategies for mitigating risk and maintaining project stability.
• Why industry collaboration is essential in overcoming economic challenges.
• The role of technology in making contract analysis more efficient.

[00:00] - Introduction to the episode.  

[02:25] - Tariff work at document crunch. 

[09:31] - Understanding the financial risks of tariffs in ongoing projects

[17:25] - How Document Crunch’s free tool helps contractors assess risk exposure.

[23:22] - The importance of proactive contract management.

[26:40] - Final thoughts: How construction professionals can stay ahead.

• Direct Tariff link with embed: https://www.documentcrunch.com/2025-tariffs?utm_campaign=9672881-ConTech Crew Podcast&utm_source=Jeff Sample Newsletter&utm_medium=Sponsored Ad&utm_term=Tariffs Demo&utm_content=March 2025
• Special link: https://www.documentcrunch.com/contechcrew

• Document Crunch (Website): https://www.documentcrunch.com
• Document Crunch (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/document-crunch/ 
• Document crunch (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/documentcrunch/  
• Document crunch (Twitter): https://x.com/DocumentCrunch 
• Document crunch (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/documentcrunch/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-levy-/

Follow The ConTech Crew:

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#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #Tariffs #ContractManagement #RiskMitigation #DocumentCrunch #ConstructionIndustry #AEC #Innovation

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample welcomes James Cosman and Kendall Bachman from VeilSun to discuss the evolving role of technology in the construction industry. They explore how companies can move beyond outdated processes, leverage low-code solutions, and avoid the pitfalls of traditional software development. James and Kendall share their experiences on reducing data silos, improving business workflows, and why adaptability is critical in today’s rapidly evolving construction tech landscape.

• The three stages of technology adoption in construction.
• Challenges with traditional software and the benefits of low-code, no-code solutions.
• How construction companies can streamline workflows and reduce inefficiencies.
• The importance of maintaining a company’s unique processes while adopting new technology.
• Why businesses need to prepare their data now for future AI advancements.

[00:00] – Introduction of the episode.

[00:05] – Introduction to James Cosman and Kendall Bachman from VeilSun.

[02:56] – James’ background and VeilSun’s focus on low-code solutions for construction.

[06:11] – The three stages of technology adoption in the construction industry.

[11:59] – Full-stack development vs. low-code solutions: The cost and efficiency debate.

[15:59] – The “LEGO” analogy: Pre-built vs. custom-built software solutions.

[24:04] – Reducing data silos and maintaining a company’s competitive advantage.

[28:57] – The potential of technology to transform project-level collaboration.

[35:02] – The role of AI in construction and why companies need to prepare now.

[38:11] – Final thoughts and where to find VeilSun.

• VeilSun (LinkedIn):  https://www.linkedin.com/company/veilsun-inc-/ 
• VeilSun Website: https://www.veilsun.com
• James Cosman (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamescosman
• Kendall Bachman (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendallbachman

• Website: https://thecontechcrew.com
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#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #LowCode #DigitalTransformation #AI #Innovation #ProcessImprovement #TechnologyIntegration

In this special news edition of The ConTech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Jacob D’Albora are joined by Katelyn Sanchez to discuss the latest advancements in construction technology, workforce development, and AI-driven facility management. They discuss SkillsUSA's expanding role in preparing the next generation of tradespeople, the growing demand for facility management professionals, and how adaptability is key in an evolving industry. Plus, they highlight Veridi’s efforts in training disadvantaged communities for careers in renewable energy.

Key Takeaways:

• The expansion of Facilithon through SkillsUSA and its impact on facility management careers.
• The role of digital tools and AI in optimizing facility operations.
• How adaptability is driving change in facility management and construction.
• The importance of clear communication in leadership and technology adoption.
• How Veridi is transforming workforce development in underserved communities.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[01:04] – Facilithon expands to 20 states, introducing high schoolers to facility management.

[03:24] – Katelyn’s take on SkillsUSA and its role in bridging trade gaps.

[05:35] – Emerging facility management technology trends in 2025.

[07:44] – The importance of data and AI in facility optimization.

[14:45] – Why CTOs need to communicate technology strategies in business terms.

[18:43] – Leadership lessons in simplifying complex technology concepts.

[24:08] – How Veridi is creating green job opportunities in disadvantaged communities.

[28:33] – Final thoughts on workforce training and industry growth.

Follow the Guest & Topics Discussed:

• VIATechnik (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/viatechnik/
• VIATechnik (Website): https://www.viatechnik.com/
• VIATechnik (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/VIATechnik 
• SkillsUSA: https://www.skillsusa.org/
• Facilithon: https://www.fmpipeline.org/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelyn-sanchez-srvdcmanager/ 

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Hashtags:

#ConTechCrew #ConstructionNews #SkillsUSA #FacilityManagement #AI #DigitalTwins #TechLeadership #GreenJobs #WorkforceDevelopment

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Jacob D’Albora welcome Katelyn Sanchez, Senior VDC Manager at VIATechnik. They discuss Katelyn’s journey from woodworking to becoming a leader in construction technology, the importance of early BIM adoption, and how owners can drive better project outcomes. Katelyn shares her experiences on collaboration, navigating industry challenges, and why adaptability is key in the evolving AEC landscape.

Key Takeaways:

• Katelyn’s transition from woodworking to BIM and VDC leadership.
• The value of early BIM adoption and owner-driven coordination.
• Overcoming industry resistance to new technology.
• The impact of customer service skills on construction collaboration.
• How work-life balance contributes to long-term career success.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[02:16] – Katelyn’s background: From woodworking to construction technology.

[10:08] – Lessons from early career experiences in BIM coordination and owners.

[16:40] – Technology changes and approach to the projects.

[26:27] – The importance of owner-driven BIM initiatives.

[30:49] – The role of mentorship and leadership in career growth.

[43:33] – Final thoughts.

Follow the Guest:

• VIATechnik (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/viatechnik/
• VIATechnik (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/VIATechnik 
• VIATechnik (Website): https://www.viatechnik.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelyn-sanchez-srvdcmanager/ 

Follow The ConTech Crew:

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Hashtags:

#ConTechCrew #BIM #ConstructionTech #DigitalTransformation #VDC #TechnologyIntegration #AEC #Workflows #Innovation