The ConTechCrew

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood are joined by Hammad Chaudhry, Vice President of Market Development and Partnerships at Timescapes, to discuss the latest developments in construction technology, including the impact of tariff fears, economic interdependence in North America, and the evolving role of AI in construction. The conversation gets into global political and economic trends and their influence on the construction industry, while also highlighting how technology can help find these changes.

Key Takeaways:

• How tariff speculation is already driving construction material costs higher.
• The economic interdependence of the U.S. and Canada and its implications for construction.
• The role of politics in shaping the future of business and innovation.
• AI and automation: The rise of AI-driven workflows and their impact on the industry.
• Why construction firms must adapt to technological advancements for long-term success.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[01:08] – Tariff fears and the biggest construction cost jump in two years.

[06:50] – The role of technology in government and its inefficiencies.

[12:55] – Government restructuring and its potential effects on tech regulation.

[21:18] – AI and automation: The rise of AI-driven workflows and their impact.

[27:24] – How companies should prepare for AI-driven transformations in the industry.

[30:00] – Closing thoughts. 

Follow the Guest (Hammad Chaudhry)

• Timescapes(LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/timescapes/ 
• Timescapes(Website): https://www.timescapes.co/ 
• Timescapes(Youtube): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRsWndvE3n68hMTCVXApW-A 
• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/hammad-chaudhry-a4957365/ 
• Twitter: https://x.com/hammadachaudhry 

• 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 

Hashtags:

#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #Tariffs #Economy #DigitalTransformation #AI #ConstructionInnovation #ProjectManagement #FieldTech #TechnologyIntegration

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood welcome back Hammad Chaudhry, Vice President of Market Development and Partnerships at Timescapes. They discuss the challenges of construction data management, the evolving role of innovation in the industry, and the importance of integrating new technology into project workflows. Hammad shares his journey from architecture to construction technology leadership, on how digital solutions can bridge the gaps in project efficiency.

Key Takeaways:

• Hammad’s transition from project coordination to construction innovation leadership.
• The challenges of implementing new technology on construction sites.
• How AI and automation are influencing construction workflows.
• The importance of data transparency and collaboration in the industry.
• The role of digital tools like Timescapes in improving project visibility and efficiency.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[01:00] – Welcoming Hammad Chaudhry back to the show.

[03:10] – Hammad’s background: From architecture to construction innovation.

[08:51] – Lessons from early career experiences on the job site.

[12:37] – Transitioning from project teams to corporate innovation roles.

[19:07] – Overcoming challenges in data sharing and technology adoption.

[24:41] – The impact of computer vision and digital tools in construction.

[31:18] – Achieving the "aha moment" with new technology.

[35:15] – Final thoughts on the future of construction technology.

Follow the Guest:

• Timescapes(LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/timescapes/ 
• Timescapes(Website): https://www.timescapes.co/ 
• Timescapes(Youtube): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRsWndvE3n68hMTCVXApW-A 
• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/hammad-chaudhry-a4957365/ 
• Twitter: https://x.com/hammadachaudhry 

• 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 

Hashtags:

#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #DigitalTransformation #AI #ConstructionInnovation #ProjectManagement #FieldTech #TechnologyIntegration

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Jacob D'Albora discuss the latest construction technology news alongside guest Matthew Hudelson, founder of Inertia Systems. The conversation covers digital twins in facility management, construction industry regulations, tariffs, and innovative space technology. Jacob introduces his new article series on digital twins, while Jeff and Matt discuss the impact of policy changes on the construction industry. If you want to stay ahead of the latest trends and challenges shaping construction tech, this episode is a must-listen!

• Jacob D'Albora’s new article series on digital twins in facility management.
• How structured data and digital twins improve hospital operations and efficiency.
• The critical role of facility managers in maintaining hospital infrastructure.
• The importance of integrating real-time data with construction and facility management tools.
• The failed proposal to abolish OSHA and its implications for workplace safety.
• The potential impact of new tariffs on construction materials like steel, drywall, and lumber.

[00:31] – Jacob D'Albora’s article series on digital twins in healthcare facilities.

[05:18] – The importance of data tracking and dashboards for predictive maintenance.

[09:59] – OSHA abolishment bill discussion, why it had no chance of passing.

[12:25] – The ripple effect of tariffs on pricing, supply chains, and contract negotiations.

[19:35] – India-based space surveillance company expands to the U.S., bringing new jobs and innovation.

[23:39] – Final thoughts

Follow the Guest:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-hudelson-7b631738/
• Company(Linkedin): https://www.linkedin.com/company/inertia-systems/ 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobdalbora/ 
• Company(Linkedin): https://www.linkedin.com/company/viatechnik/ 

• 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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In this episode of The ConTech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Jacob D'Albora sit down with Matthew Hudelson, founder of Inertia Systems, to discuss the concept of datatization, a revolutionary approach to data structuring in construction. Matthew shares how his background in technology and California healthcare compliance led him to develop location-based tracking solutions that optimize project management. The conversation covers the importance of data organization, integrations, and the role of technology in reducing rework and improving efficiency in construction projects.

• How Matthew’s journey in tech and construction led to the creation of Inertia Systems.
• The origins of datatization and why structured data is critical for project success.
• Lessons learned from working in California’s highly regulated healthcare construction sector.
• The importance of integrating construction technology tools rather than competing with them.
• How location-based tracking and digital twins improve project efficiency and decision-making.

[02:36] – Matthew Hudelson’s journey into construction technology and Inertia.

[09:43] – How IPD and Lean construction drive innovation.

[14:49] – COVID’s impact on construction technology and remote project management.

[22:12] – The concept of datatization and how object-based tracking improves efficiency.

[32:09] – Bridging the gap between BIM, digital twins, and field adoption.

[35:40] – Final thoughts on the future of construction technology and project certainty.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-hudelson-7b631738/
• Company(Linkedin): https://www.linkedin.com/company/inertia-systems/ 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobdalbora/ 
• Company(Linkedin): https://www.linkedin.com/company/viatechnik/ 

• 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 Jonathan Marsh and special guest Joshua Weyand, Director of Emerging Technologies at Suffolk Construction to discuss the latest construction technology news. They discuss the implications of AI in construction, the rise of cybersecurity threats, and how companies can better protect their data. Joshua shares insights on the future of AI-driven project management, the impact of cybercrime on the construction industry, and why data privacy is becoming a major concern. If you're curious about where construction tech is headed.

What You'll Learn:

• How AI agents will revolutionize project management in construction
• The risks of data privacy in an AI-driven world
• Why construction companies are prime targets for cybercrime
• The rise of impersonation attacks and how businesses can protect themselves
• How IT and tech talent shortages are shaping the industry's future
• The shift from public cloud to private cloud solutions in response to AI demands

Timestamps:

[00:25] – Deepseek-The risks of AI-driven data collection and privacy concerns

[03:15] – The reality of no privacy in the modern digital world

[10:10] – Major government takedown of cybercrime networks

[18:40] – The rise of impersonation attacks and deepfakes in business

[20:19] – AI agents and the future of project management

[29:30] – The balance between automation and human effort in construction

[33:00] – Final thoughts and where to learn more

News: https://www.ciodive.com/ 

Follow The Guest 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-weyand-construction/ 
• Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/suffolk-construction/ 

Follow Co-Host(Jonathan Marsh)

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdmsteeltoe/ 
• Website: https://www.steeltoeconsulting.com/ 
• LinkedIn(Business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/steel-toe-consulting-llc/ 

• 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, hosts Jeff Sample and Jonathan Marsh sit down with Joshua Weyand, Director of Emerging Technologies at Suffolk Construction. They get into Joshua's unconventional journey from aspiring software developer to construction technologist and the creative problem-solving that fuels his work. Joshua shares how his passion for automation, data analytics, and leadership development is reshaping the construction industry, emphasizing the importance of imagination, adaptability, and collaboration between IT and field teams. If you're a tech-forward thinker looking to drive change in construction, this episode is packed with insights.

Key Takeaways:

• Joshua’s journey from a civil engineering hopeful to a leader in construction technology.
• The importance of bridging creativity and leadership in solving industry challenges.
• How tinkering with software like Bluebeam and low-code solutions helped him automate redundant tasks.
• Lessons from nearly getting fired for an automation project and how it reshaped his approach.
• The critical role of IT collaboration in technology adoption.
• How playing Dungeons & Dragons helped Joshua develop a new perspective on innovation and leadership.
• The need for forward-thinking vision in navigating industry challenges like tariffs and AI adoption.
• Why companies must balance structured leadership with space for experimentation and R&D.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[02:12] – Joshua Weyand and his background in emerging technologies.

[07:23] – How Joshua got into construction through an unexpected encounter.

[13:57] – The challenge of implementing tech solutions.

[22:02] – How industry crises drive innovation and the next big challenge for construction.

[24:49] – The necessity of vision and leadership in uncertain times.

[29:30] – Balancing creativity, leadership, and tech adoption in construction.

Follow The Guest 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-weyand-construction/ 

Follow Co-Host(Jonathan Marsh)

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdmsteeltoe/ 
• Website: https://www.steeltoeconsulting.com/ 
• LinkedIn(Business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/steel-toe-consulting-llc/ 



• Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg 
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• Twitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew 

In this special mashup of The ConTech Crew and Construction Dorks, host Jeff Sample teams up with Travis Voss and Trent Leinenbach to discuss the latest in construction technology news. From billion-dollar investments in data centers to shifts in energy production and AI advancements, this episode covers the hottest topics making waves at the MEP Innovation conference. The trio unpacks industry trends, shares personal experiences, and delivers a hefty dose of humor, all while discussing the challenges and opportunities facing the construction tech world.

Key Takeaways:

• A lively breakdown of discussions from the MEP conference.
• Insights into the $500 billion data center investments and the ripple effects 
• The shift towards domestic energy production, including nuclear energy's resurgence.
• Funding means for construction tech innovation, big data access.
• Discussing the good, the bad, and the potentially dangerous implications of AI.
• The controversial removal of Google’s pledge not to use AI for weapons.
• A heated debate on whether AI can avoid repeating social media’s mistakes.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:49] – Mashing up The ConTech Crew and Construction Dorks

[04:17] – How reshoring and energy independence shape the industry..

[09:59] – AI at the HR Expo-Travis’ unconventional prep using ChatGPT.

[13:28] – Stratus’ $32 Million Series B-What’s next in construction tech innovation?

[19:23] – Google Removes the pledge not to weaponize AI.

[24:39] – Avoiding Social Media’s Mistakes.

[30:07] – Final Thoughts-AI in construction.

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

• Document Crunch: https://www.documentcrunch.com/

Follow The Guest (Travis Voss)

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

Follow The Guest (Trent Leinenbach)

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

• 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 crossover episode of The ConTech Crew and Construction Dorks, Jeff Sample teams up with Travis Voss and Trent Leinenbach to recap their time at MEP Innovation in Los Angeles. They discuss the biggest takeaways from the event, including the evolution of leadership in the MEP industry, the growing importance of data, and how AI is reshaping the construction landscape. With stories from the conference floor, reflections on the best sessions, and even a little swag critique, this episode is packed for anyone in the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing space.

Key Takeaways:

• Despite challenges, the decision to keep the conference in LA.
• The industry is seeing more executives, VPs, and C-suite leaders attend MEP Innovation.
• Stephanie McShane’s session from Maxim Consulting focused on building clear career pathways for young professionals in the industry.
• The conference emphasized the power of data in optimizing workflows and boosting profits.
• With sessions on everything from AI strategies to VDC standards, the conference provided opportunities for both seasoned pros and newcomers.
• Highlights from the work of MCAA, NECA, and SMACNA foundation.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:38] – Kicking off the MEP Innovation recap with the Construction Dorks.

[09:38] – Building the future of MEP careers with Stephanie McShane.

[16:29] – Evolving roles of CIOs, CTOs, and CEOs in construction.

[27:45] – Best tech, demos, and swag from the expo floor.

[30:19] – How MCAA, NECA, and SMACNA are pushing industry innovation.

[36:24] – Why you should attend MEP Innovation next year in Austin

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

• Document Crunch: https://www.documentcrunch.com/

Follow The Guest (Travis Voss)

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

Follow The Guest (Trent Leinenbach)

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

• 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 News, hosts Jeff Sample, Jacob D’Albora, and guest Robert Brown get into the most pressing trends shaping the construction technology landscape. They discuss how advancements in technology are driving diversity and inclusion, creating new opportunities for underrepresented groups, and addressing labor shortages. They also tackle the industry’s readiness to handle massive investments in data infrastructure.

Key Takeaways:

• How technology and flexible policies are creating opportunities for women and underrepresented groups in construction. 
• Tech giants like OpenAI and Oracle are driving a $500 billion investment in U.S. data centers, pushing the industry to innovate and solve workforce challenges.
• Stratus’ $32 million Series B funding highlights the growing importance of prefabrication and streamlined workflows for smaller contractors.
• The implications of software bans, like TikTok’s shutdown, on technology and data policies in construction.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:00:38] – Introduction: Introduction to the hosts and this week’s topics.

[00:08:49] – Data Center Investments: Discussion on $500 billion data center investments and their ripple effects.

[00:12:45] – TikTok shutdown: Lessons in data security for construction.

[00:20:11] – Funding: Stratus funding and its impact on the industry.

[00:24:02] – Closing remarks: Final Remarks on the future of construction technology.

This Episode is Kindly sponsored by:

Document Crunch: https://www.documentcrunch.com/

Follow The Guest:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-brown-9936ab10/ 
• Email: [email protected]

• 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, alongside Jacob D’Albora, welcomes Robert Brown, Senior Tech Lead at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). Robert shares his journey from land surveying to leading the BIM and digital transformation efforts at one of the busiest airports in the world. Packed with humor, insights, and lessons learned, this conversation gets into the challenges and triumphs of implementing innovative technology in construction and operations.

Key Takeaways:

• A Humble Beginning: Robert transitioned from football dreams to a career in surveying, eventually finding his place at DFW Airport, where he began his digital transformation journey.
• BIM Beginnings: Starting in 2017, Robert spearheaded DFW’s BIM program and initiated the airport’s first standards manual and digital twin project.
• Overcoming Challenges: From navigating leadership changes to tackling skepticism, Robert emphasizes the importance of persistence and aligning technology with operational efficiency.
• The Role of “Play” in Innovation: Robert discusses the importance of funding proof-of-concept projects and the value of experimentation in driving meaningful change.
• Stakeholder Alignment: Insights into how digital twins and data alignment can support facility management teams and improve operational workflows.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:00:43] – Introduction: Meet Robert Brown and kick off the episode.

[00:02:50] – Robert’s career journey: From football dreams to surveying.

[00:09:25] – Leadership and BIM: Navigating leadership changes and maintaining momentum.

[00:13:59] – Funding: The importance of executive buy-in and funding for innovation.

[00:23:02] – Storytelling in technology: Aligning stakeholders with a shared vision.

[00:36:10] – Lessons from COVID: Capturing and codifying institutional knowledge.

[00:40:10] – Conclusion: Parting thoughts and where to connect with Robert.

This Episode is Kindly sponsored by:

Document Crunch: https://www.documentcrunch.com/

Follow The Guest:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-brown-9936ab10/ 
• Email: [email protected]

• 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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