Welcome to Episode 106 of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️

Gavin Coyle is joined by Steve Dell'Orto, Founder & CEO of Concentric, to explore one of the most overlooked — yet most strategic phases in construction: pre-construction.

Too often in construction, the focus goes straight to building. But the reality is that the success or failure of a project is usually decided long before the first shovel hits the ground.

Steve brings 26 years of experience in major general contracting, having worked on projects ranging from hundreds of thousands to multi-billion dollar developments. In this episode, he explains why the construction industry leaves huge opportunities on the table by not investing enough time, systems, and data into pre-construction planning.

The conversation dives into how data, collaboration, and modern technology are transforming how teams plan projects, manage risk, and deliver more predictable outcomes.

If you're involved in construction leadership, project delivery, or improving profitability in your business…this conversation will resonate.

Sponsored by Hustro.com – the simplest construction management software.

Hustro.com – 75% less time on inspections & reports

Start and claim 2 months free using “GAVIN” code → https://hustro.com/gavin

Episode Highlights (Timestamps / Chapters)

00:16 Podcast sponsor: Hustro.com

01:44 Introduction: Gavin Coyle + Steve Dell'Orto

02:11 Why pre-construction is the most strategic phase in construction

03:13 Steve’s 26-year career in general contracting

04:51 The creation of Concentric before COVID

06:05 Why pre-construction is similar across projects of all sizes

06:52 Are construction companies getting pre-construction wrong?

08:40 The challenge of fewer experienced workers entering construction

08:59 Using historical project data to improve planning

10:04 AI and technology as a force multiplier for construction teams

10:51 Why Concentric focuses specifically on pre-construction

12:12 Predicting project cost and certainty of outcomes

14:20 Why the cheapest mistakes happen in pre-construction

15:37 Platform vs point solutions in construction software

18:22 How better pre-construction planning improves profitability

19:16 Using technology to increase project win rates

22:00 Why data improves collaboration and communication

24:01 Breaking down silos between contractors and designers

26:25 Giving owners real-time visibility into project costs

27:48 Podcast sponsor: Hustro.com

28:24 Beyond estimating: scheduling, risk and resource planning

30:01 Designing construction software that is simple to use

32:03 Why simplicity increases adoption of technology

33:33 When does construction actually start?

35:47 Why the line between pre-construction and construction is blurry

37:24 Why many companies still rely on spreadsheets

38:02 How customers shape the evolution of Concentric

39:09 Subscribe and support the podcast

41:55 Knowing what you know now… what would you do differently?

42:23 Book recommendation: Freedom’s Forge

45:02 Steve’s passion for building and carpentry

46:27 Favorite travel destination

47:30 How to connect with Steve Dell'Orto

Connect with Steve Dell'Orto

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevedellorto/

Website: https://concntric.com

I’m The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction professionals — bringing insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint success in the building industry.

Available on:

Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer

Spotify: https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcast

Website: https://www.imthegaffer.com/

#ImTheGaffer #Construction #PreConstruction #ConstructionLeadership #ConstructionTechnology #ConstructionManagement #ConstructionIndustry