Steel & Whiskey

In this episode of Steel & Whiskey, we discuss the essential strategies for finding and retaining top talent in the steel industry. We are joined by Natalie Campbell from Bauer Underground, who shares personal experiences, innovative approaches, and practical advice on attracting skilled professionals and keeping them engaged. Whether you're a detailer, fabricator, or industry manager, this episode offers valuable insights to help you build and maintain a strong and motivated workforce. 

Join us on this episode of Steel & Whiskey as we welcome Ricky Horton, an industry expert with extensive experience in SDS2 and its integration with Tekla PowerFab . Ricky shares his insights and valuable knowledge gained from years of hands-on work and collaboration with professionals like SDS2's James Schwartz. Tune in for an engaging discussion about the latest advancements in steel detailing, project management, and the seamless integration of these powerful tools. Whether you're a steel enthusiast or just curious about the industry, grab your favorite drink and enjoy this laid-back yet informative conversation.

In this enlightening episode of "Steel and Whiskey," host David sits down with Nick Coffee, a seasoned detailer with over 23 years of experience and co-founder of United Structural LLC. Nick shares his journey from enduring a toxic work environment to establishing his own thriving business. Discover how United Structural Design LLC's revolutionary 32-hour workweek has transformed productivity and employee satisfaction. They delve into the intricacies of running a successful detailing firm, balancing work-life demands, and the unexpected benefits of a condensed work schedule. Grab your favorite drink and join us for an engaging discussion on redefining work norms and fostering a happier, more productive workforce. 

In this episode of Steel & Whiskey, we blend the worlds of steel detailing and whiskey crafting with the team behind Grain and Barrel Spirits' Chicken Cock Whiskey. Discover how the precision and craftsmanship in steel detailing with SDS2 parallels the meticulous process of creating exceptional whiskey. We'll dive into the inspiration behind their unique spirits, the detailed production process, and the principles guiding their brand. Learn how they ensure consistent quality, the role of their barrels, and their latest whiskey innovations. Join us for a captivating conversation that bridges the art of steel and spirits. Cheers! 

Join us as we unveil SDS2 Tech Treks! Dive into our latest episode where David talks with SDS2 Technical Consultants Jordan and Mark about our latest customer success initiative, coming to a city near you! This series of day-long seminars is designed to elevate your steel detailing expertise.  From mastering the latest SDS2 release to enhancing productivity with cutting-edge tools, learn why this event is a must-attend for all levels of SDS2 users. and innovation. Jordan and Mark share their own stories of learning new skill sin SDS2 and provide great insights into how getting up-to-date can unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation. Don't miss out – listen, register, and get ready to level up your skills! 

In this episode of Steel & Whiskey, David Zabka sits down with Josh Hawley, a senior technical consultant at SDS2. They dive into his background in steel detailing – from taking an internship with a joist manufacturer in high school to joining SDS2 a little over a year ago - and everything in between, including Josh's teaching stint at a local community college and time spent on his local school board. The two discuss the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the ever-evolving industry, as well as staying up to date on software features, sharing stories about discovering new tools and their functionalities.  

Join us on another episode of "Steel and Whiskey" as we chat with Dave Eckrote from IDEA StatiCa. Discover the innovative world of IDEA StatiCa and their recent release, which includes a new integration with SDS2. Learn how this collaboration is enhancing the experience for both SDS2 and IDEA StatiCa users and improving the connection design process across the steel construction industry. Eckrote shares insights into IDEA StatiCa's connection library, their plans for the future, and how they're working to make the lives of engineers and detailers easier. Plus, don't miss the unboxing of a unique gift that might just make you chuckle a bit. So, sit back, pour yourself a glass, and enjoy the conversation! 

Join us for a special episode of Steel & Whiskey, recorded on-site at SDS2 Summit 2023 in Omaha, Nebraska. Hosts David Zabka and Michelle McCarthy catch up with customers, speakers, and sponsors halfway through the event to hear what SDS2 Summit means to the steel community and what they've loved most about the event so far. Tune in and learn why SDS2 is the premiere learning and networking of the year for the steel community--and why you should mark your calendars for next year's event in Louisville, Kentucky, September 25-26.

In this episode of "Steel and Whiskey," host David Zabka welcomes Randy Warnaar, co-founder of FabStation, for an insightful conversation about the innovative use of augmented reality in the steel fabrication industry. They discuss how FabStation's technology is transforming the way steel structures are inspected and assembled, increasing accuracy and efficiency. Randy shares his background in the steel industry, the challenges faced by fabricators, and how FabStation's cloud-based solution is simplifying the process. Join them as they delve into the future of steel fabrication and the impact of augmented reality technology. 

Meet Chris Riley, a steel detailing veteran whose journey began under his father's, equipping him with skills that span generations. With roots dating back to the 1950s, Chris's evolution from traditional drafting to cutting-edge software like SDS2 and paperless workflows using Bluebeam showcases his innovative spirit. An early adopter and close industry insider, Chris shares stories of some of his favorite, challenge, and current projects and showcases the creative thinking that continues to drive his success at Cartee-Berry & Associates.

This week we're sharing a glimpse behind the curtain with Chris Rodgers, certified “Scrum” master who keeps our development teams running smoothly by coordinating projects, challenging processes, and keeping the paths of progress clear of external obstacles. He discusses the unique challenges posed by the many customized workflows in our customers' steel shops and explains the Scrum methodology driving SDS2's development teams through direct communication, problem-solving, and team accountability. Things might get a little nerdy as they dive into some Python, .NET development, and programming talk, but Chris knows his stuff and offers many fascinating insights into the world of construction software innovation that are well worth the listen!

Paul Hemenway's dynamic journey at Delta Structural Steel Services is a close mirror of the company's technological evolution. Starting out as a detailer, he now spearheads client relations and manages estimating while championing innovative solutions. Listen in as he shares his journey—with a few humorous detours—and explains Delta's commitment to innovation, which began with their early adoption of SDS2 and later, SDS2 Cloud and other technology. Hear why it's so important to be tech-savvy in today's marketplace and why Paul is so pumped up for SDS2 Summit 2023—and why you should be, too!

In this podcast episode, Marv Moreno and Mike Olson from Bluebeam discuss various topics, including introductions, Bluebeam's place in the Nemetschek portfolio, the relationship between Bluebeam and SDS2, and the efficiency of project communication using Bluebeam's features. They delve into how Bluebeam aids in drawing and document management, design review, QA/QC processes, and how SDS2 customers can benefit from these workflows. They also explore what Marv and Mike want to learn about SDS2 and present a promotion for Bluebeam customers interested in trying SDS2. The episode concludes with a call to action for interested listeners to reach out for more information and a special offer.

Today's episode features two guests as SDS2's Nate Bloch sits down with Chris Legnon, a fellow member of the Steel Erectors Association of America. Learn how Chris got started in the field as an early intern at Cooper Steel and has climbed the ladder to serve as their VP of technology 20 years later. Shoutout to local fabricator Midwest Steel Works for Nate's start, too! Chris discusses the value of the SEAA membership, including networking opportunities, access to a wealth of shared knowledge, as well as managing the impact of BIM, technology, data, and software on our future.

Join Geoffrey Blumber, the Technical Sales Manager for Hexagon's 2D/3D Design and Analysis Solutions, as he discusses how technology, like SDS2, is revolutionizing construction. Discover how data interoperability is streamlining piping and industrial design, leading to better business outcomes and superior structures. Explore the challenges faced in P&ID, such as design sequencing and information flow to steel detailers. Gain valuable insights from Geoff, an industry visionary transforming the construction landscape.

Join us in our most recent podcast episode as we highlight our newly appointed Head of Support and her relentless commitment to enhancing response times for customer tickets. With an unwavering focus on ensuring customer satisfaction, she unveils her strategies for optimizing processes, harnessing technology, and empowering our support team to deliver swift and impactful resolutions. Don't miss out on valuable insights and inspiration as we embark on a transformative journey to elevate our customer support to unprecedented levels.

From planning to execution, the Nemetschek Group has what you need to be successful in the AEC industry. Take it from Matt Wheelis, Senior Vice President of Strategy for the build and construct division. Today Matt talks about driving business growth through organic and inorganic synergies and what's in store for the future—think 5G, AI, Chat GPT, and Dall-e technologies as well as generational shifts as digital natives become decision makers. The vision of the Nemetschek Group is to lean into all of these technology changes and shape the world in all dimensions: 2D, 3D, and beyond.

David Zabka and Doug Evans discuss the history of steel detailing, taking us back in time to the very beginning of CAD and BIM and its delivery. Learn the who/what/why of a steel detailer, what we really sell, and how the value of SDS2 has changed as the function of a steel detailer has evolved.

Hear what went down in Charlotte, North Carolina at the outstanding NASCC Steel Conference April 12- 14. As the lanyard sponsors, SDS2 had a significant presence and enjoyed the opportunity to mingle with our partners and hear about new efficiencies with everything from load planning and site planning tools to robotics. Don't forget to mark your calendar for next year's Steel Conference in San Antonio, Texas, from March 20-22.

As Director of Technology Integrations for AISC, Luke Faulkner has been at the forefront of steel technology for over 18 years. Today, with the advent of technology like Chat GPT and other AI solutions, the technology landscape is advancing faster than ever. Sit down with David and Luke as they open some special occasion whiskey and take a deep dive into the steel tech of today and tomorrow. Join us at NASCC to continue the conversation! 

Welcome to the next step of the SDS2 and ALLPLAN merger: customer success. Sit down with Dan Istvan, VP Americas, and Michelle McCarthy, Regional Manager Americas, as they discuss their plans to improve customer success and share simple tips and tricks in SDS2 to streamline your workflows and make your life easier every day. Learn the ways SDS2 is putting customers first to create power users!

On this episode, we're celebrating Women in Construction Week by talking to Baily Frick, steel detailer/modeler for KMA Steel. Nobody puts Baily Frick in a corner. She knows her stuff and isn't afraid to speak up, as she did on stage at SDS2 Summit in San Antonio last fall. Hear how she got started in steel detailing, how SDS2 has influenced her journey, and why she believes expertise is much more important than gender in determining your success. Listen in to learn real-life insights and shop talk terminology for better communication.

Step into a day in the life of a civil engineer, Chloe Osorio. Chloe works in the power industry, with a current focus on renewable energy projects. She is passionate about the value of social media and uses it as a tool to work to break stereotypes of women in STEM. She is a girlie girl who steps from heels to steel toed boots into construction mode real quick. Her best advice: be authentically yourself, show up, and do the work! If we are going to build a world for everyone, everyone needs to help build it! Listen to her chat with SDS2's Caitlin Metcalfe to hear what engineering as a woman is really like.

Get to know Eduardo Lazzarotto, Senior Vice President of Product & Strategy, (a shining star with impressive experience from the recent Allplan and SDS2 merger) and how he plans to continue to grow Allplan's diverse portfolio in the USA and around the world. David and Eduardo talk building better with future software trends, innovation in the AEC industry, the digital revolution, and automation. See if he's sticking around for the NASCC!

On Episode 5 of Steel & Whiskey, the guys highlight their favorite features of the latest SDS2 release--from the handrail enhancements to login-based licensing--and share the latest buzz from their travels. From San Francisco to Denver, they share what they've been hearing from our integration partners, a new US joist supplier, and recent tradeshows. 

Doug Evans and David Zabka are toasting to travel on this episode of Steel & Whiskey as they share the latest news from tradeshows and meetings across the country. From Fabtech and AISC to the CFA, Texas Structural Steel Institute, and our own SDS2 Summit. Find out what they've been hearing on robotics, the Fabtrol fallout, and our Load Planning solution. Plus, hear about Doug's attempt at manual welding (spoiler: it didn't go well).

Luke Faulkner, Director of Technology Integration at AISC, joins the podcast to discuss the Need for Speed - AISC's plan to make steel construction 50% faster by 2025. They're already taking big strides with modular innovations like SpeedCore and SpeedFloor. Get the inside scoop on their latest time-saving advancements and cutting-edge research, from codifying model review to streamlining QA/QC through weld signals and bringing augmented reality into the fabrication shop. Listen to learn more of the innovative methods that AISC plans to revolutionize the industry!

Kari Kraus, customer success extraordinaire, joins Doug and Michelle to take us through a day in the life of the SDS2 support team. From fostering users’ daily success to cultivating the next generation of steel detailers through our education initiative, Kari has a hand in it all. Hear her top advice for approaching SDS2 2021, learn how you can help create a pipeline for new detailing talent in your area, and find out what world record Kari holds (hint: it’s not in the number of support emails answered in one day—although she could probably go for that one, too, if it ever becomes a thing). Special thanks to user Brian Jackson at Ardenn Consulting LLC for the Jamaican libations! 

Ryan Wunderle of the National Institute of Steel Detailers joins the show to talk about the career of a steel detailer. From getting started to becoming “experienced,” and the growing role of detailers today. He shares his insights as the founder of a detailing company and talks about training and networking opportunities with NISD.