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$845 million. In cash. That's what Procore just paid for DroneDeploy.We sat down and ran the actual cross-sell math on this deal, and it's a lot steeper than the headline number makes it looWe also got Handoff founder Dmitry Alexin on to talk about his AI estimating tool, and he was clear about one thing: "It's not a tool, it's not a takeoff tool."And PR consultant Kevin Ferguson told us what it actually takes to get a construction tech startup covered in the press. Spoiler: it's not just having a good storyNew episode's up. #bricksandbytes #bricksbytes #bricksbucksandbytes #aec #construction #constructiontech #ai #vcOur Sponsors:BreadCrumb- 50,000+ projects globally. All running safer, faster, with Breadcrumb. - breadcrumb.coAphex is the multiplayer planning platform where construction teams plan together, stay aligned, and deliver projects faster – check out aphex.coArchdesk - “The #1 Construction Management Software for Growing Companies - Manage your projects from Tender to Handover” check archdesk.comChapters00:00 - Teaser00:35 - Intro & Today's Agenda01:02 - Procore Acquires DroneDeploy for $845M08:55 - The Cross-Sell Math: Does the Deal Pencil Out?16:28 - Dmitry Alexin (Handoff) Joins: Why Not Another Takeoff Tool21:04 - Building H1: Assemblies, Pricing, and Computer Vision32:58 - The Katerra Postmortem41:04 - Kevin Ferguson Joins: The State of Construction Tech PR
Ein Jahr nach dem letzten Gespräch zieht Michél gemeinsam mit Kai Panitzki Bilanz: Was hat sich bei KI, Robotik und Start-ups wirklich verändert? Im Fokus stehen Physical AI, Europas Chancen im internationalen Wettbewerb und die spannendsten Entwicklungen aus Construction Tech und Venture Capital. Außerdem sprechen die beiden darüber, warum Robotik gerade jetzt zum Milliardenmarkt wird und welche Innovationen bereits heute auf Baustellen Einzug halten. _________________________________________________ Die BLACK BOX auf der BAU 2027 ist das neue Innovationsformat der Messe München und DIGITALWERK – mit Livedemos, Diskussionen, Networking und digitalem Content. Das geht nur mit Unternehmen, die ihre Innovationen nicht nur ausstellen, sondern sichtbar machen. Mehr Infos und Kontaktmöglichkeiten gibt's unter https://www.digitalwerk.io/dw-events/blackbox _________________________________________________ VESTIGAS ist die All-in-One-Lösung für die digitale Baulieferkette – vom digitalen Lieferschein über KI-gestützte Rechnungsprüfung bis zum smarten Rechnungsworkflow. Weniger Papierkram, rechtssichere Prozesse und mehr Zeit für die wirklich wichtigen Aufgaben auf der Baustelle und im Büro. Mehr erfahrt ihr unter www.vestigas.com _________________________________________________ 00:00 – Darum geht's in der Folge 03:04 – Robotik wird zur nächsten KI-Revolution 08:17 – Warum große Investments ins Ausland abwandern 11:30 – Foundation Models einfach erklärt 17:46 – Deutschlands Chancen bei Physical AI 26:37 – Robotik auf der Baustelle: Was heute schon möglich ist 31:36 – Wann Innovation wirklich wirtschaftlich wird 36:32 – Construction Tech 2026: Wo die Branche heute steht 44:52 – Welche Technologien Investoren jetzt suchen 55:06 – KI-Lieblinge, Zukunftsausblick und Europas Chancen
AJ Waters wanted to design stadiums. Instead, he ended up rebuilding the operating system for one of the largest construction companies in the world and learning, the hard way, why so many digital transformations quietly collapse in the field.In this episode, AJ takes Jesse inside the messy reality of tech adoption at scale: what it was really like leading a major platform overhaul at Kiewit, why executives sometimes override the "right" decision for reasons that have nothing to do with the data, and the uncomfortable truth about who construction software has historically been built for and who's been left out.They also get into:Why teams keep optimizing for the back office while the people actually swinging hammers get ignoredWhat evaluating project management platforms for Google's data center builds taught AJ about alignment vs. politicsThe surprising throughline between his childhood Lego obsession and how he approaches problem-solving todayWhy AJ started The Engineered Life to talk about "superpowers" most people don't even know they haveIf you've ever wondered why the tools that look perfect in a boardroom fall apart on-site, or why subcontractors always seem to get the short end of the software stick, this one's for you.By the end, you'll understand why AJ measures success by one simple standard: whether he left people, and situations, better than he found them.00:00 Executive Override Reality00:18 Meet AJ Waters02:00 Lego Builds and Movie Nerd03:23 Rebuilding Memorial Stadium05:38 Dreaming of Stadiums08:31 Not Smart Enough to Engineer11:01 Design vs Construction Life11:23 LnM Listener Shoutout13:55 Why Construction Fits People17:48 First Digital Takeoff Win20:16 Resourcefulness and Problem Solving25:17 iPhone Sparked Tech Interest27:56 Volunteering for Transformation29:48 Change Resistance on Site31:32 Design for Field Users33:20 Workarounds and Training Gaps34:58 From Internal Tools to Innate35:50 Owner Side Lessons at Google40:07 Systems vs Human Behavior42:50 Procore vs PlanGrid Politics44:50 Tech Ignores Subs and Owners46:27 AI and Platform Advantage51:15 EngiNerd Life Origin StoryLets leave the Construction Industry Better than We Found It https://www.depthbuilder.com/construction-leadership-lab Download the free PDF copy of Becoming the Promise You are Intended to Be
Unlock the secret to transforming the construction industry—where communication silos and outdated workflows are holding everyone back. Melissa Dixon, shares her grounded insights on how digital workflows are reshaping project efficiency from the field to the office—and why adapting now matters more than ever. Construction projects often still rely on scribbles, phone calls, and guesswork, which creates delays, rework, and frustration.Melissa explains why digitization has been slow to catch on, and what's finally helping teams move toward smarter, more connected ways of working. From field-to-office collaboration to AI-assisted invoice matching and site mapping, she breaks down the practical tools that are making a difference. You'll discover:How systems thinking is changing the way construction teams approach the full project lifecycleWhy digital tools need to fit existing workflows to actually get adoptedHow better content, metadata, and data quality strengthen AI and connected workflowsReal examples of AI helping with search, matching, and documentationWhy construction leaders need both top-down support and field-level buy-in to drive changeMelissa also shares her perspective on BIM, model-based procurement, labor data, pre-construction planning, and the importance of balancing detailed data with simplicity for the people using it every day. If you work in construction, project management, or any role touched by workflow efficiency, this conversation offers a clear, practical look at how digital transformation is unfolding in the real world. It's not about hype — it's about making work easier, faster, and more accurate across the entire supply chain.Here's where I ask a huge favor from you, I'm creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.Learn more about Trimble: https://www.trimble.com/en/industries/constructionGino's On the Point: https://ginosrestaurants.co/gino-at-the-point/YouTube Version: https://youtu.be/6fPk92sTLksThank you to this episode's sponsor: Panduit
"If you were saying, I'm adding AI to the product or we're now agentic, we now have an agentic AI component, it's not really news."Katie Zeppieri said the quiet part out loud.We invited the Founder and CEO of The MicDrop Agency onto Bricks & Bytes to demystify PR for construction tech. Her agency worked with Document Crunch from its early days through to the Trimble acquisition, so she has seen exactly what earns coverage and what gets deleted from a journalist's inbox.A few things that stuck with us:Events are still the number one marketing channel in construction, but only if you do the work before you land at the venue.Muck Rack's research found that the overwhelming majority of AI citations come from earned media. If journalists are not writing about you, ChatGPT is not talking about you either.If you have ever sent out a "we now integrate with X" press release, this episode is for you. Full conversation on YouTube and Spotify now.#bricksandbytes #bricksbytes #constructiontech #construction #aec #aiChapters00:00 Intro01:17 How PR Works in Construction Technology03:50 PR Strategy Explained: The Communications Triangle06:44 What Makes a Story Newsworthy?09:34 Common PR Mistakes Startups Make10:22 Sponsors13:23 Why Most PR Announcements Get Ignored15:44 How to Build Relationships With Journalists18:38 How Startups Get Featured in Major Publications21:28 How Speaking at Industry Events Builds Your Brand24:29 In-Person vs Virtual Events: Which Works Best?27:36 How Media Relations Builds Long-Term Credibility28:55 Construction Tech PR Case Study: Document Crunch30:59 How to Announce a Startup Acquisition36:11 PR Strategy for Seed-Stage Startups40:26 Founder-Led Marketing and Personal Branding45:23 Public Speaking Tips for Startup Founders48:00 The Future of PR and Marketing54:16 What PR Will Look Like in 2028Our Sponsors:BreadCrumb- 50,000+ projects globally. All running safer, faster, with Breadcrumb. - breadcrumb.coAphex is the multiplayer planning platform where construction teams plan together, stay aligned, and deliver projects faster – check out aphex.coArchdesk - “The #1 Construction Management Software for Growing Companies - Manage your projects from Tender to Handover” check archdesk.com
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. Today, we explore how industrial companies can modernize operations and build resilience through practical digital transformation and operations-first architecture in 2026. Joining us is Frederic Elias, Head of Growth at OnTarget Group, a licensed engineer and MBA with global field experience in high-stakes environments. He now helps Canadian construction and manufacturing firms modernize through the Microsoft ecosystem. Key Highlights Execution Lessons: Insights from high-stakes international field operations. Operational Mistakes: The biggest gaps in industrial digital readiness today. Driving Adoption: Why transformation projects fail and how leaders can succeed. Practical Automation: Cutting through AI hype to implement usable solutions. Optimized Operations: What a fully streamlined construction or manufacturing operation looks like. Special Thanks to Our Partners: UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspx For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age! To learn more about how we are supporting the ecosystem, please visit the CanadianSME Small Business Foundation at smbfoundation.ca. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
"I can make you something that looks like it's really expensive, but it took me four hours."Dustin Burns, SVP of Technology at McCownGordon Construction, on the software demo you just sat through.He built a cost history web app. Their real cost data, region benchmarking, conceptual estimates. One HTML file. Four hours.His verdict: "And it is vaporware."The point isn't that it was bad. It's that from the outside, you can't tell anymore.So he looks for the ones building their own models, not the ones wrapping someone else's API.Full episode with Dustin Burns is live now. Link below!#bricksandbytes #bricksbytes #aec #construction #constructiontech #ai #vcChapters00:00 Teaser00:50 The Stress Beard (And Why He Shaves Every Morning)03:03 Should Construction Companies Build Their Own Software?05:29 What AI Actually Looks Like Inside a $1B Contractor08:32 AI Sprawl: Governing Tools Your Team Builds Without You10:50 Reality Capture, Laser Scanning and Drones on the Jobsite14:10 Construction Robotics: Building a Robot for Under $5K16:21 Sponsors19:21 AI Estimating: When Your Client Prices the Job Without You22:39 The Silver Tsunami and Construction's Knowledge Transfer Problem27:29 Voice AI in the Field: Less Typing, More Talking30:25 Why a Safety Checklist Has No Value to a Superintendent32:03 Emerging Construction Technology Worth Watching34:30 How to Actually Sell Construction Software to a GC36:19 Getting Pitched 10 AI Tools a Week37:39 How to Spot an AI Wrapper (And Why Most Demos Are Vaporware)40:05 Construction 2037: What the Jobsite Looks Like in 11 Years45:16 Humans and Robots on the Same Jobsite48:03 AI Governance Insurance: The Next SDI?49:55 Automated Progress Tracking: The Problem Nobody Has SolvedOur Sponsors:BreadCrumb- 50,000+ projects globally. All running safer, faster, with Breadcrumb. - breadcrumb.coAphex is the multiplayer planning platform where construction teams plan together, stay aligned, and deliver projects faster – check out aphex.coArchdesk - “The #1 Construction Management Software for Growing Companies - Manage your projects from Tender to Handover” check archdesk.com
"Real AI is way more about how you do change management than picking the right technology."That is Dr. Sarah Buchner, founder and CEO of Trunk Tools, on this week's Bricks, Bucks & Bytes.A year on from her $40M Series B, she joined the roundtable to explain why the hardest part of construction AI is not the model. It is getting people to trust it.✅ Why Trunk Tools will not sell you agents unless you let them train your team first✅ The shift from point solution to a "system of action" that sits on top of Procore and Autodesk✅ Why a new AI takeoff startup seems to launch every week, and why most break on the last 20%✅ Her blunt line on vibe coded tools: "Don't come on the market with something that Claude can already do."Plus: a structural engineer breaks down the Midtown column buckling, and SubBase's Eric Helitzer on why a fintech led his $7M Series A.
In this insightful interview, Antonia Soler, VP of Marketing at Fieldwire and head of Hilti Ventures, shares her career journey from engineering to venture capital, her approach to innovation in construction tech, and advice for startups entering the industry. Discover how her diverse experiences and strategic insights can guide construction startups from prototype to product-market fit. key topics Career highlights and transition from engineering to venture capital Strategies for construction tech startups to reach product-market fit Importance of industry understanding and customer engagement Building a diverse and experienced sales and marketing team Networking, conferences, and global expansion in construction tech Supporting women in construction and industry diversity Chapters 00:00 Antonia Soler's Career Journey 02:43 Navigating Opportunities and Challenges 05:11 The Dynamics of a Week in Marketing 07:31 Investment Strategies in Construction Tech 10:07 Sales and Marketing in Construction Tech 12:36 Masterclass in Startup Growth 14:48 Common Pitfalls for Construction Startups 17:08 Women in Construction Tech Initiative 19:43 Global Networking and Community Building 21:44 Future Initiatives in Construction 24:18 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement
Franco Giaquinto, CEO of Outbuild, shares insights on construction tech, industry challenges, and future trends. Discover how to build trust, focus on value, and navigate the complex landscape of construction innovation. key topics Construction industry challenges and solutions Building trust and credibility in construction tech Strategies for startup growth and focus Future trends in construction technology and AI Chapters 00:00 The Birth of Outbuild 04:03 Overcoming Early Challenges 08:14 Building a Strong Team Culture 12:19 Go-to-Market Strategies and Lessons Learned 16:40 Common Pitfalls in Construction Tech Startups 20:52 The Long Game in Construction Tech 23:18 The Journey of Founders: No Shortcuts 25:42 Sharing Knowledge: Supporting New Founders 27:49 The Importance of Humility in Founding 29:36 Filtering Voices: Who Gets the Mic? 32:27 The Value of Real Conversations 33:59 The Reality of Building Great Products 37:24 Future of Construction Tech: Predictions for 2030
"80% of the decks landing on her desk had AI on slide one."This week on Bricks & Bytes we sat down with Jennifer Davis, who recently joined Suffolk Technologies after five years as Managing Director of Techstars Boston, where she reviewed thousands of applications and ran 65+ companies through the program.She brought the kind of pattern recognition you only get from saying no a few thousand times.Tune in to find out about:✅ Why the bar has risen across pre-seed, seed, and Series A — and what VCs now want to see before they write a check✅ The co-founder mistake that kills more startups than bad ideas (and why 50/50 equity splits are a red flag)✅ Why "not all money is created equally" — and how founder-unfriendly terms signed early can derail an exit years later✅ What Jennifer is looking for as she takes the reins on Suffolk's Boost accelerator, and the founder profile she'd most want to back in 2027Listen on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube
What makes a top-tier corporate analyst walk away from high-rise office comfort to step into the high-stress world of concrete layout and heavy civil engineering?In this episode of Constructive, host Seth catches up with Cal Poly alumnus Steve Silva to talk about his incredible transition from Accenture consulting to field-hardened entrepreneurship. Steve pulls back the curtain on the tight margins of heavy civil contracting, recounting the intense logistical nightmares of high-stakes concrete pours and why he eventually liquidated his 401k to bet on his own vision.Now focused entirely on software development, Steve breaks down how his platforms, Offloadit and Checkit, are leveraging AI and OCR to eliminate landfill waste, prevent stolen material transactions, and put a hard stop to vendor fee erosion for the small subcontractors building our world . Tune in to discover how AI-native tools are finally replacing "caveman" paper workflows!Show Credits & Music:Music Track (Royalty Free): https://www.bensound.comArtist: Lunar YearsLicense code: HRBO9NC4SPARNNZH
In this insightful interview, Anton Marinovich, CRO at Joist AI, shares his extensive experience in SaaS and construction tech. He discusses the evolution of GTM strategies, the challenges of selling AI in construction, and practical advice for founders and sales teams aiming for growth in the industry. key topics GTM strategies in construction tech Challenges of selling AI in construction Building and scaling sales teams Effective GTM tactics for startups Data-driven decision making in sales Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Anton Marinovich and His Journey 02:42 Lessons Learned from Hard Work and Career Challenges 05:11 Scaling HoloBuilder: From $350k to $4 Million ARR 07:45 GTM Strategies: Transitioning from Project Sales to Enterprise Sales 10:11 Hiring for Sales Teams: Key Traits and Tips 12:47 Founder's Role in Sales and Early Team Building 15:05 Joining Joist: The Decision Process and Vision 17:53 Transforming AEC Marketing with Joist AI 20:10 Regional vs. National Sales Strategies in AEC 22:48 Building a Modern Business Development Team 25:14 Common GTM Mistakes by First-Time Founders 27:37 Data-Driven Sales: Key Metrics and KPIs 30:23 Effective Channels for Construction Tech Sales 32:49 Rapid Fire Round: Personal Insights and Advice
Filmed at CONEXPO-CON/AGG, this episode dives into Emesent's newest innovation, the GX1, and how it delivers high-accuracy mapping, faster data collection, and safer inspections in environments where traditional methods fall short. Stefan shares the story behind Emesent's rapid growth, the evolution of Hovermap technology, and how AI-powered autonomy is reshaping the future of construction and industrial operations worldwide.
"Even if AI doesn't work, it's allowing us to reinvent construction."That's Alain Waha on why the data center build-out is the most important thing happening in our industry right now, even if you don't care about AI.Tune in to find out about:✅ What the Document Crunch, Speckle and A16Z deals actually signal✅ Why physical AI and world models matter for AEC, and when they don't✅ How composable robotics quietly solved the hardware problem✅ Why knowledge capital is the only durable bet your firm can makeWatch the full episode on YouTube and Spotify!#bricksandbytes #bricksbytes #bricksbucksandbytes #aec #construction #constructiontech #ai #vcChapters00:00 Intro00:22 Introduction and Context of Change02:28 The Role of AI in Construction05:15 World Models and Physical AI07:44 Cybersecurity Concerns in AI09:54 Investment Trends in the Built World12:43 The Demand for Data Centers15:50 Robotics and Automation in Construction18:55 Knowledge Transfer and Capital23:56 Future Predictions and Closing Thoughts
"AI told them the idea was great. They built the whole thing. It was wrong."In this episode of Bricks, Bucks & Bytes, Owen, Martin and Dustin unpack why AI models are built to agree with you — and why that's genuinely dangerous in construction. They also tear apart the claim that 96% of projects overrun on budget (spoiler: it's not a design problem), then sit down with Justin Levine, CEO of Shepherd Insurance, fresh off a $42M Series B, to talk about what it actually looks like to automate commercial insurance from the ground up.Watch now to uncover:AI sycophancy, MIT's "delusional spiraling" research, and the real-world construction risksWhy budget overrun stats might be measuring the wrong thingShepherd's vision for fully autonomous underwriting — and how they're already running at 5x industry capacityThe plan to price a commercial insurance submission in real time, during a live broker meeting"By the time that meeting ends, we want that account to be fully priced and ready to go." — Justin Levine, CEO, Shepherd InsuranceWatch the full episode on Bricks, Bucks and Bytes YouTube Channel. Link in the comments. #aec #construction #constructiontech #bricksbucksandbytes #bricksbytes #ai #insurance #vcChapters00:00 Intro01:00 Delusions Spiraling: The Impact of AI on Perception 24:42 Budget Overruns in the AEC Industry: A Deep Dive 29:53 The Role of Technology in Construction: Enhancing or Hindering? 30:09 Understanding Budget Overruns in Construction 32:51 The Role of A16Z in Construction Tech 36:09 Shepherd's $42 Million Series B Funding 42:02 Autonomous Underwriting: A New Era in Insurance 49:26 The Future of Brokers in Construction Insurance 53:13 Self-Insurance and Risk Management in Construction 01:01:25 The Benefits of Autonomous Underwriting for Clients
Four companies. One acquisition. One $852 billion valuation. Forty-five minutes turned into four days. This is the biggest episode we've ever recorded.Document Crunch just got acquired by Trimble. Josh told us live, before most of the industry knew.In this episode of Bricks, Bucks & Bytes, Owen, Patric, and Dustin cover the biggest week in construction tech in years.Trimble acquires Document Crunch — Josh and Mark join live to break it downOpenAI hits $852B — and Dustin explains why NVIDIA should be worth $10 trillionDustin's $275M Building Connected exit story — the grind nobody talks aboutCoral's $7.5M raise — guaranteeing heat pump rebates to the cent in under 60 secondsNeuron Factory — taking tender processes from 4 days to 45 minutes with AI"You can't vibe code trust. That's earned." — Josh, Document CrunchGo and watch the full episode on the Bricks & Bytes YouTube Channel nowOur Sponsors:BreadCrumb- 50,000+ projects globally. All running safer, faster, with Breadcrumb. - breadcrumb.coAphex is the multiplayer planning platform where construction teams plan together, stay aligned, and deliver projects faster – check out aphex.coArchdesk - “The #1 Construction Management Software for Growing Companies - Manage your projects from Tender to Handover” check archdesk.comBuildVision - streamlining the construction supply chain with a unified platform - www.buildvision.ioChapters00:00 Intro01:09 Introduction and Excitement for the Episode 03:46 OpenAI's Valuation and Market Comparisons06:30 Understanding Notional Value and Market Capitalization 09:36 Foundamental University Launch and Insights from Industry Leaders 12:18 Dustin Devan's Journey with Building Connected 18:19 Challenges and Resilience in Startups 20:22 Trimble and Document Crunch Acquisition Announcement 22:08 The Journey to Acquisition 25:19 Trimble's Perspective on the Partnership 28:10 Future Strategies and Innovations 29:44 Celebrating Milestones and Achievements 30:47 The Importance of Culture and Alignment 34:52 Building Trust in the Industry 37:37 Navigating the Competitive Landscape 41:33 The Role of Trust and Data in Construction 49:24 Vision for a Dispute-Free Industry 51:01 Industry Responsibility and Improvement 51:42 Innovations in Heat Pump Technology 54:35 Understanding the US Heat Pump Market 57:24 Future Opportunities in Energy Efficiency 1:00:35 Funding and Growth Strategies for Startups 1:03:18 The Role of Knowledge Graphs in Construction 1:08:25 Enhancing Project Management with AI 1:12:29 Challenges and Opportunities in AI Integration
In this insightful interview, Shreesha Ramdas, CEO and co-founder of Lumberfi, shares his entrepreneurial journey, startup growth frameworks, and the transformative impact of AI on construction. Discover practical lessons on scaling, culture, and innovative strategies for founders navigating the evolving industry landscape key topics Startup evolution stages: problem fit to scale fit AI's impact on construction and product management Building company culture with high agency teams Fundraising and acquisition strategies in construction Leadership lessons from startup founder Chapters 00:00 Journey of a Startup Founder 04:38 The Evolution of Skills in Entrepreneurship 09:22 Navigating Acquisitions and Growth Strategies 14:10 The Future of Work and AI Integration 19:12 Inspiration Behind Lumberfi 23:34 Building a Culture of Innovation
In this insightful interview, Jenny Song, partner at Navitas Capital, shares her diverse career journey from journalism to venture capital, emphasizing the impact of her varied experiences on her investment approach. She discusses trends in built environment tech, common founder mistakes, and her vision for the future of construction technology. keywordsVenture Capital, Built Environment, Construction Tech, Startup Funding, Impact Investing, Founder Advice, AI in Construction, VC Trends key topics Career transition from journalism to VC Impact investing in built environment Common founder mistakes in construction tech Trends in construction AI and robotics Strategies for customer acquisition in construction Chapters 00:00 Journey to Venture Capital: Jenny's Career Path 04:47 Skills Transfer: From Founder to VC 08:23 A Week in the Life of a VC Partner 11:14 Investment Thesis: What We Look For 14:36 Go-to-Market Strategies in Construction Tech 16:55 Market Insights: Saturation and Opportunities 18:24 Common Founder Mistakes 20:15 Calls for Ideas: What's Hot in Construction Tech 22:18 Increasing Adoption: Initiatives for Construction Tech 23:46 Lessons Learned: Hard Truths in VC 25:59 Rapid Fire Round: Quick Insights 27:58 Closing Thoughts: The Future for Founders
Your construction back office admin hasn't taken a vacation in ten years. And it's your software's fault.In this episode of Bricks, Bucks & Bytes, Owen, Patric, Martin, and Dustin break down what four AI CEOs said at NVIDIA GTC and what it means for construction. Then Anna Berger joins fresh off raising $10M in three weeks to expose the chaos inside every specialty contractor's back office.AI token costs collapsed 99% — here's what that unlocksThe data center boom is creating a trades crisis — electricians are now the hottest hire in AmericaWhy AI will never run construction payrollHow Anna closed $10M with 40+ investor meetings in her first week"I just took my first vacation in ten years — thank you." That's the kind of message Anna Berger is getting from her customers.Watch the full episode now!Our Sponsors:Aphex is the multiplayer planning platform where construction teams plan together, stay aligned, and deliver projects faster – check out aphex.coArchdesk - “The #1 Construction Management Software for Growing Companies - Manage your projects from Tender to Handover” check archdesk.comBuildVision - streamlining the construction supply chain with a unified platform - www.buildvision.ioChapters00:00 Intro01:00 Introduction to NVIDIA GTC and AI CEOs 03:38 The Impact of AI on Cost and Accessibility 05:34 Specialization vs. Commoditization in AI Models 07:44 The Role of AI in Engineering and Construction 10:33 Deterministic Outcomes and Governance in AI 13:32 The Future of AI in Enterprises and Job Market Dynamics 23:59 The Role of Accuracy in Construction Projects 28:06 AI vs Human Judgment in Project Estimation 30:52 Evaluating AI Accuracy in Professional Contexts 33:45 The Future of Skilled Trades and Workforce Training 40:24 Economic Predictions and Market Interests 44:59 Quarterly Recap: Trends and Insights in Construction Tech 47:01 Real-Life Lessons from the Industry 51:43 Celebrating Success: Anna's Fundraising Journey 53:53 Understanding Trade: A Deep Dive into Construction Back Office Solutions 56:46 Future Plans: Scaling and Product Development 1:00:46 The Importance of Compliance in Payroll Management 1:03:28 Y Combinator's Role in Construction Tech
"Within six months, every company will call themselves a world model company just to raise money."That's the prediction coming out of AMI Labs — Yann LeCun's $1 billion AI research fund. We spoke about what world models actually are, why they matter for construction, and why the hype cycle is already loading.We also had Lena-Marie Pätzmann from Sitegeist on the show — a TU Munich spin-out building robots for concrete renovation. The use case: high pressure water lancing, deployed as a subcontractor, starting with parking garages. Their robot fits in a van. Their margins are strong. And the customers came to them.Tune in to find out about:✅ What world models are and why they're different from LLMs✅ How to evaluate construction software without getting burned by legacy tech stacks✅ Why Volkswagen just cut 50,000 jobs and what European energy costs have to do with it✅ How Sitegeist is building robotic concrete renovation from a university lab into a real construction business
In this conversation, Mayur Mistry hosts Alena Tuttle and Karly Heffernan, co-founders of Hardline, a construction tech startup. They discuss their unique career paths, the challenges of entering the construction industry, and the inception of Hardline. The founders share insights on fundraising, customer acquisition, and the importance of community support. They also delve into the functionality of Hardline, emphasizing its role in streamlining communication and data entry in construction projects. The conversation concludes with rapid-fire questions, showcasing their personalities and aspirations. takeaways Alena transitioned from finance to tech and then to construction. The complexity of the construction industry is often underestimated. Hardline was born from a need to solve communication issues in construction. Fundraising as female founders presents unique challenges. Hardline is designed for those who spend significant time on manual data entry. Customer acquisition in construction requires personal relationships. Community feedback is crucial for product improvement. Privacy concerns are addressed in Hardline's AI functionality. Building trust is essential for technology adoption in construction. Mistakes can lead to valuable redirection in a startup's journey. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hardline and Its Founders 04:59 The Birth of Hardline 10:04 Understanding Hardline's Functionality 15:00 Building Relationships in Construction
Turner Construction was paying for specialist AI software. Then they ditched it for ChatGPT and it did 85% of the job. The founder they left behind says he's not even surprised.In this episode of Bricks, Bucks & Bytes, Owen, Patric, and Martin are joined by Luigi La Corte, CEO of Provision, for an unfiltered conversation about what AI is really doing to construction software and who's about to get left behind. Plus, two founder call-ins you don't want to miss: Bertrand from Billdr reveals that 75% of SMB general contractors are still running their business on Excel in 2026, and Jodok walks us through how he secured a $1.2 billion debt facility to green Europe's homes.Here's what we get into:Why contract review software is being commoditized to zero — and which tools are nextTurner Construction ditching specialist AI software for OpenAI's "good enough" enterprise packageLuigi's bold claim that AGI is already here (and why he's running it from his couch via Telegram for $60/month)Patric's multi-lens take on AI: "excited as a consumer, terrified as a citizen"The Anthropic safety chief quitting to study poetry and why that should concern everyoneBilldr's pivot from a $40M marketplace to vertical SaaS, and the brute-force sales motion that's actually workingHow Jodok went from a $5M lending facility to $1.2 billion in under three years"The technological swell is here. Most leaders are just swimming, enjoying the sun, making money, business as usual. A few are paddling hard towards the swell. It feels like a lot of effort with no results, but when the wave breaks, the ones paddling will separate from everyone else at a pace no one else could catch."If you're in construction and not paying attention to AI right now, this episode will tell you exactly why you should be. Watch the full episode on YouTube. Link in the comments!Chapters00:00 Intro00:52 Introduction to Luigi La Corte and Industry Insights 03:30 AI in Construction: Scope Agent and Its Impact 06:27 Navigating Contract Review Tools in the AI Era 09:20 The Future of AI: Perspectives and Predictions 12:20 Diverse Sentiments on AI: Consumer vs. Societal Impact 14:37 AGI: Is It Already Here? 22:19 The Future of AI and Productivity 24:11 Concerns About AGI and Its Implications 25:26 The Impact of AI on Human Experience 26:37 Recursive Self-Improvement and Its Risks 27:48 Billdr's Journey and Market Positioning 37:55 The Demand for All-in-One Solutions in Construction Tech 40:01 The Evolution of General Contractors and Their Needs41:22 The Future of Administrative Tasks in Construction 42:35 Addressing the Missing Middle in Construction Companies 44:15 Financing the Energy Transition: ClueWorth's Approach 46:48 Scaling Operations in a Fragmented Market 54:06 Navigating Complexity in Energy Installations 58:04 Revenue Models and Future Growth Strategies
"It took us seven seconds to know that acquiring Genda was the right move."That's what Aviv Leibovici, CPO of Buildots, told us about the moment the deal clicked.In today's episode of Bricks and Bytes, we had Aviv Leibovici from Buildots and Erez Dror, founder of Genda, and we got to learn about why Buildots acquired Genda, how combining visual progress data with workforce tracking creates what they call "productivity intelligence," why the best field data will be the new oil for AI in construction, and the hard truths about building products in this industry... and many more!Tune in to find out about:✅ Why knowing what was built is only half the picture and how workforce data completes the construction puzzle✅ How Genda got tens of thousands of construction workers to voluntarily use an app that tracks their location (the answer is genius)✅ The real reason projects delay and why GCs blaming owner changes is only part of the story✅ Why studying your customers matters more than just listening to them and how both founders approach product development differently than most
Construction technology consultant Burcin Kaplanoglu returns to the Critical Path with his third annual construction predictions podcast to kick off the still-new year. Senior Tech Editor Jeff Yoders moderates. Sponsored by: University of Michigan – Michigan Engineering Online
Procore just wrote a 9-figure check. Autodesk just cut 1,300 people. And someone called the best salespeople "the laziest."In this episode of Bricks, Bucks & Bytes, Owen, Dustin, and Patric sit down with Mike Powers, Kevin Halter, and Anton Glance to dissect the most chaotic week in construction tech. A founder just landed his second major exit. A website launched with zero mention of "AI." And a former Autodesk exec didn't hold back on who's winning the platform war.We get into:The real reason Procore acquired DataGrid — and why they won't make another bet like this for yearsAutodesk's layoffs and the "buy, build, buy" cycle that keeps repeatingKevin Halter's unfiltered take on Procore vs AutodeskWhy Mike removed every mention of "AI" from BuildVision's websiteThe warning sign AI startups need to hear right nowAnton's vision for BuildDroid — the robot simulation platform backed by Tim DraperKey quote:"Autodesk historically has been buy buy buy. Okay, we bought a bunch. Now we're going to build, build, build. And then they realized we're not good at building. So then we go buy buy buy." — Dustin DevanWatch the full episode on Youtube and Spotify. Link in the comments!Our Sponsor:Aphex is the multiplayer planning platform where construction teams plan together, stay aligned, and deliver projects faster – check out aphex.coArchdesk - “The #1 Construction Management Software for Growing Companies - Manage your projects from Tender to Handover” check archdesk.comBuildVision - streamlining the construction supply chain with a unified platform - www.buildvision.ioChapters00:00 Intro01:06 Industry Shifts and Acquisitions 03:53 Procore's Strategic Moves 07:06 Autodesk Layoffs and Market Reactions 09:54 Sales Strategies and Organizational Changes 12:50 AI's Impact on Construction Tech 15:51 Website Innovations in Construction Tech 18:53 Future of Startups in AEC Tech 21:56 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events 32:58 Introduction to Build Word AI 34:40 Customer Engagement and Project Execution 37:44 Monetization Strategies and Business Model 39:26 Founding Story and Team Dynamics 41:14 Timing and Market Readiness 43:46 Global Expansion and Market Validation 45:21 Investment Insights and Fundraising Journey 47:26 Industry Trends and Future Outlook 49:51 Sales Strategies and Market Dynamics
"I checked the cash balance and the number came out negative. I had to call my wife and say we might need to liquidate our entire 401k to make payroll."In today's episode of Bricks and Bytes, we had Thiago Da Costa from DataGrid and Clifton Harness from TestFit and we got to learn about the raw truth of building construction tech startups - from pivoting at $1M ARR to nearly missing payroll.These founders didn't hold back. They shared the moments that almost broke them and the decisions that saved their companies.Tune in to find out about:✅ Why Thiago pivoted his entire company after raising a Series A (and how he told his board)✅ The morning Clifton woke up and realized he couldn't make payroll✅ Why most construction tech companies plateau at $3-5M ARR and never break through✅ How to know when you've actually found product-market fit versus when you're chasing a ghostWatch now to hear the full conversation about what it really takes to build in construction tech.Our SponsorAphex is the multiplayer planning platform where construction teams plan together, stay aligned, and deliver projects faster – check out aphex.coArchdesk - “The #1 Construction Management Software for Growing Companies - Manage your projects from Tender to Handover” check archdesk.comBuildVision - streamlining the construction supply chain with a unified platform - www.buildvision.ioChapters00:00 Introduction to Startup Journeys 05:47 Navigating the Pre-Seed Stage 12:47 The Importance of Pre-Sales and Pivoting 17:39 Understanding Product Market Fit 23:22 Defining Product Market Fit in Construction Tech 31:14 Facing Startup Challenges and Scary Moments 33:25 Navigating Financial Challenges 37:07 The Importance of Family in Business 39:00 Facing Fear of Failure and Pivots 40:32 Balancing Hype and Substance in Business 48:47 Endurance in Entrepreneurship 54:53 Optimizing for People in Startups
In this episode, Vinney Chopra leads a thoughtful mastermind discussion on where the economy may be heading and how investors can position themselves wisely. From real estate cycles and regional market differences to the unseen forces shaping employment and wealth, Vinney brings clarity to a noisy and uncertain landscape using grounded experience instead of speculation. Key areas covered in the conversation include:
"Integration with Procore? Everyone warned us they'd copy our product. We did it anyway - and it became our best go-to-market decision."In today's episode of Bricks and Bytes, we had Or Lakritz, founder of StructShare (now Trimble Materials), and we got to learn about how a 21-person startup navigated acquisition conversations with multiple players, the critical importance of transparency during M&A, why integrating with Procore in 2021 was one of their best decisions... and many more!Tune in to find out about:✅ Why Trimble chose to buy instead of build - and how StructShare filled a strategic procurement gap✅ The real differences between being acquired by a platform giant vs. private equity (spoiler: it's all about narrative)✅ How Or managed team culture and morale through the acquisition process with full transparency✅ Why distribution matters more than product in construction tech - and what AI might change about thatThis one's packed with honest insights from someone who actually lived through it. Worth the listen.Our Sponsor:Aphex is the multiplayer planning platform where construction teams plan together, stay aligned, and deliver projects faster – check out aphex.coArchdesk - “The #1 Construction Management Software for Growing Companies - Manage your projects from Tender to Handover” check archdesk.comBuildVision - streamlining the construction supply chain with a unified platform - www.buildvision.ioChapters0:00 Intro4:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 4:59 The Acquisition Story of Structure 9:17 Navigating the Acquisition Process 16:18 Cultural Integration Post-Acquisition 18:15 Lessons Learned from Building Structure 31:46 The Evolution of the Procurement Space 33:04 The Evolution of Construction Tech 35:58 AI's Impact on Procurement Processes 39:20 Building the Future of Procurement 42:24 Navigating Go-to-Market Strategies 44:36 Acquisition Insights and Market Dynamics 57:35 Integrating with Industry Giants 1:01:02 Personal Growth and Impact in Business
Pour l'épisode de cette semaine, je reçois Ali El Hariri, entrepreneur, investisseur, et ex-CEO de Bulldozair.Bulldozair est une solution SaaS qui permet aux équipes terrain et aux managers de suivre efficacement leurs chantiers de construction. Après plus de 12 ans d'aventure entrepreneuriale, la société a été rachetée par le groupe InfoPro Digital, et intégrée à MezzoTeam, référence de la GED dans l'univers de l'infrastructure.Au cours de cet épisode, Ali revient sur :L'origine de Bulldozair, née d'un problème vécu sur le terrain chez Bouygues Construction.Les débuts du produit, bien avant le no-code, et l'organisation des “Apéros Chantiers” pour bâtir une communauté avant même d'avoir un produit fini.L'expérience YC et son impact, notamment sur l'UX produit et l'approche “chasse au clic”.Le choix stratégique du focus enterprise en France, après des débuts internationaux.Le positionnement produit progressif autour des ingénieries infrastructure (rail, route, métro…).Le challenge du pricing dans la construction tech, entre projet, utilisateur, et viralité.La vente de Bulldozair à MezzoTeam : contexte, réflexion stratégique, et synergies évidentes avec les outils GED.Enfin, son activité actuelle autour de l'IA dans le BTP, et ses investissements dans des startups de la Construction Tech.Vous pouvez suivre Ali sur LinkedIn.Bonne écoute !Mentionnés pendant l'épisode :Lean StartupThe One ThingCiyent (startup IA dans la comparaison de devis)Procore (acteur US majeur de la ConTech)Pour soutenir SaaS Connection en 1 minute⏱ (et 2 secondes) :Abonnez-vous à SaaS Connection sur votre plateforme préférée pour ne rater aucun épisode
"You can drop 30% of your project management labor right now."In today's episode of Bricks and Bytes, we had Darren Martin from AInvested and we got to learn about the harsh realities of digital transformation in AEC, how private equity firms value tech-enabled companies, and why most innovation initiatives fail to scale... and many more!Darren left his role as Chief Digital Officer at Atkins Realis to advise PE firms and help construction tech startups break through growth barriers. His perspective from both sides of the table reveals uncomfortable truths about how the industry approaches technology.Tune in to find out about:✅ Why most companies are "digitally dabbling" instead of transforming✅ How PE firms assess digital transformation value in billion-dollar acquisitions✅ The specific labor reductions possible with current AI tools (hint: it's 30% in project management)✅ Why small AEC firms can now compete with market leaders in ways that weren't possible beforeWatch now to hear how the game is changing for construction companies willing to move beyond pilot projects.Also, have a look at this article to know more: https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/aecom-jacobs-downgraded-uncertainty-over-180008836.htmlOur Sponsors:Aphex is the multiplayer planning platform where construction teams plan together, stay aligned, and deliver projects faster – check out aphex.coArchdesk - “The #1 Construction Management Software for Growing Companies - Manage your projects from Tender to Handover” check archdesk.comBuildVision - streamlining the construction supply chain with a unified platform - www.buildvision.ioChapters00:00 Intro03:30 Introduction and Background 08:13 Transitioning to Private Equity and Startups 13:35 The Role of Private Equity in AEC Companies 18:22 Digital Transformation and Value Creation 23:20 Market Trends and Company Sizes 28:20 Leveraging Technology for Business Value 33:07 Digital Accelerators and Human-Centric Approaches 35:22 Optimizing Construction Processes for Efficiency 37:51 Tying Technology to Corporate Success 41:42 Proving Value at the Project Level 43:55 The Balance of Show and Tell in Sales 49:09 Purposeful Change in the Construction Industry
Alice shares why the firm launched the first AEC-focused accelerator, Formwork Labs, and what the ecosystem gap was it wanted to fill for founders, how her construction operating experience informs her outlook as an AEC investor and what she looks for in founders (hint, industry experience can be a “double edged sword”), details a then and now lookback on the key drivers behind all the current investment and talent momentum entering construction tech, and finally where she views the intersection of construction and supply chain headed.
Mike Pink, SmartPM: Cutting Construction Delays and Overruns (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 910) On this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray talks with Mike Pink, founder and CEO of SmartPM. Mike explains why construction projects slip on time and budget, and how tighter use of the project schedule can prevent it. He […] The post Mike Pink, SmartPM: Cutting Construction Delays and Overruns appeared first on Business RadioX ®.
Investor Fuel Real Estate Investing Mastermind - Audio Version
In this episode, Scott Kelly, CEO of Black Dog Venture Partners, discusses the intersection of technology and real estate, the role of business accelerators, and the impact of AI on various industries. He shares insights on navigating risks in tech investments, the importance of building a strong team, and the vibrant entrepreneurial culture in St. Petersburg, Florida. Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind: Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply Investor Machine Marketing Partnership: Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true 'white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com Coaching with Mike Hambright: Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a "mini-mastermind" with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming "Retreat", either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas "Big H Ranch"? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform! Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/ New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club —--------------------
"Often it results in an almost Frankenstein technology stack where you may have different things for different reasons."This is the reality of construction tech adoption today.In today's episode of Bricks and Bytes, we had Josh Weyand from Trunk Tools and we got to learn about navigating the messy world of construction technology, why some solutions stay point solutions while others scale enterprise-wide, and the critical mistake vendors make when trying to sell to large contractors... and many more!Tune in to find out about:✅ Why building trust and credibility matters more than your product features when selling to contractors✅ The real reasons technologies don't scale (hint: it's not always about the product)✅ How to align your solution to business initiatives instead of hitting friction at every step✅ What makes construction-specific tools win over generic software solutionsWatch now to hear Josh's insights from his time as Director of Emerging Technologies at Suffolk and his current role helping builders solve real problems.Our Sponsor: Archdesk - “The #1 Construction Management Software for Growing Companies - Manage your projects from Tender to Handover” check archdesk.comBuildVision - streamlining the construction supply chain with a unified platform - www.buildvision.io
In this episode of the Build Your Success Podcast, hostBrian Brogen welcomes Nathan Somerville, founder and CEO of Vector Net. Nathan shares his diverse background in engineering and construction, discussing his journey from Oklahoma to Florida and beyond. They delve into leadership, the challenges and benefits of adopting new technology in the constructionindustry, and the impressive advancements in laser scanning technology.Nathan also highlights the importance of industry associations like A.B.C. and shares insights on how Vector Net is revolutionizing the field with cutting-edge techsolutions. Don't miss this informative discussion on the future of construction technology and leadership. nsomerville@vectornet3d.comhttps://vectornet3d.comNathanSomerville, PE | LinkedInHost Email:brianb@buildcs.net Host LinkedIn: Brian Brogen, PMP
Send us a textIn this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights podcast, Payam speaks with Arash Shahi, PhD, P Eng, PMP, and CEO of Land Logic, about Real Estate Innovation. Arash shares his impressive journey in the real estate sector, spanning over 20 years, and discusses his pivotal role in innovations such as the ACO Innovation Lab and One Ontario. The conversation explores the challenges and opportunities of digitizing the Ontario Building Code, the need for standardized data exchange in real estate, and the future impact of AI on the industry. They further discuss how municipalities and the private sector must adapt to this evolving landscape, as well as the critical role of leadership and public-private partnerships. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the future of real estate development and the transformative role of technology. Real Estate InnovationDigitizing the Ontario Building CodeThe Need for Centralized Permitting SystemsThe Imperative for Digitization in Real EstateBuilding Land Logic: Data Exchange as InfrastructureWhy AI Will Reshape Real Estate DecisioningThe Municipal Challenge & OpportunityChallenges in BIM AdoptionWhat Real Estate Professionals Should WatchAI's Impact on Jobs and IndustryOpportunities in Construction Tech LandLogic is led by an elite management team with deep expertise across the architectural, engineering, construction, real estate and academic sectors. Our leaders include top innovators in construction and development, experts in AEC software sales, and seasoned strategists in global marketing. Specialists with robust backgrounds in complex financial landscapes and cutting-edge technologies like GIS and geomatics guide financial and technical strategies. With a proven track record in transforming organizational engagement and elevating brand experiences, our marketing and creative leaders ensure LandLogic remains at the forefront of industry advancements. This formidable team positions LandLogic to drive innovation and leadership in land data insights.For more information, please refer to RealEstateDevelopmentInsights.Com.
What happens when someone who's lived the chaos of the jobsite starts leading global construction sales at Autodesk? Recorded live at Autodesk University 2025, this conversation with Brent Ramos dives into the human side of construction tech — solving the real problems that happen every day on projects. Brent shares his journey from fourth-generation stucco contractor to Autodesk leader, revealing why technology only matters when it fixes miscommunication, eliminates rework, and frees people to focus on building. Highlights from the Conversation Why fixing field frustrations is the foundation of meaningful innovation How connected data and AI unlock smarter, predictive decisions Why “bad data” is a workflow problem — not a tech one What it takes to build intentional, lasting innovation How Autodesk's Forma platform is turning connected construction into reality MEET OUR GUEST Brent Ramos leads Autodesk's global construction technology sales, bringing a unique perspective shaped by decades in the field. A fourth-generation stucco and plaster tradesman by roots, Brent began his career doing hands-on work—hot carrying, patching, scaffolding—and then managed projects, founded his own construction business, and eventually pivoted into software and digital transformation. Today, as Autodesk's construction sales leader, Brent bridges real-world experience with modern tech, guiding how connected data, AI, and purposeful innovation can solve the problems he once faced firsthand. TODD TAKES Solve the Real Problems, Don't Just Add Tech The passion for construction technology comes from firsthand experience with the pain points—miscommunication, rework, and wasted time. Technology only matters when it fixes those problems. The goal should always be less paperwork, fewer silos, and more people building. Connected Data Unlocks Smarter Decisions Data has been messy, siloed, and disconnected for too long. The shift happening now is toward unifying information in one platform so it's searchable, contextual, and actionable. That's how data goes from “bad” to powerful—fueling workflows, predictive insights, and better decision-making. Innovation Takes Intentionality and Trust Progress doesn't happen by chasing every shiny object. It takes an intentional, steady commitment to unify tools, embed AI where it adds real value, and build trust with customers and partners. That's what ensures innovation sticks and makes life easier for people in the field. More Resources Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd's LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Graitec North America Graitec North America LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: Brent's LinkedIn Autodesk Website
"If you're a VP of Sales and things go wrong, you either failed or got a bad plan. But if you're a CRO and things go wrong, you probably shouldn't have taken the job."In today's episode of Bricks & Bytes, we had Mike Pettinella and we got to learn about scaling construction tech from zero to a $275M exit, the brutal realities of international expansion, and why targeting owners instead of contractors is the harder but smarter play... and many more!Tune in to find out about:✅ Why sales is only two things: volume and efficiency (and you can't train volume)✅ The real difference between selling to American vs British buyers✅ How Building Connected went from zero revenue to Autodesk acquisition✅ Why dedicated reality capture beats DIY solutions every timeMike's journey from forensic construction consulting to leading sales at unicorn startups reveals hard-won insights about building in the most relationship-driven industry on earth.Listen on Spotify now to hear the full conversation.-----------Our Sponsor: Archdesk - “The #1 Construction Management Software for Growing Companies - Manage your projects from Tender to Handover” check archdesk.comBuildVision - streamlining the construction supply chain with a unified platform - www.buildvision.io---------------Chapters00:00 Intro02:49 Understanding Roles: CRO vs. VP of Sales03:58 Building Connected: The Journey to Acquisition06:05 Transitioning to Monetization: Challenges and Strategies07:55 Sales Strategies: From Inside Sales to Enterprise Deals11:49 Geographic Sales Dynamics: Where's the Business?14:03 Consulting to Sales: Skills and Strategies Transferred16:22 Managing Sales Volume: Efficiency and Technology19:14 Cultural Shift: Selling in EMEA vs. North America24:59 Expanding Markets: Product Adaptation is Key28:58 OnSight IQ: The Journey and Vision of a Startup33:34 Characteristics of Great Founders: Relentlessness and Empathy37:25 Cooking and Morning Routines38:38 Targeting Owners in Construction42:54 The Importance of Construction Data Ownership46:12 Strategies for Targeting Developers49:14 Reality Capture in Construction53:04 Best Practices for Reality Capture56:08 Future of Data Utilization in Construction58:45 Speeding Up Sales Cycles1:00:35 Managing Multiple Stakeholders1:02:09 Closing Big Deals1:04:04 Pricing Strategies in Construction Tech1:05:48 Mentoring in Sales1:09:02 The Story Behind the Art1:11:29 Exciting Product Developments
In this episode, we sit down with Josh Kanner to unpack the real evolution of construction tech – from pre-iPad field tools to AI-driven safety systems. We get into what it takes to build for an industry with slow cycle times, the shift from labeling images to prompting vision models, and why your data is only as useful as your process. If you're serious about cutting through AI hype and deploying tech that actually works in the field, don't miss this one.
CONEXPO – CON/AGG Radio: Construction Technology Trends For Contractors
Feeling the squeeze with rising costs and a shrinking labor pool? A lot of construction companies feel trapped, like the only way out is to just grind harder with the same old playbook. But what if the real path to growth isn't about more effort, but a totally new approach to your machines, your tech, and your people? Brian Dietz, Co-Owner of 2024 Equipment World's Contractor of the Year, Bob Dietz and Sons Inc., runs his business more like a Silicon Valley startup than a traditional construction firm. And guess what? It's attracting a whole new generation of talent, clearly demonstrating that if you keep ignoring these shifts, you're not just risking getting left behind. You're risking becoming irrelevant, losing bids to leaner competitors, and failing to build a team that actually wants to stick around. This isn't just about shiny new tools. It's about a complete mindset shift. Discover how Brian is rewriting the rules of construction and building an empire.
Send us a textIn this episode: Christi and Angela welcome Shanthi, founder of Linarc and a seasoned entrepreneur in construction tech. Shanthi shares insights on navigating the construction industry as a female founder, discussing the evolution of tech in construction from blueprints to sensors, and the importance of diverse teams. She highlights the significance of persistence, vision, and faith in overcoming challenges and provides advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Follow Shanthi's journey and learn about Linarc's innovative platform designed to revolutionize construction management. Thanks for listening!Sponsored by: LinarcSupport the show
Send us a textIn this episode of Starter Girlz, Keandra Lewis, also known as “Miss Make It Happen,” shares how she turned frustration into innovation by building an app to solve a $100 billion problem in the industry.A former real estate professional turned construction entrepreneur, Keandra experienced firsthand the chaos of miscommunication, unclear bids, and blown budgets. Instead of accepting it, she taught herself to design an app—without a tech background—and launched Measure First, a platform that's now transforming how homeowners and contractors plan and communicate.This inspiring conversation is a masterclass in grit, resourcefulness, and the power of bold action when no one else steps up.What You'll Learn:✅ How Measure First is transforming pre-construction planning✅ The true cost of poor communication in construction✅ How women in construction are reshaping the industry✅ What it takes to build a tech solution with zero startup experience✅ Why “kind” beats “nice” in business✅ How faith, boldness, and clarity can fuel massive action
Check out the Accelerator here: https://www.ellisdon-accelerator.com/Follow Olivia hereFollow EllisDon here
In this episode, Andreas Munk Holm talks with Gloria Baeuerlein, founding partner of Puzzle Ventures, about building a solo GP model rooted in high-conviction, ultra-early B2B investing. From AI-native SaaS pricing to capital-efficient pre-seed strategies, Gloria breaks down how she's crafting a differentiated firm in one of Europe's most competitive venture environments.They unpack why capital is commoditized, how solo GPs can outperform larger seed funds, and what it takes to design a fund around personal strength, not industry templates. If you're building a fund, raising one, or just want an inside look into how modern venture firms are architected, this one's for you.Here's what's covered:03:20 How AI Is Reshaping SaaS: Delivery, Pricing, and UX07:30 Pricing Models in Construction Tech and Outcome-Based Sales09:45 The Shifting VC Landscape: Seed, Multi-Stage, and Angels12:30 Differentiation in VC: Finding Your True Value-Add14:40 Building a Fund Around Strengths, Not LP Preferences22:50 The Competitive Landscape: Seed Funds vs. Solo GPs24:15 Operational Differences: Solo GPs vs. Multi-Stage Funds30:00 Fund Model, Ownership, and Return Expectations38:20 Firm Building as a Solo GP: Who to Lean On42:26 Will Puzzle Always Be a Solo GP Fund?
Bombarded with demos and LinkedIn DMs? Felipe Serrano from Brasfield & Gorrie breaks down his field-tested process for evaluating construction tech without burning out. From vendor intake forms to cross-team buy-in, we unpack how to vet tools, prove ROI, and avoid tech fatigue—especially if you're flying solo without a dedicated R&D team. Real talk from the jobsite to the boardroom.
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Send us a textIn this episode of the Contractor Success Forum, Wade and Stephen dive into the rapidly evolving area of construction technology and its impact on the bottom line. From drones and robots to augmented reality and wearable tech, the hosts explore the return on investment (ROI) for various technologies on job sites. Learn about the costs, payback periods, and efficiency gains that these innovations offer. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion to make smarter investment decisions in construction technology.Subscribe to get notified as soon as new episodes go live!Topics we cover in this episode include:00:40 Evaluating the Cost and Benefits of New Technology04:30 Drones: Aerial Imaging and ROI08:33 Robotics and Automation on the Job Site14:45 Wearables and Exoskeletons: Enhancing Worker Efficiency18:51 Augmented and Virtual Reality in Construction20:37 IoT Sensors and Smart DevicesLINKSVisit the episode page at https://carpentercpas.com/techroi for more details and a transcript of the show.Take the FREE Construction Company Health Evaluation: https://profitfirstconstruction.com/free-resource-evaluate-your-accounting-system/Join the Profit First for Construction community!Find all episodes and related links at ContractorSuccessForum.com.Join the conversation on our LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/CarpenterCPAs FIND US ONLINEWade Carpenter, CPA, CGMA | CarpenterCPAs.comStephen Brown, Bonding Expert | SuretyAnswers.com
In this episode, Paul Hedgepath, the Director of Virtual Construction at MJ Harris, discusses the rapid evolution of technology in the construction industry, emphasizing the importance of balancing traditional methods with innovative solutions. He shares insights on the integration of AI and drones, the significance of identifying real problems in construction, and the necessity of fostering a positive work culture. Paul also reflects on his journey from architecture to construction tech and highlights the critical role of people in tech-driven environments.Takeaways:The construction industry is experiencing a rapid evolution in technology.Balancing tradition and innovation is crucial for success.Identifying real problems is key to effective tech solutions.360-degree photography enhances transparency on job sites.Drones provide valuable insights and updates for projects.AI can significantly improve safety and efficiency in construction.Tech adoption is essential for company growth and risk management.Hiring for adaptability and willingness to learn is vital.Creating a positive work culture enhances collaboration and productivity.Technology should be viewed as a tool for improvement, not competition
Austin Yount, Partner at Brick & Mortar Ventures, joins the Rental Roundtable to discuss investing in construction tech and the future of equipment rental. Brick & Mortar Ventures is a venture capital firm backed by United Rentals, Home Depot, and Autodesk that invests in innovative software and hardware solutions in construction technology.Tune in to learn:✅ How robotics, electrification, and autonomy could transform rental✅ What construction tech VCs look for in startups✅ The role of grit and customer understanding in software success✅ How construction companies benefit from emerging technology