Bridging the Gap: Insights & Innovations in Construction

Align Your Strategies Early On

In this enlightening episode, we're joined by Hannu Lindberg from DPR Construction, a top U.S. general contractor known for its hands-on building approach and strong advocacy for technology integration in construction. Hannu brings his nearly two decades of experience to the table, discussing the challenges and strategies involved in bridging the gaps within the construction industry. He delves into the complexities of coordinating different construction disciplines, the importance of early integration in design processes, and the role of technology in enhancing efficiency and collaboration. Hannu's insights offer a deep dive into the evolving landscape of construction technology and the industry's journey towards more integrated and efficient practices.
Hannu Lindberg, a seasoned professional in the construction industry, serves in a pivotal construction technology role at DPR Construction. With a career spanning almost twenty years, Hannu's journey began with hands-on experience as an Assistant Superintendent, leading him to explore the intersection of construction and technology. His expertise lies in supporting preconstruction planning, scheduling, and advocating for the integration of technology in construction practices. Hannu's approach emphasizes the need for early involvement in the design process, advocating for a collaborative construction environment. His efforts are geared towards improving the predictability, consistency, and efficiency of construction projects, making him a valuable voice in the industry's technological evolution.

The State of Design and Make

What is the current state of design and make? Stephanie Losee and team have the data and the answers. In this episode we discuss the novel Design and Make Report, It highlights the enhanced performance and preparedness of digitally mature companies post-COVID-19, emphasizing their plans for further digital investments. The report also underscores the rapid workforce changes in recent years, equating them to historical shifts like the internet's advent. Additionally, it discusses the increasing corporate emphasis on sustainability and carbon neutrality, crucial for attracting environmentally conscious younger talent.
Stephanie Losee is the Director of Executive & ABM Content at Autodesk, helping people imagine, design and make a better world. Formerly the Senior Director of Content at Visa Communications, governing editorial content marketing/brand journalism, Executive Director of brand content at POLITICO and Managing Editor of Dell, directing editorial content strategy. She was also named a Holmes Report Top 25 Innovator., Marketing Insider Group Top Marketing Speaker and more.

Give Thanks and Keep Innovating

As families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, we invite you to reflect on your blessings. While we're taking a brief hiatus this week, we wanted you to know that a big new series is just around the corner. If you need some inspiration in the meantime, check out our catalog of 225 episodes of innovation. Next time you listen, invite a friend along to share the journey of this great industry together.

You Won’t Get Anywhere Without Proactivity

Brad Smith, founder of Sonar, highlights the criticality of operations teams being proactive, advocating for creativity and critical thinking in problem-solving, and shares his unique perspective on innovation, defining it as the antithesis of insanity by advocating for doing something different every day, taking risks, and innovating.
Brad is the Co-Founder and CEO of Sonar. He has over a decade of experience in turning ops teams from reactive roles to proactive business drivers. His efforts have catapulted the company to become the top-rated change intelligence platform and Top 50 Software by G2.

Soft Skills Take on New Importance

When you think of “soft skills,” what do you imagine? Do you think of them as having a tangible effect on the construction industry? Join host Todd and guest Amy Powell as they discuss the essential nature of emotional intelligence (EQ), having an effective “leadership mindset” in a cross-generational workforce, the concepts of “microtraining” and “reactive training,” and much more.
Amy Powell is the founder of Well Works, bringing nearly two decades of construction experience, primarily as a Project Manager for a Commercial GC. Recognizing the gap in training tailored to the unique challenges faced in construction, Amy decided to roll up her sleeves and do something about it going back to school to earn her Masters in Adult Education and crafted a specialized leadership program for field leaders. This program equips industry professionals to excel in their roles now and in the future to lead their diverse teams effectively.

Should Automation Solve the Skills Gap?

What key lessons can construction take from manufacturing? What do advents like machine learning, AI, IoT, and industrialization mean for manufacturing at large? Join host Todd and guest Jeff Reinke as they discuss the biggest factors leading to the growing labor gap, how we can better align manufacturing with the needs of the younger generation, and the principles of “Industry 4.0.”
Jeff Reinke is the Director of Content and Audience Engagement at Industrial Media and the co-host of Today in Manufacturing and Security Breach podcasts. With over 20 years of experience in creating and managing strategic content in the B2B marketplace, he has served audiences in the automotive, manufacturing, medical and product development industries.

A Model for Giving Back in Construction

What are your key values? What makes you hold true to them in the long run? Join host Todd and guest Cole Porter as they discuss the essential nature of a company’s ethos, what “people over profits” really means in practice, how to balance community involvement and company growth, reconciling innovation and tradition, and much more.
As president of Porter Steel, Cole Porter has played a pivotal role in upholding the company’s legacy while ushering in innovative approaches to meet the ever-evolving demands of the industry. With a keen emphasis on core values, a dedication to putting people first and a spirit of community involvement. His efforts to navigate generational shifts within the company, while also focusing on bringing fresh talent into the fold, offer invaluable insights for the industry.

Reaching Construction’s Next Generation

What does the concept of “mentorship” mean to the future of construction? How do we ensure that the younger generation is provided with the tools and skills they need to succeed? Join host Todd and guest Ryce Elliott as they discuss the journey from construction field work to construction company president, what young people should consider when looking into a construction career, and the vision of Bennet Construction Company to push for remodeling vs. building new and environmental consciousness.
Ryce Elliott is the President of Benning Construction Company. He is responsible for corporate planning, risk analysis, contract review, and pre-construction management. Throughout his 29 years with the company, Ryce has served in almost every position from the ground up, making his experience and expertise a valuable asset to clients, trade partners, and Benning Construction as a whole.

Structural Engineers Need a Seat at the Table

How do construction and structural engineering work together? What are some ways that we can encourage this meeting of the minds? Join host Todd and guest Juraj Sabatka as they discuss the contributions of structural engineering to the construction industry, common misconceptions about both industries, the challenges that come with embracing the change inherent in sustainability, and more.
Juraj Sabatka is the CEO of IDEA StatiCa. His background is in finance, business and management. He is enthusiastic about new technologies and entrepreneurship.

Augmented Realities are Shaping Skylines

Of all the most recent advents in construction technology, what are the most useful? What’s the biggest hurdle in adoption when it comes to AR and VR? Join host Todd and guest Garrett Isham as they discuss the pros and cons of artificial intelligence, what construction and manufacturing can learn from each other, and the modern technologies that will shape the near future of the industry.
Garrett Isham is the CEO and Founder of PlatformXR. Over the last 7 years, he has led PlatformXR – a software application development company with a focus on Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality and mobile tools and application