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In construction, the decisions leaders make now will largely determine what our industry will look like in a decade. How organizations embrace new technologies has never been more important, because technology and the success of the next generation comes hand in hand.    Eric sits down with John Fish, Chairman and CEO of Suffolk Construction, and Jim Lynch, Senior Vice President & General Manager of Autodesk Construction Solutions for an honest, no-holds barred look at the state of construction today and where the industry is headed tomorrow.    We discuss:  The need for increased collaboration and alignment across all contributing members of a project  How AI is unlocking new opportunities for workers and companies to innovate and refine their focus  How leaders should invest in recruiting more blue-collar talent and upskilling them with unfamiliar technology and why it’s so important  Can data sharing become the most transformative form of collaboration across the industry?  How should organizations approach engaging the next generation in construction  Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk.  Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. 

People are the important thing for any company to remember as they replace legacy technology with innovative, purpose-built tools and processes. That’s why Eric is sitting down with Jon Marks, Former CTO at Swinerton and Principal CEO at Corvus Star Consulting.  In this episode Jon breaks down the key tactics leaders can implement to ensure they are keeping their people first.  We discuss:  Change management in construction is challenging to lead because there are limited opportunities to deliver change  Effective delivery of change involves bite-sized learning and intentional engagement with project teams  Flexibility is important for retaining talent and finding the best people for the organization  The use of technology and processes is interconnected with the need for mentorship and coaching.  Technology and automation in buildings can improve comfort, reduce costs, and benefit the environment.  Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk.  Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. 

With the growing conversation about how construction is changing because of purpose-built technology like AI, AR technology, and robotics, it’s important to nurture those who will have their careers be the most influenced by it: the next generation of workers.  That’s why we’ve invited Alan Dillon, Senior Superintendent at Truebeck Construction, for a conversation about leadership, effective mentorship, and why successful relationships are the key to successful projects.  We discuss:  Properly balancing technology and human contributions  Why collaboration and providing new opportunities are key to successful mentorship  How successful construction projects are built from successful relationships  Why curiosity and asking questions help leaders and team members grow, feel valued, and lead to new opportunities  Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk.   Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

The benefits and challenges of digitization are shared by construction companies globally. Construction leaders located around the world are all discovering the best ways to scale digital adoption at their organizations so that processes can become safer, faster, and more efficient. Today we're taking a closer look at how digital adoption is quickly gaining traction in APAC, or the Asia-Pacific region.    During Autodesk University, Eric sat down with Muhd Khalil Shaiful Bahari, Deputy Director for the Group Technology Office at Boustead Projects Limited, and William Low, Asia-Pacific Regional Sales Manager at Autodesk, to discuss the state of digital adoption in APAC, the main obstacles to scaling digitization, and why it is so necessary for the success of future projects.    We discuss:  The challenges of scaling digital adoption  How virtual collaboration has transformed the construction ecosystem in APAC  Main obstacles preventing digital adoption  How a value-focused digitization strategy prevents “Shiny New Toy Syndrome”  The state of data collection, creation, visualization, and implementation in APAC  Upcoming technology trends to be excited about   Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk.   Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

The adoption of robotics and augmented reality tools at scale is making projects more efficient, workers live safer & easier—all while reducing errors that can cause major problems.    This and a whole lot more was discussed when Eric sat down with Andrew Cameron, Project Manager at Hensel Phelps. In this episode, we are talking effective technology pilots, tech deployment at scale, and how these tools and new processes are turning Construction into a more attractive industry.    We discuss:  Effective technology pilot strategies   Aligning new tech with a company’s core goals and a team’s specific pain points  How augmentation improves worker experience & safety  Agile software tools versus legacy technology and processes  The ROI of robotics deployment at scale     Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk.    Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

It’s no secret that manual labor in construction can take a significant toll on the human body, and high-strain activities can have a long-term health impact for workers.  That’s where Robotics comes in: By augmenting how workers do their jobs today, robots are helping to relieve them of the burden of many high-strain tasks, freeing workers to do their jobs faster, safer, and more efficiently.  In this episode recorded live at Autodesk University, Eric sits down with Brooke Gemmell, Emerging Technology Partner at Skanska, to break down the current state of robotics in construction and how it will impact the industry in the coming years.  We discuss:  How robots make manual labor and redundant activities easier  The biggest myths about robotics in construction  Benefits for adopting robotics & technology  Biggest obstacles to widespread adoption and how to mitigate them  Best practices for successful adoption  Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk.   Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. 

As the construction industry continues to digitize, companies are faced with endless possibilities thanks to access to exponentially more and better data, truly digitized workflows, technology like augmented reality, and communication tools that improve speed and efficiency.   To dive into all of these and more, Matthew Cordova, Director of Construction Technology at Hermanson Company, Matt Lamb, the Chief Information Officer at Rosendin Electric, join Eric Thomas in another live episode of Digital Builder hosted on LinkedIn Live!  We discuss:  Ensuring a balanced workload when integrating new tech into existing processes  Properly implementing new tech with different teams in the same organization  Security considerations and best practices with new technology and AI tools like ChatGPT  How AI and better data availability open new revenue lines  How to begin the digitization process in a way that teams can manage  Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk.  Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Ap

Reality capture technology is transforming what is possible on and off the construction site. Site scanning technologies and augmented and virtual reality are changing the game for construction pros by enabling teams to create a comprehensive view of physical structures and environments.  In this episode recorded live at Autodesk University, Eric is sitting down with Lisa Kelly, VP of EarthCam, and Waleed Zafar, Mission Critical Projects Director at XYZ Reality, to talk about why this technology is so game-changing and how it is impacting the construction industry.  We discuss:  What VR/AR technology brings to construction projects  The factors driving fast, widespread adoption  Best practices for adopting VR/AR technology into your organization  Why thorough project communication is vital to the success of any new technology  Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk.  Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. 

In the second half of our two-part episode with Autodesk colleagues Lisa Chen, Technical Sales Executive, and Ross Wagner, Manager of Technical Sales, we continue talking about the obstacles preventing the industry from digitization and why Legacy Non-Purpose-Built tools are holding companies back.  If you haven't yet, catch the first half of our conversation with Lisa and Ross in Episode 41!  We discuss:  Why contractors are rejecting digital tools  The difficult reality of using Legacy Non-Purpose-Built tools  The tools Lisa & Ross can’t do without on a job site  Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk.  Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. 

While remote work becomes more and more accessible and integrated in the workplace, it remains elusive for construction because the very nature of the work requires an onsite workforce. This nuance makes accessibility a difficult hurdle to improve workforce diversity across the industry.  This week, Eric sits down with Camille Hardin, Project Manager at Flint Builders, Inc., to talk about innovative construction tech, the rise of prefab, and a candid look at the challenges facing women working in construction—especially for those out in the field.  We discuss:  The gender & diversity imbalance in construction  How prefab can open up career possibilities for underrepresented groups  The need for increased flexibility in the workplace (and why!)  The best tech for coordinating the prefab process  Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk.    Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. 

We’ve all heard about the value Lean construction can offer our industry. But without robust communication practices, buy-in from all parts of a project, and a work culture that promotes innovation and good mental health practices—organizations are not able to truly maximize the value that’s possible.  In this episode, Eric sits down with Ariana Alvear, Senior Production Manager at The Boldt Company, to deep dive into lean construction, how The Boldt Company is utilizing Integrated Project Delivery or IPD in its processes, and how to solve complex communication challenges that are all too common on construction projects.   We discuss:  Common communication problems and how to solve them  Increasing collaborative accountability at all stages of a project’s development  How Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) works  Embracing automation and minimizing manual processes  Creating positive work cultures in construction organizations  Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk.  Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts.   

When construction projects are at risk and you know the existing processes work, it’s difficult to justify adopting new technologies or workflows. But just as there are risks with adopting something new, there are also risks in refusing to change.   So how can your organization decide when it’s time to adopt new technologies, determine when the risks are too great to avoid implementing changes, and actually evaluate which new tech to adopt?  In this episode, Eric sits down with Autodesk colleagues Lisa Chen, Technical Sales Executive, and Ross Wagner, Manager of Technical Sales, to discuss the risks and rewards of construction technology and how you can navigate digitization effectively.  We discuss:  How Legacy Non-Purpose-Built tools are impacting construction project sites  How to approach digitization, why it matters, and how to win support from your organization for new tech  How digitization impacts revenue and unlocks a company’s competitive advantage  Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk.   Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Many workers and leaders alike are feeling the pressure of so much exciting innovation happening across the different sectors of the construction industry. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the possibilities, the expenses, and the fear of the unknown effects new technology and trends may bring.   In today’s first-ever Digital Builder podcast hosted live on LinkedIn, we have invited three powerhouse leaders and our newest 40 Under 40 construction champions, Andrew Cooper, VDC Engineer at AECOM Hunt, Danielle O’Connell, Senior Director of Emerging Tech at Skanska, USA, and Suchayita (Sue) Bhattacharjee, Director of Preconstruction at Herrero Builders, to break down the latest trends in Construction and how you can navigate them.    We discuss:  Trends general contractors should look for in 2023  The future of data in construction  Trends in robotics and other advanced technology  Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk.  Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. 

Training is often one of the most complex and, sadly, often unappreciated programs that organizations provide for their employees, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode recorded live at the Autodesk Gallery, Jessica Pollack, Senior Manager of eLearning & Digital Services at Autodesk, shares her expertise in delivering digital learning experiences. Learn about how e-learning training programs enable deeper, more effective onsite training, provide personalized learning experiences for employees, and allow for higher-quality feedback to help improve training.  We discuss: ·     Why changing the approach to training in the construction industry is so important ·     The need for on-demand, self-paced, digital learning ·     How e-learning improves onsite training ·     How the Autodesk Construction Cloud Learning Center empowers better digital learning ·     How e-learning unlocks professional growth opportunities  Assets Mentioned: ·     The Autodesk Gallery ·     Autodesk Construction Cloud Learning Center Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk. Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Construction waste is a major problem that has gone unchecked for years.  Until now.  In this special episode, hear Shannon Goodman, Executive Director of the Lifecycle Building Center, share her expertise on utilizing construction waste for more sustainable and reusable building. Learn about the latest research and projects from the Lifecycle Building Center, and get practical tips and strategies for builders and contractors. Join us and discover how to reduce waste on the job site and find new uses for materials We discuss: Shannon’s Autodesk Theater Talk on reusable construction waste The collective impact of the reuse industry The economic impact of reusing construction waste for sustainable materials The difference in European construction compared to the United States Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk. Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Technology on job sites has become the standard in construction and it’s only growing by the day. Builders and construction companies need to utilize digitization to not only help plan projects but also when finding new talent to join your team!  In a special episode recorded live at Autodesk University, we’re joined by Ron McGuire, Program Administrator at International Training Institute and Ken Schneider, Training Specialist at United Association, to discuss how trade workers in the construction industry are using technology not only to advance job sites but also to help attract and retain new talent to the AEC world!  We discuss: The digitalization of constructions sites  Bringing the younger generation of workers to employers with tech  Meeting demand through technology The biggest trends in construction Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk. Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Happy holidays from everyone at Digital Builder! We have some exciting plans ahead for 2023 and can’t wait to share them with you. In the meantime, be sure to catch up with all our episodes on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe to our YouTube page as well where you can watch each episode as well!”

When working in the construction industry, it can be a tall task to keep every contractor, engineer, and project manager on the same page. With the help of Building Information Modeling (BIM), keeping everyone on the same page can go a long way to achieving that goal. But there’s much more to the technology that impacts both your field teams and those working from the office. Kelli Lubeley, BIM Program Manager at Cupertino Electric, and Jeremy Thibodeau, Senior Manager of Customer Success at Autodesk, join the show to discuss how BIM implementation has developed over the years, how using the technology from start to finish in the construction industry is improving the overall process, ultimately reaching every aspect of how we build. We discuss: The applications of BIM for all types of stakeholders in their day-to-day jobs Busting common BIM myths and misconceptions The ideal state of BIM implementation vs. what’s actually happening today Guidance for implementing BIM at your own company Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk. Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Can’t see the links? Just search for Digital Builder in your favorite podcast player.

While making several job transitions throughout one’s career has become a more common occurrence, it wasn’t always that way, and there are still hugely impactful benefits to spending a longer time working in a company you love. That’s why we were excited to sit down with Jim Lynch, Senior Vice President of Autodesk Construction Solutions, who is celebrating his 25th year as a part of the Autodesk organization. Throughout those 25 years, Jim has held strategic leadership roles in AEC product development, product management, and marketing, and led his team in the development of cutting edge solutions to meet construction customers’ needs. In this episode, we discuss: Jim’s top lessons from 25 years of experience working at Autodesk What it takes to be a partner to customers rather than just another software vendor The importance of planning, innovating, and executing quickly to stay ahead of the competition Why in-person connection is so powerful. Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk. Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Can’t see the links? Just search for Digital Builder in your favorite podcast player.

What do the cloud and trust have in common? A lot, actually. Autodesk CEO Andrew Anagnost is on a mission to create a high-trust ecosystem in construction building on today’s cloud technology. And the benefits extend far beyond improving efficiency and transparency – it’s about solving construction’s capacity problem. Recorded live from Autodesk University 2022, we had the incredible opportunity to chat with Andrew about his vision for the future of construction, the legacy he hopes to leave the industry, the value of working in the cloud, and a whole lot more! This in-person episode was filmed and you can watch the conversation unfold right from our YouTube channel. Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk. Hear more episodes like this one by subscribing to Digital Builder on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Can’t see the links? Just search for Digital Builder in your favorite podcast player.