The ConTechCrew

Jeff Sample
The ConTechCrew

The Future is Built! Learn more at: https://thecontechcrew.com/ Welcome to The ConTechCrew, hosted by Jeff Sample! Here, we discuss innovation and all things construction tech, including hardware, software, devices, apps, and the strategies for applying them to construction projects. Tune in each week to get your latest construction tech news update. Follow us on social media and join the conversation: @TheConTechCrew

  1. How Solar Robotics Help EPC Contractors Automate Installs and Prevent Injuries with David Lincoln

    1D AGO

    How Solar Robotics Help EPC Contractors Automate Installs and Prevent Injuries with David Lincoln

    In this special announcement episode of The ConTech Crew, we’re excited to sit down with David Lincoln, Senior Vice President at Rosendin Electric, to talk about a major leap forward in construction technology. David gets deep into how Rosendin is leveraging robotics to streamline operations in remote, large-scale projects, reducing material touches, minimizing breakage, and ultimately saving time and labor costs. But this isn't just about efficiency, it’s about making work easier, safer, and more sustainable for the crews on the ground. From micro laydowns to diesel hybrid electric units, David walks us through the real world application of these advanced tools, their impact on workforce deployment, and why they’re a game changer for the future of construction. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, contractor, or industry leader, this episode delivers valuable insight into how innovation is driving productivity while preserving the human element at the heart of the trade. What You’ll Learn:Robotics in construction technology and its impact on large-scale, remote projects.How Rosendin is creating career paths from high school to professional leadership.The secrets behind running a successful internship programThe unique mentorship culture within RosendinBuilding a diverse and empowered workforce through mission-driven valuesHow technology is reshaping the construction talent landscapeThe importance of internal mobility and retention strategiesEpisode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:00] - Introduction to the episode and guest David Lincoln [02:15] - David’s early career. [06:07] - What drew David to the renewable side of the industry.  [09:00] - Announcement of RTMIS- Robotic transitioning module installation system. [18:15] - David Lincoln discusses the benefits of robotic solutions in construction. [20:18] - Rosendin’s search for manufacturing partners to scale a new field innovation, inviting industry leaders to a media demo on April 17th in Abilene, Texas. [30:47] - How robotics and AI are enhancing productivity and safety in construction. [34:24] - Final thoughts from Jeff and David. 📅 Media Day AnnouncementRosendin is hosting a Media Day on April 17 in Abilene, Texas to showcase the robotic technology live on-site.The event invites manufacturers, developers, GCs, and robotic tech companies to see the innovation in action and explore partnership opportunities.Follow the Guest:David Lincoln (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-lincoln-72755a20/LinkedIn(Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/rosendininc/ Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/rosendininc/ Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/rosendininc/ Twitter (Company): https://twitter.com/RosendinInc Website: https://www.rosendin.com/ Follow the Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/Follow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrewTwitter (X): https://x.com/TheConTechCrew #ConTech #ConstructionTech #Rosendin #GenerativeAI #NoCode #DataInConstruction #DigitalTransformation #ConstructionInnovation #AIinConstruction #SmartBuilding #ConstructionData #ConstructionSoftware #TheConTechCrew

    35 min
  2. Technology Leadership for AEC Professionals to Break Data Silos & Improve Efficiency with John Price

    3D AGO

    Technology Leadership for AEC Professionals to Break Data Silos & Improve Efficiency with John Price

    In this episode of The ConTech Crew, Jeff Sample and Jacob D'Albora sit down with John Price to discuss the evolution of BIM, CAD, and digital transformation in engineering. John shares his journey from a non-traditional start in drafting and design to leading BIM transformation. He emphasizes the importance of bridging communication gaps between IT, leadership, and engineers, and how learning to "influence without authority" has been crucial in driving technology adoption. From his early days navigating AutoCAD to implementing BIM for the Navy and beyond, John reveals the hard lessons and rewarding moments that have shaped his approach to solving complex problems.  Top Takeaways: The shift from drafting to model-based workflows requires a paradigm shift, not just a software change.Miscommunication is often the biggest barrier to successful tech implementation. Educating stakeholders on terminology and processes is key.Rather than trying to centralize all data in one place, focus on streamlining connections between different data silos.Building trust with leadership, IT, and finance teams is critical for getting new tools approved and adopted.The goal of BIM and data tools isn't just efficiency but creating better, more informed workflows. Episode Highlights: [00:00] – Intro of the episode.  [01:26] – Jeff kicks off the show with John Price [02:31] – John’s unconventional journey into BIM and engineering [07:02] – The early challenges of transitioning from CAD to BIM [17:25] – Data management and avoiding information silos [27:09] – "Influence without authority" the key to driving change [34:08] – The role of leadership, IT, and finance in tech implementation [36:15] – Closing thoughts and wrap-up Follow the Guest: John Price (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-p-3ba7355a/ Follow the Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/Follow the Co-Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobdalbora/

    37 min

  3. APR 3

    AI & Google’s Career Dreamer Are Changing Construction Training with Trevor Baggett

    In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample is joined by Nathan Wood and Trevor Baggett from Spring Valley Construction Company to discuss the latest developments in construction technology. They discuss Planera's free scheduling software for universities, the impact of tech adoption in education, and the importance of tech-forward trade schools. Trevor also shares his thoughts on Procore integration in high schools, upcoming construction tech events, and the growing influence of AI and reality capture in the field. Key Takeaways:Planera offers free cloud-based scheduling software to universities.Procore’s push into high schools is helping students gain hands-on experience with construction software.The value of early exposure to technology for students entering the construction field.ENR FutureTech & Procore Groundbreak.Texas State Technical College launches a construction technology program, bridging hands-on training with digital tools.How AI-powered tools like Otter.ai are shaping how teams document meetings and track progress.The role of data in construction: How smart tools can improve training, productivity, and safety.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:00] – Introduction to the Construction Technology News of the Week. [06:00] – GBCA Construction Tech Expo (May 15th): What to expect at this major industry event. [07:35] – Trevor’s upcoming events: ENR FutureTech & Procore Groundbreak in Houston. [09:10] – Texas State Technical College launches a new construction technology program. [12:50] – How data from smart tools can improve training and worker performance. [15:23] – Grow with google: career dreamer site. [19:28] – Trevor’s take on AI in construction and how he uses it for note-taking. [21:27] – Conclusion. Follow the Guest:Trevor Baggett (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-baggett-40914a6a/Spring Valley Construction Company (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/spring-valley-construction-company/ Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/SpringValleyConstructionCompany Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/enjoysvcc/ Twitter (Company): https://twitter.com/svccdallas Follow the Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/Follow the Co-Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanaec/ Hashtags:#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #DigitalTransformation #AI #RealityCapture #EducationTech #Procore #Outbuild #ConstructionInnovation

    22 min
  4. How Smart Scheduling Tools Are Revolutionizing Construction Project Management with Trevor Baggett

    APR 1

    How Smart Scheduling Tools Are Revolutionizing Construction Project Management with Trevor Baggett

    In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample and co-host Nathan Wood sit down with Trevor Baggett from Spring Valley Construction Company. Trevor shares his journey from building sheds with his uncle as a kid to becoming a Construction Technology Manager. He discusses how SkillsUSA shaped his career, his transition into teaching, and how he’s driving technology adoption in the construction industry. From Procore implementation to digital scheduling and OpenSpace reality capture, Trevor explains how his team is streamlining operations while keeping the field teams engaged. Key Takeaways:How early hands-on experience led Trevor to a career in construction technology.The role of SkillsUSA in developing teamwork and leadership in the industry.Lessons learned from Procore implementation and why buy-in from the field is critical.The shift to Outbuild for digital scheduling and its impact on project efficiency.How OpenSpace reality capture is transforming remodels and site monitoring.The importance of patience, continuous learning, and cross-industry knowledge in construction technology roles.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:00] – Introduction to the episode. [02:27] – Trevor’s early start in construction: Building sheds at 11 & learning electrical work. [03:39] – Competing in SkillsUSA and how it prepared him for the industry. [08:16] – First job in construction and first experience with Procore implementation. [09:45] – Transition to Spring Valley Construction and joining the tech committee. [15:00] – Leaving construction to become a SkillsUSA instructor and what he learned. [20:03] – Integration between Outbuild and Procore for seamless scheduling. [27:14] – Expanding reality capture with OpenSpace for remodels and site documentation. [31:48] – Why diverse career experiences make you a better construction technologist. [33:20] – Final advice for tech leaders: Patience, research, and continuous learning. Follow the Guest:Trevor Baggett (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-baggett-40914a6a/Spring Valley Construction Company (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/spring-valley-construction-company/ Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/SpringValleyConstructionCompany Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/enjoysvcc/ Twitter (Company): https://twitter.com/svccdallas Follow the Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/Follow the Co-Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanaec/ Hashtags:#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #DigitalTransformation #RealityCapture #Scheduling #SkillsUSA #Procore #Outbuild #OpenSpace

    35 min
  5. AI Excavation Technology is Making Operators 300% More Efficient and Reduces Mistakes with Ken Gray

    MAR 25

    AI Excavation Technology is Making Operators 300% More Efficient and Reduces Mistakes with Ken Gray

    In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample and co-host Trent Leinenbach welcome Ken Gray, Co-Founder of Dig Robotics and former Chief Innovation Officer at Caterpillar. Ken shares his journey from childhood dreams of working with heavy equipment to leading innovation in the construction and mining industries. The conversation discusses how Dig Robotics is revolutionizing excavation by using AI, machine vision, and automation to enhance operator performance and efficiency. Ken explains why construction isn’t slow to adopt technology; it just demands real, measurable value. Key Takeaways:Ken’s journey from engineering at Caterpillar to co-founding Dig Robotics.The evolution of heavy equipment from mechanical machines to high-tech systems.How AI, machine vision, and automation improve excavation productivity.The importance of defining innovation in construction technology.Why construction companies adopt new tech only when it provides clear business value.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[01:29] – Introduction to Ken Gray and his background in heavy equipment innovation. [02:05] – AI excellence in Construction Summit next week on April 2nd. [02:54] – Ken’s early passion for construction equipment and engineering. [09:54] – Advice on career growth and leadership in construction technology. [15:08] – The evolution of heavy equipment from mechanical to digital. [25:20] – Dig Robotics’ mission: Enhancing human operators, not replacing them. [34:42] – How AI-driven feedback helps operators achieve peak efficiency. [44:43] – The future of automation and operator training. [48:49] – Final thoughts on approaching innovation in construction. AI Excellence in Construction Summit: PlacerSolutions.ioFollow the Guest:Dig Robotics (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/digrobotics/ Ken Gray (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/kengrayinclusiveinnovation/  Follow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrew Twitter (X): https://x.com/TheConTechCrew Hashtags:#ConTechCrew #Excavation #ConstructionTech #AI #Automation #HeavyEquipment #Innovation #DigRobotics

    52 min
  6. How Contractors Can Protect Their Projects from Tariff Hikes and Contract Risks with Josh Levy

    MAR 21

    How Contractors Can Protect Their Projects from Tariff Hikes and Contract Risks with Josh Levy

    In this special episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample welcomes Josh Levy, Co-Founder & CEO of Document Crunch, to discuss the impact of tariffs on the construction industry. They get into how contractors can protect their projects, the importance of auditing contracts for risk exposure, and strategies for maintaining resilience in uncertain times. Josh also shares how Document Crunch is offering a free tool to help contractors assess tariff related risks and make informed decisions. Key Takeaways:How tariffs are affecting material costs and construction contracts.The importance of auditing contracts for price escalation clauses.Strategies for mitigating risk and maintaining project stability.Why industry collaboration is essential in overcoming economic challenges.The role of technology in making contract analysis more efficient.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:00] - Introduction to the episode.   [02:25] - Tariff work at document crunch.  [09:31] - Understanding the financial risks of tariffs in ongoing projects [17:25] - How Document Crunch’s free tool helps contractors assess risk exposure. [23:22] - The importance of proactive contract management. [26:40] - Final thoughts: How construction professionals can stay ahead. Direct Tariff link with embed: https://www.documentcrunch.com/2025-tariffs?utm_campaign=9672881-ConTech Crew Podcast&utm_source=Jeff Sample Newsletter&utm_medium=Sponsored Ad&utm_term=Tariffs Demo&utm_content=March 2025Special link: https://www.documentcrunch.com/contechcrewFollow the Guest & Company:Document Crunch (Website): https://www.documentcrunch.comDocument Crunch (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/document-crunch/ Document crunch (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/documentcrunch/  Document crunch (Twitter): https://x.com/DocumentCrunch Document crunch (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/documentcrunch/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-levy-/ Follow The ConTech Crew: Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrewTwitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrewHashtags:#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #Tariffs #ContractManagement #RiskMitigation #DocumentCrunch #ConstructionIndustry #AEC #Innovation

    27 min
  7. How Low-Code Fixes Construction Software Chaos & Saves Millions with James Cosman & Kendall Bachman

    MAR 18

    How Low-Code Fixes Construction Software Chaos & Saves Millions with James Cosman & Kendall Bachman

    In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample welcomes James Cosman and Kendall Bachman from VeilSun to discuss the evolving role of technology in the construction industry. They explore how companies can move beyond outdated processes, leverage low-code solutions, and avoid the pitfalls of traditional software development. James and Kendall share their experiences on reducing data silos, improving business workflows, and why adaptability is critical in today’s rapidly evolving construction tech landscape. Key Takeaways:The three stages of technology adoption in construction.Challenges with traditional software and the benefits of low-code, no-code solutions.How construction companies can streamline workflows and reduce inefficiencies.The importance of maintaining a company’s unique processes while adopting new technology.Why businesses need to prepare their data now for future AI advancements.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:00] – Introduction of the episode. [00:05] – Introduction to James Cosman and Kendall Bachman from VeilSun. [02:56] – James’ background and VeilSun’s focus on low-code solutions for construction. [06:11] – The three stages of technology adoption in the construction industry. [11:59] – Full-stack development vs. low-code solutions: The cost and efficiency debate. [15:59] – The “LEGO” analogy: Pre-built vs. custom-built software solutions. [24:04] – Reducing data silos and maintaining a company’s competitive advantage. [28:57] – The potential of technology to transform project-level collaboration. [35:02] – The role of AI in construction and why companies need to prepare now. [38:11] – Final thoughts and where to find VeilSun. Follow the Guests:VeilSun (LinkedIn):  https://www.linkedin.com/company/veilsun-inc-/ VeilSun Website: https://www.veilsun.comJames Cosman (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamescosmanKendall Bachman (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendallbachmanFollow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrewTwitter (X): https://x.com/TheConTechCrewHashtags:#ConTechCrew #ConstructionTech #LowCode #DigitalTransformation #AI #Innovation #ProcessImprovement #TechnologyIntegration

    39 min
  8. How Facility Management Solves the Skilled Labor Shortage with AI and SkillsUSA with Katelyn Sanchez

    MAR 13

    How Facility Management Solves the Skilled Labor Shortage with AI and SkillsUSA with Katelyn Sanchez

    In this special news edition of The ConTech Crew, hosts Jeff Sample and Jacob D’Albora are joined by Katelyn Sanchez to discuss the latest advancements in construction technology, workforce development, and AI-driven facility management. They discuss SkillsUSA's expanding role in preparing the next generation of tradespeople, the growing demand for facility management professionals, and how adaptability is key in an evolving industry. Plus, they highlight Veridi’s efforts in training disadvantaged communities for careers in renewable energy. Key Takeaways: The expansion of Facilithon through SkillsUSA and its impact on facility management careers.The role of digital tools and AI in optimizing facility operations.How adaptability is driving change in facility management and construction.The importance of clear communication in leadership and technology adoption.How Veridi is transforming workforce development in underserved communities.Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [01:04] – Facilithon expands to 20 states, introducing high schoolers to facility management. [03:24] – Katelyn’s take on SkillsUSA and its role in bridging trade gaps. [05:35] – Emerging facility management technology trends in 2025. [07:44] – The importance of data and AI in facility optimization. [14:45] – Why CTOs need to communicate technology strategies in business terms. [18:43] – Leadership lessons in simplifying complex technology concepts. [24:08] – How Veridi is creating green job opportunities in disadvantaged communities. [28:33] – Final thoughts on workforce training and industry growth. Follow the Guest & Topics Discussed: VIATechnik (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/viatechnik/VIATechnik (Website): https://www.viatechnik.com/VIATechnik (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/VIATechnik SkillsUSA: https://www.skillsusa.org/Facilithon: https://www.fmpipeline.org/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelyn-sanchez-srvdcmanager/ Follow The ConTech Crew: Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrewTwitter: https://x.com/TheConTechCrewHashtags: #ConTechCrew #ConstructionNews #SkillsUSA #FacilityManagement #AI #DigitalTwins #TechLeadership #GreenJobs #WorkforceDevelopment

    30 min
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    4.6
    out of 5
    69 Ratings

    About

    The Future is Built! Learn more at: https://thecontechcrew.com/ Welcome to The ConTechCrew, hosted by Jeff Sample! Here, we discuss innovation and all things construction tech, including hardware, software, devices, apps, and the strategies for applying them to construction projects. Tune in each week to get your latest construction tech news update. Follow us on social media and join the conversation: @TheConTechCrew

    Information

    • Creator
      Jeff Sample
    • Years Active
      2016 - 2025
    • Episodes
      606
    • Rating
      Explicit
    • Copyright
      © 2016 The ConTech Crew
    • Show Website
      The ConTechCrew

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