AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast Anthony Fasano, PE & Nick Heim, PE

In this episode, I talk with Maximiliano (Max) Sanchez, founder and CEO of Nox Development Group, about the exciting tech integration in construction projects and explore how these advancements are transforming educational environments.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Max:



What are some of the most exciting construction innovations and technologies you've come across?

How do you integrate new technologies like reality capture into traditionally run construction projects?

What differences have you noticed in how large firms and smaller companies make technology decisions?

How do you ensure that you, your team, and your stakeholders stay up to date with the latest construction technologies?

What specific challenges and opportunities do you encounter in multifamily and charter school development projects?

Can you share your experience with Nox Charter Schools and how technology and innovation are used in educational environments?

How does permit data from ExpeditionApp.com improve your project planning and execution?

How do ExpeditionApp.com estimates compare to experienced developers' instincts, and how accurate are they after a project is done?

How does combining analysis tools with experienced professionals' insights improve estimate accuracy as more projects are completed?

How does ContactReviews.com, with its reviews and data on over 300 solutions, impact future content adoption?

What advice would you give engineers and technologists aiming to innovate in the construction industry?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About a New Era for Construction and Education With Tech Integration:





One of the most exciting construction innovations is reality capture technology. It transforms project management by accurately documenting construction progress in real time, solving communication and oversight challenges effectively.

New technologies like reality capture are integrated into traditional construction projects by introducing them early to stakeholders like site work contractors and GC subcontractors, ensuring effective use from the project's start for improved communication and efficiency.

Large firms face bureaucratic hurdles like IT security and legal reviews, as well as multiple stakeholder approvals when adopting technology. Smaller companies decide more quickly, experimenting based on direct experience rather than navigating complex corporate processes.

At Nox, teams and stakeholders stay updated on the latest construction technologies through tailored tech stacks for each project during kickoff meetings. This approach ensures alignment and engagement with current innovations in tools, file management, budgets, and project-specific agreements.

In multifamily and charter school projects, challenges include diverse stakeholder needs, subcontractor coordination, and regulatory compliance. Using AI virtual assistants presents opportunities to streamline communication, automate tasks, and enhance project efficiency, benefiting overall management and delivery.

At Nox Charter Schools, the educational approach integrates industry 4.0, big data, and design into core subjects. This prepares students for careers in construction and manufacturing by embedding advanced themes into daily learning from middle school through high school.

com's permit data improves project planning and execution by providing essential information on zoning approvals and regulatory requirements upfront. This helps developers navigate the entitlement process more efficiently and ensure compliance from the outset of their projects.

Estimates for permit approval timelines, both from ExpeditionApp.

In this episode, I talk with Steven Brahney, president of FixAsphalt, about his journey in the asphalt, concrete, and pavement maintenance industry, and how technology is revolutionizing parking lot sustainability.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Steven:



How has technology impacted your daily operations, particularly in assessing parking lots?

When you started in the industry, how did your tech-savvy approach help you compete and improve client experiences?

How does technology improve the efficiency and accuracy of parking lot assessments?

How do you use technology to optimize parking lot assessments?

Are there any specific technologies or software platforms you find effective for parking lot assessments?

How are the usage rates and client feedback for HubSpot's self-service options?

How do you tailor your approach to meet the unique needs of your diverse range of clients, including quick service restaurants and REITs?

What does CAM stand for?

Can you describe how technology improved parking lot sustainability assessments?

Do property managers often need help understanding detailed reports and maintaining assets after major construction jobs like mill and pave?

What emerging technologies do you think will significantly impact the future of parking lot assessments?

How important is timely delivery, facilitated by technology without sacrificing quality, in winning business deals?

While remote tools can gather some details quickly, how can on-site visits be streamlined to minimize delays when aerial imagery is not enough?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Improving Parking Lot Sustainability and Safety Results With Technology:





Technology has greatly improved Steven's daily operations in assessing parking lots. From using digital tools like QuickBooks and digital proposals to adopting PalmPilots and Polaroid cameras, it has boosted efficiency and accuracy in his assessments.

Steven emphasizes how his detailed proposals differentiate him, with property managers often joking about his thoroughness. His approach includes clear explanations and disclaimers, ensuring clients are well-informed and minimizing legal risks.

Technology improves parking lot sustainability assessments by using tools like drones and advanced software for precise measurements and real-time data. This ensures accurate documentation and efficiency that traditional methods can't match.

Technology like drones and advanced software improves parking lot assessments by providing precise measurements and real-time data. This helps property managers quickly understand asphalt and concrete conditions, estimate repair costs, and plan for future maintenance effectively.

Effective technologies for parking lot assessments include drones for data collection and AI-powered software for analysis. These tools offer precise measurements, real-time updates, and detailed reports, simplifying maintenance planning for property managers.

HubSpot's self-service options receive high usage and positive client feedback for their convenience and accessibility. Users appreciate features that track activity and set alerts, enhancing security and enabling proactive client communication based on engagement with reports and evaluations.

Steven adapts his approach for different clients, like quick service restaurants and REITs, based on their specific needs. For shopping centers, he emphasizes cost-saving maintenance options like seal coating under CAM charges, focusing on long-term asset preservation and customized property management to fit lease agreements or operational demands.

In this episode, I talk with Mike Lawless, P.E., FPE, LEED AP, vice president of Innovation at IMEG, about the transformative impact of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies, the groundbreaking IDEA Program, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) through MEG, an internal chatbot.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Mike:



Is the main goal of IMEG’s innovation to achieve the specific improvements that IMEG aims for?

Can you tell us more about your internal AI chatbot and how it's changing the way your team works?

Employees often find and use tools on their own, which can be hard to control, but with your AI strategy, are you setting boundaries while still providing necessary support?

Where do all these great ideas come from in IMEG's idea program, and what impact has it had on the company?

How does sharing success stories compare to announcing new tools via email, considering the challenges of implementing innovation?

How have VR and AR technologies specifically changed client interaction with construction projects?

How has using virtual and augmented reality improved client satisfaction with your technology compared to traditional 2D prints?

Do you have any specific hardware recommendations or examples you'd suggest to show what's available?

How does your team evaluate ideas from the idea program to ensure they align with the company's vision and goals?

How does your structured approach ensure ideas align with your objectives throughout their development?

How has the use of 360-cameras benefited a product or client?

How do 360-cameras offer clients an immersive experience that balances efficiency, ease of use, and cost compared to drones?

What advice would you give engineers aiming to make a significant impact in the construction industry through innovation?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Maximize the Transformative Impact in the World of VR and AR Technologies:







Implementing ideas into action is essential for achieving real impact. Engaging and motivating team members throughout the organization is vital to ensuring that innovations are embraced and effectively utilized.

IMEG launched an AI chatbot named Meg to enhance internal information access. Meg promptly answers queries and assists engineers in accessing technical data in SharePoint, improving team efficiency and supporting ongoing learning initiatives.

IMEG provides employees with a curated AI tool named Meg for accessing reliable information within controlled boundaries. This strategy maintains data integrity while supporting staff inquiries, boosting operational efficiency and consistency.

The Idea Program at IMEG gathers innovative ideas from teams across the company, empowering members to develop and implement them into impactful projects. This initiative fosters a culture of innovation, enhancing collaboration and driving significant outcomes throughout the organization.

Sharing success stories through IMEG's IDEA program is more effective than announcing new tools via email in addressing the challenges of implementing innovation. These stories inspire teams with practical examples, promoting a culture where innovation is embraced and effectively utilized across the organization.

VR and AR technologies have revolutionized client interaction with construction projects at IMEG. These technologies enable immersive visualizations and collaborative decision-making in virtual meetings, resulting in faster resolutions and enhanced project outcomes.

Virtual and augmented reality have greatly boosted client satisfaction compared to traditional 2D pri...

In this episode, I talk with John Delia Jr, a distinguished real estate entrepreneur and construction innovator, about how technology is transforming urban development. We also explore innovative construction methods and share valuable advice for engineers who are interested in moving into the real estate industry.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask John:



How will technology, especially artificial intelligence (AI), shape the future of urban development and real estate?

Are there any specific applications or technologies you find promising or impactful in your field?

How do you incorporate technology into your construction processes to improve sustainability and efficiency?

Do you have just one book, or have you written more than one?

Is the average homebuyer more concerned with aspects of the process or the finished product than with what frames the structure?

Even though it's not a consumer-driven market, how does your approach using cold form achieve lower costs and faster delivery times?

Could you explain how you're advancing traditional construction methods with technology?

Have you discussed your vision with industry veterans, and if so, what has been the consensus or feedback on your ideas?

How do you see technology and AI evolving to create more inclusive and sustainable communities in the future?

In your industry, how are delivery times speeding up, allowing engineers to focus on more valuable tasks?

How can we navigate the industry's fragmented knowledge to ensure a brighter future, given the varying levels of innovation and awareness among firms?

Do you have any final advice for engineers looking to transition into the real estate and construction sectors?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Leverage Technology to Skyrocket Urban Development:





The integration of AI and technology in urban development and real estate will enhance productivity, spark creativity, and accelerate project timelines, transforming how cities are designed and built. This technological advancement allows for rapid prototyping and ideation, significantly pushing forward urban planning and development.

AI-driven technologies like Welcome Home, OPO Plan, and TestFit are highly promising in urban development and real estate. These tools enable rapid prototyping, real-time visualization, and efficient feasibility analysis, significantly improving project planning and execution.

Technology is incorporated into construction by blending new tools with traditional methods, improving sustainability and efficiency. Continuous research ensures thoughtful integration, balancing costs and evolving practices.

John has authored two books. The first, "Life, Liberty, and Property," published in 2017, serves as a guide to successful real estate investment. The second book is a fiction story exploring the futuristic potential of Roeform steel technology in homebuilding.

Homebuyers usually focus on the appearance and final result of a home rather than the construction method or framing. However, industry professionals should educate them about the benefits of advanced technologies for long-term performance and sustainability.

Incorporating cold form technology into construction projects enables lower costs and faster delivery times. This innovation streamlines operations, reduces waste, and accelerates construction schedules, providing cost-effective and timely solutions for the market.

John's team advances traditional construction methods with technology like steel framing and BIM. By transitioning to design-led approaches and using prefabrication, they reduce waste and speed up construction ti...

In this episode, I talk with Bart Kemper, P.E., CPEng, RPEQ, principal engineer at Kemper Engineering Services, LLC, about the crucial role of a Responsible-in-Charge (RIC) in AEC projects, focusing on decision-making, accountability, effective delegation, team trust, and its impact on project success.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Bart:



Is returning to basic engineering principles key to solving problems across different fields when overseeing multiple disciplines?

Could you explain the concept of "Responsible-in-Charge" in engineering and why it's crucial?

How does the "belly button to push" concept relate to decision-making and accountability in engineering projects?

Could you provide more information about signing the Blameline and its impact on project outcomes?

What's your approach to delegating tasks in engineering and which strategies balance control and trust effectively?

How do you build trust among team members to encourage embracing failure, and why is it beneficial?

How do engineering principles apply to different professions and why are they beneficial?

What advice do you have for engineers to succeed in today's complex environment?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to be an Excellent Responsible-in-Charge:





Returning to basic engineering principles is key to solving problems across different fields when overseeing multiple disciplines, as it provides a solid foundation for making informed decisions and coordinating with specialists.

The "Responsible-in-Charge" in engineering is the person who oversees the project, ensuring everything is done safely and correctly. This role is crucial for accountability and effective coordination.

The "belly button to push" concept in engineering projects means having one person responsible for a specific area, ensuring clear decision-making and accountability. This person is the go-to for resolving issues, streamlining communication, and maintaining project oversight.

Signing the "Blameline" in engineering means taking full responsibility for project outcomes, driving careful decision-making, and impacting project success and quality.

In engineering, task delegation involves assigning responsibilities to individuals who demonstrate passion and technical ability, irrespective of their seniority. This approach balances control and trust by empowering team members early on and supporting them through structured reviews, cultivating a culture of learning and growth.

Building trust among team members involves leading by example, openly discussing mistakes, and supporting each other through challenges. This creates a culture where failure is seen as an opportunity to learn and grow, motivating team members to take risks and improve their skills.

Engineering principles are relevant across professions like medicine, law, and military service, where accountability for critical tasks is essential. Embracing these principles promotes safer and more effective outcomes in diverse fields.

Returning to basic physics principles learned in high school can often provide solutions to engineering problems, helping engineers approach challenges with clarity and avoid bias, ultimately leading to more accurate solutions.



More Details in This Episode…



About the Guest: Bart Kemper, P.E., CPEng, RPEQ

Bart Kemper, P.E., is a Louisiana-based engineer with over 30 years of international engineering in a wide range of industries. He primarily works with equipment and equipment systems using his mechanical engineering degree from Louisiana State University as well as working in civil engineering through his training and educat...

In this episode, I talk with Steve Green, practice leader of digital water at Stanley Consultants, about how digital technology is transforming the water industry. We explore its role in addressing climate change, extreme weather, utility challenges, and its economic impact.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Steve:



What challenges are water utilities encountering in today's environment with the state of the water industry?

How do digital water technologies assist in mitigating the challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather events?

Can you explain digital water in simpler terms for someone who isn't familiar with the water industry or how digital technologies are used in it?

Why is the adoption of digital water technologies often described as a journey rather than a quick, instant change?

What are some additional benefits of adopting digital technology for water utilities?

Apart from the digital water technologies themselves, what other important factors should a utility consider during the implementation of this technology?

How do digital water technologies impact the affordability of utility companies?

Can you provide a few examples of digital upgrades that water utilities have implemented recently?

How do you use small projects to demonstrate technology's benefits, build client value, and prepare for larger initiatives?

What advice would you offer new engineers looking to integrate digital technologies into water management?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About the Ways Digital Water Technology Is Revolutionizing the Water Industry:





The utility sector faces aging infrastructure, cybersecurity threats, water scarcity from droughts, and extreme weather. Alongside budget constraints and a shortage of skilled labor, technology is crucial for managing these complex utility operations.

Digital technologies like SCADA systems allow utilities to monitor and control remote assets, which is essential during extreme weather events such as heatwaves, wildfires, or hurricanes. It improves operational efficiency and resilience by using data insights to optimize performance and manage risks effectively.

Digital water management includes four main steps: using SCADA systems for remote control and data management, automating decisions with tools like Excel and Power BI, creating digital twins for predictive analysis of infrastructure, and applying data science and artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize operations and anticipate issues. This approach modernizes water management with advanced technology integration.

Implementing digital water solutions requires building a strong foundation with accurate data and gradually integrating technologies like SCADA systems, data analytics, and digital twins to modernize water management practices tailored to specific utility needs. It's a strategic journey that demands careful resource allocation and commitment over time to achieve sustainable operational value and resilience.

In water and wastewater utilities, the main drivers behind decisions are resilience and efficiency. Resilience ensures the ability to bounce back from challenges, while efficiency includes cost savings, chemical reduction, emissions control, and overall economic benefits, making these priorities crucial in adopting digital solutions for utility operations.

Success in adopting digital technology for water and wastewater utilities depends on aligning technology with people and processes. Knowing the purpose, improving processes, and assembling the right team, whether internal or through consultants, ensures successful implementation and delivers value.