From Fieldwork to Future Tech: Thai Nguyen’s Road to ConTech Leadership | Ep 12

Did you know advanced tech is transforming construction workflows? Innovation leader Thai Nguyen joins hosts Erin Khan and Nandan Thakar to discuss how AI, robotics, and data-driven insights are reshaping the construction industry. In this episode, Thai reveals:

• How his journey from architecture to ConTech has influenced his approach
• Why AI and automation are essential for enhancing, not replacing, human expertise
• Practical ways to bridge the gap between tech adoption and field teams
• How robotics can help create a more inclusive construction workforce

As Director of Innovation at Hensel Phelps, Thai shares his vision for integrating emerging technologies to make construction smarter, safer, and more efficient. Discover how ConTech is driving lasting change and setting new standards for project success.

Stay connected with The SureWorx Podcast on LinkedIn for more insights on construction innovation!

⏰ Timestamps:

0:00 - Intro: Robotics in Construction

0:09 - Meet Thai Nguyen

1:23 - Thai’s Journey to ConTech

3:10 - Inside Hensel Phelps

5:21 - Innovation for Job Sites

6:33 - Robotics: Safety & Efficiency

9:12 - Global Trends in ConTech

13:37 - Redefining Innovation

16:26 - AI Think Tank at Hensel Phelps

21:04 - Success with Robotics

24:06 - Diverge Connect Explained

31:43 - Standardizing Data for AI

36:38 - Launching the Innovation Center

39:31 - Managing Change & ROI

42:14 - Key Takeaways from the Episode

43:06 - Thai’s Collaboration Lessons

46:32 - Be a Guest on the SureWorx Podcast

💼 Connect with us on LinkedIn:

• Thai Nguyen
• Erin Khan
• Nandan Thakar
• SureWorx Page

🚀 Show Links:

• YouTube: https://youtu.be/qA2781htCrE
• View the Full Episode Transcript on our Website: https://sureworx.io/podcast/episode

🎬 About the Show: The SureWorx Podcast brings you insider conversations exploring innovations in infrastructure and construction technology. Hosted by industry veterans Nandan Thakar and Erin Khan, we engage with top experts and thought leaders driving change in the AEC industry.

If you're...

• A construction professional looking to supercharge your project efficiency and safety
• A tech innovator pushing the boundaries of what's possible in ConTech and infrastructure
• An enterprise leader aiming to revolutionize your next energy transition, renewable energy or commercial project
• An asset manager striving to maximize lifecycle value and operational effectiveness

...then this show was built for you!

Each week, we'll equip you with strategic clarity and actionable insights to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of construction and infrastructure technology. Our conversations are designed to give you the edge you need in your field, whether you're on the job site, in the boardroom, or developing the next big innovation.

Subscribe now and join our growing community of forward-thinking AEC professionals who are shaping the future of our industry!

Have a unique perspective to share? We want to hear from you! Reach out at podcast@sureworx.io to be featured as a guest.