AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast

Anthony Fasano, PE & Nick Heim, PE
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  • TECHNOLOGIES
  • TOUS LES 2 MOIS
AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast

The AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast (AECTECH) provides information about technology in the AEC industry. Nick Heim, PE, a field, sales, and VDC engineer hosts the podcast. The show features experts discussing different technologies and how and when to use them, to help AEC professionals and their firms save time and money.

  1. -22 H

    Unlocking New Opportunities Through Advancements in Land Surveying Tech – Ep 064

    In this episode, I talk with Kevin Woeste, PS, LS, PLS, CEO of McSteen Land Surveyors and founder and CEO of One MC Solutions, about how advancements in land surveying tech are revolutionizing the field, driving innovation across the industry, and unlocking new possibilities for the future. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Kevin: How do you manage leading two organizations while driving innovation in both, and what are the key differences between them? What are the main challenges facing the surveying industry, and how is One MC Solutions working to address them? Can you explain the evolution of surveying technology from multi-person crews to robotic systems? Once current technologies become widely adopted, what do you think is the next big step for the industry? How do reality capture, geospatial surveying, and their intersections differ and connect? What final piece of advice would you give to engineers and technology professionals navigating today’s rapidly changing digital landscape? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Unlocking New Opportunities Through Advancements in Land Surveying Tech: McSteen delivers comprehensive land surveying services, while One MC Solutions develops tools, training programs, and supplies to enhance the efficiency and growth of surveying businesses. Strong team collaboration and innovative technologies drive the success of both organizations. The surveying industry struggles with a talent shortage caused by strict licensing requirements, a declining labor pool, and competition from other fields. One MC Solutions addresses these issues by offering training programs, introducing cutting-edge tools, and streamlining workflows to bring new talent into the field and support surveyors in working more effectively. Surveying evolves from requiring large multi-person crews to using robotic systems, laser scanners, and advanced GPS tools, making data collection faster and more accessible. These advancements pave the way for land surveying tech like SLAM, photogrammetry, and digital twins, which streamline processes, improve precision, and lower costs. The next major development in land surveying tech involves integrating tools like on-device AI models and real-time satellite data to simplify data processing. These innovations aim to improve accuracy, reduce costs, and allow surveyors to focus on strategic and higher-value tasks. Reality capture focuses on visualizing spaces, while geospatial surveying ensures precise alignment with parcel and property data. Combining these approaches through digital twins enhances accuracy, connects localized scans to broader geospatial contexts, and improves overall data usability. Engineers and technology professionals should embrace innovation by evaluating their workflows and adopting technologies like AI and digital tools. These steps help improve efficiency, enhance outcomes, and create more time for personal growth and work-life balance. More Details in This Episode… About Kevin Woeste, PS, LS, PLS Kevin Woeste is a dynamic leader in the surveying and geospatial industry, with a proven track record of innovation and excellence. As the CEO of McSteen Land Surveyors, Kevin drives the company's mission to deliver high-quality surveying services tailored to the evolving needs of clients in diverse sectors. He is also the co-founder and CEO of One MC Solutions, a company dedicated to providing cutting-edge solutions that integrate technology with surveying and geospatial services. Kevin brings decades of expertise in land surveying and business leadership, holding certifications as a professional surveyor (PS),

    49 min

  2. 6 JANV.

    Revolutionizing Sustainability and Efficiency with Digital Twin Technology – Ep 063

    In this episode, I talk with John Glenski, senior director at Salas O’Brien, about how digital twin technology is revolutionizing the AEC industry by driving sustainability, meeting regulations, and boosting efficiency. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask John : How can digital tools like digital twins help AEC firms achieve sustainability goals while staying compliant with regulations? How can AEC firms ensure that digital tools provide useful insights instead of overwhelming them with too much data? What practical steps can companies take to train their teams and prepare them to use new systems and technologies? How can engineers balance adopting advanced digital tools with integrating them into existing systems? How are advancements in digital technology changing the way architects, engineers, and construction teams collaborate? What final piece of advice would you give AEC professionals to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry focused on digital transformation and sustainability? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Revolutionizing Sustainability and Efficiency with Digital Twin Technology: Digital twins enable AEC firms to simulate and test ideas virtually, allowing them to optimize energy efficiency, reduce waste, and make informed decisions without the costs and risks of physical changes. These tools support sustainability goals and ensure compliance with evolving regulations by delivering measurable and innovative solutions. Treating data as part of an evolving system, updating it continuously, and focusing on actionable metrics ensures digital tools provide meaningful insights. Collaboration across teams allows organizations to unlock real-time value and avoid being overwhelmed by unnecessary data. Continuous learning and collaborative training are critical for keeping teams up to date with new systems and technologies. Companies empower employees by sharing knowledge, providing access to training programs, and encouraging mentorship between experienced and less-experienced team members. A phased and strategic approach ensures advanced tools integrate smoothly with existing systems. By implementing technologies incrementally, identifying infrastructure needs, and focusing on tangible benefits, engineers reduce risks and improve long-term outcomes. Immersive tools like 3D simulations enhance collaboration by allowing teams to solve problems early, improve clarity, and reduce rework. These advancements create stronger alignment among architects, engineers, and construction teams while engaging stakeholders more effectively. Embracing collaborative tools, continuous learning, and mentorship enables AEC professionals to stay ahead in the industry. By aligning efforts with client and team objectives and leveraging innovative technologies, professionals achieve meaningful progress and success. More Details in This Episode… About John Glenski John Glenski serves as the senior director of industry strategy, automation & digital at Salas O'Brien, where he spearheads initiatives at the intersection of engineering, technology, and innovation. With a keen focus on driving digital transformation and automation within the built environment, John leverages his extensive industry experience to create solutions that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and performance across diverse engineering projects. His leadership fosters collaboration between multidisciplinary teams, ensuring the integration of cutting-edge technology with practical engineering solutions. As a strategic thinker, John is dedicated to delivering value-driven outcomes that align with client needs and the evolving demands...

    32 min

  3. 30/12/2024

    How AI and BIM Are Setting New Standards for Project Design and Delivery – Ep 062

    In this episode, I talk with Stjepan Mikulić, founder of AI in AEC, about how AI and BIM are redefining project design, management, and delivery. Explore how these technologies are transforming workflows and setting new standards in efficiency, sustainability, and innovation. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Stjepan : How can professionals in the industry not only stay updated on what's happening in the AI space but also learn how to effectively implement it? How is AI transforming project design, management, and delivery in the AEC industry? Is AI seen as a powerful tool for organizations, but easier to start using for personal productivity? What should AEC firms consider when adopting AI and other emerging technologies? Which AI tools have made the biggest impact on productivity in the AEC industry, and why? How does the level of input, whether it’s low for personal AI tools or higher for enterprise-wide AI systems, impact the success and results you achieve? How can smaller firms with limited resources benefit from AI technologies? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How AI and BIM Are Setting New Standards for Project Design and Delivery: Professionals can stay updated by using free AI tool databases and following industry updates on platforms like LinkedIn. They can effectively implement AI by identifying specific challenges, selecting tools that solve real problems, and ensuring their teams are equipped with the right knowledge and training. AI transforms project design, management, and delivery by streamlining workflows, solving common pain points, and improving efficiency for architects, engineers, and construction professionals. It enhances productivity, optimizes processes, and integrates seamlessly with tools like BIM to set new standards for quality and sustainability. AI is a powerful tool for organizations, but it is easier to adopt for personal productivity first. Tools like ChatGPT and Loom help individuals simplify daily tasks, offering quick improvements that serve as a foundation for broader AI adoption within organizations. AEC firms should focus on identifying their most significant challenges and bottlenecks before adopting AI. By addressing specific issues first, firms can choose tools that deliver real improvements, avoid unnecessary complexity, and ensure a smooth integration process across the organization. AI tools like ChatGPT and Loom improve productivity by automating routine tasks such as note-taking and communication. Platforms like Speckle enhance data sharing for large-scale projects, while tools like Substrata improve client interactions by analyzing communication and providing actionable insights. The level of input significantly impacts the results. Personal AI tools require minimal effort and deliver quick improvements in time savings and task efficiency. Enterprise-wide systems demand greater planning and investment but provide transformative results that improve workflows, collaboration, and long-term business outcomes. Smaller firms can benefit by mapping out their daily processes and identifying repetitive tasks for automation. Simple, affordable AI tools for tasks like email, data management, and presentations help improve efficiency and save time, delivering noticeable results without significant costs or complexity. More Details in This Episode… About the Guest: Stjepan Mikulić Stjepan is the founder of AI in AEC, a company that educates architects, engineers, and construction professionals in the practical use of AI. Although young, this company has clients in 54 countries across the entire globe!

    26 min

  4. 16/12/2024

    The Powerful Impact Tech Has on Modern Building Assessments – Ep 061

    In this episode, I talk with Stanley Stoll, M.Eng., P.E., DFE, CFEI, CVFI, CEO and principal engineer at Knott Laboratory, about how AI and advanced scanning tools are revolutionizing building assessments, construction defect investigations, and the future of structural engineering. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Stanley: How are new technologies and standards making building assessments safer and more effective? How do advanced scanning technologies provide a complete picture of a building's condition over time? What is the NCSEA subcommittee doing to include new technology in standard building assessments? How are state agencies and updated building codes encouraging the use of new technology for building safety? What challenges do engineers face when adopting new technology, and how can they overcome them? What final piece of advice would you give to AEC professionals on using technology and standards to improve building safety? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About the Powerful Impact Tech Has on Modern Building Assessments: New technologies such as thermal cameras, LiDAR scanners, and 3D modeling transform how engineers detect and address structural issues like water infiltration and degradation. These tools enable safer and more precise building assessments by delivering actionable insights that support effective solutions and improve structural resilience. Advanced scanning technologies like laser scanning provide a complete view of structural conditions by linking multiple floors and identifying misalignment or differential movements with accuracy. This approach allows engineers to conduct more thorough building assessments, saving time and reducing costs compared to traditional methods. The NCSEA subcommittee integrates tools like laser scanning and AI into standardized building assessments, helping engineers adopt advanced methods for precise data collection and analysis. These initiatives improve the thoroughness and efficiency of building evaluations while addressing the industry's changing demands. State agencies and updated building codes introduce mandatory inspections and milestone assessments, promoting the use of technologies like thermal cameras and laser scanning. These tools ensure compliance with safety standards, lower costs for building owners, and provide reliable data for addressing structural concerns. Engineers face challenges such as time constraints and adapting to unfamiliar tools when incorporating new technologies. Overcoming these challenges involves adopting a growth mindset, embracing continuous learning, and making small, consistent improvements to remain effective and efficient in a rapidly evolving industry. AEC professionals benefit by staying curious, pursuing improvements, and using resources like podcasts, industry organizations, and conferences to explore new tools and strategies. By combining advanced technology with clear communication and a focus on client needs, they deliver impactful solutions that enhance building safety and resilience. More Details in This Episode… About Stanley Stoll, M.Eng., P.E., DFE, CFEI, CVFI Mr. Stoll is CEO and principal engineer at Knott Laboratory, a multidisciplinary team of structural and mechanical engineers, accident reconstruction, and visualization experts who provide forensic engineering and visualization services. Based in Denver, the company has worked on over 22,000 cases nationwide. Mr. Stoll is a forensic structural engineer and board-certified diplomat through the National Academy of Forensic Engineers. He regularly serves as an expert witness, particularly in construction defect cases.

    30 min

  5. 09/12/2024

    Why Innovative Technology Is the Future of Public Infrastructure Management – Ep 060

    In this episode, I talk with Peter Vanderzee, president and CEO of LifeSpan Technologies, about the hurdles of introducing innovative technology to public infrastructure and the transformative breakthroughs driving the industry's future. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Peter: Can you explain what structural monitoring is and how it benefits public infrastructure owners? Did you think introducing structural monitoring to bridge owners would be a straightforward process? Given the long sales cycle for this innovative technology, how did you secure approval for your first projects? How has your approach to selling structural monitoring changed from when you started to now, with more clients and case studies? What lessons from your first projects have you applied to your marketing and sales strategies? Did LifeSpan's patented sensor technology help or challenge your early efforts to gain traction in the AEC industry? What have you learned over the years about handling data transmission, storage, and analysis, and presenting it effectively to clients? How do you ensure the collected data is analyzed and presented in a way that infrastructure owners understand and value? What role do you see structural monitoring playing in the future of public infrastructure? What advice would you give to engineers and professionals looking to innovate and introduce new technologies in their field? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Why Innovative Technology Is the Future of Public Infrastructure Management: Structural monitoring uses sensors to collect accurate, real-time data, addressing the limitations of traditional visual inspections, which are often subjective and overly conservative. This approach enables infrastructure owners to make informed decisions, optimize maintenance, and reduce unnecessary costs. Introducing structural monitoring requires a long-term commitment to building trust and demonstrating tangible results. By focusing on delivering measurable benefits, the technology steadily gains acceptance among bridge owners. Early projects are secured by addressing critical challenges like load-restricted bridges, which disrupt communities and increase costs. Demonstrating clear cost savings and practical solutions establishes confidence in the value of structural monitoring. The approach evolves from educating clients about the technology to using proven case studies and results to showcase its value. This focus on addressing specific client needs strengthens relationships and supports long-term success. Highlighting measurable outcomes, such as extending service life and reducing costs, becomes a key part of marketing. Focusing on clear returns on investment and actionable insights makes the technology more appealing to infrastructure owners. LifeSpan’s patented technology plays a pivotal role in separating thermal effects from live load impacts, providing clearer and more reliable data. This innovation demonstrates structural safety margins effectively, earning the trust of engineers and infrastructure owners. Experienced engineering firms analyze the collected data to ensure accuracy and reliability. Presenting insights in a clear, actionable format helps infrastructure owners confidently address safety and financial priorities. Combining advanced monitoring systems with experienced engineering analysis ensures accurate interpretation. Presenting the data in accessible formats allows infrastructure owners to make informed and effective decisions. Structural monitoring continues to be vital for extending the life of aging infrastructure and optimizing maintenance st...

    36 min

  6. 02/12/2024

    Data Centers at the Heart of Energy Innovation – Ep 059

    In this episode, I talk with Chad Daniel, vice president and Nexus sales manager at Stanley Consultants, about the role of data centers in driving energy innovation. We explore key trends, challenges, and the transformative impact of AI and renewable energy on the future of power. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Chad: What changes are utilities and power producers experiencing, and how is this impacting the power engineering industry? How much additional power will need to be produced to meet the growing demand? Can you explain the timeline difference between building data centers and the infrastructure needed to power them? Aside from data centers, what other trends in power generation are driving demand and adding to the challenges? What shifts are happening in the business of building new data centers, especially in terms of market trends? Do you think renewable energy will eventually be able to fully meet the energy demands of data centers? From Stanley’s perspective, what professional services are essential for meeting the infrastructure needs of data centers? How can we balance the benefits of AI and big data with the environmental and other impacts of data centers? What final piece of advice would you give to AEC professionals and companies adapting to this rapidly changing space? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Data Centers at the Heart of Energy Innovation: Utilities and power producers experience a sharp increase in energy demand driven by AI data centers and electrification trends. This rapid growth pushes them to adapt quickly, managing challenges like long infrastructure timelines, supply chain constraints, and extending the life of existing energy sources such as coal and nuclear plants. Data centers are expected to grow from consuming 4% of U.S. electricity today to 9% by the 2030s, effectively doubling demand. This expansion requires significant energy production and infrastructure to meet both immediate and long-term needs. Data centers can typically be built in 12–36 months, but the infrastructure required to power them, like transmission lines, takes over seven years to complete. This timeline gap adds complexity to meeting rising demand. Electrification trends, including reshoring manufacturing to the U.S., increased adoption of electric vehicles, and the use of heat pumps in homes, drive energy demand. Combined with data centers, these trends significantly amplify the need for reliable and affordable energy. There is an increasing emphasis on securing utility connections and building onsite power generation to meet energy needs. Bridging solutions, such as low-carbon fuels, address immediate demands while facilitating a transition to renewable energy over time. Renewable energy sources, including solar, hydrogen, and modular nuclear reactors, are expected to meet the long-term energy needs of data centers. However, short-term reliability depends on bridging solutions like transitioning natural gas fleets to hydrogen while renewable infrastructure develops. Meeting data center demand requires comprehensive engineering services, such as land acquisition, permitting, and designing resilient infrastructure for power and water systems. These efforts ensure data centers operate with reliable energy and cooling systems. AI and big data deliver significant societal benefits, such as optimizing emergency services and supporting critical infrastructure, outweighing their environmental impacts. Achieving balance involves using renewable energy, improving efficiency, and maintaining robust infrastructure. AEC professionals focus on meaningful projects and ...

    17 min

  7. 25/11/2024

    How to Build Smarter With Paperless Construction Innovation in AEC – Ep 058

    In this episode, I talk with Hamzah Shanbari, Director of Innovation at Haskell, about driving paperless construction and innovation in AEC through cutting-edge technologies transforming project design, planning, and execution. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Hamzah: What are the main reasons driving the move toward paperless construction? What are the biggest benefits of switching to paperless construction? How do you handle challenges like resistance to change or the learning curve when adopting construction technology? What does a culture of innovation mean to you in the construction industry? How do you encourage innovation within your teams, especially on long-term projects at Haskell? How do you build a strong business case for executives to support and invest in new technology? How do you think leadership roles are changing as construction becomes more focused on technology and innovation? What role does sustainability play in shaping the future of construction technology? What final piece of advice would you give engineers and professionals in the AEC industry who want to innovate and grow in their careers? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Build Smarter With Paperless Construction Innovation in AEC: The move toward paperless construction focuses on eliminating outdated, inefficient processes such as paper-based workflows and disconnected communication methods. Modern technologies enhance communication, improve safety, and create a more efficient and sustainable work environment. Switching to paperless construction improves safety, streamlines communication, tracks progress effectively, and mitigates risks by replacing outdated methods with efficient, data-driven systems. These advancements increase productivity and deliver better project outcomes. Overcoming resistance to change requires showing individuals how the new technology benefits them personally, rather than focusing solely on organizational gains. Organic adoption, driven by user experiences and positive feedback, proves more effective than a top-down approach. A culture of innovation prioritizes psychological safety, ensuring employees feel secure adopting new technologies without fear of job loss. This approach supports creativity, collaboration, and team motivation, driving productivity and satisfaction through meaningful technological implementation. At Haskell, initiatives like the "Big Pitch" event promote company-wide innovation by enabling employees to pitch ideas, develop business plans, and present them for funding. This structured approach empowers employees to contribute to impactful change and has led to patents, internal products, and marketable solutions. A strong business case aligns employee-identified challenges with solutions that match the company’s strategic goals. Communicating effectively in both technical and business terms ensures executives recognize the value and potential returns of their investments. Leadership in a technology-driven industry involves placing the right people in key roles and giving them the autonomy to make decisions. Leaders concentrate on removing obstacles, supporting collaboration, and building an environment where innovation thrives through trust and clear communication. Sustainability plays a key role in reducing construction's carbon footprint and material waste. Technologies that improve design efficiency, optimize material use, and minimize onsite waste are vital for creating environmentally responsible and resource-efficient construction practices. Incremental improvements are the foundation for long-term innovation.

    27 min

  8. 18/11/2024

    How to Integrate Digital Tech for Business Success – Ep 057

    In this episode, I talk with Bob Cotton, independent consultant, executive coach, and chair of The Anne Robson Trust, about how organizations can integrate digital tech for business success, the challenges SME boards face, and the role of digital innovation in healthcare. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Bob: How can organizations adopt and use digital technology effectively to get the most value from it? What challenges do SME boards face with digital technology, and how can they overcome them? How can organizations encourage a culture of innovation to stay competitive? How does focusing on the customer help make digital technology initiatives successful, and how can companies ensure they provide value through technology? How do you build and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure project success? What do organizations need to do to get the most value from their tech investments, and what strategies help maximize returns? What final piece of advice would you give engineers and tech professionals who want to excel in their careers by using digital technology to drive change? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Integrate Digital Tech for Business Success: Organizations focus on aligning digital technology with clear business objectives. They understand both the potential of technology and the specific changes it can drive within their current resources. SME boards often face challenges due to limited resources, but by aligning technology with business goals and understanding its operational impact, they can overcome these hurdles. Engaging stakeholders early and focusing on measurable outcomes is key. Organizations promote innovation in digital technology by starting with small, impactful projects that deliver quick wins. This approach builds momentum, demonstrates value, and strengthens relationships with clients, vendors, and partners for long-term success. Focusing on the customer ensures that digital initiatives address real needs and provide value. Companies align their technology goals with customer outcomes and maintain strong, collaborative relationships to drive success. Strong relationships come from collaboration, clear communication, and shared goals. Successful stakeholder management creates a sense of partnership, helping organizations work through challenges and achieve common objectives. To maximize returns on digital technology investments, organizations establish a clear strategy with measurable outcomes and implement a solid risk management process. Involving stakeholders from the start and regularly reviewing progress ensures projects stay on track and deliver value. Engineers and tech professionals must prioritize achieving business outcomes, actively seek support when necessary, and cultivate strong, collaborative relationships. Successfully leveraging digital technology demands a clear understanding of its role in driving meaningful organizational change. More Details in This Episode… About Bob Cotton Bob Cotton is a seasoned consultant and executive coach with a passion for leveraging technology to drive business success and societal impact. With decades of senior leadership experience in international technology and consulting firms, Bob specializes in guiding global executives, leaders, and managers through the challenges of integrating technology effectively within their organizations. As a consultant, Bob works closely with clients to overcome obstacles, unlock potential, and achieve both personal and business goals. His expertise extends to advising private equity organizations on the technolo...

    23 min
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The AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast (AECTECH) provides information about technology in the AEC industry. Nick Heim, PE, a field, sales, and VDC engineer hosts the podcast. The show features experts discussing different technologies and how and when to use them, to help AEC professionals and their firms save time and money.

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