The ConTechCrew

Jeff Sample
  • 4.6 (71)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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. AI and Leadership Are Transforming the Construction Industry with Tooey Courtemanche

    5D AGO

    AI and Leadership Are Transforming the Construction Industry with Tooey Courtemanche

    Disclaimer: This episode is a rerun of a previously aired conversation, but the insights remain as relevant and powerful as ever. Enjoy this timeless discussion on the evolution of construction and the role of technology in shaping its future. In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample sits down with Tooey Courtemanche, CEO of Procore Technologies, for an enlightening discussion on the construction industry's transformation over the past decade. Tooey offers a unique perspective on how technology has reshaped the sector, the role of leadership in driving innovation, and the growing importance of mental health awareness within the industry. Tooey also shares the story behind Procore's journey, reflecting on key trends that have impacted construction and giving a sneak peek into what the future holds. The episode is packed with valuable knowledge and forward-thinking ideas for seasoned construction professionals.  Key TakeawaysCelebrating ten years of innovation in construction and what's on the horizon for the industry.Why learning to prioritize is essential for success in construction tech.The critical need for mental health initiatives and the role companies can play in supporting well-being.How cutting-edge technology is changing the way construction projects are planned and executed.The impact of technology on the next generation of construction professionals. Timestamps[00:29] – Setting the Stage [06:55] – Leadership Lessons from Reagan’s White House [11:35] – Embracing Competition to Drive Innovation [16:29] – The Evolution of Construction Technology [27:02] – Leveraging AI for Predictive Insights [40:32] – Mental Health Awareness in Construction [46:04] – Closing Thoughts & Looking Ahead Follow The Guest & Company:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tooey Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tooeyc/Twitter: https://x.com/tooeyprocoreWebsite (Company): https://www.procore.com/en-sgLinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/procore-technologies/ Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/procore.tech Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/procoretech/ Follow the Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/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: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew

    50 min
  2. Top Holiday Tech Gifts for Construction Pros to Stay Healthy and Energized with The Construction Dorks

    DEC 16

    Top Holiday Tech Gifts for Construction Pros to Stay Healthy and Energized with The Construction Dorks

    In this holiday special of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample returns with the construction dorks for a hosts-only episode to share their favorite tech and wellness gift ideas for the construction dorks in your life. From wearables and recovery tools to retro gaming consoles and DIY robot arms, this fun-filled episode looks into a wide range of geeky, practical, and wellness-focused gifts that blend construction life with tech enthusiasm. The crew also reflects on the importance of rest, play, and giving time during the holiday season. This episode features the full lineup: Jeff Sample, Jonathan Marsh, Travis Voss, and Nathan Wood. These construction technology veterans and self-proclaimed dorks bring their personal favorites and gadget obsessions to the table, each offering a mix of insight, humor, and holiday spirit rooted in years of experience in the construction tech industry. Key TakeawaysThe best wearables for health tracking, including Oura Ring, WHOOP, and Google Pixel Watch.The benefits of cold plunges and recovery tools like Hyperice compression sleeves and portable saunas.Fun and affordable tech gadgets for BIM professionals and construction nerds, from Bluetooth beanies to 3D printing pens.Retro and DIY gift ideas like robot arms, label makers, and retro gaming systems.Thoughtful advice on rest, play, and intentional gift-giving during the holiday season. Timestamps[00:32] – Host Introductions and Holiday Rants [05:04] – Wearables for Health and Recovery [10:43] – Cold Plunge and Sauna Gift Ideas [15:10] – Affordable Tech Stocking Stuffers [18:31] – Noise-Canceling Headphones and Travel Tech [23:45] – Robot Arms and DIY Tech Toys [26:31] – Retro Gaming Consoles and Play at Work [29:35] – Novelty Gifts and Bourbon Dispensers [32:08] – Wellness Subscriptions and Mental Health [34:57] – Final Reflections: Rest, Time, and Play Follow Travis Voss & CompanyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travis-voss/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/travis.voss.336 Website: https://www.constructiondorks.com/ LinkedIn(Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/smacna/ Website(Company): https://www.smacna.org/ Facebook(Company): https://www.facebook.com/SMACNA Twitter(Company): https://x.com/smacna Instagram(Company): https://www.instagram.com/smacna/  Follow Jonathan Marsh & CompanyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdmsteeltoe LinkedIn(Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/steel-toe-consulting-llc/ Website: https://www.steeltoeconsulting.com/  Follow Nathan Wood & CompanyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanaec/ LinkedIn(Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/spectrumaec/Twitter(company): https://x.com/spectrumaec? Follow the Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/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: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew

    38 min
  3. The Silos Breaking in Construction for Superintendents to Align Planning and VDC with Ross Helleberg

    DEC 9

    The Silos Breaking in Construction for Superintendents to Align Planning and VDC with Ross Helleberg

    In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample sits down with industry experts Ross Helleberg and Alex Belkofer from McCarthy Building Company. They discuss how their teams are pushing the boundaries of scheduling, planning, and virtual design and construction (VDC). They also explore the integration of advanced scheduling methodologies like Takt and Last Planner, the value of visual planning, and how these practices contribute to smoother project delivery and stronger collaboration between the office and the field. Ross Helleberg has been with McCarthy Building Company for 14 years, starting his career in the field and moving into a leadership role in scheduling. Alex Belkofer is McCarthy's Senior Director of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC), where he plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between the pre-construction and operations phases. Key TakeawaysThe integration of advanced scheduling methods to improve efficiency on large-scale projects.How McCarthy uses 4D scheduling to visualize project progress and integrate planning and construction teams.The concept of Visual Planning and how it enhances communication on projects.The evolution of digital delivery in construction and how McCarthy is leading the charge with tools like 4D planning.The power of building strong relationships within the team and with leadership to ensure project success. Timestamps[01:46] - Ross’s background and role at McCarthy [04:36] - Alex introduces his role in VDC [05:54] - Why schedulers need to be on-site [10:08] - Integrating Takt and Last Planner systems [11:58] - Visual planning and 4D scheduling [16:04] - Success story of first visual planning project [24:20] - Leadership support and planning time [30:11] - Evolving with digital tools and virtual planning [34:21] - Spreading innovation beyond McCarthy [40:02] - Final thoughts on planning and scheduling evolution Follow Alex Belkofer:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexbelkofer/ Follow Ross Helleberg:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ross-helleberg-433a6a7b/ Follow McCarthy Building Companies:Website: https://www.mccarthy.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mccarthy-building-companies-inc/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mccarthybuild/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mccarthybuilding/YouTube: https://youtube.com/@mccarthybuilding?si=8F6XN14s4uOCxvA6Follow the Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/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: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew

    46 min
  4. What Feeding 1500 Workers Taught Construction Leaders About Efficiency with Scott Kaplan

    DEC 2

    What Feeding 1500 Workers Taught Construction Leaders About Efficiency with Scott Kaplan

    In this episode of The ConTech Crew, the hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood are joined by Scott Kaplan of Jerry's Kitchen, a mobile catering service that specializes in feeding large-scale construction projects, including data centers and remote job sites. Scott shares the journey of how Jerry's Kitchen evolved from a traditional food truck to a high-efficiency, mobile catering solution for industries that require food service at scale, especially in hard-to-reach areas.  With a unique focus on feeding construction crews efficiently and at scale, Jerry's Kitchen has become a game-changer for companies looking to keep their workforce nourished and productive. Scott talks about the challenges of feeding 1,500 people in 30 minutes and how they use technology to predict and plan their catering operations. Key TakeawaysHow Scott transitioned from a traditional food truck to providing large-scale, mobile catering solutionsWhy predictability and efficiency are key in delivering high-quality meals for construction workersThe concept of a "micro niche" and how focusing on the construction industry led to successHow Jerry’s Kitchen helps boost productivity and morale on construction sites by providing nourishing, timely mealsThe positive side effects of construction projects on local economies and communities Timestamps[00:43] - Introduction to Scott Kaplan and Jerry's Kitchen [02:50] - Scott shares his background and how Jerry's Kitchen started [04:47] - Transitioning from food truck to catering and the importance of efficiency [08:51] - Focusing on large construction projects and the data center sector [11:40] - Feeding 1,500 people in 30 minutes: logistics and planning [15:52] - The importance of predictability in food service and construction [17:40] - Parallel between food service and construction operations [19:56] - How Jerry’s Kitchen improves employee culture and community impact [27:25] - Scott discusses the impact of data centers on local economies and education [31:17] - Scott's pitch: national presence and custom catering for construction sites Follow the Guest:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_iamnotachef_/ Follow the Company:Website: https://www.jerrys-kitchen.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerrysfoodtruck/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jerrysfoodtruckYouTube: https://youtube.com/@scottkaplan5721?si=gRpD5dP_J_xTSMhMFollow the Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/Follow the Co-Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanaec/ 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: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew

    41 min
  5. FREETO: Building a Career Toward CTO in Construction with Jen Clark

    NOV 25

    FREETO: Building a Career Toward CTO in Construction with Jen Clark

    In this special re-release of The ConTech Crew Podcast, we're revisiting a powerful crossover episode from FreeTo CTO series, where hosts Jeff Sample and Trent Leinenbach are joined by Jen Clark, Project Integration Manager at General Sheet Metal. This conversation remains just as relevant today, diving into how unconventional career paths and curiosity-driven problem-solving can foster a new wave of construction technology leaders. Jen Clark is the Project Integration Manager at General Sheet Metal, a Portland-based mechanical contractor with nearly 100 years in business. With a background in civil engineering, Jen carved her own path from software support to field engineering, eventually stepping into a self-defined tech leadership role. Whether you missed it the first time or want to revisit Jen’s inspiring journey, this episode offers timeless insights into low-code innovation, managing shadow IT, and bridging the divide between operations and IT in the construction industry. Expect to LearnHow Jen transitioned from field engineering to a tech leadership role without formal tech training.What it means to act as a “human API” in a construction setting.Practical lessons from building low-code applications for project and data management.Strategies to drive tech adoption and gain executive support.How to handle shadow IT while fostering innovation in smaller firms. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps[00:00] - Introduction [01:21] - FreeTO Series by Construction Dorks [04:40] - Jen’s Unconventional Career Path [06:49] - Building a Role from Curiosity: Project Integration Manager [15:22] - Lessons from Low-Code App Development [19:01] - Jen Outlines Her Decision-Making Framework [26:57] - Collaboration and Strategic Growth [32:09] - Digital Transformation in the Fabrication Shop [37:22] - Selling Vision to Leadership [41:06] - Final Thoughts Follow the Guest & CompanyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferaclark1/LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/general-sheet-metal/Website (Company): https://www.gsmw.com/Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/generalsheetmetal/Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/GeneralSheetMetal1932# Follow the Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/Follow the Co-Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-leinenbach-plmb-466018177/Company: https://www.stratus.build/Blog: https://www.constructiondorks.com/Follow The ConTech Crew:Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/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: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew

    43 min
  6. The Future of Construction Scheduling for GCs to Improve with AI using Planera - Nitin Bhandari

    NOV 18

    The Future of Construction Scheduling for GCs to Improve with AI using Planera - Nitin Bhandari

    In this episode of The ConTech Crew, the hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood sit down with Nitin Bhandari, Co-founder of Planera, to discuss the transformative impact of technology on construction scheduling. Nitin shares how his journey from hardware engineering to software entrepreneurship led him to tackle one of the industry's biggest pain points: scheduling inefficiencies. The discussion covers the vision behind Planera, how they are revolutionizing scheduling, and the future of construction planning with AI and data-driven insights. Nitin Bhandari is the Co-founder and CEO of Planera, a platform designed to transform how construction projects are scheduled. Nitin started his career as an electrical engineer and later moved into software entrepreneurship, co-founding two successful software companies before diving into the construction tech world. Partnering with a general contractor, Nitin identified a massive scheduling gap in construction and built Planera to solve this issue. Key TakeawaysThe challenges in construction scheduling and how Planera bridges the gapHow AI and natural language processing will soon allow users to interact with schedulesThe approach of moving scheduling from a “compliance tool” to a “business decision tool”How Planera integrates high-level schedules with day-to-day field activities to create a seamless flow of dataHow Planera is using AI to automate scheduling tasks and provide actionable insights Timestamps[00:00] - Episode Introduction [02:04] - Nitin’s background and journey into construction tech [04:33] - The challenge of scheduling in construction and how Planera is solving it [08:14] - How Planera is democratizing scheduling for more stakeholders [10:15] - Connecting field schedules with office schedules for seamless data flow [15:21] - The cultural shift from compliance to business decision-making [18:03] - The impact of mission-critical projects like data centers on scheduling [26:07] - The role of AI and natural language processing in scheduling optimization [33:59] - Planera’s portfolio-level planning for better resource management [37:55] - Connect with Nitin and Planera Follow the Guest & The Company:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nitin-bhandari/Website: https://www.planera.io/LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/planera-inc/Follow the Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/Follow the Co-Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanaec/ 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: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew

    39 min
  7. How Field Robotics Are Protecting Workers & Solving Deadly Risks in Construction with Tyler Williams

    NOV 11

    How Field Robotics Are Protecting Workers & Solving Deadly Risks in Construction with Tyler Williams

    In this episode of The ConTech Crew, the hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood chat with Tyler Williams from DPR Construction. He returns to discuss the latest advancements in robotics on construction sites, how they're being integrated into the field, and their potential to revolutionize the industry. Tyler shares insights on the challenges and opportunities robotics presents, particularly in reducing risks, improving efficiency, and enhancing the experience for frontline workers. Tyler Williams is a part of the Corporate Innovation team at DPR Construction, where he focuses on field innovation and robotics. With a background as a union carpenter and superintendent, Tyler is deeply connected with the field workforce and works to bring innovative technologies to improve their safety and efficiency. Key TakeawaysThe role of robotics in reducing ergonomic strain on construction workers and improving their experience on-site.How teleoperated robots are being used for high-risk tasks, such as electrical shutdowns and working in confined spaces.The use of material-moving robots to improve efficiency on construction sites, reducing the need for heavy lifting and manual labor.The future of AI in construction, particularly in construction management and project coordination.Challenges of integrating new technologies into the construction field and how innovation teams can support adoption.Examples of innovative technologies, like wind-resistant crane systems, that improve safety and efficiency. Timestamps[00:00] - Episode Introduction [01:38] - Tyler’s role at DPR Construction [05:08] - Working with the self-perform work group at DPR [06:44] - Examples of robotic solutions, like Hardhat Robotics and its applications [12:22] - Insights on the potential of material movers [15:10] - The focus on safety and how robots are reducing high-risk tasks [19:46] - Ergo Robotics and interior construction planning [29:57] - Discussing the future of AI in construction management [38:12] - Closing thoughts and final message Follow the Guest & The Company:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-williams-74203788/LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/dpr-construction-inc/Website (Company): https://www.dpr.com/Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/dprconstruction/?hl=enFacebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/DPRConstruction/Twitter (Company): https://x.com/DPRConstructionFollow the Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/Follow the Co-Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanaec/ 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: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew

    40 min
  8. How Contractors Fix Preconstruction Chaos to Replace Excel and Boost Margins with Don Tiefenbrunn

    NOV 4

    How Contractors Fix Preconstruction Chaos to Replace Excel and Boost Margins with Don Tiefenbrunn

    In this episode of The ConTech Crew, the host Jeff Sample talks with Don Tiefenbrunn and Steve Botz from RMOne about why current ERPs overlook pre-construction needs and how RMOne was born out of real-world challenges faced by construction professionals. They explore the fundamental shift in how construction companies approach technology, starting with pre-construction. Don Tiefenbrunn is a seasoned architect turned construction leader who co-founded RMOne after decades in the industry. His firsthand frustrations with fragmented data systems led him to build a unified ERP that starts at the very beginning: pre-construction. Steve Botz brings a tech-centric perspective, having worked in real estate and construction tech. He joined RMOne to help scale the solution and bring its grounded, craftsman-built approach to more companies. Key TakeawaysWhy pre-construction is the most overlooked yet critical phase in project planning.How RMOne was built from scratch to solve real construction pain points.What "eating your own dog food" looks like in construction tech.The role of change management in rolling out new systems organization-wide.How small to mid-sized contractors can benefit from affordable, scalable ERP solutions. Timestamps[00:15] - Episode Kickoff & Guest Introductions [02:49] - Don’s Journey: From Architect to ERP Innovator [08:21] - Steve’s Background and Career Journey [10:25] - Iterating the Product: Feedback, Testing, and Rollouts [13:08] - Building Software from Real Construction Experience [15:53] - Going Commercial: Why RMOne Was Taken to Market [20:17] - Philosophy Behind RMOne: No VC Money, Just Mission [26:01] - Why Pre-Con Matters: Real-Life Scenarios & ROI [32:09] - Final Thoughts & How to Learn More About RMOne Follow Don Tiefenbrunn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dontiefenbrunn/ Follow Steve Botz:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevebotz/ Follow RMOne:Website: https://rmone.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rm-one/Follow the Host:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/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: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew

    35 min
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4.6
out of 5
71 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
    646
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2016 The ConTech Crew
  • Show Website
    The ConTechCrew

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