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 RMOneFollow 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
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How MEP Firms Stay 40 Percent Inefficient Without SOPs or Value Mapping with Thomas & Shaabini
In this episode of The ConTech Crew, the host Jeff Sample sits down with Thomas Santos and Shaabini Alford to explore the ongoing challenges and opportunities within construction operations, especially as they relate to process inefficiencies, technology adoption, and leadership. With decades of combined experience, the guests unpack how value stream mapping and lean practices can significantly improve how construction projects are delivered.Thomas Santos is a mechanical engineer, Six Sigma practitioner, and seasoned manufacturing and construction consultant with over 40 years of global experience. He brings a structured, lean-manufacturing mindset to the construction world. Shaabini Alford is a well-known figure in the MEP and MCAA community with over 20 years of industry experience. A former mechanical contractor turned consultant, she now leads peer groups and training initiatives at Maxim Consulting.Key TakeawaysWhy the "magic bullet" for construction inefficiencies is often hidden in plain sight.How value stream mapping (VSM) uncovers hidden waste and aligns cross-functional teams.Why writing down existing processes is the first step toward improvement.The pitfalls of over-customizing software and skipping standard operating procedures.How leadership and a mindset shift from blame to continuous improvement can transform operations.Timestamps[00:00] - Introduction and Setup[01:23] - Thomas Santos' Background[04:17] - Shaabini Alford’s Industry Journey[05:31] - What Is Maxim Consulting?[07:48] - Defining the Core Problem[10:03] - Software Misuse and Process Gaps[13:02] - The Real Power of Value Stream Mapping[16:42] - From Departments to Full Project Flow[19:53] - Measuring Efficiency Gains[23:17] - Debunking “Every Job is Unique”[26:23] - The Handoff Bottleneck[37:04] - Final TakeawaysFollow Thomas Santos:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-santos-3855824/Follow Shaabini Alford:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaabini-alford-0452346/Follow Maxim Consulting:Website: https://www.maximconsulting.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/maximconsultingllc/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maximconsultingllc/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
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39:46
How the Agent Builder Empowers Construction Teams to Codify Processes with Tooey Courtemanche
In this episode of The ConTech Crew, the host Jeff Sample sits down with Tooey Courtemanche from Procore to discuss exciting innovations in the construction industry, particularly the role of AI in improving project management and work-life balance. Tooey shares insights into Procore's latest advancements, including AI-driven tools and the integration of structured data. They explore how these developments are empowering field workers, improving efficiency, and setting the stage for a new era in construction technology.Tooey Courtemanche is the founder and CEO of Procore Technologies, a leading construction management software company. Tooey has played a central role in transforming how construction projects are managed by leveraging technology to improve efficiency, safety, and communication. Key TakeawaysThe significance of Procore’s Groundbreak event to showcase innovations and foster collaboration.How Procore is embracing generative AI to automate repetitive tasks while improving project outcomes.A discussion on the importance of structured data for construction management. How AI and technology are shifting traditional project management tasks.Why AI can bridge generational knowledge gaps, preserving expertise from retiring professionals and making it accessible.Timestamps[00:52] - Groundbreak Event & Industry Evolution[02:23] - Procore’s Vision for Empowering Construction Workers[03:42] - AI and the Future of Construction[06:11] - The Role of Data in Construction[07:56] - Agent Builder and Developer Studio[15:58] - The Importance of Process Mapping[19:17] - The Importance of Codifying Business Processes[23:27] - Bridging Knowledge Gaps with AI[27:58] - The Resilience of the Construction Industry[29:55] - Leadership and Vision for Procore’s Future[34:01] - Final Thoughts on Leadership and the IndustryFollow Tooey Courtemanche & CompanyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tooey LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/procore-technologies/ Website: https://www.procore.com/en-sg Twitter: https://x.com/tooeyprocore Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/procore.tech Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tooeyc/ 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
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37:02
The Industrial Shift in Construction for Contractors to Survive and Scale with Jonathan Marsh
In this episode of The ConTech Crew, the host Jeff Sample talks with Jonathan Marsh to reflect on their recent experiences at the 2025 MCAA Fabrication Conference. They discuss key takeaways from the event, including industry shifts in prefabrication, innovation in service and maintenance strategies, and the accelerating influence of AI and robotics on construction. With their trademark insight and candor, Jeff and Jonathan paint a dynamic picture of a rapidly evolving construction landscape.Jonathan Marsh is a respected construction technologist and thought leader known for driving digital transformation in the MEP space. He brings practical experience and sharp industry analysis, making him a regular voice on The ConTech Crew. Key TakeawaysWhy more contractors are sending new people to MCAA Fab and what that means for industry engagement.How Binsky and other innovators are pushing prefab practices closer to manufacturing standards.The role of innovation hubs like Conovate and Duggan Innovative Solutions in enabling transformation.The impact of AI and robotics in fabrication and how digital dexterity is progressing.Why the future of construction lies in choosing your lane, whether it's manufacturing, installation, or service, and owning it.Timestamps[00:00] - Episode Introduction[02:08] - Polling the Room: Data from the Fab Floor[03:52] - Innovation in Action: Binsky's Prefab Strategy[05:55] - Key Takeaways From The Event[07:57] - Disparities in Market Demand & the Labor Crisis[13:06] - Remote Work, AI, and Post-COVID Collaboration Shifts[17:12] - Adapting to Market Changes: Maintenance as a Growth Area[22:59] - Technology Consulting & Monetizing Innovation[28:33] - News Segment: Modular LNG Refineries & Robotics[37:29] - Leadership Shift: Procore Names New CEOFollow 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 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
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44:20
The Procurement Software for Contractors to Solve Real Pain & Scale into Acquisition with Or Lakritz
In this episode of The ConTech Crew, the hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood chat with Or Lakritz. Or shares the journey of StructShare, from its inception to its recent acquisition by Trimble. They discuss how this acquisition is reshaping procurement in the construction industry, the role of AI in construction technology, and how contractors and founders can innovate and solve real problems within the industry.Or Lakritz is the Co-founder of StructShare, a digital procurement platform built to solve procurement inefficiencies for contractors. Or has recently moved to Boulder, Colorado, after StructShare was acquired by Trimble. In this episode, he shares his entrepreneurial journey, the reasons behind the acquisition, and how Trimble’s platform is evolving to connect the digital and physical world in construction.Key TakeawaysHow StructShare streamlines procurement processes through digital solutions.Insights on why StructShare was acquired by Trimble and what it means for the company's future.How the construction tech landscape is shifting, with large players like Trimble, Procore, and Autodesk dominating.The evolution of procurement technology and how AI is enabling companies to solve complex problems.How contractors can begin to digitize simple workflows to improve efficiency.The importance of focusing on specific problems in the early stages of a startup.Timestamps[00:00] - Episode Introduction[00:38] - Guest Introduction[02:29] - Brief Background about Or’s Journey[04:15] - Structshare’s Acquisition By Trimble[05:02] - The Reasons Behind Choosing Trimble[06:05] - The Debate About Market Strategies In A Saturated Industry.[11:58] - AI And Market Shifts[16:06] - Changing The Procurement Process[19:35] - Core Transformational Steps Needed for the Future[27:50] - What’s Next at Trimble[31:52] - Advice For Contractors And Founders[40:31] - Final ThoughtsFollow the Guest & The Company:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orlakritz/LinkedIn (Trimble): https://www.linkedin.com/company/trimble/LinkedIn (StructShare): https://www.linkedin.com/company/structshare/Website (Trimble): https://www.trimble.com/enFacebook (Trimble): https://www.facebook.com/TrimbleCorporate/Facebook (StructShare): https://www.facebook.com/StructShare/Twitter (Trimble): https://x.com/TrimbleCorpNewsInstagram (Trimble): https://www.instagram.com/trimble_official/#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
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
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