The ConTechCrew

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample sits down with Colin Piper to discuss the rapid adoption of AI in the construction industry. They explore Build Ops’ latest report on AI in commercial contracting, highlighting key trends and challenges faced by trade contractors. The episode discusses how AI is transforming workflows, tackling burnout and labor shortages, and increasing efficiency in the industry. The duo also reflects on the importance of data, training, and the need for ongoing investment to ensure AI’s success in the trade sector.
Colin Piper is the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at BuildOps, a leading company in construction technology. With over 20 years of experience in the AEC (architecture, engineering, and construction) industry, Colin has worked with Autodesk, where he helped build marketing teams and led their construction tech initiatives. Now at BuildOps, he continues his mission to transform the industry through innovative technology, particularly focusing on the adoption of AI.

Key Takeaways
Why Trade contractors are already using AI, and how is it changing their workflows
How the Pivot Point report challenges the common perception about AI adoption in commercial contracting
Rising burnout and a shortage of skilled labor affecting both field workers and back-office teams
How AI helps streamline repetitive tasks on job sites, and what impact it has on tradespeople
Effective AI adoption requires a strong data infrastructure and ongoing investment in training

Timestamps
[00:00] - Episode Introduction
[01:43] - Colin Piper’s Background
[04:05] - The Pivot Point Report
[08:20] - Rising Burnout & Labor Shortages
[11:15] - AI Adoption in the Trades
[14:01] - AI’s Usage & Impact on Efficiency
[18:52] - Data Infrastructure & Training
[25:54] - The Future of the Trades
[38:34] - Closing Remarks & Resources

Follow Colin Piper:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-t-piper/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ctpiper/

Follow BuildOps:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildops/
Website: https://buildops.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoBuildOps
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobuildops/
X: https://x.com/gobuildops

The Pivot Point Report: 
https://buildops.com/resources/the-trades-are-at-a-pivot-point/
https://buildops.com/lp/kickstand-report/

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 
X: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew

In this special year-end episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample gathers the crew Jonathan Marsh, Travis Voss, and Nathan Wood. Together, they reflect on the events, challenges, and advancements in the construction technology industry throughout 2025. From AI's growing dominance to the evolution of prefab construction, the team discusses key trends, frustrations, and the industry's trajectory toward 2026. They also talk about mergers and acquisitions, data-driven innovations, and shifting labor dynamics.

The crew is cautiously optimistic about 2026, with a focus on how construction technology will mature and how companies can better harness data and AI for future success. There’s a call for more collaboration and understanding between trades, along with the importance of innovation in scaling prefab construction.

Key Takeaways
The team discusses how the year felt like "a dumpster fire", but also a time for growth and transition.
They highlight the increasing role of AI and data in construction, especially for data-driven contractors.
Prefabrication and modular construction have gained momentum, especially in mechanical and electrical trades. 
Major M&A activity in 2025 is seen as a response to the need for scalability, innovation, and risk management.
The crew shares their thoughts on the future, a hopeful look toward collaboration and data-driven success in 2026.

Timestamps
[00:00] - Introduction to the Year in Review
[01:12] - Reflecting on 2025: The Year of the Dumpster Fire
[02:11] - Key Themes: AI, Megaprojects, and Uncertainty
[03:54] - Inflated Expectations and the Hype Around AI
[06:35] - The Rise of Data-Empowered Contractors
[09:03] - From Data Collection to Data Utilization
[11:23] - Importance of Normalizing Digital Literacy
[16:56] - The Surge of Prefabrication and Modular Construction
[20:01] - Labor Shortages and the Role of Prefabrication
[23:45] - Cross-Trade Collaboration for Innovation
[32:56] - Mergers and Acquisitions in the Construction Industry
[39:21] - The Impact of Mergers: Long-Term and Short-Term Effects
[45:12] - Final Thoughts and Outlook for 2026

Follow Travis Voss & Company
LinkedIn: 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 & Company
LinkedIn: 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 & Company
LinkedIn: 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

Disclaimer: This episode is a rerun of a previously aired conversation, but the insights on AI and technology’s role in construction remain timely and incredibly relevant.

In this exciting episode of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample is joined by Usman Shuja, CEO of Bluebeam, to explore how AI and technology are transforming the construction industry. With extensive experience in AI development across high-stakes industries, Usman shares his unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that digital transformation brings to construction. 

The conversation explores the importance of respecting domain expertise, managing change effectively, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI. Usman also provides a sneak peek into Bluebeam’s 2025 strategy and discusses how AI can improve construction productivity, all while navigating the potential risks of unregulated AI in the industry.

Key Takeaways
Understanding how AI is reshaping the construction industry and the potential it holds for the future.
The need to balance technology with the deep knowledge and expertise of construction professionals.
How construction firms can successfully navigate digital transformation and implement new technologies.
A look into how Bluebeam approaches the use of AI responsibly within the industry.
What lies ahead for AI in construction, including both its benefits and potential pitfalls.

Timestamps
[00:49] – From IBM to Bluebeam
[03:52] – Lessons from AI Development
[07:39] – Unique Challenges in Construction’s Value Chain
[10:12] – Change Management Strategies
[13:16] – Bluebeam’s 2025 “Five I’s” Strategy
[19:25] – Ethical AI Practices in Construction
[25:26] – Potential Pitfalls of Unregulated AI
[29:55] – Ethical Dilemmas in Autonomous AI Decision-Making
[31:12] – AI’s Impact on Construction Productivity
[36:17] – Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways

Follow Usman Shuja & Company:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/usmanshuja/ 
Website (Company): https://www.bluebeam.com/ 
LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/bluebeam-software/ 
Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/bluebeam/ 
Twitter (Company): https://x.com/bluebeam 
Youtube (Company): https://www.youtube.com/@bluebeaminc 
Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/bluebeam_inc/#

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

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 Takeaways
Celebrating 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/tooeyprocore
Website (Company): https://www.procore.com/en-sg
LinkedIn (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

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 Takeaways
The 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 & Company
LinkedIn: 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 & Company
LinkedIn: 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 & Company
LinkedIn: 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