The ConTechCrew

In this episode, hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood sit down with Bryan Guess to explore one of the most overlooked challenges in construction, technology, and business operations: mistaking symptoms for root causes. Drawing from his experience, Bryan explains why organizations often jump straight to solutions without first understanding the real problem they're trying to solve. The conversation explores systems thinking, organizational accountability, communication breakdowns, technology adoption, and why most operational problems are ultimately people and process problems. Bryan Guess is the founder of Bartizan Strategic Group, a consulting firm focused on helping organizations diagnose operational challenges, improve business systems, and solve complex organizational problems. Prior to launching Partizan, Bryan spent over a decade working with commercial building owners and AEC stakeholders, where he discovered that many challenges attributed to construction, engineering, or technology are actually universal business problems involving people, processes, incentives, and communication. Key TakeawaysWhy organizations often prescribe solutions before fully understanding the problem.How authority, accountability, and communication create recurring project failures.Why technology and software are rarely the root solution to operational challenges.How systems thinking can uncover hidden organizational inefficiencies.Practical ways to diagnose recurring business and project problems before investing in new tools or processes.Timestamps [00:00] - Episode Teaser[03:56] - Bryan's Journey from Building Consulting to Business Consulting[05:21] - Universal Business Problems Across Industries[07:11] - Systems Thinking, Shared Language, and Organizational Diagnostics[10:34] - Authority, Accountability, and Why Projects Break Down[15:07] - Technology Isn't a Magic Bullet[19:15] - Diagnosing Before Prescribing Solutions[30:53] - Lessons Learned, Repeatability, and Improving Project Systems[37:15] - Communication Systems, Software Creep, and Operational Complexity[46:11] - Final Advice: Stay Curious and Challenge AssumptionsFollow Bryan Guess:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-guess/Website (Company): https://bartizan.group/LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/bartizan-strategic-group/Follow the Hosts:Jeff Sample: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/Nathan Wood: 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 X: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew

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 evolutionFollow 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

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 ThoughtsFollow 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

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 messageFollow 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

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

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