AEC Trailblazers: The Founders Files

Architecture is often framed as a discipline of icons and authorship. But what if the real story of architecture is not about individuals—but about systems, collaboration, and the tools that shape how we build?In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, host Valentin Noves, CEO of e-verse, sits down with Alexander Josephson, co-founder of the globally recognized architecture studio PARTISANS, to explore how architects navigate creativity, technology, and professional identity in a rapidly evolving industry.Josephson’s path into architecture began long before university. As he recalls in the episode, the spark came from a childhood moment—drawing a castle for his first crush when he was six or seven years old.He describes himself as a visual thinker from the beginning, someone who connected with making things by hand rather than excelling in traditional academic settings. That early instinct toward building and visual expression ultimately shaped his career.From that starting point, the conversation expands into a deeper reflection on the profession itself. Josephson challenges the idea of the “starchitect”—the notion that architecture is driven by singular genius. In his view, the world created that narrative, not architects themselves. Today, the reality is far more collective: teams of designers, engineers, technologists, and collaborators working together to shape complex projects.That complexity also exposes tensions within the profession. Josephson describes architecture today as facing something of an identity crisis.On one hand, the profession maintains strict requirements and long educational paths before someone can legally call themselves an architect.On the other hand, the industry often struggles to clearly define or protect the role architects play in broader project ecosystems.Technology becomes another central theme of the conversation. Rather than viewing it as just a tool for efficiency, Josephson shares how technology can fundamentally reshape the value architects bring to their clients.Early in his career, he recognized this opportunity during a major project where teams were still working entirely in 2D CAD.His team proposed something different: delivering the work in BIM with a small group of young architects who could model the project and reveal potential issues before construction.That technological approach didn’t just improve production—it positioned them strategically and ultimately secured them the design mandate.For Josephson, that moment revealed an important insight: technology can be a competitive advantage for architects when it helps them solve problems earlier, faster, and more intelligently than others in the field.Throughout the episode, the conversation moves between personal story, professional philosophy, and broader industry shifts. From architectural authorship to the role of technology in design, Josephson offers a candid perspective on what it means to practice architecture in a world that is increasingly complex, collaborative, and technologically driven.For architects, technologists, and AEC professionals navigating similar questions, this episode offers both reflection and provocation: how should architects redefine their role in the decades ahead? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

What happens when 37 million homes are projected to be at extreme climate risk over the next 20 years?In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, Valentin Noves, CEO of e-verse, sits down with Ben Gilliland — Founder and Chairman of Future Proof Property Intelligence — to unpack one of the most urgent challenges facing the built environment today: how to proactively retrofit and finance resilience at scale before disaster strikes.Ben brings more than five decades of experience across construction engineering, software, structured finance, and venture capital to a conversation that reframes climate risk as a design and systems problem — not just an insurance issue.The numbers are staggering. Roughly 37 million U.S. homes are expected to face extreme exposure over the next two decades. That translates to nearly 100 million people directly affected. And much of the existing housing stock was built using technologies and standards that are 60 to 75 years old — long before current climate volatility was imaginable.Rather than waiting for insurance markets to collapse or premiums to skyrocket, Future Proof is building an AI-driven platform that combines:* Multi-peril extreme weather analytics* Address-level historical weather data dating back to 1950* Long-range climate forecasting through 2100* Engineering-based remediation planningThrough partnerships with IBM Climate Intelligence and The Weather Company, Ben’s team integrates predictive modeling with granular property data to create actionable remediation strategies — not theoretical risk scores.This episode explores why remediation — essentially large-scale, engineered retrofitting — may be the only viable response to systemic climate exposure. Ben explains why floods in Asheville, North Carolina, and expanding wildfire zones in states like Colorado are signals of a broader structural shift in risk geography.More importantly, he challenges the AEC industry to act.If resilience becomes a measurable, financeable input into the building lifecycle, contractors, architects, engineers, insurers, and policymakers must collaborate differently. This is no longer about reactive rebuilding. It’s about proactive upgrading.For professionals in AEC, construction tech, proptech, and climate intelligence, this episode offers a grounded look at how AI, engineering, and capital markets intersect in the next phase of the built environment.Because the future of AEC may not be about building new — it may be about fixing what already exists. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, Valentin Noves sits down with Chaitanya N K—widely known as NK, Co-Founder and CEO of Track3D—to explore how AI, robotics, and reality capture are reshaping construction from the ground up.NK’s journey into construction technology didn’t start on a job site. It began at the intersection of robotics, computer vision, and virtual environments, where he worked on systems that translated real-world behavior into digital simulations.That early experience shaped a core belief that still guides his work today: if you can accurately scan reality and translate it into a virtual world, you unlock entirely new ways to understand, measure, and improve complex systems.Throughout the conversation, NK challenges a common misconception in the AEC industry—that construction is slow to adopt technology.Based on his experience working with large contractors, the problem isn’t resistance or lack of effort. Many firms have already experimented with hundreds of tools, from advanced robotics to augmented reality.The real issue, he argues, is that most technologies fail to scale because they are not simple, fast, accurate, or cost-effective enough to be deployed across thousands of projects.This insight became a foundational design principle for Track3D. Rather than building technology for showcase projects or logos on a website, NK focused on scalability.His goal was to create systems that work just as well for repetitive residential renovations as they do for large-scale infrastructure—independent of geography, project size, or organizational complexity. If the value is clear and the friction is low, adoption follows naturally.The episode also dives into how visual data—captured from drones, smartphones, 360° cameras, and LiDAR—can be transformed into actionable intelligence.Instead of relying on manual reporting or fragmented tools, NK explains how AI-driven reality capture enables continuous, automated progress tracking and decision-ready insights. This shift moves construction monitoring from macro-level visibility to precise, scalable operational intelligence.Looking ahead, NK shares his perspective on what’s next for the industry. While AI software is already changing workflows, he believes the next major leap will come from autonomous robots operating directly on job sites.As sensing, mobility, and intelligence converge, robotics will play a central role in closing the gap between the physical and digital worlds of construction.This episode is a deep dive into scalability, reality intelligence, and why the future of construction will be shaped by technologies that work everywhere—not just where it’s easiest. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, Valentin Noves sits down with Josh Dorfman, a climate entrepreneur and storyteller whose career spans sustainable manufacturing, media, e-commerce, and real-world climate innovation.Known for his sharp blend of humor, practicality, and vision, Josh brings a candid perspective on what it really means to build a low-carbon future—without losing your sanity in the process.Josh shares a formative moment early in his career, when he realized that the U.S. consumer economy is one of the most powerful forces shaping planetary outcomes.As he recalls, “We live in America in a consumer economy. 70% of what drives this economy is what consumers spend.” He cared deeply about the planet and sustainability, but found himself suffocating in the political and academic angles of his PhD program.In his own words, “I can’t stay in this PhD and learn about environment and political side one second longer, because I’m gonna blow my brains out. I’m just going to go try to help consumers make better choices.”That pivot set the tone for the career that followed—one rooted in action, honest communication, and solutions that meet people where they are.Throughout the episode, Josh and Valentin explore the pressure of being “green green green” all the time and how sustainability work can feel overwhelming. Josh argues that real progress comes from finding the balance between idealism and practicality, and from building solutions that reduce friction instead of adding more complexity.His travels, including time spent in China, broadened his perspective on materials, manufacturing, and the global systems that shape climate innovation. Those experiences directly influenced his decision to found Plantd, a carbon-negative building materials company focused on replacing conventional wood-based structural boards with high-performance alternatives made from ultra-fast-growing perennial grass.Josh breaks down the moment he realized the material supply chain needed reinvention. He was using high-grade FSC-certified plywood—sourced from Oregon—and watched quality go down while prices went up.The inconsistency pushed him to think: How are we still cutting down forests to justify sustainability claims? That question led to Plantd’s core innovation: engineering structural panels from compressed grass fibers.In Josh’s words, “We take a grass that has some real structural integrity in it and we slice it way thinner than you can slice a tree… you’re just getting way more structural fiber compressed together.”The result is a board with the same strength as oriented strand board, but with no orientation, meaning it’s equally strong in every direction. For builders, that translates directly into performance consistency and a dramatically lower carbon footprint.The conversation also touches on operational efficiency and energy usage in buildings—a critical theme for the AEC industry. As Josh explains, running a building as low-carbon as possible isn’t just achievable; it’s profitable.He notes, “Certainly to operate a building as low carbon as possible is easy and saves money and goes right to the bottom line.” Cutting-edge tools in energy management, like those used by large REITs and multi-tenant operators, are becoming essential. In fact, Josh argues that failing to use available technology is “a vast disservice to your investors and your stakeholders,” given how quickly the landscape is evolving.Despite the technical depth, the episode stays fun, accessible, and full of personality—from sustainability storytelling to travel anecdotes to the famous moment when Josh rode a bicycle onto The Martha Stewart Show for Earth Day.Josh describes himself as “a startup person,” and his energy reflects exactly that: scrappy, curious, relentless, and optimistic about the ability of innovation to unlock a better built environment.Whether you work in construction, materials, sustainability, or building operations, this episode offers a refreshing, insightful look at where climate innovation meets the real world—and how the AEC industry can help lead the way. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, Valentin Noves (CEO) sits down with Traci VanDalsem, a fourth-generation contractor who grew up immersed in the construction world long before technology reshaped the industry.Traci opens the discussion with a simple but powerful idea: everything in construction is a process. Teams in the AEC industry naturally operate through workflows, routines, and repeatable methods.Yet, as she explains, technology often disrupts those processes—not by replacing them, but by reshaping how they function. Sometimes it’s uncomfortable. Sometimes it forces teams to rethink tasks they’ve done the same way for decades. But that friction is where transformation begins.She also emphasizes one of the most overlooked realities in construction tech: ROI isn’t always immediate. You may invest in a platform or workflow change and not see measurable impact for a year.A major theme in the episode is the importance of buy-in. The people who approve a technology purchase—often C-suite or financial leadership—are not always the ones who will use it every day.They focus on cost, efficiency, and risk reduction. But the true test of adoption happens at the project-level, where PMs, superintendents, and office administrators interact with the tool constantly.For them, technology must make their lives easier. It has to reduce friction, not add steps. As Traci puts it, “the best tool is the one your team will actually use.”She illustrates that idea through the work she does at RedTeam, a cloud-based construction management software purpose-built for General Contractors and Project Managers. In her own words:“RedTeam is a construction management software platform that takes a construction project all the way from bidding and estimating all the way through closeout. We manage all the document control in between. We have the ability to issue contracts, subcontract agreements, do change management, create owner bills where we of course can put together an owner pay application and send it over to the owner.”RedTeam is designed to manage every phase of the project lifecycle in one place—an approach that aligns perfectly with Traci’s belief that teams need tools they adopt fully, not partially.This is an episode for anyone navigating the intersection between construction and technology: GCs seeking smoother workflows, PMs looking for better tools, and leaders working to drive meaningful change across their organizations. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

Urbanly founder Federico Fernandez breaks down how geospatial visualization engines evolved into decision systems for planners.We trace his path from Synthesity/UrbanSim to Autodesk (and the work that won an Autodesk CEO Award), then into Urbanly’s platform that fuses multi-source data with scenario generation and KPIs.We discuss productizing scripts, modeling organic city growth, and why generative AI must be calibrated against empirical data—not treated as ground truth. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, Valentin Noves sits down with **David Alpert, CEO and co-founder of Geopogo**, to explore how real-time visualization and AI-driven tools are reshaping the architectural profession.Alpert, an award-winning architect turned product innovator, shares his journey from managing landmark projects to building Geopogo Cities, a platform that leverages Unreal Engine, AR/VR, and BIM integration to transform the way architects, contractors, and clients engage with design at scale.The conversation begins with a striking reality check: in the United States, architects are involved in just 25% of projects, and only 1% of residential work.This leaves a massive gap where design expertise could add value but remains inaccessible, often because architectural services are perceived as too expensive.For Alpert, technology holds the key to unlocking this market. By making architectural workflows more efficient and outputs more affordable, digital tools can expand the reach of the profession while maintaining its creative essence.Importantly, he emphasizes that while automation and AI are critical enablers, they will never replace the human creativity and client connection at the heart of architecture.The episode also delves into Geopogo’s mission to bridge design data with urban context. With Geopogo Cities, architects can drop Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, Archicad, and other models into fully rendered city-scale environments for instant design reviews and stakeholder presentations.This capability not only accelerates decision-making but also ensures projects are viewed in context, supporting better collaboration and transparency.Beyond pure visualization, Alpert raises thought-provoking points about privacy and visibility in the digital age. Drawing from a personal anecdote about using Google Street View in Madrid to locate his daughter’s building, he reflects on the limits of current tools and the ethical questions they raise.While it’s now possible to navigate neighborhoods and evaluate design impacts virtually, interior visibility remains off-limits—and in some countries, entire views are restricted due to concerns like terrorism. This sparks a discussion on what the future might hold as digital visibility expands and how architects must balance transparency with security.Alpert also underscores the shift architects must make when stepping into the product world. Developing Geopogo required leaving behind a purely architectural mindset and learning to think like product builders—understanding user adoption, scalability, and the broader tech ecosystem. It’s a shift many in the AEC industry will face as technology becomes an integral layer of practice.For architects, engineers, and construction professionals, this episode provides a deep dive into the intersection of design, data, and digital ethics. From market gaps in architectural services to the promises and pitfalls of city-scale visualization, the conversation with David Alpert is a reminder that the tools we build today will define how the built environment evolves tomorrow. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In today’s rapidly evolving AEC ecosystem, staying ahead is no longer about adopting the “next shiny tool.” It’s about finding the right tool, mapping how it integrates into your workflow, and ensuring real adoption across teams.This episode of AEC Trailblazers dives into that challenge with Niknaz Aftahi, CEO and co-founder of aec+tech, an innovation platform bridging AEC professionals with cutting-edge digital solutions.Niknaz shares her unique vantage point at the crossroads of architecture, technology, and entrepreneurship. With her background as a practicing architect and design technologist, she knows firsthand how difficult it can be to navigate the fragmented landscape of AEC software.Too often, firms rely on word of mouth or generic searches to identify tools—only to end up with solutions that don’t fit their project phase, sustainability goals, or tech stack.That’s where her latest venture comes in. Alongside her co-founder Stefan, Niknaz is building a new platform focused on tech discovery, mapping, and adoption.More than a directory, it’s a system of smart filters, categories, and workflows designed to help contractors, engineers, and designers quickly pinpoint the most relevant technologies.Whether it’s narrowing down by project lifecycle phase or filtering for sustainability-driven solutions, the platform aims to cut through noise and complexity to surface what truly matters.But discovery is just the start. Niknaz emphasizes that mapping and adoption are equally critical. Knowing how tools interconnect with existing workflows—and how they’re actually used in the field—determines whether a solution drives real impact or becomes shelfware.For her, the challenge isn’t just technical; it’s cultural. Adoption requires buy-in from stakeholders, iterative feedback loops, and a focus on long-term integration rather than quick fixes.Throughout the conversation, we also explore her role as a connector between founders, investors, and AEC professionals.Niknaz regularly engages with startups developing new products, offering them feedback informed by practitioners’ needs, while also guiding firms through the overwhelming tech landscape. This dual role gives her a rare perspective on where the industry is heading and which solutions are likely to shape the future of design and construction.The episode highlights not only technical strategies but also the broader mission behind Niknaz’s work: empowering AEC professionals to make informed decisions in a crowded and fast-moving market. For leaders seeking to optimize their workflows, adopt sustainable practices, and avoid the pitfalls of failed implementations, this conversation offers practical guidance and a forward-looking vision.From tool filters to tech stack mapping, sustainability categories to adoption strategies, Niknaz Aftahi is helping the industry move beyond fragmented discovery toward intentional, data-driven decision-making. Tune in to learn how her approach is redefining innovation in the built environment—and what it means for the next generation of AEC professionals. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

The future of engineering software is being shaped by a radical shift: moving from manual Python scripting to leveraging large language models (LLMs) that generate working applications directly in the browser.In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, Stijn Jansen, Chief Product Officer at  VIKTOR, explains how this evolution is transforming the way engineers and architects approach automation.Stijn shares how VIKTOR’s platform uses LLMs to automatically produce Python code based on natural language prompts. Instead of requiring engineers to build from scratch or manage local installations, the platform delivers fully functioning apps in the browser, instantly testable and editable.This approach not only lowers the technical barrier for professionals unfamiliar with coding but also accelerates the process of developing tools that integrate with workflows like IFC model analysis or parametric design.What makes this innovation so impactful is the combination of accessibility and flexibility. For engineers already familiar with Python, the generated code can be manually refined, providing full control over complex applications.For those without programming expertise, the ability to simply describe a task, such as extracting data from an IFC file or designing structural components parametrically, and have an app built in seconds is a paradigm shift.Stijn emphasizes that “the real power lies in enabling engineers to focus less on repetitive, manual scripting and more on high-value problem-solving”.By bridging the gap between coding knowledge and domain expertise, platforms like VIKTOR democratize digital tools for the AEC industry.He highlights examples of how LLM-powered automation is helping teams rapidly build solutions that would traditionally require weeks of custom development, streamlining both internal workflows and project delivery.The episode also touches on broader industry implications. As regulatory requirements, sustainability goals, and project complexity increase, the demand for scalable digital solutions is rising. Tools that combine LLMs with Python not only accelerate productivity but also address the shortage of skilled engineering talent by empowering a wider range of professionals to build, test, and deploy digital workflows.For Stijn, this is more than just a technical leap; it’s about reshaping the culture of engineering. The shift to browser-based, LLM-driven applications reflects a new philosophy: engineers should spend less time writing boilerplate code and more time innovating solutions for climate change, infrastructure resilience, and housing challenges.If you’re curious about how natural language prompts are evolving into production-ready apps, why Python still anchors engineering workflows, and how AI will redefine the skillsets needed in the AEC industry, this episode is essential listening.📌 Don’t miss the event “App Builder Launch: Automate Engineering Tasks Without Coding.”Join this free webinar for an exclusive first look at the VIKTOR App Builder — and get hands-on access to try it yourself.Save the date: October 28. Live demo, client showcase, and interactive Q&A included.Reserve your spot now: https://www.linkedin.com/events/7375856853530079232/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

The material bottleneck is one of the least glamorous but most decisive pain points in the architecture, engineering and construction industry. From studio sketches to specification deadlines, architects spend an outsized share of their time chasing fragmented material data, navigating opaque manufacturer catalogs, and copying specs across projects.For Vardhan Mehta, architect-turned-entrepreneur and co-founder of Acelab, this gap wasn’t just an inconvenience — it was the trigger to build a platform where material science meets architectural practice.In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, Vardhan shares his journey from a small town in central India to Harvard GSD, where his obsession with architecture collided with the reality of material research cycles.“At the end of the day, a firm should have two or three platforms they rely on, ideally ones that are valuable for other stakeholders too” he explains.This principle became the backbone of Acelab’s Materials Hub, a marketplace that ingests manufacturer data, normalizes specifications, and surfaces options against constraints like cost, lead times, embodied carbon, and code compliance.What sets Acelab apart is its push toward AI-assisted search and parametric filtering. Rather than sifting manually through endless PDFs or outdated libraries, architects can now query structured data that aligns directly with project parameters.As Vardhan puts it: “The next big trend in AEC is everything where we don’t have a system of record. That stuff in 2025 should not be a thing — it should be totally automated.”This conversation digs into both the promise and the pragmatism of AI in materials sourcing. While there’s excitement around generative design and the next evolution of BIM, Vardhan cautions against overselling. He is a strong advocate for human-in-the-loop AI, where designers calibrate machine outputs with empirical evidence and historic project data.Without structured datasets, even the most advanced models are limited. “If you don’t have all the right data, making decisions based on historic specs can still require hours of digging through folders to find something written two years ago,” he notes.This episode is a call to rethink how the industry treats materials. Beyond aesthetics, every choice has consequences for performance, budget, and sustainability. As Vardhan frames it: “The goal is not just efficiency, but decision quality at spec time, where architecture truly meets impact”. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, we sit down with Albert Bou Fadel, CEO and founder of SmartBarrel, to explore how real-time data, AI, and field-tested hardware are reshaping construction workforce management.With seven years of experience scaling SmartBarrel into a trusted partner for contractors across North America, Albert blends technical expertise with hands-on construction insights to challenge how the industry approaches technology adoption.Albert begins by reflecting on the practical needs of contractors: while tech entrepreneurs often chase advanced AI solutions, many construction firms still struggle with basic inefficiencies such as tracking hours or updating schedules.As he notes, sometimes the real value lies in solving “basic” problems with reliable, scalable tools rather than deploying over-engineered systems that fail to address field realities.From there, we dive into the unique dynamics of construction as an industry. Unlike other verticals weighed down by heavy corporate politics, construction offers a surprisingly direct path to decision-makers.A contractor, CIO, or even a COO can often be reached without layers of bureaucracy. But this accessibility comes with a major caveat: the cost of a failed implementation is extremely high. In an industry marked by pride and strong personalities, a single poorly executed rollout can shut the door for future innovations.Albert illustrates why timing and data accuracy are mission-critical. He offers a vivid example from Miami: imagine 15 workers stuck idle during a sudden rainstorm. With real-time weather and site data, management can redirect crews to nearby locations within minutes, saving hours of lost productivity across the team.Multiply this by hundreds of workers and dozens of projects, and the economic impact of timely, actionable information becomes undeniable.We also discuss the technical backbone behind SmartBarrel’s solution: AI-powered facial verification ensures accurate time tracking, while solar-powered devices reduce site infrastructure needs.By capturing field data directly and feeding it into workflows, SmartBarrel provides contractors with clean, reliable inputs for payroll, compliance, and resource allocation. The emphasis here is not just on data collection, but on transforming raw field activity into insights that drive measurable ROI.This episode is both a technical deep dive and a candid reflection on industry culture. It’s about understanding that digital transformation in AEC is not achieved through complexity, but through relevance, timing, and data precision. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, we dive into the often-overlooked side of construction tech: the sales process.Valentin Noves sits down with Erick Vargas, President of Followup CRM, to talk about how relationship-driven businesses can modernize their operations without losing their personal touch.Erick shares his journey from tech and business to construction, and why the AEC industry was the perfect place to apply customer-focused digital tools. “The whole industry is just getting started with technology,” he says, highlighting how many contractors are still using email inboxes and cell phones as makeshift CRMs.The conversation explores:* The gap between operational tools and sales technology in construction* Why even large firms often don’t have a proper CRM system* How Followup CRM serves as the first step toward digitization for many companiesErick explains that some of the firms he works with have over 100 users across 10 locations—while others are one-person operations. The goal is always the same: put all critical data into one place to increase productivity, preserve relationships, and prepare for future growth.He also talks candidly about the risks of doing nothing: “If your customer list is only in your phone or email and that employee leaves… the company loses everything.” With average tenure hovering around 18 months, institutional knowledge is slipping away faster than most firms realize.From cloud-based collaboration to AI-powered forecasting, Erick sees the role of technology expanding beyond admin support—it’s now a driver of culture and long-term value. Whether helping a firm prepare for acquisition or simply keeping their contacts organized, Followup CRM is more than just a tool—it’s a mindset shift.For contractors, estimators, and business developers looking to scale without losing their edge, this episode offers a clear path to smarter, more resilient relationship management. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

Procurement is often seen as a behind-the-scenes process—mundane, transactional, and filled with red tape.But what if procurement was the key to unlocking greater speed, accuracy, and collaboration across construction projects?In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, we sit down with Alastair Blenkin, CEO and Founder of ProcurePro, to uncover how his company is reshaping one of the most overlooked areas in the built world. A former lawyer with deep insight into commercial and risk management, Alastair brings a unique perspective to Construction-Tech.After realizing how outdated subcontractor procurement was—defined by spreadsheets, PDFs, and manual approvals—he set out to build something better. That something became ProcurePro: a fully digital procurement platform now powering over 3,000 projects globally, valued at more than $70 billion.Alastair shares how the real issue wasn’t just inefficiency—it was lack of visibility. Without centralized workflows or data trust, contractors were making critical decisions based on incomplete or scattered information. That insight became ProcurePro’s core value: connect everything, deliver transparency, and remove friction from every step of subcontractor management.From Australia to the UK and Ireland, ProcurePro has quickly become the procurement backbone for thousands of contractors. But it’s not just about scale—it’s about ambition. With a goal to save one billion hours of construction admin, the platform aims to free up time for what really matters: quality, safety, and better-built environments.We also explore Alastair’s transition from legal to tech, his take on high-performance culture, and how building the right team—and replacing the wrong ones—is one of the toughest, but most essential parts of scaling a company.If you’re in construction, procurement, or tech—this episode is your roadmap to what the future of operational excellence really looks like. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

Turning a one-off script into a product used by thousands is not just a technical lift—it’s product work.Dimitrie Stefanescu (Founder and CEO of Speckle) unpacks the trade-offs between highly specific tools and the generalization required to scale, why open ecosystems matter, and how building on Speckle enables interoperability across Revit, Rhino, Archicad and other data sources.We also dig into the hard realities of authoring/documentation at scale and why “free” isn’t a substitute for accountability. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

The AEC industry is rapidly transforming—and Luke Johnson is one of the minds pushing it forward.In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, we talk with Luke Johnson, Founder and Head of Growth at Deep Space, a construction management platform powered by AI and built by construction professionals for construction professionals.With over 20 years of experience across architecture, BIM, and VDC, Luke shares his unique journey from Dynamo scripting to building a full-fledged SaaS platform that’s helping teams—from hospitals to airports—improve collaboration, scale workflows, and make smarter decisions.Luke explains how Deep Space was born out of necessity: first as a set of custom workflows built with Dynamo, Excel, and Power BI—and then as a response to the growing complexity of modern construction.What started as a hybrid product-consulting business quickly matured into a scalable tool, designed to empower teams to build faster and better without relying on external consultants.We explore how Deep Space connects every stakeholder—from contractors to financiers—into a single, intelligent ecosystem, and why true impact in AEC comes from solving real problems, not just building cool tech.Highlights from this episode:* “The construction industry is full of variables you can’t control—that’s what makes it such a unique challenge.”* “Don’t fall in love with your own creation. If you want to build a business, it has to serve the customer.”* “We realized we needed a better way to handle 3D file data—something scalable, structured, and smart.”Whether you’re scaling a tech solution or exploring new ways to connect your teams, Luke’s insights will resonate with anyone seeking to bring clarity to complexity in AEC. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this insightful episode of AEC Trailblazers, host Valentin Noves talks with Susan Brattberg, Founder and Chief Customer Officer of Global eTraining, a visionary leader in the transformation of education and training for the AEC and manufacturing industries.Susan brings over 16 years of experience developing innovative learning solutions designed to accelerate technology adoption, streamline workflows, and boost workforce efficiency. Her unique background in sociology, organizational dynamics, and an Executive MBA informs a strategic approach that combines deep industry knowledge with scalable education methods.The conversation delves into the critical role of training in successfully implementing new technologies in construction and manufacturing environments.Susan emphasizes a common misconception: that simply purchasing technology will guarantee adoption. "Training is the best way to drive any technology adoption but it’s not just buying the technology and then thinking you can wave a magic wand and it’s just going to roll itself out. It’s not that easy," she explains.She also shares how Global eTraining supports the full technology adoption lifecycle, from helping companies transition from CAD to BIM, to continuously updating content in response to evolving software and industry standards. Their self-paced Revit course alone offers over 40 hours of comprehensive content, complemented by events and workflows to prepare professionals for industry certification.Listeners will also gain insight into how the pace of change in the AEC sector is accelerating and why ongoing education is essential to keep teams current. Susan’s leadership philosophy focuses on empowering teams through accessible, AI-driven training solutions that align with real-world workflows, making skill-building an integral part of business growth.As a seasoned board member, mentor, and industry advocate, Susan highlights the importance of collaboration and relationship-building in education. She also reflects on the cultural and organizational factors that can either facilitate or hinder successful training programs.Whether you are a BIM manager, HR leader, or C-level executive seeking to maximize ROI on technology investments, this episode offers practical guidance on how strategic training transforms adoption into measurable business value. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

What if we could rebuild the world—without rebuilding the carbon crisis?In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, host Valentin Noves sits down with Dr. Leah Ellis, co-founder and CEO of Sublime Systems, to explore how her company is revolutionizing one of the most carbon-intensive materials on the planet: cement.Sublime Systems is leading a high-stakes mission: to eliminate the carbon footprint of cement at scale. Their patented electrochemical process extracts reactive calcium and silicates from abundant feedstocks, skipping the fossil-fueled kilns altogether. The result? An ASTM C1157-compliant, drop-in replacement for Portland cement—but made at ambient temperature, without the need for carbon capture.Leah and Valentin go deep into:* The chemistry behind cement and why it matters for the climate* Why electrification—not just decarbonization—is the path forward for heavy industry* How Sublime’s process flips 200 years of industrial chemistry on its head* Why real innovation in climate tech often comes from non-traditional thinkers* The measurable goal that guides Sublime: not just CO2 reduction, but tons of cement produced and soldThis episode blends deep technical insight with visionary clarity. Leah breaks down the science behind Sublime’s platform while candidly sharing what it’s like to lead a startup working at the intersection of infrastructure, climate, and industrial transformation.Her perspective is refreshingly grounded: she compares innovation in cement to the early days of aluminum or electricity—where breakthroughs came not from institutions, but from “people who didn’t know they weren’t supposed to succeed.” That mindset permeates Sublime's team and mission: to transform the materials we rely on, before the planet pays the price.Whether you’re a structural engineer, sustainability lead, VC in climate tech, or architect designing for resilience—this episode will challenge the way you think about the materials beneath our feet. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

What happens when a Silicon Valley serial entrepreneur dives headfirst into one of the most analog industries of all—construction? In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, Valentin Noves (CEO), sits down with Shreesha Ramdas, the multifaceted CEO & Co-Founder of Lumber, to discuss the big why behind his move from the world of SaaS and AI into the trenches of workforce management for contractors.Shreesha shares the story of his journey from tech startup veteran—having scaled and exited over 40 companies, with buyers like Google and Symantec—to his current mission: transforming construction’s outdated systems through AI-powered solutions.He opens up about what drew him to the construction space, a sector he describes as a “pillar of the economy” that's long overdue for innovation.With the energy of a race car driver, Shreesha talks about how he felt compelled to take on an industry lagging in automation and efficiency.After countless conversations with contractors—over 200 firms, from small teams to major players—he noticed the same friction points: payroll headaches, compliance chaos, and financial blind spots.That insight led to the birth of Lumber, a fully integrated platform built to empower SMB contractors with tools that simplify payroll, time tracking, onboarding, and decision-making.But this conversation doesn’t stop at product innovation. Valentin and Shreesha go deeper, exploring:* What SaaS lessons translate (and don’t) to the construction industry* Why startups fail when they underestimate the complexity of field operations* The power of listening before building—and how customer insight trumps assumptions* How AI can empower, not replace, the human side of construction* What it means to balance investor expectations with long-term industry changeYou’ll also hear a refreshingly honest take on the pace of innovation in construction versus tech, and why Shreesha believes the best founders are those willing to learn a new industry from the inside out.If you’re an AEC professional curious about the impact of tech, or a tech leader considering where real disruption is still needed—this episode is your blueprint. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this compelling episode of AEC Trailblazers, host Valentin Noves sits down with Tim Sperry, a true pioneer in climate tech innovation and founder of Carbon Limit.Tim is redefining what sustainability means for the built environment, transforming one of the most carbon-intensive industries—construction—into a powerful force against climate change.Tim shares his unique journey from developing a direct air capture machine in retrofitted shipping containers to creating CaptureCrete, the world’s first patented CO₂-absorbing concrete.This breakthrough technology not only reduces emissions but actively removes carbon from the atmosphere and stores it permanently in concrete infrastructure. Alongside CoolCrete, an advanced cooling additive designed to mitigate urban heat islands, Tim and his team are shaping the future of climate-positive construction materials.The conversation explores the technical and commercial challenges of scaling such groundbreaking solutions. Tim provides a candid look at his evolution from startup founder to scaling Carbon Limit globally, reflecting on the organizational turbulence and tough leadership decisions that come with growth. His insights underscore the emotional resilience required to lead innovation in an industry steeped in tradition.A key highlight is Tim’s perspective on the new generation of homebuyers and developers who increasingly demand sustainability alongside affordability. He discusses the shift in market dynamics driven by Gen Y and Gen Z, who seek products that balance environmental responsibility with economic feasibility.Listeners will gain a deep understanding of how carbon capture technologies can be integrated directly into construction materials, turning infrastructure projects into part of the solution rather than the problem. Tim’s vision for a future where buildings and roads help reverse climate change offers inspiration and practical insight for architects, engineers, developers, and innovators across the AEC industry.Whether you’re passionate about sustainability, curious about emerging climate tech, or looking to innovate within construction, this episode provides a rich, technical, and human perspective on the challenges and triumphs of pioneering carbon-negative concrete solutions.Tune in to learn from Tim Sperry’s expertise and discover how Carbon Limit is enabling the industry to build not just smarter, but cleaner—and making a measurable impact on the planet’s future. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

What if your company’s drug test is measuring the wrong thing?In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, Valentin Noves talks with Ken Fichtler, CEO of Gaize, about a critical blind spot in workplace safety—especially in high-risk industries like construction. While traditional drug tests detect chemical presence, they don’t measure impairment—and in a post-legalization world, that distinction matters more than ever.Ken explains how Gaize’s AI-powered platform shifts the paradigm by analyzing eye movements and neurocognitive response to detect real-time impairment from cannabinoids, opiates, stimulants, and more. This allows construction firms and safety managers to move beyond legacy tests that can be unreliable, exclusionary, or even dangerously outdated.“Chemical drug tests were built to detect what they were told to detect,” Ken notes. “If your test looks for heroin, it won’t find fentanyl. That’s a big problem when fentanyl is killing over 100,000 Americans a year.”He also explains why THC detection is particularly flawed: “You can test positive for THC three weeks after using cannabis. But that doesn’t tell you if someone’s impaired right now. That’s why we focus on the body’s response, not residual presence.”In this episode, Ken and Valentin dig into:* Why impairment—not chemical presence—is the future of safety* How Gaize detects synthetic cannabinoids and other hard-to-spot substances* Why OSHA’s data fails to reveal the root cause of incidents* How eye-tracking analysis creates a universal baseline across drug categories* The unique challenges of cannabis and drug use in blue-collar and trades workforcesKen also shares startling stats: nearly 20% of Americans used cannabis last year, with much higher percentages in the trades and construction sectors. In a workforce where relationships and muscle memory are king, impairment testing has often been overlooked—but it’s now a critical piece of safety, compliance, and legal protection.If you’re in AEC, construction safety, HR, or operations, this episode offers a new lens on an old problem—and a real solution for how to move forward. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

Success in construction isn’t just about building structures—it’s about resilience, strategy, and knowing how to navigate challenges. Few embody this better than Pat Miller, founder and president of Blue Diamond Construction.With over 30 years in the industry, Pat has led commercial carpentry and metal framing projects across medical offices, retail spaces, apartments, and more. But her journey wasn’t just about business—it was about survival.In this episode, Pat shares how she turned personal hardship into professional triumph, rebuilding her life and career after devastating losses. She dives into breaking barriers as a woman in construction, the lessons from building a business in a volatile industry and how her book, Kicking Karma’s Ass, inspires resilience with humor.Pat’s story is about perseverance, reinvention, and leading with strength. If you’re facing obstacles in your career or business, this episode is proof that you can build something incredible—even from the ground up. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In the fast-paced world of construction, efficiency isn’t just an advantage—it’s a necessity.Yet, material procurement remains a bottleneck for many specialty contractors and distributors.That’s where Eric Helitzer, CEO and co-founder of SubBase, is making an impact.A third-generation builder with a Master’s in Building Construction Management from the University of Florida, Eric has spent his career optimizing project workflows.After managing over $250M in construction operations, he identified a critical gap: outdated procurement methods that slow down projects and squeeze margins.Enter SubBase—a procurement platform that streamlines the entire process without disrupting how vendors and contractors already work. In this episode, Eric shares why Florida is a prime hub for construction innovation, how technology is improving vendor relationships and sales and the role of automation in procurement—beyond emails and spreadsheets.With real-time quoting, seamless vendor communication, and accounting integration, SubBase is helping teams move toward a smarter, more efficient future.If you're in the AEC industry and looking to reduce friction, boost profitability, and improve procurement workflows, this episode is a must-listen. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

Prefab isn’t the future of construction—it’s the present.Yet, many modular and offsite projects still face cost overruns, inefficiencies, and scalability challenges. That’s where Andrew Xue , COO and Co-Founder of Offsight, steps in.With a background in engineering, software development, and construction consulting, Andrew has spent years optimizing prefab manufacturing.His mission? To make offsite construction more efficient, scalable, and profitable.In this episode, Andrew shares:* Why “I think it’s all gonna be prefab” isn’t just a bold claim—it’s inevitable* How software-driven workflows are solving quality control and project tracking issues* The biggest business and margin challenges in prefab—and how to overcome them* What the next decade holds for modular construction at scaleWith $6.4M in seed funding, Offsight is helping manufacturers increase volume, reduce waste, and boost profitability. If you’re in the AEC industry, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

Construction scheduling is broken. Gantt charts are outdated, teams are stuck in spreadsheets, and projects keep running over time and budget. But what if scheduling was as intuitive as a whiteboard and as powerful as CPM?In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, we sit down with Nitin Bhandari, Co-Founder & CEO of Planera, to explore how collaborative and visual CPM-based planning is redefining construction scheduling.Why traditional scheduling tools fail modern projects. How real-time, high-fidelity data is a game changer. And the role of AI & automation in smarter scheduling.Nitin shares insights from his journey—building tech startups, optimizing mobile networks, and now tackling one of AEC’s biggest inefficiencies. Plus, he offers a free demo of Planera so you can experience the future of scheduling firsthand.Don’t miss this conversation—because staying on schedule shouldn’t be this hard. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

How can real-time field data revolutionize construction? In this episode of AEC Traiblazers, we sit down with Zach Scheel, CEO and co-founder of Rhumbix, to explore the game-changing impact of workforce automation and paperless field management.With experience leading engineering operations in the US Navy, managing megaprojects with Bechtel, and holding dual master’s degrees from Stanford, Zach brings a unique perspective on optimizing labor efficiency through data-driven solutions.We dive into the challenges of manual job site tracking and how Rhumbix's real-time performance monitoring is reshaping the industry by eliminating inefficiencies, reducing costs, and ensuring projects stay on schedule.Zach shares insights on the rise of robotics collaboration on job sites, the untapped potential of AI-powered workforce planning and how unlocking better data will drive the next wave of construction innovation.Plus, a fun fact—Zach is fascinated by Singapore Changi Airport’s architecture, calling it the best in the world. Tune in to hear why! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

Get ready for a deep dive into the future of mechanical design—where precision meets innovation. Chris Barton, the brilliant mind behind Drafter, is rewriting the rules of engineering workflows with a blend of technical genius and entrepreneurial vision.Imagine turning complex engineering challenges into elegant, automated solutions. GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) has always been the unsung hero of mechanical design—a cryptic language that can make or break multimillion-dollar projects.Drafter is transforming this landscape, turning those painstaking 30-minute manual drawings into instantaneous, laser-precise digital workflows. We're talking about intelligent algorithms that bridge the gap between design intent and manufacturing execution, making what once seemed impossible now look effortless.Tune in to AEC Trailblazers, e-verse's podcast that goes beyond the surface, and hear how Barton is driving the next wave of technological revolution.This isn't just another tech story—it's a blueprint for the future of design automation. You'll walk away with insights that challenge everything you thought you knew about mechanical engineering, and a glimpse into how cutting-edge technology is reshaping entire industries. Don't miss this game-changing conversation. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

Buckle up for a wild ride through the digital construction world with Alex Hanna—a high school dropout turned BIM rockstar. From drafting tables to disrupting talent recruitment, Alex's story is anything but ordinary. In this e-verse podcast episode, we're diving deep into how one person can transform an entire industry.STRIVE isn't just another recruiting platform—it's a game-changer. Imagine an AI-powered matchmaker for BIM professionals that does more than swap resumes. We're talking intelligent connections that make general contractors' lives easier and help talented pros find their dream projects. No more endless job boards, no more guesswork.Want to know how Alex is reshaping workforce development across Canada, the UK and Ireland—with eyes set on Mexico and South America? Tune in to this episode and get the inside scoop on the future of construction talent.Spoiler alert: It's not just about hiring, it's about building careers, challenging traditions and proving that innovation has no limits.Catch the full story on the AEC Traiblazers podcast —where technology meets human potential. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode of AEC Traiblazers, we dive deep into the construction industry’s persistent challenges with project schedule accuracy—where 88% of schedules fail to meet best practices.Michael Pink, founder and CEO of SmartPM Technologies, breaks down why this gap exists and how real-time analytics can help project teams turn unreliable schedules into powerful, actionable insights.Michael’s extensive experience in project controls, risk management and dispute resolution has given him a unique understanding of what it takes to keep construction on track, on budget and free of disputes.SmartPM’s innovative approach leverages AI-driven Schedule Analytics™ to bridge the gap in project controls, reducing risks and preventing disputes.Michael discusses the technology’s capability to transform complex data into a clear picture of performance, helping stakeholders—from owners to general contractors and insurers—gain transparency and make informed decisions.By bringing advanced analytics and machine learning into schedule analysis, SmartPM provides an accessible and powerful way for industry leaders to control project outcomes proactively.Whether your focus is on construction timelines, dispute resolution or better risk management, Michael’s insights reveal how SmartPM’s tools are tailored to meet these needs, ultimately saving time, reducing costs and improving the reliability of construction schedules.This episode is essential for those seeking to modernize their project management strategies with cutting-edge solutions tailored for today’s AEC industry. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this captivating episode, Jack Sadler, the brains behind Part3, peels back the layers of product management tailored for the drafting tables and hard hats of architects and engineers.He illuminates how cutting-edge innovation is giving the AEC industry's pricing structures a much-needed facelift, hammering home the point that flexibility is key in this tough-as-nails business model.Jack doesn't sugarcoat it: "Construction's a beast to tame when it comes to turning a profit," but he's got a toolbox full of insights on how to nail success through game-changing product ideas.Jack also geeks out on AI's role in turbocharging the design process, dropping this gem: "AI won't be stamping blueprints, but it'll sure as heck come prepared." He spotlights how data is the new time-saving superhero for architects, putting them in the driver's seat of their projects while eyeing those juicier profit margins.Having walked in the shoes of both boutique architects and big-league firms, Jack serves up a 360-degree view of the market, underlining the AEC world's "all hands on deck" spirit.With laser focus on busting biases in product design and putting customer feedback on a pedestal, Jack challenges listeners to flip the script on their strategies. He's not mincing words when he says, "If you're gonna roll out something new, it better knock socks off," egging on pros to innovate without flinching.So, buckle up as we dive into the rollercoaster world of architecture and product management, and learn how to turn these nuggets of wisdom into your secret sauce for success. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode of AEC Traiblazers, Matt Jones, Founder of The Dragon Group, joins Valentin Noves to discuss how technology is reshaping workforce management in the AEC industry.With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by builders, site managers and business owners, Matt shares insights on how Dragon App streamlines the recruitment process for casual labor.He explains how their platform provides a seamless experience for managing workforce allocation and reduces the headache of dealing with traditional labor hire companies.As Matt says, "We make it really easy for the builder to navigate the platform because they don't want to be dealing with labor hire."The conversation dives into the technicalities of workforce engagement through technology, emphasizing how Dragon App provides construction firms the tools they need to connect with skilled Australian workers more efficiently.Matt highlights the importance of pricing and structure for workforce management, noting that "Even if the clients think they know what they want, Dragon app will give the best outcome."The episode explores how this innovative platform leverages AI to match workers with jobs, ultimately improving the bottom line for businesses.Whether you’re a site manager trying to manage your team more efficiently or a builder looking to cut operational costs, this episode provides actionable insights. From taxes to managing the casual workforce, Matt covers all the critical points.Discover how embracing tech like Dragon App can revolutionize your staffing model, give you better control over your projects and drive higher margins. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode, Stacy Smedley, Executive Director of Building Transparency, dives deep into the importance of sustainability in the built space and climate actions that reduce embodied carbon.Stacy explores the groundbreaking work behind the Embodied Carbon in Construction Calculator (EC3), a free tool that allows architects, builders and project managers to analyze the carbon impact of materials like concrete and steel.As the industry moves towards green building practices, Stacy reveals how databases and tools like COVE tools and EPD generators are crucial for decision-making.A core focus of the conversation is on climate action in building design, where Stacy discusses how her nonprofit is fostering a shift by making sustainability data accessible.The open-access model used by Building Transparency has united over 50,000 users from more than 70 countries, proving that the tools are not only valuable but essential for the construction industry to minimize its environmental impact.“Anyone can register for free,” Stacy emphasizes, highlighting the inclusive nature of these solutions.Stacy also shares personal stories, like when she told her mom at just eight years old that she wanted to build things that don't destroy nature.Tune in to hear how Stacy's lifelong commitment to environmental protection is reshaping the future of building design and construction, and how it’s empowering professionals to lead with sustainability at the forefront of every project. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode of AEC Traiblazers, we take a deep dive into the intersection of technology and the construction industry with Di-Ann Eisnor, a seasoned entrepreneur and current Chief Strategy Officer at WakeCap.With a track record that spans leadership roles at Waze, Google and Crews by Core, Di-Ann brings an unparalleled understanding of how IoT is transforming job sites.As she explains, "Construction tech is a whole different beast", one that requires new solutions to age-old challenges like safety and productivity.Throughout the episode, Di-Ann unpacks how WakeCap’s innovations are making a measurable impact on safety and efficiency, from massive $300 billion projects to smaller initiatives, and why IoT provides the 'truth set of data' that is essential for real decision-making in the construction space.One of the core themes we explore is the role of IoT-driven data in addressing safety issues on job sites. Di-Ann emphasizes how construction professionals have traditionally relied on fragmented, point solutions that fail to provide a holistic view of the work environment.“The industry has been trying to get away from point solutions,” Di-Ann notes, advocating for integrated systems that track real-time data across projects. With IoT, it’s no longer about assumptions, but about systems that make recommendations based on real-time insights—a shift that is not only improving safety but also enhancing productivity and project outcomes.For professionals in the construction tech space, understanding how to leverage this data is key to improving job site management and performance.Di-Ann’s passion for the construction industry is deeply personal. Coming from a family of truck drivers and construction laborers, she has an intrinsic connection to the field. “I love the idea that I could do anything to make their job easier, better and safer,” she shares.This episode is a must-listen for those who want to stay ahead of the curve in construction tech and understand the ROI potential of integrating advanced IoT solutions into their workflows.Di-Ann also offers advice for entrepreneurs looking to enter this space, stressing the importance of achieving product-market fit and how investors are increasingly focused on the big-picture potential of construction tech startups.If you’re serious about transforming your job site through technology, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and forward-thinking strategies. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode of AEC Traiblazers, we dive deep into the world of construction equipment management with Oded Ran, CEO of Clue Insights, a game-changing company driving efficiency across the industry.With over 20 years of experience in mobile software and SaaS, Oded shares his expertise on PLG (Product-Led Growth) strategies and what it takes to optimize a company’s most valuable assets: its equipment.You'll learn how Clue is empowering heavy civil and road construction firms to get the most out of their fleets and why equipment managers, from mechanics to dispatchers, rely on their integrated, cloud-based solutions.Through powerful anecdotes and practical insights, Oded discusses how construction firms are leaving behind "sales-driven" models and focusing on real, data-driven optimization.He also emphasizes the importance of customer collaboration, highlighting, "Don't fall in love with your product. Instead, spend time with the person you're aiming to serve."Tune in to discover how Oded’s team integrates with over 70 systems, works with top-tier firms like Vinci and Archer Western and is reshaping how the equipment management space functions.This episode is a must for those looking to enhance productivity, reduce idle times and rethink their approach to horizontal construction. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode, Robert Dahlstrom, CEO of Apellix, delves into the latest advancements in drone technology and its transformative impact on the AEC) industry.These aren't just flying machines—they're sophisticated "flying computers" designed to enhance safety and efficiency in some of the most dangerous industrial environments.Robert explores how Apellix's custom-designed drones are used for Power Washing high-risk structures like 120-foot water towers, as well as for Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), including ultrasonic testing (UT) and dry film thickness (DFT) measurements.Through the integration of GPS, barometric pressure sensors and magnetic compasses, Apellix drones achieve precision flight control that allows them to perform autonomous tasks in hazardous environments, reducing the need for human intervention and significantly improving workplace safety.Robert discusses how these drones operate as software platforms, where their hardware and software systems are finely tuned to execute tasks that previously placed workers at risk.The episode also covers the global reach of Apellix's solutions, with drones being sold in 12 countries and utilized by entities such as the US Army's Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense Division.You’ll also hear how architects are embracing drone technology to explore more geometrically complex building designs that were previously considered too dangerous or difficult to construct.Whether you're an AEC professional, safety engineer or tech enthusiast, this episode provides a comprehensive overview of the future of drone-powered safety and automation in industrial applications.Tune in to discover how these cutting-edge machines are reshaping both the built environment and the way we think about workplace safety. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode, we dive into the groundbreaking world of smart flooring sensors with Joe Scanlin, co-founder and CEO of Scanalytics.Discover how their patented sensor technology is transforming the flooring industry by providing unparalleled building intelligence.From integration with commercial carpeting to innovative installation processes, these sensors are setting a new standard in occupancy data accuracy.Joe shares insights on how Scanalytics is redefining hardware deployment.Their sensors can be embedded directly into typical flooring underlayment, making it easier for labor chains to implement without extensive training.Imagine a smart floor that not only tracks foot traffic but also alerts to emergencies in real time—this is the future of IoT in building environments!Join us as we explore how these advancements in flooring technology not only enhance building efficiency but also create safer and smarter spaces for occupants. With solutions tailored to existing workflows across all types of surfaces, this innovation is leading the charge in the evolution of smart buildings. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode of AEC Trailblazers, we dive into how Alec Pestov, CEO of vGIS, is revolutionizing the way we think about city construction using AR and Twin Technologies.Alec’s company leverages intuitive AI to optimize large-scale construction processes and streamline project documentation, setting a new standard in the AEC industry. He shares his vision of a future where cities are built and modernized without human hands, transitioning from fully human labor to fully automated construction.However, like any disruptive technology, AR in construction faces technical challenges. Alec discusses key hurdles such as occlusions—a common issue in AR visualization—and how vGIS is working on lateral solutions to overcome these limitations.The conversation highlights how, much like the iPhone’s breakthrough in personal tech, widespread industry adoption is critical for AR to truly transform construction.Alec emphasizes that while humans will still control construction processes in the future, they won’t be physically building the cities of tomorrow. For the AEC industry to embrace these advancements effectively, greater tech awareness is essential.This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to explore the future of automated labor and AI-driven construction. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode of AEC Trailblazers: The Founders Files, meet George Smithies, a seasoned Chartered Engineer, entrepreneur, and Forbes' 30 Under 30. Hear George’s perception of the challenges of founding a company, especially after a traditional career path, which presents a straightforward journey. While following a set career path provides a clear direction, starting your own business requires constant decision-making and adaptation and the ability to learn quickly and make decisions is the inevitable bone for success.George also dives into the significant differences between the design and construction phases and their belief that to disrupt the construction industry they needed to focus on the 90% of workers that actually work in the field- versus the 10% managing from the office. With this goal in mind, George and his team sought to create a centralized platform that integrated various technologies, identifying a gap in the market for tools specifically designed for field workers, who often lacked the necessary technology to streamline their tasks.Creating a platform for field workers required a strategic approach. Rather than selling directly to them, the team focused on selling to those with purchasing power within construction companies. This approach ensured that the platform would be adopted and used by field workers.Committed to this goal, in 2018, George co-founded innDex, an innovative platform that streamlines project management and enhances workforce connectivity. By integrating hardware and cloud-based software, innDex offers a comprehensive suite of tools for site inductions, access control, RAMs, toolbox talks, progress reporting, inspections, and more. The platform aims to improve efficiency, and compliance, and reduce waste in the construction industry.Tune in to this episode and get to know more about how to integrate hardware and cloud-based software to enhance workforce connectivity. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode of AEC Trailblazers: The Founders Files, we sit down with Cristiano, the passionate co-founder and CPO of laiout, a PropTech startup revolutionizing floor plan design. Cristiano's journey, from the bustling streets of Rome to the innovative tech scene of Oslo, is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment to the AEC industry.We delve into Cristiano's transition from architecture to tech, inspired by the limited opportunities in Italy. His experience working in a proptech company in London provided invaluable insights into the potential of technology to transform the industry. This inspiring story serves as a beacon for architects seeking to break free from traditional constraints and embrace innovation.Balancing design aesthetics with practical considerations is a delicate art. Cristiano shares his insights on navigating the challenges of meeting client expectations while maintaining design integrity. He emphasizes the importance of understanding client pain points and tailoring solutions to their specific needs.The AEC industry has been slow to adopt technology, often relying on outdated methods and processes. Cristiano discusses the reasons behind this resistance and how laiout is breaking down barriers. He highlights the benefits of using technology to streamline workflows, improve efficiency, and enhance collaboration.We explore the details of laiout's innovative platform, which offers a fully automated multiplayer architectural design tool. The tool can generate personalized floor plans within existing buildings in seconds, saving users valuable time and effort. We discuss the benefits of data-driven design and how laiout can help clients achieve more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable projects.Learn how Cristiano's app is disrupting the real estate market with its impressive growth driven by inbound leads and word-of-mouth. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode of AEC Trailblazers: The Founders Files, discover how Josh Graham, a visionary in the construction and climate tech industries, is revolutionizing the way we tackle weather-related risks. In this episode, learn about the hidden costs of weather on construction projects and how Josh's groundbreaking startup, EHAB, is using data and AI to help builders weather the storm.Weather-related disruptions, from extreme rainfall to heatwaves, have long been a major headache for the construction industry. Delays, cost overruns, and safety hazards are just some of the consequences. Recognizing the urgent need for solutions, Josh and his team embarked on a data-driven mission to quantify the financial impact of these disruptions. The results were alarming: weather-related problems accounted for a substantial portion of the industry's challenges, and the risk was only increasing due to climate change.To combat this growing threat, Josh tells us how they’ve developed advanced software that utilizes machine learning and predictive analytics to analyze weather patterns and forecast potential disruptions. By providing accurate and timely information, they empower construction companies to make informed decisions and take proactive measures to protect their projects.As climate change continues to accelerate, the need for sustainable and resilient construction practices becomes increasingly urgent. Josh's work at EHAB is a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration. By understanding the hidden costs of weather and leveraging cutting-edge technology, we can build a more resilient and sustainable future for the construction industry. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

In this episode of AEC Trailblazers: The Founders Files, get to know Tim's entrepreneurial journey. With a desire to start a data analytics consulting company, he soon realized his true passion lay in the digital construction world. Fueled by the challenges of the pandemic, he decided to take the leap and start a startup.With this goal, Tim joined Antler, a global VC incubator, where he met his co-founders, Onur and Mahan. Together, they identified a gap in the engineering space: the fragmentation of tooling and the lack of standardized workflows. With this challenge in mind, they co-founded CalcTree, with the ultimate mission to bring together engineering, design, and calculations. They aimed to provide engineers with a platform to manage calculations and data across projects, promoting collaboration and efficiency, while emphasizing the importance of integrating existing tools and workflows, rather than forcing engineers to adopt new, unfamiliar methods.Listen to Tim speaker about his key must-haves for launching a Construction Technology startup: accessibility, designed to be user-friendly, with a low barrier to entry for engineers; flexibility: integrating with popular tools like Python and spreadsheets, allowing engineers to maintain their preferred workflows; and scalability: offering a wide range of features, from basic calculation management to advanced capabilities like version control and community support.Tim also tells us the future plans for Calctree's roadmap, including further development of their platform, building features like version control and review models, and ultimately creating a marketplace for engineering tools and services.Join us on this episode and get to know Tim's entrepreneurial journey and the founding of Calctree highlighting the growing importance of innovation and technology in the AEC industry. By addressing the challenges of data fragmentation and workflow inefficiencies, Calctree is helping engineers to work more efficiently and effectively. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

Innovation in the Design, Construction and ManagementIn this episode of AEC Trailblazers: The Founders Files, meet Adam, the serial entrepreneur behind Bad Monkeys, Bimbeats, and Autonomation.Join us as we discuss the transformative shift in the AEC industry, driven by a wave of innovative startups. Australia has emerged as a global leader in this space, with even smaller cities and contractors seeing significant growth and multi-billion dollar projects.As an early adopter of Revit and Dynamo, Adam shares his experiences and the importance of continuous learning in the AEC industry and constant adaptation to new technologies. Along with Valentin, they discuss their passion for coding and their work with machine learning, LLMs, and AI integration in the AEC ecosystem.They continue the conversation delving into the world of AEC software development, exploring the creation of custom applications and cloud-based solutions. The speakers discuss the challenges of data integration and automation, and how these issues can be addressed through innovative approaches. They double down into Bimbeats, a tool that provides real-time insights into AEC software usage and user needs, and into Autonomation, offering bespoke AEC customer applications, and cloud development interfaces with existing solutions.The episode also explores the differences between working with enterprise customers and end consumers, as well as developing products versus services. The speakers discuss the importance of clear communication, understanding customer needs, and delivering solutions that meet their specific requirements.Overall, the episode provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs and industry professionals looking to navigate the changing landscape of AEC technology, software development, and entrepreneurship. Tune in to know more.About Adam Sheather, Managing Director at AutonomationAdam is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Autonomation, Bimbeats, and Bad Monkeys. With over two decades in AEC, he has collaborated with developers, designers, and contractors on diverse projects across Australia, the US, Asia, and the Middle East. His expertise lies in optimizing workflows and data capture to enhance design and delivery.As Managing Director of Autonomation, Adam and his team partner with industry leaders to develop cutting-edge computational and automation solutions. Their focus is on improving project integration, analysis, and productivity. As certified Autodesk, Bentley, and Trimble developers, they create software and cloud-based solutions leveraging Azure to drive data-driven decisions and streamline processes.Adam is passionate about harnessing technology to revolutionize the design and construction industry. By empowering project stakeholders and fostering collaboration, he aims to eliminate inefficiencies, accelerate project delivery, and deliver exceptional value. His vision is to provide stakeholders with real-time insights into project progress and maturity, allowing them to focus on strategic decision-making rather than operational tasks. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

Bending Tech to Meet the Build by Combining Power and DataThis episode of AEC Trailblazers: The Founders Files features Jim Baldwin, a Silicon Valley veteran with a storied career at tech behemoths like Apple, Microsoft, and Intel, who has taken an unconventional path into the construction industry. While his background is steeped in software and hardware innovation, he has found a unique opportunity to disrupt the traditional building wiring process with his startup, Domatic.Jim tells us about his journey, beginning at Apple, where he was immersed in a culture of groundbreaking innovation. From early work on fiber networks and the revolutionary touchpad to his involvement in the Firewire project, he gained invaluable experience in developing cutting-edge technologies. Firewire, in particular, laid the groundwork for Domatic’s core concept of combining power and data transmission through a single cable.Jim tells us about the birth of Domanic. A keen observer of the market, Jim noticed a recurring challenge: the complexity of integrating technology into buildings often hindered progress. Inspired by his experience at Apple, where the focus was on making technology accessible to everyone, he sought to apply the same principles to the construction industry.Recognizing the limitations of traditional wiring systems, which rely on outdated infrastructure, Jim envisioned a more efficient and cost-effective solution. By combining his deep technical knowledge with a fresh perspective on building design, he founded Domatic.Domatic's core innovation lies in its low-voltage wiring system, which replaces the bulky and complex high-voltage infrastructure used in most buildings. By focusing on powering the majority of building fixtures, such as lights and sensors, with lower voltage, Domatic significantly reduces installation time, cost, and the need for skilled labor.This simplified approach eliminates the complexities associated with permits, inspections, and multiple rounds of revisions, ultimately accelerating project timelines and reducing overall expenses.Dive into this episode and be immersed in a vision of the future. Jim’s entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with his extensive industry experience is poised to transform building wiring. By challenging the status quo and embracing innovative solutions, he is paving the way for a more efficient, sustainable, and technologically advanced construction industry.About Jim Baldwin, Founder and CEO at DomaticJim is a seasoned technology executive with over three decades of experience in software and hardware development. He has held leadership roles at industry giants such as Apple, Microsoft, and Intel, where he spearheaded innovative projects and built high-performing teams.In 2013, Jim founded Antimatter Research, a consumer electronics startup focused on embedding intelligence into products. As CEO, he successfully led the company until 2020. Since then, he has remained active in the tech ecosystem, serving as an advisor and board member for multiple startups, such as ****Escher Reality, Zone·tv™, DeepSight, and NOWHERE.Jim's entrepreneurial journey continued in 2019 with the founding of Domatic, a ConTech company dedicated to creating smarter, healthier buildings. By combining his deep technical expertise with a passion for sustainable solutions, Jim is driving innovation in the built environment.Jim’s passion is to apply hardware and software technologies to create solutions that enhance energy efficiency, comfort, and safety in the built environment. He believes that by combining cutting-edge research, engineering, and entrepreneurship, we can transform the way buildings are wired and improve the quality of life for millions of people. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

Revolutionizing Construction Scheduling with AIThis episode of AEC Trailblazers: The Founders Files features René Morkos, the founder and CEO of ALICE Technologies, a software solution aimed at revolutionizing construction planning and scheduling.The conversation begins with a discussion about the gap between academic theory and practical application, a challenge René encountered during his PhD research. Prior to his academic pursuits, René had an unusual career, including a stint in Afghanistan where he gained valuable leadership experience at 22 years old managing a team of 140. These experiences shaped his entrepreneurial spirit, leading him to eventually become an AEC Startup co-founder and leader.René dives into the capabilities ALICE is unlocking for the industry. By leveraging AI, the platform optimizes project scheduling and planning, resulting in significant time and cost savings. The core functionality of ALICE lies in its ability to explore millions of scheduling sequences, identify potential bottlenecks, and provide actionable insights to project teams, achieved through a rule-based system that works in conjunction with 3D BIM models.Finally, René emphasizes the importance of passion and perseverance in entrepreneurship, highlighting the numerous challenges faced by startups, such as financial constraints and client retention.Overall, the podcast provided a fascinating glimpse into the world of construction technology and the entrepreneurial journey of RenéAbout René Morkos, Founder and CEO of ALICE TechnologiesRené Morkos is the founder and CEO of ALICE Technologies. He obtained his Ph.D. in artificial intelligence applications for construction as a Charles H. Leavell fellow at Stanford University. He is a second-generation civil engineer with over 15 years of construction industry experience divided between industry and academia. His professional experience includes working as a project manager in Afghanistan, underwater pipeline construction, automation engineering on a $350 million gas refinery expansion project in Abu Dhabi, ERP system implementations, and various Virtual Design and Construction projects.With the launch of ALICE, René introduced the industry to a paradigm shift in construction scheduling and is on a mission to empower the construction industry with AI-powered generative construction scheduling technology to derisk projects and recover from delays. Now, our latest innovation, ALICE Core, allows users to quickly ingest P6 and Microsoft Project schedules and start optimizing them right away. With the AI-powered 'what-if' feature, users can explore scenarios to find the most efficient path forward for their construction project.René is a passionate mountaineer who relishes the challenge of conquering new peaks. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

Merging Expertise for Next-Level AEC ContentThis episode dives into the inspiring story of Gary Sprague, a long-time outsider who became a co-founder of two successful AEC startups, Andekan and Kinship. His journey is a testament to the power of collaboration and embracing new perspectives.Gary's background wasn't in AEC. He initially worked in finance, focusing on social impact and environmental businesses. This experience equipped him with valuable skills in startups, marketing, and customer support. The turning point came through a reconnection with a college friend who had been working in a digital modeling company. Their shared passion for technology and a chance encounter with Revit software sparked an idea: who would create the content for this revolutionary tool in the AEC industry?Despite lacking a traditional AEC background, Gary faced his initial imposter syndrome head-on. He realized that the industry's vastness meant no one had the complete picture, and an outsider's perspective could be a strength. He brought a user experience and technology focus, challenging the common narrative of architects being stuck in the past. For Gary, the design industry should be forward-thinking, and innovation is not exclusive to other sectors like Fintech, which he believes often relies on outdated backend systems.The conversation also highlights the importance of strong partnerships. Gary emphasizes that finding the right co-founder is crucial. It's a long-term commitment, and having partners who act as a team provides invaluable support through challenges and crises. With the right team in place, even outsiders with fresh perspectives can become successful innovators in the complex world of AEC.Dive into this story of a build-passionate entrepreneur and his journey into founding 2 amazing AEC Startups.About Gary Sprague - Co-Founder & CEO at KinshipGary brings a unique blend of operational expertise and entrepreneurial spirit to the building industry. He honed his operational acumen in the early years, working across various roles in financial services for mission-driven businesses. But his passion for building things led him to a freelance consultancy role, where he spent nearly five years helping entrepreneurs and social enterprises leverage affordable technology to create high-impact operational systems.In 2008, Gary embraced entrepreneurship fully by co-founding Andekan, a Revit content creation company. They've provided thousands of Revit families to major AEC firms and manufacturers globally. As COO for a decade, Gary gained extensive experience in the AEC and IT services world.Recognizing the growing need for cloud-based Revit content management, Gary helped launch Kinship in 2016. This AEC startup, where he serves as CEO, offers a cloud solution for Revit content, projects, and analytics. Kinship’s customers include major international AEC firms such as Buro Happold Engineering, Bjarke Ingels Group, Herzog & de Meuron, Laing O’Rourke, Pace, and COX Architecture.Gary is a recognized leader in the digital transformation of the building design and construction industry. He's driven by a passion for building high-growth technology businesses that excel in product, talent, and customer service.In his personal time, Gary loves to travel and spend as much time as possible on trails or at the beach with his wife and two kids. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

The Power of Knowledge and Effective Management in AECThis week's podcast delves into the fascinating world Christopher Parsons, Founder and CEO of Knowledge Architecture. Our guest takes us on a surprising career journey, from law school to the world of architecture, ultimately leading him to found a successful software startup.The conversation highlights the growing importance of capturing and sharing knowledge within AEC firms. This "knowledge architecture" empowers teams to leverage past experiences and best practices, leading to improved efficiency and project outcomes.One particularly intriguing innovation brought by Christopher is their client community of practice for Synthesis intranet teams called KA Community, informally called a "Community AI”, basically a community knowledge pool, generated by all of their clients that opt in to it. They allowed a scenario where anonymized data from multiple firms is pooled together. This collective intelligence is used to refine search accuracy and generate valuable insights that benefit all participants. It's a powerful example of collaboration driving innovation within the AEC industry.The episode also acknowledges the overwhelming number of new software options vying for attention in the AEC space. Our guest emphasizes the importance of focusing on solutions that offer clear and demonstrable value, not simply the allure of the latest technology or mere fanaticism for innovation.Christopher concludes with a heartwarming exploration of what truly fosters employee loyalty. Building a company with a clear purpose, offering remote work flexibility, and fostering a sense of shared ownership through employee stock options all rank high on the list. It's a refreshing reminder that treating employees with trust and respect goes a long way in building a strong and dedicated team.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of AEC. It provides valuable insights into the growing importance of knowledge management, collaboration, and building a thriving work environment that empowers employees.About Christopher Parsons, Founder and CEO of Knowledge ArchitectureAs Founder and CEO of Knowledge Architecture, an AEC Startup that builds software, community, and best practices to help AEC firms evolve and grow, Christopher is responsible for product development and organizational health. Founded in 2009, their flagship software product is Synthesis, an AEC intranet platform that integrates with common industry software like Deltek, Unanet, aec360, Microsoft Dynamics 365, Newforma, and OpenAsset.As a company, every year they host an annual AEC Event, KA Connect, to highlight knowledge management best practices at architecture and engineering firms, a program composed of roundtables, intranet tours, unconference hangouts, outdoor activities, and plenty of unstructured time to connect, reflect, and recharge in the afternoons.Christopher has been a technology leader in the AEC industry since 2002, including serving as the Chief Information Officer for Steinberg Architects and the Information Technology Director for SMWM (now Perkins+Will).Christopher has a degree in History from Wake Forest University. He’s an avid reader, trailrunner, birdwatcher, and cook. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

From Bootstrapping to Building Businesses within EntrepreneurshipDive into the inspiring journey of James Benham, a serial entrepreneur who's also a bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and host of a top-rated podcast. James takes us from his early days all the way to becoming a successful tech entrepreneur.In this episode, you'll gain valuable insights on navigating the entrepreneurial path. James delves into the critical decision between VC funding and bootstrapping, drawing wisdom from his acclaimed book "Be Your Own VC." He emphasizes the crucial foundation for any successful business: identifying and solving a significant problem for your customers. James doesn't shy away from the challenges, highlighting the hard work and dedication required to achieve the freedom of pursuing your passion.But the journey isn't solitary. James reveals the importance of building a dream team – a group of talented individuals who trust and work seamlessly together. He explores the differences between product and service companies, offering strategies for securing recurring revenue and maintaining a laser focus on client needs. Don't get caught up in the "shiny object syndrome," James cautions, emphasizing the importance of staying true to your core problem-solving mission.Join us for this episode packed with invaluable business, professional, and life experiences from James. Be prepared for an impactful journey that will shape your approach to work, learning, and planning your future success!About James BenhamCo-founder and CEO of JBKnowledge.James Benham is the co-founder and CEO of JBKnowledge, a multinational technology and consulting company he’s bootstrapped for over 20 years. From his college dorm room to over 280 employees across the USA, Argentina, and South Africa, he has led JBKnowledge to build industry-leading software for the world's largest insurance companies.James is also the co-founder of Terra, a disruptive insurance tech product. Terra is a cloud-based claims management software that improves claim outcomes for providers and consumers of Property and Casualty (P&C) insurance.James is the creator and co-host of the growing and top-rated show, The InsurTech Geek Podcast, where he interviews leading industry experts from some of the most recognized companies in the world.A passionate bootstrapped entrepreneur, James is the best-selling author of Be Your Own VC: 10 Bootstrapping Principles to Generate Cash and Keep Control, his debut book. In Be Your Own VC, James shares how bootstrapping led his tech company to a multimillion-dollar exit and the freedom to build what they love.James is a sought-after consultant and speaker at the forefront of innovation in the insurance industry. His bold ideas and love for technology have landed him keynote opportunities at over 400 conference stages including The Future of Insurance USA and TEDx. James has served as an elected city councilman, an adjunct professor at Texas A&M University and currently serves the state of Texas as a Regent on the governing board of Texas Southern University. In his spare time, James pursues many hobbies including flying airplanes, ballroom dancing, playing guitar, singing, and geeking out on tech. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

Hacking the AEC with Smart Connections & DataThis episode of the AEC Trailblazers: The Founders Files dives into the story of Havard Vasshaug, the founder of two impressive startups: Anker and Reope. We'll hear about his path from his early days working in the tech industry after college to his current role leading innovative companies.Along the way, Havard shares valuable lessons learned throughout his extensive career. He emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships ("pumping into amazing people") from the very beginning. These connections, especially the Bad Monkeys network, he reveals, played a crucial role in his success.No journey is without its challenges, and Havard doesn't shy away from discussing the difficulties of salesmanship - "the most difficult job on the planet". He'll offer insights into the art of convincing people to invest in your creation.Fundraising also gets a spotlight. Havard discusses the challenges of securing capital (currently in their second round) and the strategic allocation of those funds to fuel optimal growth for the company.As a leader, Havard prioritizes fostering a motivated team. He believes that a team united by a shared purpose can achieve anything. He emphasizes the importance of empowering his employees through autonomy, steering clear of micromanagement.By sharing his experiences as a tech-driven leader in the AEC industry, Havard offers valuable business best practices and leadership strategies that listeners can apply to their own endeavors.This episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to build a successful career in the tech industry or for those seeking leadership inspiration. Tune in and learn from the inspiring journey of Havard!About Havard VasshaugFounder of Anker, Reope, and Bad MonkeysHavard is a prominent figure in the AEC industry, with a unique blend of architectural passion and engineering expertise. Over his 20+ year career, he has held various roles, starting as an engineer and BIM manager, before diving into design technology.In 2014, Havard's entrepreneurial spirit emerged. He co-founded Bad Monkeys, a network that aimed to revolutionize the AEC industry by promoting visual programming for BIM-native architects and engineers. This network, led by a group of visionary industry leaders, inspired a generation of AEC designers to embrace coding. The impact of Bad Monkeys continues to be felt today, having served as a springboard for over 8 AEC startups. Havard himself has been deeply involved in 3 of them.In 2014, Havard co-founded Bad Monkeys, a global team of BIM and programming experts dedicated to empowering professionals with custom digital workflows. Building on this success, he co-founded Reope in 2018, a software company where architects and engineers code to develop better tools for AEC projects and processes. He served as CEO of Reope until 2022.Havard remains actively involved with both Bad Monkeys and Reope as a board member. His entrepreneurial journey continues with Anker, a new startup he co-founded in early 2023. Anker tackles the challenge of low AEC productivity by providing a powerful cloud-based solution for generating, validating, and automating BIM data. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

From Whale of an Idea to Software Giant: The John Walker and AutoCAD StoryThis episode of the AEC Trailblazers: The Founders Files, pays tribute to John Walker, the visionary who founded Autodesk and AutoCAD, the software that transformed design by making it digital and accessible. John, who passed away earlier this year, left an indelible mark on our industry and the way we work every day.We'll delve into John's life story, from the early days of Autodesk to witnessing its incredible transformation. Back then, this "AEC startup" (though we wouldn't have called it that at the time!) was just a whale of an idea. In 1982, a pivotal trade show moment shifted the company's focus to AutoCAD, sparking a success story fueled by unexpected turns and remarkable adaptation. This agility became the cornerstone of building a software giant.AutoCAD’s evolution reflects its constant dedication to improvement. From early 2D drafting to 3D modeling, mobile access, and AI integration, the software has consistently stayed relevant, keeping pace with ever-changing design needs.Join us as we celebrate John's legacy, which lives through the continued development of Autodesk, as well as the impact of his futuristic visions on various fields.About John Walker, co-founder of AutodeskJohn Walker was an American computer programmer, author, and co-founder of the computer-aided design software company Autodesk. He was later recognized for his writing on his website Fourmilab.In 1982, John Walker and 12 other programmers pooled US$59,000 to start Autodesk, and began working on several computer applications. The first completed was AutoCAD, a software application for computer-aided design (CAD) and drafting.The company went public in 1985. By mid-1986, the company had grown to 255 employees with annual sales of over $40 million. That year, Walker resigned as chairman and president of the company, continuing to work as a programmer. In 1989, Walker's book, The Autodesk File, was published. It describes his experiences at Autodesk, based around internal documents (particularly email) of the company.Walker moved to Switzerland in 1991. By 1994, when he resigned from the company, it was the sixth-largest personal computer software company in the world, primarily from the sales of AutoCAD. Walker owned more than 850,000 shares of Autodesk at the time of his departure.After Autodesk, John published on his personal domain, "Fourmi Lab". On his Web site, Walker published about his personal projects, including a hardware random number generator called HotBits, along with software that he wrote and freely distributed, such as his Earth and Moon viewer. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

A Story of Lifelong Learning and Business Success in AECIn this episode of AEC Trailblazers: The Founders Files, we meet industry veteran Steve Dell'Orto. Steve's journey is nothing short of inspiring. He rose from intern to lead one of the largest US general contractors, averaging $5-6 billion annually! Now, he's a successful investor and entrepreneur in the ConTech scene.Steve shares invaluable insights on career development and business acumen. He emphasizes lifelong learning over simply climbing the corporate ladder. He recounts his transition from the corporate world to the world of venture capital, where his expertise guides investment decisions. Steve focuses on startups solving real problems in the AEC industry with scalable solutions and visionary leadership.He also discusses his involvement with the "Build by Builders Network," a group of industry veterans aiming to make a significant impact. This network emphasizes customer focus, utilizing a customer advisory board to gather feedback before development begins. Steve believes the most successful companies pay close attention to industry trends and deliver intuitive, user-friendly solutions – think Apple for construction!Finally, Steve dives into ConCntric, the preconstruction platform that he co-founded and leads. Recognizing the fragmented nature of preconstruction, ConCntric unifies data, people, and processes to transform the industry.Listen to this episode for exclusive insights you won't find anywhere else. Steve's experience and vision are pure gold for anyone in AEC.About Steve Dell'Orto, Founder & CEO of ConCntricSteve Dell’Orto is the founder and CEO of ConCntric, a preconstruction platform that is transforming the fractured preconstruction environment by unifying data, people and processes. ConCntric acts as a single source of truth for all preconstruction stakeholders by providing a dynamic view of the project that ensures a certainty of outcome. As a 26-year construction industry veteran who has lived and breathed the world of delivering preconstruction projects, Steve is uniquely positioned to bring digital transformation to the industry. Steve is the former Executive Officer of one of the largest privately-owned, domestic general contractors in the U.S. with revenues averaging $5-6 billion annually. As the Executive Officer, Steve led the major expansion of his former company’s Western Region including the Northern California and Pacific Northwest division achieving 10x growth and increasing margins by over 40% through a committed focus on selective work acquisition and a more comprehensive preconstruction process. Some of the notable projects completed under Steve’s leadership include the: Golden State Warriors Arena and Development, Salesforce Tower, Facebook’s San Francisco Park Tower, Seattle Convention Center Expansion, Manchester Grand Hyatt, LA County Museum of Art Expansion and the LA Live Development among many others. Steve is committed to leveraging his 30 years in the industry to advance the level of innovation and technological advancement in the real estate and construction sector. In addition to the change he is driving through ConCntric, Steve is an investor and venture partner in several construction-tech focused venture capital funds including Builders VC and Argonautic Ventures. Steve is also an Advisor to eight emerging construction-tech focused startups bringing a wide range of solutions in areas such as autonomy, fintech, work acquisition, change order communication, project communication, marketplaces and artificial intelligence. Since launching ConCntric in 2021, Steve has built a dynamic global team and secured support from strategic and notable investors. Steve and his team are on a mission to make the built world more affordable, predictable and sustainable, and are uniquely positioned to transform the future for the construction and real estate industry.Steve is married with 2 daughters, one about to go to collage. and 1 dog. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com

The Power of Consolidation in a Fragmented Software IndustryThis episode of the AEC Trailblazers: The Founders Files features Matt Perrott, a passionate Melbourne surfer and civil engineer turned software guru. Matt co-founded a company with his former boss's boss, proving great ideas can come from anywhere. He shares his journey of launching BuildPass, a construction software business during COVID, tackling the challenge of managing complex construction sites with never-ending communication needs and changing projects.Dive into Matt's philosophy on entrepreneurship, including his views on balancing resources with client feedback, making decisions out of data, versus following your intuition and gut, and the commercial pros and cons of building features mostly based on client input.Listen to Matt as he reveals how BuildPass transformed from a safety app into an operating system for construction sites. This cloud-based software streamlines operations by replacing a jumble of traditional apps, emails, and paperwork.Don't miss Matt's inspiring story and how BuildPass is consolidating the construction tech landscape!About Matt PerrottSwitching from civil engineering to the software world, Matt has always been fascinated by construction tech. In 2021 along with Aaron Vanston, he co-founded BuildPass, a cloud-based software that helps businesses streamline their operations by replacing traditional apps, emails, and paperwork, serving as an operating system for construction sites. Before BuildPass, Matt worked as a software engineer in tech companies and served as a tutor at the University of Melbourne.Most of his time is spent with builders and subcontractors brainstorming better ways to manage safety, but when he's not he'll be finding his way to the coast for a surf. His passion for the water has driven him to support as head water polo coach and club captain of the Portsea Surf Life Saving Club. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit everse.substack.com