The ConTechCrew

In this episode, hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood look into the evolving role of AI in construction technology with Colin Whitlatch, CTO of Kahua. Colin discusses how Kahua's platform leverages AI to enhance construction project management, the importance of security and compliance (especially in the context of FedRAMP), and how the human element remains vital even as AI becomes more prevalent in the industry.   

Colin Whitlatch is the Chief Technology Officer at Kahua, a leading software company in the construction tech space. With over 15 years of experience, Colin has played a pivotal role in shaping Kahua's AI-driven platform, which focuses on flexibility, data integrity, and helping construction businesses innovate while ensuring top-notch security. 

Key Takeaways
AI in construction tech must be paired with human oversight to ensure effective decision-making and avoid errors.
Security and compliance, such as FedRAMP, are critical in building trust and safeguarding sensitive data.
The balance of innovation and ethical responsibility is essential for leveraging AI at scale.
Despite AI’s power, context is key as AI can’t replace human judgment in complex scenarios.
The importance of transparency and traceability in AI-driven actions to avoid mistakes or legal risks.

Timestamps
[00:00] – Episode Teaser
[02:29] – Colin’s Background
[04:17] – Kahua’s Journey and Evolution
[09:13] – Connecting Business Logic to Project Contracts
[13:22] – AI’s Benefits and Challenges
[19:03] – Human in the Loop Concept
[20:25] – The Role of Security & FedRAMP
[25:45] – FedRAMP vs. CMK Compliance
[30:58] – Ethical Use of AI in Construction
[39:06] – AI and Human Oversight: A Necessary Balance
[47:31] – Final Thoughts

Follow Colin Whitlatch:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-whitlatch/
Website (Company): https://www.kahua.com/
LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/kahua/
Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/people/Kahua/100063610417010/#
Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/kahuainc/
X (Company): https://x.com/KahuaInc
YouTube (Company): https://www.youtube.com/@kahuainc
TikTok (Company): https://www.tiktok.com/@kahuainc

Follow the Hosts:
Jeff Sample: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/
Nathan Wood: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanaec/ 

Follow The ConTech Crew:
Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg 
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ 
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In this episode of The ConTech Crew, we hear from Josh Levy, CEO of Document Crunch, as he shares the journey of his company's growth and transformation. From the early days of starting up with limited resources to the strategic partnership with Trimble, Josh offers insight into the challenges and successes that have shaped his entrepreneurial path. The conversation touches on the culture of Document Crunch, its focus on reducing disputes in the construction industry, and how the company’s vision aligns with Trimble's values to create a more efficient and collaborative industry. 

Josh Levy is the CEO of Document Crunch, a technology company that helps construction teams manage contracts more effectively to reduce risk and avoid disputes. With a background as a corporate lawyer, Josh transitioned to tech and has built Document Crunch into a fast-growing company that is now scaling with Trimble’s support. He shares how the company’s culture, his personal journey, and a strong commitment to his vision have led to this exciting new chapter.  

Key Takeaways
Document Crunch’s success is driven by a strong company culture, not just technology.
A clear, unwavering vision is crucial for overcoming doubts and achieving growth. 
Josh aims to eliminate disputes in construction by addressing contract risks upfront. 
Josh reflects on building strong relationships and seeking mentorship with key players.
Combining Document Crunch’s product velocity with Trimble’s vast platform, distribution network, and data will create unmatched opportunities

Timestamps
[00:00] - Episode Teaser
[02:51] - Josh’s Leap Into The Tech World And Starting Document Crunch
[06:41] - Importance Of Culture In Building A Successful Company
[09:25] - Document Crunch’s Focus On Creating A Great Work Environment
[14:06] - Early Lessons In Creating A Supportive Culture
[25:05] - “Zero Disputes” Vision And How It Transforms The Construction Industry
[29:40] - The Impact Of Contracts On Productivity
[38:01] - Introducing Trimble As A Partner
[43:40] - Final Thoughts

Follow Josh Levy:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-levy-/
Website (Company): https://www.documentcrunch.com/
LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/document-crunch/
Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/documentcrunch/
Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/documentcrunch/
X (Company): https://x.com/DocumentCrunch

Follow the Host:
Jeff Sample: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/

Follow The ConTech Crew:
Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en 
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrew 
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In this episode, hosts Jeff Sample and Nathan Wood talk with Alex Schickling about how DeWalt is transforming the construction industry by using robotics to address major workforce challenges. Alex explains how robotics is tackling the most physically demanding and repetitive tasks, allowing skilled workers to focus on higher-value activities. From drilling in data centers to revolutionizing construction manufacturing, this episode provides a fascinating look into the future of robotics in construction.  

Alex Schickling is the Director of Robotics at Stanley Black & Decker (DeWalt Robotics), where he leads the commercialization of robotic and field technologies in construction and industrial environments. With a background in engineering and extensive experience in construction manufacturing, Alex is passionate about using technology to improve safety and efficiency on construction sites. He has worked on numerous projects involving seismic bracing, cable trays, and anchors, and is now focused on the integration of robotics into the construction industry to address major challenges like labor shortages and worker safety. 

Key Takeaways
The focus of robotics in construction is on reducing the physical toll of repetitive, high-risk tasks. 
The partnership with August Robotics led to a system that enhances accuracy, efficiency, and safety. 
Robotics complement human work by handling physically demanding tasks, freeing skilled workers for higher-value work. 
Integrating robotics with DeWalt tools ensures practical, safe, and efficient technology on the jobsite. 
Contractor feedback, including from skeptics, is crucial to refining technology for real-world challenges.

Timestamps
[00:00] - Episode Teaser
[01:23] - Alex Schickling Introduction & Background 
[03:04] - Shifting from Over-Engineering to Simplicity in Design
[10:11] - Rise of Prefabrication and Robotics in Construction
[13:08] - Introducing DeWalt Robotics for Data Center Drilling
[15:18] - Partnership with August Robotics
[17:58] - Benefits of Robotics in Data Center Projects
[24:16] - The Importance of Accurate Drilling
[25:11] - Pit Stop Approach for Robot Maintenance
[29:22] - Future of Robotics in Construction
[37:25] - Contractor Testimony on Embracing Robotics

Follow Alex Schickling:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexschickling/
Website (Company): https://www.stanleyblackanddecker.com/
Website (Company): https://augustrobotics.com/construction/drilling
LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/stanley-black-decker-inc/
Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/stanleyblackanddecker
Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/stanleyblackdecker
X (Company): https://x.com/StanleyBlkDeckr
YouTube (Company): https://www.youtube.com/user/StanleyBlackDecker

Follow the Hosts:
Jeff Sample: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/
Nathan Wood: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanaec/ 

Follow The ConTech Crew:
Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en 
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X: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew

In this episode, host Jeff Sample sits down with three leading experts in the construction and insurance sectors: Cutler Knupp from The Haskell Company, Damon Ranieri from AXA XL, and Chris Greene from American Global. Together, they explore the intersection of risk management, technology, and innovation in the construction industry. The discussion delves into how businesses are adapting to changing risk landscapes, leveraging technology for better outcomes, and ensuring sustainability in project delivery.

Cutler, Damon, and Chris bring their diverse perspectives to the table, sharing insights from their respective industries and how collaboration across sectors is fostering more resilient and efficient construction processes. They discuss the challenges of integrating technology and risk management, from predictive analytics in construction to the evolving role of insurance in mitigating new project risks.

This episode highlights the importance of strategic risk management, tech integration, and fostering collaboration across industries for future-proofing construction operations. Whether you're a contractor, insurer, or project manager, the insights shared by these experts will equip you with valuable tools to navigate the rapidly changing landscape of modern construction.

Key Takeaways:
Technology adoption in construction must be balanced with risk management strategies
Collaboration between contractors and insurers is crucial for navigating evolving risks
Predictive analytics can drive more accurate risk assessments and decision-making
Integration of digital tools should focus on practical benefits and seamless workflows
Fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability is essential for industry growth

Timestamps:
[00:00] – Episode Teaser
[00:39] – Introduction and guest backgrounds
[02:32] – Chris Greene: Leveraging data and analytics for risk prediction in construction
[06:06] – Cutler Knupp: The role of technology in shaping modern construction
[07:37] – Damon Ranieri: The impact of insurance on construction project risk management
[16:22] – Predictive analytics and their role in risk management
[23:55] – Collaboration between construction and insurance sectors
[33:04] – Final thoughts: fostering adaptability in construction teams

Follow Chris Greene:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisgreene1/ 
Website (Company): https://americanglobal.com/ 
LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-global-llc/ 
Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/AmericanGlobalLLC/ 
Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/american_global/ 
X (Company): https://x.com/AXA_XL 
YouTube (Company): https://www.youtube.com/axaxl

Follow Damon Ranieri:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damonranieri/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/damon.ranieri/ 
Website (Company): https://axaxl.com/ 
LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/axaxl/?originalSubdomain=bm 
Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/axa/ 
Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/axa/?hl=en 
X (Company): https://x.com/AXA_XL 
YouTube (Company): https://www.youtube.com/@HaskellAEC

Follow Cutler Knupp:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cutlerknupp/ 
Website (Company): https://www.haskell.com/ 
LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-haskell-company/ 
Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/TheHaskellCompany  
Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/haskellco/ 
X (Company): https://x.com/HaskellCo
YouTube (Company): https://www.youtube.com/user/HaskellDesignBuild 

Follow the Host:
Jeff Sample (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/
Nathan Wood (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanaec/ 

Follow The ConTech Crew:
Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en 
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrew 
X: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew

In this episode, host Jeff Sample sits down with Jennifer Hohman, Chief Information and Technology Officer at Baker Construction, for a practical conversation on how technology is shaping modern construction. Jennifer shares her path into the industry and brings a grounded perspective on aligning innovation with real-world project delivery.

The discussion focuses on how construction teams can adopt technology without losing sight of core operations. Jennifer highlights the importance of connecting digital tools with field execution, ensuring that solutions actually support crews on-site rather than adding complexity. From BIM to AI, the conversation explores what drives efficiency, where challenges still exist, and how to approach technology adoption with a clear strategy.

With a strong focus on workforce development, collaboration, and process improvement, this episode offers valuable insights for construction professionals working to deliver projects more efficiently while adapting to ongoing industry changes.

Key Takeaways:
Technology must align with field operations and project workflows
Strong processes are essential before implementing digital solutions
AI can support planning, training, and analysis, but requires human oversight
Avoid tech overload by focusing on tools that solve real project challenges
Investing in workforce development is critical for long-term project success

Timestamps:
 [00:00] – Episode Teaser
[01:00] – Introduction and Jennifer’s background
[02:49] – Journey into construction technology
[11:52] – BIM and the shift to digital workflows
[12:41] – Connecting technology with field execution
[28:42] – AI in construction: practical applications
[40:22] – Final thoughts: process over technology

Follow Jennifer Hohman:
Website: https://www.jenniferhohman.com/ 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-hohman/ 
X: https://x.com/JennHohman 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.hohman 
Website (Company): https://bakerconstruction.com/ 
LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/bakerconstruction/ 
Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/BakerConst1968 
Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/bakerconst1968/ 
X (Company): https://x.com/BakerConst1968 

Follow the Host:
Jeff Sample (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/ironmanofit/
Nathan Wood (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanaec/ 

Follow The ConTech Crew:
Website: https://thecontechcrew.com/ 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBDRThvRmSpyTZmMWY4EAjg 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contechcrew/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConTechCrew/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecontechcrew/?hl=en 
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecontechcrew 
X: https://x.com/TheConTechCrew