The ConTechCrew

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/ 

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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 
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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/ 
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In this episode, hosts Nathan Wood and Jeff Sample sit down with Rob Sloyer, Vice President of Innovation & Strategic Services at Kast Construction, for an insightful conversation about the role of technology in construction, the evolution of digital tools, and the industry's ongoing challenges and opportunities. Rob shares his journey from the early days of fax machines to the digital transformation that has reshaped construction, highlighting the lessons he's learned along the way.

With a focus on improving field operations, Rob emphasizes the need to balance technology adoption with hands-on experience to ensure that workers are equipped with both the tools and the knowledge to succeed. His insights into the impact of AI, data sharing, and training provide valuable perspectives on how the industry can continue to innovate and grow in the coming years.

Key Takeaways
The evolution of construction technology from manual processes to digital tools
How the construction industry has adapted (or struggled) with new technologies like BIM and AI
The importance of community and sharing knowledge in construction technology
The value of learning through experience and why it's essential to teach the next generation of workers
How technology, when implemented correctly, can enhance decision-making, but should not replace the human touch

Timestamps
[01:10] – Introduction and Rob’s background
[03:03] – Rob’s journey into construction technology
[05:24] – The impact of BIM and digital tools during the recession
[11:02] – Transition from manual processes to digital tools
[14:15] – Digital tools and the evolution of construction work
[18:05] – AI in construction: challenges and opportunities
[25:35] – AI as a Training Tool (Not Just Automation)
[28:09] – The future of training and development in construction
[34:00] – Tech Overload & Vendor Fatigue
[38:00] – Final Thoughts: Process > Automation

Follow Rob Sloyer:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-sloyer-9937111b/ 
Website (Company): https://www.kastbuild.com/ 
LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/kast-construction/ 
Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/KASTConstruction 
Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/kastconstruction/ 
X (Company):  https://x.com/KASTbuild 
YouTube (Company): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJfHa9nYNnEw7aPejw83AxA/ 

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/ 
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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 of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample explores the “Wild Wild West” of construction engineering with Jasper Calcara of D.H. Charles Engineering. From Olympic downhill inspections to life-threatening trench collapses and sheared structural columns, Jasper shares what it means to be the “sheriff” in an industry where seconds matter and safety is everything.
Construction engineering is one of the most overlooked and most dangerous aspects of the building industry. While architects and structural engineers design permanent structures, construction engineers operate in the high-risk, fast-paced world of temporary works: scaffolding, excavation shoring, crane picks, structural stabilization, and emergency site interventions.

Key Takeaways
Why construction engineering (temporary works) is one of the most dangerous and under-supported disciplines in construction
What really happens behind the scenes on massive projects like the Bay Bridge and the Olympics
The hidden dangers of trench work and why even a 5-foot excavation can be deadly
How technology and custom-built systems can improve safety, response time, and team collaboration
Why modern, accessible education is critical as experienced construction knowledge retires out of the workforce

Timestamps
[00:00] – Episode Introduction
[02:30] – Meet the “Engineering Sheriff”
[06:07] – What Is Construction Engineering?
[07:54] – The Bay Bridge & The Scope of Temporary Works
[10:50] – Olympic-Level Engineering
[12:00] – Risk, Liability & The Wild West of Construction
[16:00] – Building Technology for Seconds That Matter
[18:45] – The Hidden Dangers of Below-Ground Work
[21:27] – Reinventing Construction Education
[31:07] – A Wake-Up Call: When No One Knows the Risk
[33:21] – A Critical Moment for the Industry
[35:26] – Closing Thoughts & Where to Connect

Follow Jasper Calcara:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaspercalcara/
Website (Company): https://charlesengineering.com/
LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/d-h-charles-engineering/

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

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