Bridging the Gap: Insights & Innovations in Construction

• The Power of Prefab, Partnerships, and Paradigm Shifts

  In this episode of Bridging the Gap, live from Advancing Prefab 2025, Todd sits down with Dr. Andrew Rener to discuss the evolution of prefabrication in construction, the misconceptions that hold the industry back, and the shifts needed to drive true collaboration. From breaking away from outdated procurement cycles to fostering real partnerships between owners and contractors, Andrew shares how technology, mindset shifts, and better communication can revolutionize project outcomes. Plus, this conversation dives into the genius simplicity of a single question that could transform industry relationships. 🔹 Why traditional procurement methods fail modern construction 🔹 The key mindset shift for achieving predictable project outcomes 🔹 How empathy and collaboration drive efficiency and innovation 🎧 Tune in to discover how prefabrication is shaping the future of construction. Andrew Rener, PhD, PE, DBIA, F. ASCE is an experienced construction professional focused on building teams and projects while ensuring schedule, quality and budget are achieved. He is Management Team Member at Architectural Metals Inc. TODD TAKES Owners Need to Lead the Prefab Revolution: If we want prefab to scale, owners have to stop treating procurement like a bidding war. Andrew made a strong case that owners need to commit to long-term partnerships instead of just chasing the lowest price. It’s about collaboration, not just cost-cutting—because the real value is in certainty, speed, and quality. Breaking Free from the Bid Mentality: One of the biggest roadblocks in prefab adoption? The constant bid cycle. Too many projects still compare prefab to traditional stick-built methods without factoring in time, labor, and jobsite congestion. If we shift the focus to total value instead of just upfront cost, we’ll unlock real innovation. Prefab Isn’t Just About Cost—It’s About Certainty: The biggest advantage of prefab isn’t just saving money—it’s about certainty of outcome. With prefab, you get fewer delays, better quality, and reduced jobsite risks. But for that to happen, the industry needs to rethink how it measures success beyond just price tags.   Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn   Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn   Other Relevant Links: Andrew’s LinkedIn Architectural Metals Inc.    

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• The Power of Partnering in Prefab

  In this episode, straight from Advancing Prefabrication 2025, Todd welcomes back Amy Marks, the Queen of Prefab, for an insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of industrialized construction. Amy shares how prefabrication is becoming the norm, the critical role of strategic partnerships, and why culture fit is key to success in the industry. 🔹 Why partnering—not just cost-cutting—drives real value 🔹 The rise of prefab and industrialized construction on a global scale 🔹 How AI and automation are reshaping the construction industry 🔹 The explosion of data centers and why prefab plays a pivotal role 🔹 Key metrics every construction leader should be tracking Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how the best in the business are transforming construction through innovation and collaboration. Amy Marks is the SVP, Innovation at Compass Datacenters. Compass builds hyper scale and cloud data centers tailored to customers' needs, delivering dedicated buildings and campuses through a tightly coupled supply chain and customer-centric network. Amy has defined the language, process and frameworks adopted by companies, universities and countries reflecting the convergence of Design-Make-Operate models. As the CEO of XSite Modular, she pioneered a path as the world’s preeminent prefabrication consultant and is often called the Queen Of Prefab - creating the first prefabrication consultancy. TODD TAKES Trusted partnerships are the foundation of success: Let’s be real—if we keep treating prefab partnerships as just another low-bid contract, we’re missing the whole point. Scaling industrialized construction requires deep collaboration, where companies align on culture, strategy, and investment to truly co-create value. The best partnerships aren’t about squeezing margins—they’re about shared wins, long-term trust, and building something bigger than a single project. AI isn’t replacing creativity—it’s enhancing it: There’s a common fear that AI and automation will take over jobs, but in reality, they’re giving us the freedom to be more creative problem-solvers. AI is speeding up the repetitive tasks that bog us down, allowing teams to focus on design, strategy, and higher-level decision-making. The companies that embrace AI as a collaborative tool, not a competitor, will be the ones pushing innovation forward. Industrialized construction is the key to solving major industry challenges: Construction is at a breaking point—labor shortages, supply chain chaos, and sustainability pressures aren’t going away. Prefabrication and industrialized construction offer a real, scalable solution by streamlining processes, reducing waste, and making projects more predictable. The industry leaders of the future will be the ones who embrace repeatability, optimize for efficiency, and rethink the way we build from the ground up.   Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn   Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn   Other Relevant Links: Amy’s LinkedIn Compass Datacenters Xsite Modular  

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  24:48
• Bridging the Gap Between AI and Construction

  Is AI a job disruptor, or could it actually make construction more human? In this episode, Hari Vasudevan joins the conversation to explore the transformative impact of AI on safety enhancements, efficiency improvements, and fostering better collaboration across teams. We explore the 80/20 rule in construction, the potential of AI-driven safety metrics, and why true collaboration between field crews and office teams is the key to unlocking AI’s full potential. Tune in for a fresh take on how technology isn’t here to replace workers—it’s here to empower them. Hari Vasudevan, PE, is a serial entrepreneur and engineer at the forefront of AI, utilities, and construction management. As Founder & CEO of KYRO Technologies and Think Power Solutions, he drives transformative advancements in construction, vegetation, utility, and field services. Beyond these corporate roles, Mr. Vasudevan serves as Vice Chair & Strategic Advisor for the Edison Electric Institute’s Transmission Subject Area Committee, shaping the future of technology and infrastructure. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering, along with professional engineering licensure in multiple states. TODD TAKES Work Smarter, Not Harder with the 80/20 Rule: In construction, a few key processes drive the majority of outcomes. AI can help identify and optimize those high-impact areas—like making sure project setups are done right from the start, so invoicing, cash flow, and overall efficiency don’t take a hit. When used strategically, AI isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a game-changer for profitability. AI Can Actually Make Construction More Human: There’s a common fear that AI will replace jobs, but in reality, it can make them safer and more sustainable. By tracking things like long work hours, frequent travel, and risky jobsite behaviors, AI can flag potential safety issues before they become real problems. It can even help ensure workers aren’t burning out by nudging project managers to give them a much-needed break. AI isn’t about replacing people—it’s about protecting and empowering them. Collaboration is the Secret Sauce for AI Success: AI only works if everyone—field teams, project managers, and the office staff—are on the same page. The reality is, field crews care about getting the job done, while office teams focus on financials and reporting. AI can help bridge that gap by making data entry easier, translating real-time updates across different teams, and ensuring everyone has the right info when they need it. When AI is built with true collaboration in mind, it stops being a headache and starts being a real solution. Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn   Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn   Other Relevant Links: Hari’s LinkedIn Think Power Solutions  

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  31:26
• Resilience in a Tough Industry

  In this episode, Todd and guest Pat Miller discuss Pat’s inspiring journey in the construction industry. Pat provides great insights into being a woman in a male-dominated field, the importance of resilience, and her advocacy for women to pursue more diverse career paths within construction. This episode also highlights the evolving landscape of the industry, particularly the recent rise of data centers, and the need for continuous education and networking in construction. Pat Miller is President of Blue Diamond Construction in New Jersey. Blue Diamond specializes in Structural Metal Framing, Interior Metal Framing, Wood Framing, Drywall, Acoustical Ceiling, Insulation, Fire Spray, Doors/Frames/Hardware exclusively within the Commercial sector. Pat offers over 30 years’ experience within the commercial construction industry. She is highly organized, quality-minded and committed to her clients’ best interest.   TODD TAKES Let’s Make Construction Cool: The construction industry needs to do a better job showing how exciting it really is. It’s not just about swinging hammers anymore—it’s about using cutting-edge tech like AI, VR, and AR. By sharing behind-the-scenes stories and highlighting all the career paths—whether it’s safety, project management, or business development—we can attract the next generation and show them how dynamic and rewarding this field can be. Stay Open to Reinvention: One of Pat’s big messages is that you’ve got to be ready to adapt. The industry is constantly changing, and whether it’s pivoting to projects like data centers or embracing innovations like prefabrication, the key is staying ahead of the curve. It’s all about finding smarter, faster, and better ways to get things done. Never Underestimate Networking: Building relationships is everything. Pat’s journey proves how vital it is to connect with others in the industry. Whether it’s attending conferences, joining local programs, or just reaching out to peers, networking can open doors you didn’t even know existed. And for anyone just starting out? Get involved early—it’ll set you up for success.   Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn   Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn   Other Relevant Links: Pat’s LinkedIn Blue Diamond Construction  

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  39:43
• How AI is Shaping the Future of the Construction

  What does it take to truly innovate in construction? Should innovation be confined to one team or department, or should it become a collaborative, company-wide effort? In this episode of Bridging the Gap, Todd sits down with Trent Miskelly to explore these questions and the transformative power of AI in the construction industry. Together, they discuss how AI is revolutionizing workflows, enhancing project management, and unlocking new efficiencies. Trent also shares insights on the evolution and future potential of AI and robotics, as well as lessons from his journey with Document Crunch, a company dedicated to improving risk management in construction. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation about the future of innovation and technology in the industry!   Trent Miskelly is Chief Technology Officer at Document Crunch. He has over 20 years of experience in software development, product management, and operations, with a passion for building and scaling B2B software businesses. As the Chief Technology Officer at Document Crunch, he leads the strategy, execution, and growth of the first-of-its-kind solution transforming construction contracts and agreements into actionable insights, powered by a proprietary AI/ML engine. In addition to his role at Document Crunch, he is also an Operating Partner at Integr8d Capital, an early-stage venture capital firm that partners with extraordinary entrepreneurs driven to build enduring businesses. Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn   Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn   Other Relevant Links: Trent’s LinkedIn Document Crunch  

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