BUILD America

Episode 15: Moving DEI to the Project Level to Embrace Communities with Kiara Fortson

In this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith Buck explores the practical application of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the construction industry with Kiara Fortson, DEI Project Implementation Director at ArchKey Solutions. Kiara shares her journey into DEI, her challenges and strategies for fostering an inclusive environment, and the importance of community engagement and mentorship for small businesses. She outlines her framework for successful DEI implementation and discusses ArchKey's efforts in workforce development and supplier diversity. Kiara also reflects on the evolving demographics and future impact of DEI in construction. For more information, visit www.informationworks.org and https://www.archkey.com/

Episode 14: Bringing the Power of VDC to Adaptive Reuse Projects with Byron Byron Conley & Taylor Moon,

In this podcast episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith welcomes Byron Conley, a project engineer, and Taylor Moon, a senior VDC manager from Russell, to explore adaptive reuse projects. From transforming a century-old YMCA into a modern hotel and museum to discussing the role of VDC in preserving historical elements while integrating modern amenities, Conley and Moon shed light on the intersection of history and innovation in construction. Reflecting on the completion of the 21C project in St. Louis and anticipating future trends in adaptive reuse construction, listeners gain valuable insights into the transformative power of technology in reshaping architectural landscapes.
 
For more information, visit www.informationworks.org

Episode 13: Mark Dalton, Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council “Fighting Construction Industry Tax Fraud”

In this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith discusses the pervasive issue of tax fraud in the construction industry with guest Mark Dalton, Assistant Political Director for the Mid America Carpenters Regional Council. They explore how tax fraud and wage theft affect workers, communities, and the economy, highlighting red flags and enforcement efforts. With insights into the regional scope of the problem and calls to action for public involvement, the episode sheds light on the complexities of combating tax fraud in construction.
For more information, visit www.informationworks.org

Episode 12: The Do’s and Don’ts of Construction Collections with Quinn Murphy

In this episode of BUILD America, hosted by Kerry Smith, attorney Quinn Murphy of Sandberg Phoenix explores the essential do's and don'ts of construction collection. Discussing the significance of having a structured system, understanding contractual and legal rights, and securing retainage through liens, Murphy provides valuable insights for contractors facing payment challenges. Kerry and Murphy delve into the complexities of contract reviews, cautioning against signing unconditional lien waivers before payment, and emphasizing the need for prompt initiation of collections. This episode offers practical advice and strategic considerations for construction professionals navigating the intricacies of receivable recovery.
For more information, visit www.informationworks.org
 

Episode 11: Latest Trends in Indoor Ag Design & Construction w/ Clayco’s Ron Jones & Ron Mitchell

In this episode of BUILD America, Kerry Smith, owner of Construction News and Review (CNR) Magazine, explores the world of indoor agriculture with guests Ron Jones and Ron Mitchell from Claco. Ron Jones, the vice president of Claco's industrial group, discusses groundbreaking methodologies for delivering capital projects in the indoor grow and greenhouse space. Ron Mitchell, a master grower and expert in aeroponics and hydroponics, highlights the unique qualities of indoor agriculture compared to traditional outdoor methods. The conversation covers the challenges of controlling environmental factors, the diversity of crops grown indoors, and the complexities of mechanical systems and security in these specialized facilities. The episode sheds light on the evolving trends and technologies in indoor agriculture, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and mentorship in this growing industry.For more information, visit www.informationworks.org

Episode 10: The Big Stay: How Construction Companies are Reimagining a People-First Culture with Jennifer Nguyen and Dana Borchert

In this episode of Build America, host Kerry Smith delves into the dynamics of workforce retention, honing in on the "Big Stay" movement within the construction industry. Jennifer Nguyen and Dana Borchert from CMA Global join the conversation, shedding light on the aftermath of the Great Resignation and the shift towards a more people-centric approach to attract and retain talent. The discussion encompasses the diverse challenges faced by different roles in construction, emphasizing the significance of grasping employee values, autonomy, mastery, and purpose. Nguyen and Borchert underscore the pivotal role of organizational culture in retaining top talent and share CMA Global's data-driven approach to help companies navigate hiring, development, and retention strategies. Real-world examples from construction clients highlight innovative solutions, offering valuable insights for industry leaders grappling with workforce retention in the post-pandemic era.
 
For more information, visit www.informationworks.org

Episode 9: Prefabrication Ingenuity with Tim Gunn

In this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith interviews Tim Gunn, Vice President Construction at Alberici Constructors Inc., about the topic of prefabrication design and engineering. They discuss the challenges faced by the industry, such as supply chain issues and workforce availability, and how prefabrication can help address these challenges. Tim highlights the benefits of offsite construction, including better control on quality, safety, and materials management. He also shares examples of prefabricated components in projects like City Park Stadium and healthcare facilities. Tim emphasizes the importance of early planning and coordination with designers for successful prefabrication. 
 
For more information, check www.informationworks.org

Episode 8: Applied Technology Increases Productivity with Kurt and Reid Bangert

 
In this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith interviews Kurt Bangert, President and CEO of Bangert Incorporated, and Reid Bangert, COO and Integrator of the company. They discuss the role of Bangert Inc. and Sage Intacct Construction in making life easier for the construction industry by automating processes and providing innovative technology solutions. Kurt Bangert emphasizes the company's 40-year history and their belief in the power of applied technology to increase productivity. He also highlights the importance of customer satisfaction and the strong relationship they have with their employees. Reid Bangert explains how their deployment system focuses on providing knowledge and support to customers, rather than just implementing software. 
 
For more information, check www.informationworks.org

Episode 7: Construction Industry Storytelling with Chris Martin

In this episode of Build America, host Kerry Smith interviews Chris Martin, a marketing guru and president of Atlas Marketing. They discuss the art of storytelling in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry and how to effectively communicate the stories of AEC firms. Chris emphasizes the importance of simplifying complex processes and issues to make them understandable to a wider audience. He compares storytelling in the AEC industry to a movie or film, where various elements and characters come together to create a compelling narrative. Chris also addresses the need for AEC companies to move beyond generic marketing messages like "safe, on time, on budget" and instead focus on showcasing their unique value and expertise. 
 
For more information, visit www.informationworks.org

Episode 6: Lessening the Carbon Footprint with Kyle Kammer

In this episode of Build America, host Kerry Smith interviews Kyle Kammer, Director of Quality for Concrete Strategies. They discuss the impact of cement and concrete production on carbon dioxide emissions and the efforts being made in the concrete industry to reduce its carbon footprint. Kyle explains that while concrete is a major producer of CO2, it is also the most used building material in the world. He highlights the importance of considering the whole life cycle of a building and the resilience of concrete structures. Kyle also mentions the concept of "green concrete" and the various methods being explored to lower the carbon footprint of concrete, such as using alternative cementitious materials and reducing the amount of cement used.
 
For more information, visit www.informationworks.org