Revolutionizing Construction with AI to create Connected Jobsites with Alex, Rob & Benjamin

In this episode of The ConTech Crew, Jeff Sample hosts a special live show from the AGC National Convention in Columbus, Ohio. Joined by Rob McKinney from SALUS, Alex Belkofer from McCarthy, and Benjamin Crosby from Yates Construction, the crew gets into the latest in construction tech, leadership, and digital innovation. The conversation covers everything from robotics and data utilization to mental health and operational technology.

With decades of combined experience and a passion for industry evolution, the guests reflect on key challenges, emerging tech solutions, and the urgent need for smarter data use. They also explore the changing culture of construction and how today’s tools from smart tools to AI-powered platforms are revolutionizing job sites. It's a high-energy, insightful episode about connecting the field, fostering innovation, and preparing for the next generation of digital builders.

Key Learnings 

• Connected job sites are being realized through robotics, AR/VR, and real-time data exchanges.
• Practical application of innovation in mega projects helps bridge the gap between vision and reality.
• The evolution of construction tech has shifted from being a burden to becoming essential to operations.
• Mental health in construction is being addressed through focus-enhancing apps and digital support.
• Data codification and interoperability are critical to build a shared, actionable knowledge base.
• Operational and IT teams must align to drive smarter, integrated workflows.
• Events like AGC and AEC TechCon foster community, innovation, and the upskilling of future professionals.

Timestamps

[00:00] - Introduction 

[02:52] - Discussion of AGC National and live events

[04:06] - Alex on the innovation lab and connected job sites

[05:34] - Benjamin shares real-world implementation of tech on mega projects

[10:16] - Rise of software and the digital transformation of trade shows

[14:25] - Alex previews the AEC TechCon 2025 in St. Louis

[18:31] - Importance of localizing innovation for regional impact

[20:41] - Announcement of AGC Technology Conference in Chicago (Aug 5-7)

[24:22] - Vision of future design informed by current constructability data

[30:23] - Highlight of Trimble, Procore, and data exchange examples

[32:30] - Salus, Document Crunch, Hilti, Quickbase, and fleet tech with Tena

[40:11] - Final thoughts and reflection on 10 years of industry transformation

Follow The Benjamin Crosby:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamincrosby/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/benjaminecrosby 
• Twitter: https://x.com/bimjamin 
• LinkedIn(Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/yates-construction/ 
• Website: https://www.wgyates.com/ 
• Facebook(Company): https://www.facebook.com/YatesBuilds/ 
• Instagram(Company): https://www.instagram.com/yatesbuilds/ 
• Twitter(Company): https://x.com/YatesBuilds 

Follow The Rob McKinney:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conappguru/ 
• Twitter: