Rapid advances in drone technology are reshaping construction, from jobsite safety and progress tracking to automation and AI-powered insights. And with the FAA’s newly proposed Part 108 rule for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, the industry may soon see its biggest leap yet. In this episode of ConstructorCast, host Max Nelson sits down with: Spencer Phillips, Counsel, Regulatory and Litigation Advocacy AGC of America | https://www.agc.org/ Grant Hagen, Head of Community DroneDeploy | https://www.dronedeploy.com/ Together, they break down what contractors need to know about the proposed rule, including: How BVLOS operations differ from the current Part 107 limitations What “airworthiness acceptance” means and how it could impact the drone market How contractors would certify their drone programs, not just individual pilots The shift toward autonomous and remote piloting The opportunities and risks as drones integrate into the national airspace The timeline for FAA rulemaking and how contractors can engage in the process Whether your firm is already using drones or just considering what’s next, this conversation helps demystify the regulatory landscape and paints a clear picture of what the future of drone usage in construction may look like. Resources: 2026 Construction Hiring and Business Outlook Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7VFSFT2 AGC's Comments on FAA 108: https://news.agc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/FAA-2025-1908-2836_attachment_1.pdf Article Overview on AGC News: https://news.agc.org/advocacy/faa-moves-to-allow-for-expanded-usage-of-drones/ The 2025 AI Resource Guide for Construction Professionals: https://www.agc.org/system/files?file=Files/TechHub/2025%20AI%20Resource%20Guide%20for%20Construction%20Professionals%20%28Final%29.pdf DroneDeploy's Built Different Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-different/id1620061125

What happens when a construction company takes on the “impossible” and delivers it in record time? In this episode of ConstructorCast, we sit down with Claire Brehmer and Casey Port of Hubbell Construction Services to talk about their award-winning 2024 Extreme Build project, Homes for Hope. In just five days, Hubbell and its partners designed, coordinated, and built two fully furnished homes for families of brain injury recovery patients through On With Life. The project not only pushed the limits of construction speed and logistics, but also left a lasting mark on the community and everyone involved. Tune in to hear how Hubbell turned an “extreme” challenge into an even greater impact, proving that construction builds more than structures, it builds hope. The AGC in the Community awards are open for applications now! Is your organization doing something to help your community? Submit now through October 31! https://agccharities.org/agc-in-the-community/ Guests: Casey Port Vice President Hubbell Construction Services https://hubbellrealty.com/about/executive-team/casey-port-leed-ap Claire Brehmer Communications Manager Hubbell Realty Company https://www.hubbellrealty.com About the project: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dwj7JrhC7hA Hubbell's Dig It Podcast: https://digit.hubbellcompanies.com/?utm_campaign=17194407-Dig%20It%20Podcasts&utm_source=HRC%20website&utm_medium=website About Hubbell's AGC Recognition: https://hubbellrealty.com/about/news/2025/04/11/hubbell-construction-wins-national-award-from-associated-general-contractors-of-america

Recorded July 2, 2025 Tariffs are in the spotlight, and construction firms are feeling the heat. In this episode of ConstructorCast, host Suzanne Hitt sits down with supply chain leaders Tim Jed (DPR Construction) and Jay Pendergrass (Gilbane Building) to unpack the real-world impact of tariffs on materials costs, project timelines, and client decisions. From supplier price hikes and shifting policies to smart strategies and collaborative solutions, this conversation gets into what contractors need to know now, and how to stay ahead in an unpredictable market. Guests: Tim Jed TimJ@dpr.com https://www.dpr.com Jay Pendergrass JPendergrass@GilbaneCo.com https://www.gilbaneco.com Resources: AGC's Tariff Resource Center for Contractors: https://www.agc.org/tariff-resources-contractors Webinar Slides: Pricing Impact by Trade and Gypsum Rock Drywall Example: https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/ConstructorCast/Q2-2025_MCR%20chart.pdf DPR 2025 Q2 Market Conditions Report: https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/ConstructorCast/Q2-2025_Market-Conditions-Report.pdf 2025 AGC Workforce Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/93YZ22K

In this episode recorded live at the 2025 AGC Convention, host Max Nelson sits down with Alex Juarez (Pittsburg State University) and Chip Wilson (Colorado State University)—two soon-to-be graduates preparing to enter the construction workforce. They share what inspired their career paths, how AGC student chapters and internships have shaped their journey, and what they’re looking for in potential employers. Whether you're a contractor looking to connect with emerging professionals or a student thinking about your next step, this conversation offers real-world insights into the future of the industry. To learn more about AGC's Student Chapter network, visit agc.org/connect/chapters/student-chapters

In this episode, we are exploring the 2025 Construction Safety Week theme—All In Together—with insights from this year’s co-chairs. This theme underscores the industry’s shared commitment to safety, emphasizing that when every worker, company, and partner is fully engaged, job sites become safer for everyone. We'll chat about the initiatives shaping this year’s campaign, strategies for fostering a culture of safety, and how companies can take an active role in promoting teamwork and accountability on the job. Be sure to listen in and start preparing for Construction Safety Week 2025—because safety is a collective effort, and we’re All In Together! All resources discussed in the episode are available at https://www.constructionsafetyweek.com Guests: Mike Choutka - Chairman & CEO, Hensel Phelps https://www.henselphelps.com Adam Jelen - CEO, Gilbane Building Company https://www.gilbaneco.com

In this episode of ConstructorCast, we shine a light on a vital and often untapped workforce: military veterans. Host Max Nelson is joined by Adam Stark, founder of Jet.Build and the Veterans Who Build podcast, and Jesse Gemberling-Johnson, a Marine Corps veteran and construction professional leading a veteran hiring initiative. Together, they discuss the challenges veterans face in transitioning to civilian life, how their skills compare to those needed in construction, and what contractors can do to recruit and retain this incredible talent pool. Guests: Adam Stark Principal, Jet.Build | Host, The Veterans Who Build Show https://jet.build/ Jesse Gemberling-Johnson Chief Talent Officer, MCFA https://mcfaglobal.com/ Resources Mentioned: 🎧 The Veterans Who Build podcast – https://www.youtube.com/@veteranswhobuild >Jesse's Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xc_zs7ldBAM 📖 An Organizational Guide to Leveraging Military Veteran Human Capital – https://repository.upenn.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/08740453-d43d-4a38-98c0-cb3bb9138cea/content 📊 AGC Workforce Survey Results – https://news.agc.org/labor-hr/new-survey-shows-how-nations-failure-to-invest-in-construction-education-training-programs-makes-it-hard-for-firms-to-build/ 📄 National Construction Industry HR & Workforce Conference After-Action Report – https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/Communications/2025_AGC_Workforce_Conference_After_Action_Report_2.3.2025.pdf Don’t forget to subscribe to ConstructorCast! Search “ConstructorCast” in your favorite podcast app or visit agc.org/constructorcast to listen to past episodes.

In this episode of ConstructorCast, host and General Counsel for AGC, Leah Pilconis is joined by Chief Economist Ken Simonson and Vice President of Government Affairs Alex Etchen to unpack the results of the recent election and what they mean for the construction industry. From workforce challenges and regulatory shifts to infrastructure investment and tax policy changes, our experts provide key insights to help contractors prepare for the opportunities and challenges ahead. Resources: 2025 Construction Industry Hiring and Business Outlook Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MLTX6N6 Advocacy in Action and Data DIGest Newsletters: https://www.agc.org/news/newsletter AGC Judicial Advocacy Updates: https://news.agc.org/tag/judicial-advocacy Action Alerts:https://advocacy.agc.org/alerts

From automating tedious tasks to supercharging project management, AI is becoming a game-changer for construction professionals. But it’s not just about the tech—our guests share real-world stories of how AI is transforming their day-to-day work, making projects smoother and more efficient. We also tackle the big questions around ethics and responsible AI use, ensuring that innovation doesn’t come at a cost. If you're curious about how AI can take your construction game to the next level, this episode is a must-listen! Guests: Harry Schmidt Director, Business Strategies | O’Shea Builders https://osheabuilders.com/ Jared Christman Director, Innovation and Technology | Big State Electric, Ltd https://www.bigstateelectric.com/ Theresa Voorhies Manager of Construction Customer Success | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/ Resources: Practical AI in Construction: https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/ConstructorCast/Practical%20AI%20In%20Construction%20(AGC).pdf Member discount programs: www.agc.org/Discounts This episode is sponsored by Autodesk.

In this episode of ConstructorCast, host Max Nelson is joined by key members of Jordan Foster Construction—Asma Bayunus and Tricia Kagerer—to delve into the crucial topic of mental health in the construction industry. They explore the alarming rates of suicide and addiction among construction workers and discuss Jordan Foster's innovative approaches to addressing these issues. Discover the inspiration and development of Jordan Foster's Mind Saver program, and learn about the integration of mental health into daily operations to ensure both physical and psychological safety on-site. This episode offers valuable insights and practical strategies for promoting mental health awareness and resilience. Join us as we navigate this essential conversation, providing actionable steps to safeguard the wellbeing of construction professionals. Guests: Tricia Kagerer Executive Vice President Risk Management tkagerer@jordanfosterconstruction.com https://jordanfosterconstruction.com Asma Bayunus EHS Department - Operations Manager abayunus@jordanfosterconstruction.com https://jordanfosterconstruction.com AGC's Mental Health Resource Page: https://www.agc.org/mental-health-suicide-prevention More on AGC's Culture of Care: https://buildculture.org

In this episode of ConstructorCast, host Max Nelson is joined by key members of the carbon reduction taskforce Myrrh Caplan from Skanska USA, Joe Rozza from Ryan Companies, and AGC's own Melinda Tomaino. They delve into the creation and significance of the AGC Decarbonization Playbook, discussing its formation, key drivers, content, and expected outcomes. Learn about the collaborative efforts behind the playbook, the challenges and solutions in carbon reporting, and the future of decarbonization in the construction industry. In addition to Skanska and Ryan Companies, AGC appreciates the support of task force participants from Clark Construction, DPR Construction, Granite Construction, Kiewit, M.A. Mortenson Company, and Turner Construction Company in developing the Playbook. Guests: Myrrh Caplan | National Vice President - Sustainability | Skanska https://www.skanska.com Joe Rozza | Chief Sustainability Officer | Ryan Companies https://www.ryancompanies.com Melinda Tomaino | Senior Director, Environment and Sustainability| AGC of America https://www.agc.org Resources: AGC Decarbonization Playbook: https://www.agc.org/climate-change-playbook AGC Environmental Conference: Details on the upcoming Climate Change and Construction Summit on July 15th can be found at https://shec.agc.org

Take a quick listen to this special ConstructorCast SHORT to hear how member company Alliance Construction Solutions are celebrating Construction Safety Week this year featuring Todd Konigsfeld - General Superintendent at Alliance Construction Solutions, LLC. Guest: Todd Konigsfeld General Superintendent Alliance Construction Solutions https://www.allianceconstruction.com/

Take a quick listen to this special ConstructorCast SHORT to hear how member company TDIndustries, a mechanical contractor based out of Dallas, Texas is celebrating Construction Safety Week this year featuring Jamie Dabbs - Vice President of Safety, Health & Environmental and this year's Construction Safety Professional of the Year! Guest: Jamie Dabbs Vice President | Safety, Health & Environmental TDIndustries https://www.tdindustries.com/

In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of the Associated General Contractors of America's (AGC) litigation program, which serves as a crucial component of its broader advocacy efforts. We explore how AGC strategically engages in judicial matters to safeguard and improve the business environment for construction contractors, aligning with its overarching goal of advancing industry interests and protecting against disruption. AGC’s legal staff discuss the decision-making process behind legal action, the importance of partnerships, updates on current judicial actions, and the vital role of funding through the Construction Advocacy Fund (CAF). Additionally, we outline guidelines for AGC chapters and members to request support for impactful cases, emphasizing the significance of national impact and broader industry implications in AGC's decision-making. Guests: Stephen Sandherr CEO – AGC of America Jimmy Christianson Vice President, Government Relations – AGC of America Leah Pilconis General Counsel and ConstructorCast Host – AGC of America For details on current issues visit https://advocacy.agc.org The Construction Advocacy Fund: The Fund helps finance a host of critical campaigns, including AGC’s ongoing efforts to fight for federal infrastructure investments, push back against costly and needless regulatory burdens, promote workforce development and workplace safety, and enhance construction technology. Visit https://constructionadvocacyfund.agc.org to learn more. Timestamped Topics: • 00:00 - Introduction • 01:35 - Overview of AGC's litigation program and its alignment with advocacy goals • 05:37 - Goals and strategies for challenging government regulations • 8:08 - Decision-making process for legal action • 10:25 - Partnerships and collaborations within the industry • 11:58 - Updates on current judicial actions and recent US Supreme Court victories • 36:27 - AGC’s litigation program funding • 39:53 - Guidelines for AGC chapters and members to request support for impactful cases • 41:22 - Conclusion

In this special episode of AGC's ConstructorCast, host Max Nelson sits down with industry leaders Dan Johnson, CEO of Mortenson, and Mike Choutka, Chairman and CEO of Hensel Phelps, to dive deep into the upcoming 10th-anniversary celebration of Construction Safety Week. As this year's Chair and Co-chair, Dan and Mike share their insights on the growth and evolution of Construction Safety Week over the past decade, and discuss the theme for this year, "Value Every Voice." Guests: Dan Johnson Chief Executive Officer Mortenson www.mortenson.com Mike Choutka Chairman | Chief Executive Officer Hensel Phelps www.henselphelps.com Resources: https://www.constructionsafetyweek.com/ 2024 Construction Safety Week Slide Deck https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/ConstructorCast/Safety_Week_Podcast_2024_Final.pdf

The Culture of CARE is an program created by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and the AGC of Washington to support companies in creating diverse, safe, welcoming, and inclusive job sites and promote diversity and inclusion in the construction industry. Culture of CARE is more than just caring about people; it is asking companies to commit to building work environments where every employee feels valued, respected, and heard through the programs four pillars: Commit, Attract, Retain and Empower. This episode of AGC’s ConstructorCast podcast highlights the partnership between AGC and FMI in developing a series of articles that explore how construction firms are successfully implementing the four pillars of Culture of CARE. In this podcast episode, we spotlight the transformative impact of a Culture of CARE's two pivotal pillars: Commit and Empower, specifically in the context of fostering leadership and accountability within construction firms. You will hear from two leading construction firms who share how a steadfast commitment from leadership sets the stage for a culture of inclusion and belonging. We explore how empowering employees at all levels contributes to a sense of responsibility, aligning individual actions with organizational values. Join us to understand how cultivating leadership and accountability through a Culture of CARE not only enhances workplace inclusivity but also propels construction companies toward sustained success. Guests: Michelle Thompson Senior Consultant | FMI Consulting - https://fmicorp.com Bill Aalerud Executive Vice President | Columbia Construction Co. - https://www.columbiacc.com Chair, Board of Directors - AGC of Massachusetts Stephanie Roldan Vice President Learning & Development, Director of Lean Culture | Rosendin Electric - https://www.rosendin.com Co-host Construction DEI Talks: https://constructiondeitalks.com Resources: • Visit www.BuildCulture.org and find out more. • Take the Culture of CARE pledge: https://buildculture.org/commit • See the list of Impact Champions who have already taken the pledge: https://buildculture.org/impact-champions/ • Take the AGC Diversity & Inclusion Assessment - https://www.agc.org/culture-assessment 2023 FMI Talent Study: https://fmicorp.com/insights/industry-insights/2023-fmi-talent-study HERstory Emerging Managers Institute: https://fmicorp.com/consulting/training/herstory-emerging-managers-institute See the article in the latest issue of Constructor Magazine: https://constuctorjanfeb24.mydigitalpublication.com/publication/?i=811684 Direct link to the article at Culture of CARE: https://buildculture.org/commit-to-employee-wellbeing

In this episode, AGC of America’s chief economist, Ken Simonson becomes your guide through the bustling landscape of construction economics, trends shaping the industry, sound projections for the upcoming year, and how all of the above can impact builders and stakeholders. Tune in to see what contractors can expect in 2024! Guest: Ken Simonson Chief Economist AGC of America Subscribe to the DataDIGest: https://marketplace.agc.org/Store/ItemDetail?iProductCode=4401

Join us as we explore the dynamic intersection of cybersecurity and the commercial construction industry. Our guest, CJ Dietzman at Alliant Insurance Services, talks about the latest trends in cyber threats, risk management strategies, and innovative solutions shaping the future of digital resilience on construction sites. Don't miss this insightful episode for a blueprint for safeguarding your projects against evolving cyber challenges. #ConstructorCast #Cybersecurity #ConstructionTech #AlliantInsurance #TheMoreRewardingWay Guest: CJ Dietzman Senior Vice President, Alliant Cyber Alliant Insurance Services https://www.linkedin.com/in/cj-dietzman-cissp-cisa Resources: Read Cyber Risk & Security Considerations in the Construction Industry: https://alliant.com/news-resources/article-cyber-risk-security-considerations-in-the-construction-industry/ Learn more about Alliant Cyber: https://alliant.com/risk-management/risk-solutions/cyber/ The NIST Cybersecurity Framework: https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework ISO/IEC 27001: https://www.iso.org/standard/27001 Contact Alliant Cyber at alliantcyber@alliant.com

In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with construction professionals, Phillippe Falkner of Ed Bell Construction Company, and Perry Silvey from BT Construction who are true champions of trenching and excavation safety. Discover the critical importance of safeguarding lives and preventing injuries in the construction industry. Gain valuable insights and practical tips to ensure every project is built on a foundation of safety first. Join us as we unearth the secrets to saving lives below ground. OSHA Trenching and Excavation Webpage: https://www.osha.gov/trenching-excavation Webinar - Staying Safe When Digging: Trenching & Excavation Basics https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mke80vDNIQ4 AGC Targeted Topics Training Resources - https://www.agc.org/agc-safety-and-health-training-resources Partners for Safe Trenching and Excavation Operations: https://www.osha.gov/alliances/safe-trenching-excavation/safe-trenching-excavation Think Inside The Box: https://thinkinsidethebox.info Guests: Perry Silvey, CHST Safety Manager BT Construction Phillippe Falkner Safety Director, Project Management, and Business Services Specialist Ed Bell Construction Company Kevin Cannon, CSP, ARM Senior Director, Safety, Health & Risk Management AGC of America

Unleash the power of imagination in our latest episode, as we dive into the captivating story of “Grit Leads to Greatness”, a children’s book written by our two guests Chris Eccleston and Jenny Schroen. With workforce issues challenging the construction industry, this brilliant duo saw an opportunity to sow the seeds of interest early on and cultivate a generation that thrives on skill, creativity, and passion. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that combines the magic of storytelling with the practicality of real-world skills. Hit that play button and let's embark on a journey of reshaping perceptions about construction, breaking down barriers, and creating exciting pathways for our future builders, architects, and engineers! Chris Eccleston, LEED, AP, CHC President & Founder Delmarva Veteran Builders Chris@delmarvaveteranbuilders.com Jenny Kerr Schroen Creative Developer Delmarva Veteran Builders Jenny@delmarvaveteranbuilders.com Resources: https://www.gritleadstogreatness.com/ https://www.delmarvaveteranbuilders.com/

On this episode of ConstructorCast, we spotlight success stories and provide actionable strategies for creating a more diverse and inclusive future within the construction industry. You’ll hear from our guest host, Jorge Quezada, and two winners of this year's AGC Diversity & Inclusion awards program – Brad Lewis of Hensel Phelps and Judith Monrouzeau of Bermúdez Longo Díaz Massó (BLDM). They will share how they approached the application, what the recognition means to them and their companies, and how they are learning and getting better from the process. Guests: Judith Monrouzeau, PhD. SPHR. Executive Director of Human Resources Safety & Compliance Bermúdez Longo Díaz Massó, LLC. https://www.bldmpr.com/ BLDM D&I Program One-Pager: https://go.agc.org/DEI-BLDM Brad Lewis, ECMA Corporate Director of Supplier Diversity Hensel Phelps https://www.henselphelps.com/ Hensel Phelps D&I Program One-Pager: https://go.agc.org/DEI_HenselPhelps To explore more about Construction DEI Talks and access their episodes, resources and community, visit their website at https://constructiondeitalks.com. Find out more about AGC’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee: https://www.agc.org/diversity AGC’s Culture of CARE: https://buildculture.org/ AGC’s Diversity & Inclusion Assessment: https://www.agc.org/culture-assessment The AGC Diversity & Inclusion awards are open to general contractors, specialty contractors, and service and supply provider companies in good standing of at least one AGC Chapter. Nominations must be submitted by principals or officers of firms, or with their written permission. https://www.agc.org/DiversityAwards