In this episode of the SureWorx Podcast, hosts Erin Khan and Nandan Thakar dive into cutting-edge construction technology strategies with Josh DeStefano, Innovation Leader at DPR Construction. With over two decades in the industry, Josh brings a wealth of expertise on implementing and scaling transformative technologies, from AI to robotics. His insights offer a roadmap for construction companies seeking to future-proof their operations and maintain a competitive edge.
Let’s explore Josh’s four key strategies to drive sustainable, technology-powered innovation in construction.
1. Leveraging Reality Capture and BIM for Dynamic Digital Twins
Josh highlights the power of combining reality capture with Building Information Modeling (BIM) to create digital twins—up-to-date, virtual replicas of construction sites. Through technologies like 360-degree cameras, drones, and laser scanners, construction teams can now track progress in real time and capture detailed data that integrates seamlessly with BIM.
“Reality capture is the other side of the BIM coin,” says Josh. “It enables us to track our project through time, combining planning and progress into a single view.”
Actionable Insight: Invest in reality capture tools to enhance your BIM workflows. By creating a digital twin of each project, teams can gain comprehensive visibility, identify potential issues early, and improve decision-making across the project lifecycle.
2. Making AI Your Co-Pilot
For Josh, AI is a powerful co-pilot in construction—not a replacement, but a tool that enhances human expertise. From predictive maintenance to AI-driven project scheduling, integrating AI allows teams to analyze large datasets, streamline repetitive tasks, and make faster, data-backed decisions on the job site.
“AI should be seen as a co-pilot,” Josh advises. “It’s about enhancing productivity, not replacing people.”
Actionable Insight: Introduce AI tools that augment daily workflows, such as data analysis and project scheduling. Start by identifying time-consuming tasks that AI can assist with, freeing up your team to focus on high-value decision-making and problem-solving.
3. Balancing Innovation with Consistency
Josh underscores the need to balance innovation with reliable practices in construction, advocating for a dual approach that combines experimental tech adoption with adherence to best practices. This ensures that companies don’t just chase new tools but also focus on long-term effectiveness and value.
“If we want our best practices to improve, we need to innovate consistently,” Josh explains.
Actionable Insight: Develop a phased approach to tech adoption. Test new technologies in controlled environments and integrate successful tools with existing processes to ensure consistency and reliability across projects. This approach allows your team to scale innovation thoughtfully and systematically.
4. Diversifying the Workforce with Robotics
One of Josh’s most exciting ideas is the potential of robotics to make construction more accessible to a diverse workforce. By automating labor-intensive tasks, robotics can open up new opportunities for individuals who might not typically consider construction, including those with varying physical abilities.
“Robotics can change who can work in construction, allowing people with different abilities to take on tasks that were once physically demanding,” Josh notes.
Actionable Insight: Look into robotics that can handle repetitive or strenuous tasks. By implementing robotics on-site, construction firms can not only enhance productivity but also broaden their workforce and foster a more inclusive environment.
Conclusion
Josh DeStefano’s insights provide a powerful framework for construction firms looking to integrate new technologies without disrupting their core processes. At SureWorx, we believe that sustainable innovation in construction technology is achieved through balanced, intentional adoption. By implementing AI, robotics, and digital twins thoughtfully, companies can enhance predictability, productivity, and safety across projects.
Ready to explore how SureWorx can help you integrate these insights? Our platform is designed to streamline collaboration, track project data, and support seamless tech adoption. Contact SureWorx today to book a demo and discover how we can empower your team to lead the future of construction technology.
