Are AI Experts Actually Using AI?

Are AI Experts Actually Using AI?

Summary In this live-recorded episode of The Blueprint Tour from the IIBEC Metro New York Chapter’s Building Smarter with AI conference in New York, hosts Kenneth Shultz, Engineering Director at PermitZIP, and Carter Huddleston, Electrical Principal Engineer at PermitZIP, sit down with Nick Heim, Senior Innovation Engineer at StructureCare, for one of the most practical and candid conversations of Season 4. Rather than discussing AI as a futuristic concept, the episode focuses on how engineers are already integrating AI tools directly into daily workflows. From replacing traditional Google searches with context-aware AI systems to automating repetitive engineering tasks and dramatically reducing project turnaround times, Nick shares real-world examples of how AI is quietly reshaping productivity across the construction and engineering industries. The conversation also dives into why many organizations still hesitate to adopt AI despite its obvious advantages, the rise of performative “AI thought leadership” on social media, and the widening gap between people talking about AI and professionals actively using it every day. Kenny, Carter, and Nick discuss workflow automation, prompt engineering, engineering analysis, AI-assisted communication, and how younger professionals increasingly view AI tools as a normal part of modern work. Along the way, the trio explores practical implementation strategies, the limitations of free AI tools, cybersecurity and prompt injection risks, and the growing expectation that engineers and consultants will become AI-literate in the near future. They also unpack how large language models are changing collaboration, research, and technical problem-solving inside engineering environments. Fast-paced, highly relatable, and packed with actionable insight, this episode is an honest look at where practical AI adoption stands today, and how quickly the gap is growing between companies embracing these tools and those falling behind. “Treat AI like a utility.” Keywords AI in engineering, artificial intelligence, engineering workflows, AI adoption, construction technology, workflow automation, ChatGPT, prompt engineering, digital transformation, engineering productivity, AI tools, large language models, construction innovation, AI implementation, future of work, engineering technology, business automation, prompt injection, AI security, productivity acceleration “Most AI thought leaders don’t actually use AI.” Takeaways * AI is increasingly becoming a standard utility tool for engineers and knowledge workers. * Practical AI implementation matters far more than theoretical AI discussions. * Many professionals still underestimate how rapidly AI workflows are improving productivity. * Context-aware AI tools are beginning to replace traditional search-based workflows. * Companies resisting AI adoption may face growing competitive disadvantages. * Younger engineers are integrating AI into work and personal life simultaneously. * AI-assisted engineering workflows can dramatically reduce repetitive task time. * Understanding AI risks and cybersecurity concerns is becoming increasingly important. “If your competitors are using it and you’re not… what does that mean?” Chapters * Welcome and Building Smarter with AI Conference Intro * Meet Nick Heim: Innovation Engineering and AI Workflows * Why AI Is Becoming a Standard Utility Tool * The Difference Between AI Theory and Real Usage * Replacing Google with Context-Aware AI Systems * Engineering Productivity and Workflow Automation * Why Companies Still Resist AI Adoption * The Rise of AI Thought Leadership Culture * How Younger Engineers View AI Differently * Using AI for Research, Analysis, and Communication * Prompt Engineering and Real-World AI Implementation * Cybersecurity, Prompt Injection, and AI Risks * How AI Is Accelerating Engineering Workflows * What the Future of AI Adoption Looks Like * Final Thoughts and Where to Find Nick Heim “What used to take three hours now takes fifteen minutes.” Where to Find Nick Heim LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasheim/?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BX5PqSEIFSX%2BRaQbTDZ6IQw%3D%3D] · StructureCare [https://www.structurecareus.com/] “If my company banned AI, I’d quit.” Where to Find The Blueprint Tour YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@theblueprinttour] · TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@theblueprinttourhttps://www.tiktok.com/@theblueprinttourhttps://www.tiktok.com/@theblueprinttour] · TheBPTour.com [https://thebptour.com/]Kenneth Shultz (Host) [https://x.com/PermitZIPhvac] · Carter Huddleston (Host) [https://x.com/PermitZIPelec] Get full access to The Engineering Stack at www.thebptour.com/subscribe [https://www.thebptour.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

S4E12 Teaser | Are AI Experts Actually Using AI?

In this episode of The Blueprint Tour, hosts Kenneth Shultz and Carter Huddleston sit down with Nick Heim, Senior Innovation Engineer at StructureCare, for a candid conversation about how engineers are actually using AI today. From replacing traditional Google searches with context-aware AI tools to automating engineering workflows and boosting productivity, the discussion dives into the real-world side of AI adoption, far beyond social media hype and “thought leadership.” The episode also explores why some companies are still resisting AI, how younger engineers view these tools differently, and why practical implementation matters more than theory. Recorded live at the IIBEC Metro New York Chapter’s Building Smarter with AI conference in New York. 🎧 Full episode drops Tuesday, May 26th, 2026. Get full access to The Engineering Stack at www.thebptour.com/subscribe [https://www.thebptour.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Can Construction Veterans Survive The AI Shift?

Summary In this live-recorded episode of The Blueprint Tour from the IIBEC Metro New York Chapter’s Building Smarter with AI conference in New York, hosts Kenneth Shultz, Engineering Director at PermitZIP, and Carter Huddleston, Electrical Principal Engineer at PermitZIP, sit down with Anthony Scoppettone, Business Development Director, Strategic Accounts at ARCAP Consulting, for a grounded conversation about how artificial intelligence is transforming the construction industry. With over 26 years of experience spanning scaffolding, glazing, waterproofing, roofing, manufacturing, project management, software development, and consulting, Anthony brings a uniquely practical perspective to the AI conversation. From hanging off skyscraper building scaffolds to implementing automation into modern business workflows, he shares firsthand insight into how construction professionals are adapting, or struggling to adapt, to rapid technological change. The discussion explores AI adoption in construction firms, why many experienced professionals remain hesitant to embrace AI tools, and how younger generations are increasingly being tasked with implementing digital transformation inside legacy organizations. Anthony and Kenny also dive into the growing role of large language models (LLMs), AI-powered communication, workflow automation, and the challenge of preserving institutional knowledge as the industry evolves. Along the way, the trio unpacks the realities of information overload, managing hundreds of daily emails, AI-assisted marketing, and how tools like Canva, Buffer, and language models are quietly reshaping day-to-day business operations. They also discuss why AI is unlikely to replace experienced professionals outright, but instead may amplify expertise by allowing “unlimited seniors to unlimited juniors.” Candid, practical, and highly relevant to anyone navigating the future of work, this episode is an honest look at the intersection of construction experience, workforce evolution, and AI-driven transformation. “It’s physically impossible to answer a thousand emails a day.” Keywords AI in construction, construction technology, digital transformation, construction industry, artificial intelligence, construction management, institutional knowledge, AI adoption, construction leadership, workforce transformation, business automation, LLMs, construction innovation, project management, future of work, AI tools, construction consulting, generational workforce shift, business development, manufacturing technology “You need to integrate AI into your daily routine. Period.” Takeaways * AI is becoming increasingly necessary for managing modern construction and business workflows. * Institutional knowledge remains one of the industry’s most valuable assets. * Younger professionals are often leading AI implementation inside traditional organizations. * Many construction companies remain hesitant to adopt AI due to legal, ethical, and operational concerns. * AI tools can significantly improve communication, email management, marketing, and productivity. * Pairing experienced professionals with AI-assisted junior employees may accelerate workforce development. * AI is not replacing expertise; it is amplifying access to knowledge and information. “It’s not one senior teaching one junior anymore… It’s unlimited seniors to unlimited juniors.” Chapters * Welcome and Live Podcast Setup * Meet Anthony Scoppettone: From Scaffolding to Software * Working on Skyscrapers, Stadiums, and the World Trade Center * Managing Construction Operations and Large Field Teams * Implementing Technology Across Multiple Industries * AI for Email Management and Workflow Automation * Why Construction Companies Resist AI Adoption * Using AI Tools for Marketing and Social Media * Generational Shifts and Institutional Knowledge * Can AI Replace Junior-Level Work? * The Role of LLMs in Workforce Development * Legal and Ethical Concerns Around AI * Manufacturing, Product Consulting, and Digital Transformation * Why AI Is Not Going Away * Final Thoughts and Where to Find Anthony “People are hoping AI goes away because they don’t understand it.” Where to Find Anthony Scoppettone LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/asnyc/?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BHnGvoprTR7meluzNl%2FS3ww%3D%3D] · ARCAP Consulting [https://www.arcapfo.com/] “Thinking AI will disappear is like thinking the internet was never going to become popular.” Where to Find The Blueprint Tour YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@theblueprinttour] · TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@theblueprinttourhttps://www.tiktok.com/@theblueprinttourhttps://www.tiktok.com/@theblueprinttour] · TheBPTour.com [https://thebptour.com/]Kenneth Shultz (Host) [https://x.com/PermitZIPhvac] · Carter Huddleston (Host) [https://x.com/PermitZIPelec] Get full access to The Engineering Stack at www.thebptour.com/subscribe [https://www.thebptour.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Can AI Design Beautiful Spaces?

Summary In this live-recorded episode of The Blueprint Tour from the IIBEC Metro New York Chapter’s Building Smarter with AI conference in New York, hosts Kenneth Shultz, Engineering Director at PermitZIP, and Carter Huddleston, Electrical Principal Engineer at PermitZIP, sit down with Melita Cekani, Founder of Cekani Architectural Design, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming architecture and interior design workflows. With a background in both art and architectural design, Melita shares how her studio uses AI to accelerate concept development, generate design iterations, and support creative exploration, while still relying on human judgment for final execution. The conversation dives into the growing realism of architectural rendering, the blurred line between renders and real photography, and the challenge of maintaining originality and artistic direction in an AI-assisted world. The discussion also explores modern design operations, including working with international rendering teams, leveraging time-zone advantages for around-the-clock production, and using AI tools to improve communication, proposals, and client collaboration. Along the way, the trio unpacks the realities of residential design, managing subjective client feedback, and structuring creative workflows so projects don’t spiral into endless revisions. From luxury interiors and visualization technology to remote collaboration and AI-enhanced productivity, this episode offers a practical and honest look at where creativity and technology are heading. Thoughtful, visually engaging, and highly relevant to both creatives and technologists, this episode is a deep dive into the future of design in the AI era. “We use AI a lot… it helps us with the design process.” Keywords AI in architecture, interior design, architectural visualization, AI rendering, luxury interiors, architectural design, AI-assisted creativity, photorealistic rendering, 3D rendering, design technology, AI workflows, remote design teams, architectural rendering software, creative AI, future of architecture, ChatGPT for design, digital design tools, AI in interior design, design process, architecture podcast “I’ll paint an idea first, then use AI to give me iterations.” Takeaways * AI can accelerate concept development and creative exploration in architecture and interior design. * Human judgment and artistic direction still drive final design decisions. * Hyper-realistic renders are becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish from real photography. * Global remote teams can create near 24-hour production workflows. * AI tools improve communication, proposal writing, and client collaboration. * Residential design requires balancing creativity with client expectations and clear boundaries. * Structured iteration processes help prevent endless design revisions. “You can barely tell the difference between a render and a real image.” Chapters * Welcome and Live Podcast Setup * Meet Melita Cekani and Cekani Architectural Design * Using AI for Architectural Concepts and Iterations * Artistic Backgrounds and Creative Design Thinking * Can You Tell Render From Reality? * The Limits of AI in Interior Design * Managing Global Design Teams and Time Zones * Communication Challenges and AI-Assisted Collaboration * Residential Design and Client Expectations * Using Miro Boards and Structured Design Workflows * Why Interior Design Can Become Endless * AI, Photoshop, and Rendering Enhancement * The Future of Creative Workflows in Architecture * Final Thoughts and Where to Find Melita “We do not use AI for the final result.” Where to Find Melita Cekani Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/cekani_design/] · LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/melita-cekani-assoc-aia-ncarb-sara-9475a2143/?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BLP2%2F2dV2TVSvInPnpwX9Ig%3D%3D] · Cekani Architectural Design [https://www.melitasgallery.com/] · Melita Cekani [https://archinect.com/people/cover/150387097/melita-cekani] “You gotta keep AI creativity low… otherwise your lights start growing arms.” Where to Find The Blueprint Tour YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@theblueprinttour] · TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@theblueprinttourhttps://www.tiktok.com/@theblueprinttourhttps://www.tiktok.com/@theblueprinttour] · TheBPTour.com [https://thebptour.com/]Kenneth Shultz (Host) [https://x.com/PermitZIPhvac] · Carter Huddleston (Host) [https://x.com/PermitZIPelec] Get full access to The Engineering Stack at www.thebptour.com/subscribe [https://www.thebptour.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

S4E10 Teaser | Can AI Design Beautiful Spaces?

In this episode of The Blueprint Tour, hosts Kenneth Shultz and Carter Huddleston sit down with Melita Cekani, Founder of Cekani Architectural Design, to discuss how AI is reshaping the creative side of architecture and interior design. From AI-assisted concept generation and hyper-realistic renders to global design collaboration and client communication, this episode explores where artificial intelligence helps and where human creativity still leads. Recorded live at the IIBEC Metro New York Chapter’s Building Smarter with AI conference in New York. 🎧 Full episode drops Tuesday, May 12th, 2026. Get full access to The Engineering Stack at www.thebptour.com/subscribe [https://www.thebptour.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]