ConstructorCast

Revolutionizing Construction with Autonomous Drones

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

Extreme Impact: The Power of Purpose-Driven Construction

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

Tariff Ready? Lessons From The Front Lines

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

Not Just a Job: Why Students Are Choosing The Industry

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

ConstructorCast - All In Together: Construction Safety Week 2025

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