Last Wednesday, I had the opportunity to attend the General Building Contractors Association (GBCA) Philadelphia’s Technology Expo 2024. The day showcased a series of thought-provoking presentations, including an array of remarkable speakers who are at the forefront of construction technology. As a panelist in the session “Construction in the Age of A.I.,” I had the privilege of speaking alongside industry leaders, diving into the transformative impact of AI in construction.
The panel, expertly moderated by Nate Fuller, founder of Placer Solutions and an innovator from Bechtel’s Office of Innovation, focused on the advancements and implications of Large Language Models (LLMs). Alongside Scott Levine of Tough Leaf and Ben Ferrer from Turner Construction, we explored the role of AI in our field, from the initial hesitance to the burgeoning excitement about its capabilities.
Our conversation spanned from the industry's overarching sentiment about AI to the remarkable progress in LLM technology that promises to enhance project communication and management. We addressed the risks involved with AI and heavily emphasized the critical nature of establishing robust policies and procedures.
The panel also highlighted the practical applications of LLMs, particularly in financial oversight and field operations. It highlighted the benefits that AI can bring to the construction industry. Some examples include streamlining work orders by predicting equipment maintenance needs, optimizing routes, assisting in diagnostics, and automating repetitive data entry and analysis. We discussed best practices, agreeing that a collaborative and educated approach toward AI integration is essential in every company.
However, the insights gained from our panel were just a slice of the Expo's offerings. The day was full of great speakers, including Angus Frost and Hamzah Shanbari, each presenting their unique perspectives and expertise. Their sessions added to the depth and diversity of knowledge shared, contributing to an atmosphere ripe with learning and future-focused discussions.
As the event drew to a close, I felt a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to participate in such a dynamic and enlightening series of discussions. The GBCA Philadelphia Technology Expo 2024 was more than just a conference; it was a beacon for the path ahead in construction technology. I extend my sincerest thanks to the GBCA for hosting an event that so vividly captured the spirit of progress in our industry.