Integrated Projects' Preston Smith Grew a Career in Architecture Through a Recession, a Pandemic, and Two Waves of Disruptive Tech

On the skills that make him "always employable," the struggles of BIM managers in large firms, and how he thinks about scaling systems.

December 13, 2024
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When you're focused on creating systems to solve problems, "you can build something that builds itself—a maker of makers."

On Buildings 2.0, Jose welcomes Preston Smith, Head of BIM Operations at Integrated Projects, to a three-part series where they dive into the evolving role of technology in architecture and construction. Preston discusses the career trajectory of typical BIM and VDC managers, and why the AEC industry needs a clear vision to modernize workflows and improve outcomes. 

In this first part of the series, Preston also highlights the importance of embracing data-driven insights to foster collaboration across design and construction teams, ultimately reducing inefficiencies and driving project success. Additionally, he sheds light on the unique challenges of scaling innovative solutions in an industry rooted in traditional practices. 

In this episode:

  • Balancing traditional practices with the adoption of innovative technologies in construction workflows.  
  • Creating a shared vision to align teams and stakeholders during large-scale digital transformations.  
  • Designing tech solutions that are user-friendly and seamlessly integrate into existing workflows.  
  • Overcoming industry resistance to change by demonstrating tangible benefits of technology adoption.  
  • Strategies for scaling innovative solutions while maintaining operational efficiency in construction projects.  
  • The critical role of leadership in fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability within organizations.  
  • Identifying barriers to tech adoption in construction and actionable steps to address them.  
  • The future of data utilization in shaping smarter, more collaborative construction processes. 

Intro Quote: 

"The exciting thing became drawing a line between the problem you want to solve and the solution, and letting the computer do it. That turned eight hours of work into three hours. I suddenly had a ton of free time, and I realized, I want more of this, so I started learning software. I still smile when I think about the first time I wrote code, because I was like, that worked, I did it, this is so cool.'" 19:48 - 20:28

Get in touch with Preston Smith:  

LinkedIn

Website 

Get in touch with your host, Jose Luis Cruz: 

LinkedIn 

Twitter 

Listen to more episodes: 

Apple 

Spotify

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