How Digitalization is Transforming the Construction Industry

The ARKANCE Think.Future Podcast is dedicated to raising awareness on sustainability, circularity, and regenerative design, creating conversations that matter with industry game changers. Matt Cordova, Director of Construction and Technology at Hermanson & Co., and Matt Fern, National Digital Engineering Manager for Stowe Australia, emphasize how changes are reshaping the future of construction (Think.Future podcast, episode 2 and episode 3 respectively).

A Brief Introduction to Hermanson Company and Stowe Australia

Hermanson Company is a premier provider of mechanical construction services in the State of Washington, USA, specializing in engineering, project management, shop fabrication, and the installation of sheet metal, pipe, and plumbing systems. Known for its dedication to excellence, Hermanson Company prioritizes both the quality of its construction work and the strength of its client relationships.

Stowe Australia is one of Australia's largest and most respected electrical and communications contracting companies. With a history spanning over a century, Stowe Australia provides comprehensive electrical solutions, including design, installation, and maintenance services for industrial, commercial, and infrastructure projects. Known for its technical expertise, commitment to safety, and reliable service delivery, Stowe Australia partners with clients to deliver high-quality electrical systems tailored to meet complex project requirements.

Tackling Waste and Inefficiency with Technology

One of the most significant challenges in commercial construction is the immense amount of wasted time, energy, and resources in the design phase. Fern notes, "I was absolutely astonished about the amount of wasted design time that goes into a commercial project. That wasted design time just equals energy, equals money, equals just all this waste of time." This statement underlines how inefficiencies in design not only increase project costs but also contribute to the industry’s overall carbon footprint.

Cordova further illustrates how leveraging technology, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and cloud-based tools, can minimize this waste. Hermanson & Co.’s transition from traditional 2D design to advanced 3D modeling software like REVIT has modernized their workflows, allowing for more precise forecasts and better decision-making. This shift has resulted in a drastic reduction in material waste and improved overall project efficiency. Practices like "nesting" parts for fabrication help ensure that every resource is used efficiently, directly addressing sustainability concerns.

The Shift to 3D Modeling: A Revolution in Construction

Both Cordova and Fern highlight how 3D modeling has revolutionized the industry. Fern emphasized the shift from 2D to 3D (e.g., from AutoCAD to REVIT) as a game changer. This shift enables better visualization and collaboration, allowing all stakeholders to see the project in a virtual environment before physical construction begins. This concept of a "digital twin" allows contractors to foresee potential issues, reducing delays and waste on site.

As Fern puts it, "The more we can get into a virtual construct that will truly represent our constructed solution as a true digital twin, that will further reduce the waste and the delays and improve the efficiencies on site."

Commitment to Sustainability and Net-Zero Practices

Sustainability is at the heart of both Hermanson’s and Stowe’s missions. Cordova points to the importance of LEED certification as a standard for energy efficiency and resource management. Hermanson’s use of digital tools not only improves efficiency but also contributes to reducing the environmental impact of construction by minimizing waste. "Our technology allows us to streamline designs, reduce waste, and improve sustainability outcomes," Cordova explains.

Fern also notes the growing importance of sustainability in construction, particularly the push toward net-zero emissions. He emphasizes that wasted design time is a major contributor to inefficiencies and increased costs in commercial projects. By using technology to streamline processes and engage contractors earlier, the industry can significantly reduce waste and improve sustainability outcomes.

Challenges, Adaptation, and the Future of Construction

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for adaptability in construction. Cordova shares how Hermanson’s investment in cloud-based tools like BIM 360 allows teams to maintain productivity even during lockdowns. The cloud facilitated collaboration across remote teams, ensuring projects could move forward with minimal disruption. Fern echoes these sentiments, discussing how Stowe uses cloud platforms to store and share project data, ensuring all team members have access to the latest information while mitigating risks like cyber-attacks.

Looking forward, both Cordova and Fern envision a future where technology continues to drive sustainability in construction. Cordova speaks about his goal of creating a paperless environment at Hermanson, where digital interaction dominates both in the shop and the field. This shift, he believes, will enhance accuracy, communication, and sustainability. He also highlights the need to attract younger talent to the industry by showcasing the dynamic opportunities in construction technology.

Overcoming Resistance to Change

Both leaders acknowledge that implementing new technologies often meets resistance, but engaging employees early and providing thorough training can ease the transition. Cordova emphasizes gathering feedback from the workforce ensures a smoother adaptation process, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

Fern, on the other hand, advocates for the adoption of eco-friendly materials and tracking emissions as crucial steps for the industry’s future. He believes that organizations must set clear sustainability targets and track progress to ensure that these goals are met.

Conclusion: Technology as a Pathway to Sustainability

As the construction industry continues to evolve, the integration of digital tools and sustainable practices will be crucial in building a better future. Both Cordova and Fern highlight how technology, such as BIM and cloud-based platforms, can streamline processes, reduce waste, and lead to significant environmental and economic benefits.

On World Sustainability Day, these insights remind us that embracing innovation in construction is not only essential for efficiency and profitability, but also for ensuring a more sustainable, environmentally conscious industry. As Matt Cordova aptly stated, "By leveraging technology and committing to sustainable practices, we’re shaping a more efficient and environmentally friendly future in construction." The alignment of digitalization and sustainability is key to achieving long-term success and a greener tomorrow.

Authored by Johanne Gallagher, Strategic Lead for Sustainability