AEC Tech Journeys with Mayur Mistry

• Why Most EPC Software Fails — and How Candid Is Fixing It?

  In this conversation, Talha Faiz, co-founder of Candid Intelligence, discusses the journey of building a platform that compresses months of pre-construction engineering into hours. He shares insights on the challenges faced in the EPC industry, the importance of understanding user needs, and the technical hurdles in developing AI-driven solutions. Talha emphasizes the need for companies to be AI curious and highlights the potential for technology to transform the energy sector. The discussion also touches on personal experiences, lessons learned as a founder, and the future vision for Candid Intelligence.   Takeaways Candid Intelligence compresses months of engineering into hours. Understanding user needs is crucial for software adoption. The construction industry faces significant inefficiencies in software. AI can help bridge the gap between engineering and technology. Validating ideas with real users is essential for product development. Technical challenges include reading complex diagrams and documents. AI curiosity is more important than being AI native. The energy sector is ripe for technological transformation. Founders must focus on solving real problems for users. Passion and deep knowledge in a field can lead to unexpected opportunities.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Candid Intelligence 00:54 Founders' Background and Early Discoveries 02:47 Identifying Industry Problems 05:32 Building the Prototype and Validating Ideas 07:39 Target Audience and Project Stages 10:16 Proudest Moments and Technical Challenges 11:48 Computer Vision and AI in Engineering 20:23 Becoming AI Native: Best Practices 23:17 Lessons Learned as a Founder 24:49 Opportunities in Engineering 27:59 Vision for Candid and Future of Energy 31:18 Rapid Fire Round and Closing Thoughts   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/ 

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• The Future of Autonomous Construction — SafeAI’s $100M Bet

  In this engaging conversation, Bibhrajit Halder, founder of SafeAI, shares his journey from Calcutta to Silicon Valley, reflecting on his early education, career transitions, and the evolution of autonomy in heavy industries. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, customer discovery, and building high-performing teams to succeed in the startup landscape. Bibhrajit explains how AI has transformed autonomous vehicle systems, discusses the challenges in robotics adoption, and explores the vast opportunities within industrial automation. He also offers a forward-looking perspective on the potential rise of humanoid robots in mainstream applications. His insights deliver valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators in AI, robotics, and autonomy.   Takeaways Bibhrajit Halder's journey from Calcutta to Silicon Valley highlights the power of mentorship in shaping careers. His shift from mechanical engineering to autonomy was fueled by a deep passion for math and physics. Autonomy in heavy industries has been in production since 2014, debunking common myths. AI is transforming decision-making and perception systems in autonomous vehicles. Building a strong, visionary team is critical to the success of any startup. Customer discovery is essential to refine products and meet real market needs. The autonomous industry is vast, with significant applications in defense, mining, and heavy machinery. SafeAI’s mission is to modernize autonomy for heavy industries by leveraging cutting-edge AI. Robotics adoption faces high costs and automation challenges for complex, real-world tasks. The future of robotics could include widespread humanoid robots in consumer and industrial spaces.   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/ 📩Here is the LinkedIn profile of Bibhrajit Halder: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bibhrajit/#:~:text=Premium%20for%20PHP0-,Bibhrajit%20Halder,-Founder%20at%20SafeAI 

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• Kill the 52-Page PDF: Interactive AEC Proposals That Win

  Summary In this conversation, Kitae Kim, co-founder of Foveate, shares his inspiring journey from a background in art and architecture to creating a startup focused on revolutionizing design proposals. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the challenges of transitioning from designer to product developer, and the significance of understanding user needs and feedback. Kitae also highlights the innovative features of Foveate that aim to streamline the proposal process for architects, emphasizing the need for interactive and engaging presentations. Throughout the discussion, he provides valuable insights into sales strategies, networking, and the future of architecture proposals.   Takeaways Kitae Kim's diverse background in art and architecture shaped his approach to design. Mentorship played a crucial role in Kitae's career development. Foveate was inspired by the need for better design communication tools. Transitioning from designer to product developer requires understanding user needs. User feedback is essential for refining product features. Sales strategies must address the unique challenges of the architecture industry. Foveate aims to streamline the proposal process for architects. Networking is key to building partnerships and client relationships. The future of proposals lies in interactive and engaging presentations. Understanding the client's perspective is vital for successful sales.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kitae Kim and Foveate 02:38 Kitae Kim's Diverse Background and Career Journey 05:24 Mentorship and Influences in Kitae's Career 08:02 The Inspiration Behind Foveate 11:07 Transitioning from Designer to Product Developer 13:31 Building the MVP and Understanding User Needs 16:18 Navigating Sales and Marketing in Architecture 18:50 Enhancing Proposal Processes with Foveate 20:38 Empathy in Architecture and Sales 21:03 Introducing Foveate: Revolutionizing Proposals 24:05 Enhancing Client Understanding Through Interactive Proposals 26:53 The Luxury Experience in Client Proposals 29:52 Reframing Language for Better Client Perception 32:46 Client Feedback and Relationship Management 36:02 Building Networks and Partnerships 38:57 Effective Client Acquisition Strategies   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

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• Why Construction Data Is Broken — And How Smortr Is Fixing It?

  In this conversation, Yashasvini Gopalan, co-founder of Smortr, shares her journey from aspiring architect to entrepreneur in the construction tech space. She discusses her early inspirations, challenges during architecture school, and the transition to the U.S., where she explored B2B marketing and product development. Yashasvini explains the inception of Smortr, highlighting the urgent need for better data management in the construction industry. She dives into product validation, overcoming PDF-heavy workflows, and how customer feedback shapes product iterations. The episode closes with insights on the future of construction tech and advice for young entrepreneurs.   Takeaways Yashasvini’s early inspiration came from observing how architecture impacts people’s lives. Architecture school built her foundation for understanding complex systems. Transitioning to B2B marketing unlocked new perspectives on data fragmentation. Smortr was born from the need for better construction data management. Problem discovery required deep engagement with industry professionals for validation. Product building is iterative — constant learning and adaptation are critical. Managing large PDF-based workflows is a major pain point in construction tech. Her advice for aspiring founders: embrace software and technology early. Networking is invaluable; many are willing to help if approached. The future of construction tech is promising with innovative startups emerging.   Chapters 00:00 – Journey to Architecture and Early Influences 03:04 – Challenges in Architecture School 04:43 – First Company and Industry Exposure 05:21 – Transition to the U.S. and Marketing Insights 06:42 – UI/UX Skills from Architecture 07:38 – The Birth of Smortr 09:32 – Customer Discovery and Validation 10:45 – Learning from Challenges 12:10 – Innovations in Construction Tech 15:30 – Product Walkthrough and Vision 17:02 – Challenges in Product Development 17:55 – Inspirations and Role Models 18:56 – Advice to Younger Self 19:53 – Mentorship and Support 21:25 – Starting a New Venture 22:19 – Rapid Fire Round 23:53 – Future of Construction Tech 📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/  

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• From Elevators to AI: How Dan Shaw Built Bridgeline for Estimators

  In this conversation, Dan Shaw, CEO and co-founder of Bridgeline, shares insights into his journey in the construction tech industry, the challenges faced during product development, and the importance of understanding customer needs. He discusses the evolution of Bridgeline, its ideal customer profile, and strategies for customer acquisition. Dan also emphasizes the significance of building relationships in the construction industry while leveraging modern technology to enhance efficiency. The conversation concludes with reflections on the startup journey and advice for aspiring founders.   Takeaways The hardest part of product release is crossing the finish line. Construction is a fascinating and complex industry. B2B sales in construction differs significantly from tech sales. Understanding customer needs is crucial for product development. Building relationships is key in the construction industry. AI can transform how construction professionals work. Cold calling is essential for market validation. The ideal customer profile for Bridgeline includes smaller firms with overworked estimators. Learning from successful startups can provide valuable insights. Taking risks is part of the entrepreneurial journey. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background of Dan Shaw 02:10 Challenges in Product Development 04:33 Transitioning from Construction to Tech 07:06 Lessons Learned in Customer Discovery 09:38 Understanding Bridgeline's Value Proposition 12:12 Navigating Customer Acquisition in Construction 14:18 Insights from Successful Construction Tech Startups 16:38 Cold Calling Strategies for Startups 19:17 Reflections and Rapid Fire Questions

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