Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed
In this episode, I talk with Aakash Prasad, co-founder and CEO of InspectMind AI, co-founder of ProStruct Engineering, and CEO of Project Karma, about the fascinating world of AI and automation in the engineering industry. We dive into how these transformative technologies reshape the field and what the future holds.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Aakash:
- How do you think AI and automation will change traditional engineering construction workflows, especially in data collection and reporting?
- Do you think many engineers find it tedious to compile reports, especially when using manual methods like clipboards and cameras?
- What are the key features AI-driven tools need to be effective in the engineering and construction sectors?
- What advice would you give professionals to prepare for the changes in AI that are coming to the AEC industry?
- How does AI’s understanding of human language make it easier to use without needing advanced technical skills?
- What challenges have you encountered when trying to integrate new technology into traditional industries like AEC?
- Can you explain how AI actually delivers benefits like saving time, reducing costs, and improving accuracy in practice?
- What final advice would you give to engineers who are hesitant about integrating AI-based tools like InspectMine into their workflows?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About the Remarkable Advantages of AI and Automation in Engineering:
- AI and automation will transform traditional engineering construction workflows by streamlining data collection and reporting. Professionals will be able to capture and process information on-site using mobile devices, leading to faster and more accurate reports with minimal manual effort.
- Compiling reports can be tedious for many engineers, particularly when using manual methods like clipboards and cameras, as it involves repetitive tasks that detract from their core work. AI and automation can streamline this process, letting engineers focus more on their expertise and problem-solving skills.
- For AI-driven tools to be effective in engineering and construction, they need to excel in technical writing, intelligent search, and computer vision for defect detection. While generative design shows promise, it’s not yet fully capable of producing code-compliant designs.
- To prepare for changes in AI in the AEC industry, professionals should start by exploring popular AI tools and looking for easy ways to apply them to their work. Embracing AI’s simpler, more intuitive interfaces can ease the transition and avoid the need for extensive training.
- AI’s ability to understand human language makes it easier to use because it allows users to interact with the technology in a natural, intuitive way. This means professionals can give simple commands or ask questions without needing advanced technical skills or extensive training.
- Integrating new technology into traditional industries like AEC often faces challenges such as the need for extensive training and overcoming resistance to change. To address this, creating intuitive, user-friendly tools that minimize friction and simplify adoption can significantly ease the transition.
- AI delivers benefits like saving time, reducing costs, and improving accuracy by automating tasks that traditionally took much longer. For example, InspectMine allows users to quickly capture data and generate reports in minutes, cutting down on manual effort, reducing the risk of errors, and lowering costs associated with traditional report writing.
- Engineers hesitant about using AI tools like InspectMine should give them a try, as the potential for increased efficiency and profitability is high. The time invested in exploring these tools is minimal compared to the significant improvements they could offer to their workflows.
More Details in This Episode…
About the Guest: Aakash Prasad
Aakash Prasad is a seasoned entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in EdTech, HR SaaS, and the AEC industries. He has founded and led multiple successful ventures, including LearnStreet, Lytmus, Design Everest, ProStruct Engineering, and InspectMind AI. He is the co-founder and CEO of InspectMind AI, a role he has held since January 2024, and the co-founder of ProStruct Engineering, started in 2023. Additionally, Aakash founded Project Karma in 2022, where he continues to serve as CEO. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from the University of California, Berkeley. Aakash is passionate about making a positive impact, leveraging his skills and experiences to build companies and inspire others. His leadership style is marked by passion, purpose, authenticity, and vulnerability.
About the Host: Nick Heim, P.E.
Nick Heim, P.E., is a civil engineer with six years of experience in the repair and restoration of existing structures, and host of the AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast (AECTECH), where he brings valuable insights and expertise to listeners worldwide.
Nick’s interests lie at the intersection between the built world and technology, and he can be found looking for the ever-changing answer to the question, “How can we do this better?” Nick can be found on LinkedIn, producing content about use of technologies in his civil engineering career and small business.
Sources/References:
InspectMind
ProStruct Engineering
Project Karma
ChatGPT
OpenAI
Connect with Aakash Prasad on LinkedIn
We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you can share on the advantages of AI and automation in engineering.
Please leave your comments, feedback, or questions in the section below.
To your success,
Nick Heim, P.E.
Host of the AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast
