In this episode, I talk with Michael-Paul Jenkins, enterprise sales at Gecko Robotics, about how robotics is revolutionizing data collection and analysis in the AEC industry, enhancing infrastructure solutions and empowering the next generation of engineers.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Michael-Paul:
- How can robotics transform data collection and analysis in the AEC industry, especially since these technologies aren’t mainstream yet?
- What challenges do you face when scaling and transforming the data collected by robots into actionable insights for industries that have traditionally not operated this way, and how do you overcome resistance to this change?
- Can you explain how robots and data achieve this in critical infrastructure inspections, and why it’s so crucial?
- What are the main obstacles to adopting robotics, and what strategies do you use to address these challenges?
- What final advice would you give to the upcoming generation in the AEC industries on integrating robots and data into their workflows?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Using Robotics to Energize Data-Driven Decisions in AEC:
- Robotics have the potential to transform data collection and analysis in the AEC industry, addressing challenges similar to those in manufacturing and defense sectors. Gecko Robotics demonstrates how innovative approaches in robotics provide valuable insights and advancements, even to industries where such technologies are not yet mainstream.
- The main challenges in turning robot-collected data into actionable insights are managing large datasets and overcoming resistance to new technologies. By adapting systems to effectively interpret this data and promoting a culture centered on innovation, organizations drive meaningful change and reduce resistance.
- In critical infrastructure inspections, robots and data collaborate to minimize subjectivity and boost decision-making. This collaboration maintains continuity across generations, using historical insights and new data to ensure decisions that uphold the safety and integrity of crucial structures.
- The significant barriers to adopting robotics include high initial costs and the necessity for cultural shifts within traditional industries. Strategies to overcome these challenges showcase the direct benefits of these technologies, such as extended asset lifespans and enhanced operational efficiencies, which draw support from top executives and encourage broader acceptance.
- The next generation in the AEC industries is encouraged to adopt robotics and data integration as crucial tools for enhancing workflow efficiency and decision accuracy. Investing in new technologies and developing strategic partnerships greatly advance their projects, fostering innovation and securing long-term success in a dynamically changing industry landscape.
More Details in This Episode…
About Michael-Paul Jenkins
Michael-Paul Jenkins is an accomplished sales leader specializing in enterprise solutions for capital expenditure optimization through advanced robotics, sensors, and enterprise software. With over six years at Gecko Robotics, Michael-Paul has progressed from regional sales manager to director of sales for manufacturing and now serves as enterprise sales – oil & gas. His expertise spans industries such as steel, power generation, and mining, where he helps clients make data-driven decisions to improve operational efficiency and financial planning.
A graduate of Walsh University with a degree in government & foreign affairs, Michael-Paul brings a disciplined and innovative approach to sales, inspired by his early career in logistics and his commitment to fostering trust and collaboration. He is known for his strategic planning skills, leadership, and dedication to building meaningful client relationships.
Michael-Paul is active on LinkedIn, sharing insights on American innovation, leadership, and the transformative power of technology in legacy industries.
About the Host: Nick Heim, P.E.
Nick Heim, P.E., is a civil engineer with seven 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 the use of technologies in his civil engineering career and small business.
Sources/References:
Gecko Robotics
Department of Defense
Connect with Michael-Paul Jenkins on LinkedIn
We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you can share on using robotics to energize data-driven decisions in AEC.
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