In this episode, I talk with Michael Ramos, president of Raymond, about what it really takes for a small firm to lead in tech, sharing how his team turns AI in the AEC industry into action and builds innovation from the inside out, all without burning out.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Michael:
- What first got you interested in exploring AI in the AEC industry and innovation at Raymond?
- What are some of the challenges you’ve faced trying to balance innovation with your day-to-day responsibilities?
- Can you explain what your internal innovation working group does and why you decided to create it?
- What are some ways you’ve helped turn AI from a buzzword into something useful at Raymond?
- Can you share a few examples of how AI tools for engineers or tech tools have made a real difference in your work?
- How do you measure whether your innovative efforts are working, especially with limited resources?
- How can a small AEC business stand out as a tech leader even if they don’t have a big budget?
- What piece of advice would you give to someone who wants to lead innovation in their firm, no matter how big or small it is?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How AI in the AEC Industry can Unlock Powerful Results for Small Firms:
- Recognizing inefficiencies in routine fieldwork drives early interest in using technology to improve the process. Simple tasks taking too long reveal clear opportunities for smarter solutions through emerging technologies in engineering.
- Working with limited resources means innovation often requires creative funding and internal prioritization. As a small business, Raymond must be selective about which tech ideas to pursue and when.
- The innovation group encourages team members to explore new tools and share feedback every two weeks. It creates space for experimentation while uncovering ideas directly from those doing the work.
- AI in the AEC industry is applied to speed up proposal development, generate project resumes, and assist with everyday tasks. These practical uses show that AI tools for engineers can directly support productivity and efficiency.
- AI cuts hours of manual work on proposals and document creation, saving time across departments. Tools also help streamline content formatting and information gathering for client deliverables.
- New tools are compared directly against traditional methods to evaluate time and accuracy. When AI versions consistently outperform manual processes, the return on effort becomes clear.
- Small firms can lead by staying curious, trying available tools, and creating space for experimentation. Agility and initiative often outweigh size when it comes to adopting engineering firm innovation strategies.
- Start by building a team interested in solving problems and testing ideas. Open collaboration and early exploration help generate momentum and surface new solutions.
More Details in This Episode…
About Michael Ramos
Michael Ramos is the president at Raymond, a minority and veteran-owned small business that provides full A/E services. After joining Raymond in 2017, Mr. Ramos has worked to grow Raymond’s engagement and presence in the federal market and leads Raymond’s internal research & development (IRAD) program, which is currently developing multiple AI-based and software solutions for the A/E/C industry. Prior to Raymond, Mr. Ramos was the director of analysis at DeWolff, Boberg & Associates and a senior associate with Booz Allen Hamilton. Mr. Ramos holds a B.S. in chemical engineering from MIT and an M.S. in chemistry from Tufts University.
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:
Raymond
Booz Allen Hamilton
Department of Defense
AutoCAD
ChatGPT
Llama 3.2 beta B
Google Firebase
Inkscape 3D
Connect with Michael Ramos on LinkedIn
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