In this episode, I talk with Dr. Barrett Ames, co-founder of BotBuilt with a Ph.D. in artificial intelligence and robotics, about how robotic framing in residential construction is bringing speed and precision to the job site. We explore how construction robotics work and how builders are embracing this shift as automation in construction meets tradition in the field.
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Dr. Barrett Ames:
- What inspired you to launch BotBuilt, and what were some of the early challenges you faced along the way in developing robotic framing in residential construction?
- In what ways did going through Y Combinator shape your strategy and help you support the company’s growth in residential construction technology?
- How does BotBuilt’s automated framing system work from the initial floor plan to the final on-site assembly in residential construction?
- Besides reducing schedule risk, what other advantages does your robotic framing system offer to builders using construction automation solutions?
- What steps do you take to earn builders’ trust and help them adopt a new way of doing things with construction robotics?
- How do you see robotics and automation helping to solve labor shortages and increase efficiency in residential construction workflows?
- What advice would you give to professionals who want to bring innovative technology like AI in construction into their workflows?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How Robotic Framing in Residential Construction Is Solving Labor Shortages:
- BotBuilt begins with a personal renovation experience that highlights how ideal construction tasks are for robotic framing in residential construction. One early challenge is realizing that builders care less about technology and more about practical solutions that get the job done.
- Y Combinator provides BotBuilt with access to a powerful network and credibility that attracts top talent. It also sharpens the team’s approach to fast iteration, early customer feedback, and understanding the startup metrics needed to grow in the construction robotics space.
- The system starts by using AI in construction to read a floor plan and generate precise material and framing data. Robots then build wall panels with sub-inch accuracy, adjust for imperfect lumber, and deliver them ready for rapid on-site installation.
- Builders typically save 20 to 40 percent on materials and see fewer framing errors. Inspectors often recognize the consistent quality of BotBuilt projects, which helps streamline approvals and reduce costly delays in residential construction technology.
- The team starts with simple deliverables like fast, accurate takeoffs that builders can verify. By asking questions, adapting to existing workflows, and demonstrating value over time, BotBuilt builds credibility and trust in automation in construction.
- Robotics makes construction more appealing by bringing advanced tools into the field and changing outdated perceptions. Construction robotics help crews work faster and smarter, which is essential as the skilled labor gap continues to grow.
- Technology should always serve the people who use it. Success depends on understanding user needs, building trust, and creating solutions that work within real-world conditions in residential construction.
More Details in This Episode…
About Dr. Barrett Ames
Barrett Ames is the co-founder of BotBuilt, a construction robotics company pioneering the use of intelligent automation to transform how wood-frame structures are built. He holds a Ph.D. in artificial intelligence and robotics from Duke University and brings a multidisciplinary background that blends software engineering with mechanical, electrical, and mathematical expertise. Barrett is driven by a powerful belief: that robots should free people from repetitive, exhausting tasks and empower them to be more human—more creative, passionate, and fulfilled.
A graduate of Y Combinator’s W21 batch, he is leading BotBuilt’s mission to solve the construction labor shortage by deploying scalable robotic framing systems directly on jobsites. Through this work, Dr. Ames is not just advancing robotics in construction—he’s reimagining how technology can support the people behind the projects.
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 AI & Tech Strategy Podcast (“AECT”), 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:
BotBuilt
Y Combinator
Cornell University
NASA
International Space Station (ISS)
DARPA Robotics Challenge
Atlas by Boston Dynamics
Duke University
Hacker News
DARPA Grand Challenge
ChatGPT
YouTube
Connect with Barrett Ames on LinkedIn
AEC PM Certification
AEC PM Connect
Project Management Accelerator™
Engineering Leadership Accelerator™
Keynote Speaking
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