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In this episode, I talk with Erin Khan, a leader in construction technology, about how construction tech has evolved and what’s ahead. Erin also shares her journey, career paths in construction tech, challenges for women, and advice for engineers entering the field or starting ventures.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Erin:
- What inspired you to start an independent consulting firm in the construction technology space, particularly as a woman in this field?
- What are typical career paths in construction technology, and how can individuals pursue them effectively?
- What specific opportunities or challenges might women face when pursuing careers in this field?
- How can women in engineering best navigate and advance in the construction industry, given its challenges and opportunities?
- How would you characterize the current state of the construction technology landscape compared to a decade ago?
- Which new technologies or trends do you find most exciting or promising for the construction industry?
- How do you expect these advancements to impact different aspects of construction, including efficiency, safety, and sustainability?
- How do you keep yourself updated and ahead in the rapidly evolving field of construction technology?
- What advice would you offer to engineers, particularly those aiming to enter construction technology or start their venture?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Career Paths for Opportunities and Growth in Construction Tech:
- Erin started her construction career after studying civil engineering at USC. She was motivated to advance construction technology due to the lack of digital tools on project sites, leading her to establish her consulting firm to innovate in the industry, especially as a woman aiming to promote female leadership in construction.
- The construction industry is evolving with new specialized roles like construction tech innovation managers and customer success managers in startups. These opportunities in construction tech venture capital reflect exciting developments beyond traditional roles like BIM coordinators.
- In construction, diverse perspectives, including those of women, bring valuable insights and empathy crucial for problem-solving in construction tech. However, women can face challenges like bias, where assertiveness may be perceived negatively, which shows the importance of navigating perceptions to advocate for innovative ideas effectively.
- Improving team processes, even with small changes, can have a big impact. Document and share these improvements to benefit the team and project. Building a network with mentors and other women in the industry accelerates learning and provides valuable insights into different project experiences and roles.
- In the construction tech space, there’s been a surge in available solutions, but there’s also a decline in quality as many startups fail to deeply understand the problems they’re trying to solve. With thousands of new startups entering the field, there’s a learning curve to deliver truly effective solutions that address industry challenges.
- Artificial intelligence is creating excitement in construction for its potential to improve learning and development by capturing and translating historical knowledge. There’s also anticipation for advancements in data integrations to overcome platform interoperability challenges and set better industry standards.
- Technology adoption will accelerate processes, making them faster and more efficient, while also enabling a shift toward proactive safety measures. This advancement will also improve awareness and education on sustainability by providing tools to measure and address environmental impacts more effectively.
- Building relationships and engaging in one-on-one conversations are vital for staying informed and learning from others in the startup and construction communities. Connecting with other professionals allows for discussions on industry trends and insights.
- When starting a new venture or exploring a career change, it’s important to be authentic and self-aware. Understanding your motivations, passions, and unique strengths will enable you to lead confidently and contribute valuable insights to the industry while embracing diversity and continuous personal growth.
More Details in This Episode…
About the Guest: Erin Khan
Erin Khan is an established AEC technology leader, with over a decade of combined experience in construction operations, data and process analysis, and software implementation. Founding Erin Khan Consulting (EKC) in 2023, she currently provides technology and innovation services to both contractors and construction technology startups.
Before founding EKC, Erin served as the National Director of Construction Solutions for Suffolk Construction, overseeing national technology and innovation operations. Erin holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from USC, a certificate in Business Analytics from The Wharton School, and is EIT, LEED AP BD+C, and OSHA-10 certified.
About the Host: Tiffani Teachey
Tiffani Teachey is a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) advocate, TEDx international speaker, and international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” the STEM Crew Kids Adventures series, and three empowerment books. She is the host of the Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia. Tiffani is the owner of Thrive Edge Publishing and owner/publishing consultant of Inspired Authors Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering as well as a Master of Science degree in Engineering Management, both from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is currently a Leadership Studies Ph.D. student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
As an engineer with more than 19 years of experience, Tiffani has a passion for inspiring the next generation to engage in STEM careers. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and enjoys traveling and being a youth mentor. For more about Tiffani, visit her website at www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift – 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book at www.stemistheway.com.
Sources/References:
Erin Khan Consulting
Suffolk Construction
Bluebeam
BIM
Women in Construction Tech
Connect with Erin Khan on LinkedIn
We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you can share on career paths for opportunities and growth in construction tech.
Please leave your comments, feedback, or questions in the section below.
To your success,
Tiffani Teachey
Host of the Women in Engineering Success Stories from STEM Professionals Podcast
