TRXL Podcast 2024: A Year of Transformative AEC Conversations
A year in review.
đ„łđŸ Happy New Year's Eve!
In 12 hours (in my timezone at least), we'll be ringing in 2025. I honestly can't believe it was a quarter century ago that we (as a society, maybe not you personally) were all very concerned about the so-called Y2K bug!
As the AEC industry continues to evolve, 2024 has proven to be a year of valuable discussions on the TRXL podcast. From artificial intelligence to prefab construction, my guests and I have explored the tools, trends, and mindsets shaping the future of our industry.
The fan-favorite episode this year was undoubtedly â144: The SketchUp Storyâ with Brad Schell. Brad is not only the founder of one of AECâs most adored apps ever created (I realize my audience may disagree, but like it or not the numbers don't lie), heâs also an incredibly generous person and a fantastic storyteller. I highly recommend this episode whether or not youâre a fan of the appâI guarantee youâll learn something.
As a retrospective, Iâve gone back through my notes and have written about some trends across 2024âs episodes. My hope is that you find this both memorable (if youâve been following along) and useful enough to encourage you to find out more by visiting the links provided.
Hereâs a look back at some of this yearâs highlights:
Emerging Technologies: Beyond BIM
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and real-time data emerged as a recurring theme. Episodes like â147: The Era of Spatial Computingâ with John Manoochehri and â155: Shortening the Feedback Loopâ with AJ Lightheart and Jon Matalucci highlighted how virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) and machine learning are transforming design processes and fostering collaboration across disciplines.
A standout was the Project Phoenix series (Eps. 159-161 with David Benjamin, Ryan McNulty, Andrew Meagher, and Thomas van Haren), which did a deep dive into modular prefab construction and sustainable innovations such as mycelium-based façade materials. They also emphasized the value of integrating project design and delivery through a forward thinking, stakeholder-centered approach.
Just recently I published â171: From Model to Machineâ with Brian Nickel and Brett Settles to talk about taking BIM to another level by connecting design intent directly to fabrication using web-based platforms, showcasing how technology and collaboration can lead to safer, faster, and more efficient workflows.
These episodes highlighted the urgent need for design practices that are adaptable and forward-thinking, focusing on user-centric experiences and sustainability goals.
Leadership, Change Management, and Professional Growth in AEC
As always, change was a cornerstone topic this year. From â158: AEC is an Adhocracyâ with Andy Robert and Mercedes Carriquiry to â165: Transitioning to Leading People in AEC Techâ with Phil Read and Adam Thomas, my guests emphasized the importance of cultivating resilience and embracing new methodologies in leadership. Key takeaways included fostering a culture of curiosity and using technology not just as a tool but as a transformative driver for team dynamics and organizational growth.
The Human Element: Communication, Culture, and Creativity
Episodes like â153: Emotional Archaeologyâ with Susan Young and â151: The Zoo Thatâs in the Roomâ with Roderick Bates and Kam Star offered deep dives into how we navigate relationships and communication in a tech-driven environment. A recurring message was clear: Technology should amplify human creativity, not replace it. Guests explored how we can maintain emotional intelligence while adopting advanced tools.
Challenges in AEC: Innovation Meets Reality
The TRXL podcast didnât shy away from tough conversations, such as in â154: Construction is Sickâ with Jim Walker. Discussions revolved around inefficiencies and systemic issues in the construction industry, balanced by optimism in episodes like â163: Confusing Evolution With Innovationâ with Nirva Fereshetian in which we talked about how professionals can leverage technology thoughtfully, emphasizing collaboration and learning to drive meaningful innovation.
Member and Sponsor Support Make This Podcast Possible
To the members of TRXL+ and the handful of brands that have sponsored the show this year: I couldnât do this without you. A heartfelt thank you goes out to ArchIT, AVAIL, Confluence, Enscape, and Guardian for Revit. My hope is that when reading this post you recognize your support has a positive impact on the building industry.
Looking Ahead
As we close out 2024, the conversations in the TRXL podcast remind us that technologyâs role in AEC is as much about mindset as it is about the tools. Whether youâre navigating digital transformation (168: The Challenges of Under-Digitization in AEC, with CĂ©sar Flores RodrĂguez) or pondering the ethics of AI (172: Architects in Airports Talking AI and AEC, with Phil Read), the message is clear: The future of AEC is collaborative, innovative, and unapologetically human.
Iâm excited to see what 2025 brings and hope youâll continue along this journey with me.
