The Morning Huddle Construction Show

Closing the skilled trades gap isn’t just a challenge—it’s a make-or-break priority for the industry. Matt McCaffrey, Vice President at Skanska, unpacks how early engagement, contractor leadership, and industry-wide collaboration can fuel workforce development. The conversation surfaces innovative strategies and real opportunities to attract and retain the next generation of construction talent.

AI isn’t the future of construction—it’s happening right now. Jordan Roberts, Content Manager at Journey Alliance, and Marc Pozzuoli, Partner at Journey Alliance, discuss how companies are already utilizing ChatGPT to streamline operations, spark innovation, and rethink the way business is conducted. From practical prompts to real-world use cases, this episode shows how AI can become your smartest thought partner. Whether you’re curious or already experimenting, you’ll walk away with strategies to put AI to work in your construction business today.

AI isn’t some far-off concept anymore—it’s already disrupting and transforming the architecture, engineering, and construction landscape. Stjepan Mikulić, founder of AI in AEC, joins The Morning Huddle to share how forward-thinking firms are leveraging cutting-edge tools to streamline workflows, optimize efficiency, and unlock new opportunities for innovation. The conversation doesn’t shy away from the critical challenges—like data security, integration, and adoption—providing a clear-eyed look at both the risks and rewards. If you want actionable insights into how AI can drive competitive advantage, boost productivity, and revolutionize project delivery, this is the discussion to hear.

Join us with Wilson Matthew Betances, Founder of Energize Us Edu Inc., as he reveals how a spark of inspiration in the electrical contracting trenches ignited his in-house Apprentice University—and why he’s now betting on affordable housing to keep talent charged up for the long haul. From his five-pillar system of character, work ethic, trust, skills and growth metrics, to the franchise-ready model and his exclusive Builders United mastermind, Wilson lays out the blueprint for building—and retaining—a powerhouse workforce today and five years down the line.

Join us for a focused conversation with Ryan Staton of Staton Walsh, where we dive into the key financial metrics—EBITDA, backlog ratios, debt-to-equity, and working capital—that drive construction business value, plus practical strategies for reinvesting profits, building operational continuity, and planning a successful exit.

Join Herb Sargent, CEO of Sargent, and Eric Ritchie, President & COO, as they delve into the intricacies of executing a successful succession plan. Drawing from their firsthand experiences, they discuss the challenges and strategies involved in leadership transitions within a legacy-driven, employee-owned company.​

Jonte Hawkins, Director of Safety at West Shore Home, and Roberto Gomez, Executive Director of Cornerstone Craftsman, dive into how the trades changed their lives—and how they’re now using that power to change others’. From second chances to workforce pipelines, they’re tackling the construction labor shortage by investing in the next generation.

In this episode, Jason Schroeder, Founder and CEO of ELEVATE Construction, LLC, explores what it truly means to elevate the field in construction. Tom Hughes, PE, VP of Construction Operations at Genesis AEC, joins as guest host to help guide a conversation on integrating field leaders into preconstruction, developing great superintendents, and bridging the gap between field and office. Packed with practical insights and industry perspective, this episode challenges how we think about planning, leadership, and respect for the craft.

Retention is where companies struggle. Ryan Englin, COO of Core Matters, breaks down what it takes to keep employees, strengthen the company's reputation, and make the trades a top career choice. From HR and marketing collaboration to standout job ads and talent pipelines, we’re covering the real keys to becoming an employer of choice.

What does it take to keep a construction project running smoothly? Eric Van Why, Jonathan Fox, and Megan Ross from Coakley & Williams Construction (CWC) break down The Build Mindset—covering site logistics, safety, scheduling, financials, and the power of clear communication. Learn how CWC’s expertise, technology, and strong trade relationships ensure seamless execution from start to finish. Whether you’re in the industry or just curious, this episode is packed with expert insights. Tune in and build smarter with CWC!