The Blueprint Tour

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May 2026

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A construction podcast hosted by PermitZIP. Join us as we visit industry experts from all corners of the construction industry to overcome trust hurdles and build community. Subscribe to follow the conversations! www.thebptour.com

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May 28, 2026Episode 1242 min

Are AI Experts Actually Using AI?

SummaryIn this live-recorded episode of The Blueprint Tour from the IIBEC Metro New York Chapter’s Building Smarter with AI conference in New York, hosts Kenneth Shultz, Engineering Director at PermitZIP, and Carter Huddleston, Electrical Principal Engineer at PermitZIP, sit down with Nick Heim, Senior Innovation Engineer at StructureCare, for one of the most practical and candid conversations of Season 4.Rather than discussing AI as a futuristic concept, the episode focuses on how engineers are already integrating AI tools directly into daily workflows. From replacing traditional Google searches with context-aware AI systems to automating repetitive engineering tasks and dramatically reducing project turnaround times, Nick shares real-world examples of how AI is quietly reshaping productivity across the construction and engineering industries.The conversation also dives into why many organizations still hesitate to adopt AI despite its obvious advantages, the rise of performative “AI thought leadership” on social media, and the widening gap between people talking about AI and professionals actively using it every day. Kenny, Carter, and Nick discuss workflow automation, prompt engineering, engineering analysis, AI-assisted communication, and how younger professionals increasingly view AI tools as a normal part of modern work.Along the way, the trio explores practical implementation strategies, the limitations of free AI tools, cybersecurity and prompt injection risks, and the growing expectation that engineers and consultants will become AI-literate in the near future. They also unpack how large language models are changing collaboration, research, and technical problem-solving inside engineering environments.Fast-paced, highly relatable, and packed with actionable insight, this episode is an honest look at where practical AI adoption stands today, and how quickly the gap is growing between companies embracing these tools and those falling behind.“Treat AI like a utility.”KeywordsAI in engineering, artificial intelligence, engineering workflows, AI adoption, construction technology, workflow automation, ChatGPT, prompt engineering, digital transformation, engineering productivity, AI tools, large language models, construction innovation, AI implementation, future of work, engineering technology, business automation, prompt injection, AI security, productivity acceleration“Most AI thought leaders don’t actually use AI.”Takeaways* AI is increasingly becoming a standard utility tool for engineers and knowledge workers.* Practical AI implementation matters far more than theoretical AI discussions.* Many professionals still underestimate how rapidly AI workflows are improving productivity.* Context-aware AI tools are beginning to replace traditional search-based workflows.* Companies resisting AI adoption may face growing competitive disadvantages.* Younger engineers are integrating AI into work and personal life simultaneously.* AI-assisted engineering workflows can dramatically reduce repetitive task time.* Understanding AI risks and cybersecurity concerns is becoming increasingly important.“If your competitors are using it and you’re not… what does that mean?”Chapters* Welcome and Building Smarter with AI Conference Intro* Meet Nick Heim: Innovation Engineering and AI Workflows* Why AI Is Becoming a Standard Utility Tool* The Difference Between AI Theory and Real Usage* Replacing Google with Context-Aware AI Systems* Engineering Productivity and Workflow Automation* Why Companies Still Resist AI Adoption* The Rise of AI Thought Leadership Culture* How Younger Engineers View AI Differently* Using AI for Research, Analysis, and Communication* Prompt Engineering and Real-World AI Implementation* Cybersecurity, Prompt Injection, and AI Risks* How AI Is Accelerating Engineering Workflows* What the Future of AI Adoption Looks Like* Final Thoughts and Where to Find Nick Heim“What used to take three hours now takes fifteen minutes.”Where to Find Nick HeimLinkedIn · StructureCare“If my company banned AI, I’d quit.”Where to Find The Blueprint TourYouTube · TikTok · TheBPTour.comKenneth Shultz (Host) · Carter Huddleston (Host) Get full access to The Engineering Stack at www.thebptour.com/subscribe

May 23, 2026Episode 121 min

S4E12 Teaser | Are AI Experts Actually Using AI?

In this episode of The Blueprint Tour, hosts Kenneth Shultz and Carter Huddleston sit down with Nick Heim, Senior Innovation Engineer at StructureCare, for a candid conversation about how engineers are actually using AI today.From replacing traditional Google searches with context-aware AI tools to automating engineering workflows and boosting productivity, the discussion dives into the real-world side of AI adoption, far beyond social media hype and “thought leadership.”The episode also explores why some companies are still resisting AI, how younger engineers view these tools differently, and why practical implementation matters more than theory.Recorded live at the IIBEC Metro New York Chapter’s Building Smarter with AI conference in New York.🎧 Full episode drops Tuesday, May 26th, 2026. Get full access to The Engineering Stack at www.thebptour.com/subscribe

May 19, 2026Episode 1117 min

Can Construction Veterans Survive The AI Shift?

SummaryIn this live-recorded episode of The Blueprint Tour from the IIBEC Metro New York Chapter’s Building Smarter with AI conference in New York, hosts Kenneth Shultz, Engineering Director at PermitZIP, and Carter Huddleston, Electrical Principal Engineer at PermitZIP, sit down with Anthony Scoppettone, Business Development Director, Strategic Accounts at ARCAP Consulting, for a grounded conversation about how artificial intelligence is transforming the construction industry.With over 26 years of experience spanning scaffolding, glazing, waterproofing, roofing, manufacturing, project management, software development, and consulting, Anthony brings a uniquely practical perspective to the AI conversation. From hanging off skyscraper building scaffolds to implementing automation into modern business workflows, he shares firsthand insight into how construction professionals are adapting, or struggling to adapt, to rapid technological change.The discussion explores AI adoption in construction firms, why many experienced professionals remain hesitant to embrace AI tools, and how younger generations are increasingly being tasked with implementing digital transformation inside legacy organizations. Anthony and Kenny also dive into the growing role of large language models (LLMs), AI-powered communication, workflow automation, and the challenge of preserving institutional knowledge as the industry evolves.Along the way, the trio unpacks the realities of information overload, managing hundreds of daily emails, AI-assisted marketing, and how tools like Canva, Buffer, and language models are quietly reshaping day-to-day business operations. They also discuss why AI is unlikely to replace experienced professionals outright, but instead may amplify expertise by allowing “unlimited seniors to unlimited juniors.”Candid, practical, and highly relevant to anyone navigating the future of work, this episode is an honest look at the intersection of construction experience, workforce evolution, and AI-driven transformation.“It’s physically impossible to answer a thousand emails a day.”KeywordsAI in construction, construction technology, digital transformation, construction industry, artificial intelligence, construction management, institutional knowledge, AI adoption, construction leadership, workforce transformation, business automation, LLMs, construction innovation, project management, future of work, AI tools, construction consulting, generational workforce shift, business development, manufacturing technology“You need to integrate AI into your daily routine. Period.”Takeaways* AI is becoming increasingly necessary for managing modern construction and business workflows.* Institutional knowledge remains one of the industry’s most valuable assets.* Younger professionals are often leading AI implementation inside traditional organizations.* Many construction companies remain hesitant to adopt AI due to legal, ethical, and operational concerns.* AI tools can significantly improve communication, email management, marketing, and productivity.* Pairing experienced professionals with AI-assisted junior employees may accelerate workforce development.* AI is not replacing expertise; it is amplifying access to knowledge and information.“It’s not one senior teaching one junior anymore… It’s unlimited seniors to unlimited juniors.”Chapters* Welcome and Live Podcast Setup* Meet Anthony Scoppettone: From Scaffolding to Software* Working on Skyscrapers, Stadiums, and the World Trade Center* Managing Construction Operations and Large Field Teams* Implementing Technology Across Multiple Industries* AI for Email Management and Workflow Automation* Why Construction Companies Resist AI Adoption* Using AI Tools for Marketing and Social Media* Generational Shifts and Institutional Knowledge* Can AI Replace Junior-Level Work?* The Role of LLMs in Workforce Development* Legal and Ethical Concerns Around AI* Manufacturing, Product Consulting, and Digital Transformation* Why AI Is Not Going Away* Final Thoughts and Where to Find Anthony“People are hoping AI goes away because they don’t understand it.”Where to Find Anthony ScoppettoneLinkedIn · ARCAP Consulting“Thinking AI will disappear is like thinking the internet was never going to become popular.”Where to Find The Blueprint TourYouTube · TikTok · TheBPTour.comKenneth Shultz (Host) · Carter Huddleston (Host) Get full access to The Engineering Stack at www.thebptour.com/subscribe

May 12, 2026Episode 1023 min

Can AI Design Beautiful Spaces?

SummaryIn this live-recorded episode of The Blueprint Tour from the IIBEC Metro New York Chapter’s Building Smarter with AI conference in New York, hosts Kenneth Shultz, Engineering Director at PermitZIP, and Carter Huddleston, Electrical Principal Engineer at PermitZIP, sit down with Melita Cekani, Founder of Cekani Architectural Design, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming architecture and interior design workflows.With a background in both art and architectural design, Melita shares how her studio uses AI to accelerate concept development, generate design iterations, and support creative exploration, while still relying on human judgment for final execution. The conversation dives into the growing realism of architectural rendering, the blurred line between renders and real photography, and the challenge of maintaining originality and artistic direction in an AI-assisted world.The discussion also explores modern design operations, including working with international rendering teams, leveraging time-zone advantages for around-the-clock production, and using AI tools to improve communication, proposals, and client collaboration. Along the way, the trio unpacks the realities of residential design, managing subjective client feedback, and structuring creative workflows so projects don’t spiral into endless revisions.From luxury interiors and visualization technology to remote collaboration and AI-enhanced productivity, this episode offers a practical and honest look at where creativity and technology are heading.Thoughtful, visually engaging, and highly relevant to both creatives and technologists, this episode is a deep dive into the future of design in the AI era.“We use AI a lot… it helps us with the design process.”KeywordsAI in architecture, interior design, architectural visualization, AI rendering, luxury interiors, architectural design, AI-assisted creativity, photorealistic rendering, 3D rendering, design technology, AI workflows, remote design teams, architectural rendering software, creative AI, future of architecture, ChatGPT for design, digital design tools, AI in interior design, design process, architecture podcast“I’ll paint an idea first, then use AI to give me iterations.”Takeaways* AI can accelerate concept development and creative exploration in architecture and interior design.* Human judgment and artistic direction still drive final design decisions.* Hyper-realistic renders are becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish from real photography.* Global remote teams can create near 24-hour production workflows.* AI tools improve communication, proposal writing, and client collaboration.* Residential design requires balancing creativity with client expectations and clear boundaries.* Structured iteration processes help prevent endless design revisions.“You can barely tell the difference between a render and a real image.”Chapters* Welcome and Live Podcast Setup* Meet Melita Cekani and Cekani Architectural Design* Using AI for Architectural Concepts and Iterations* Artistic Backgrounds and Creative Design Thinking* Can You Tell Render From Reality?* The Limits of AI in Interior Design* Managing Global Design Teams and Time Zones* Communication Challenges and AI-Assisted Collaboration* Residential Design and Client Expectations* Using Miro Boards and Structured Design Workflows* Why Interior Design Can Become Endless* AI, Photoshop, and Rendering Enhancement* The Future of Creative Workflows in Architecture* Final Thoughts and Where to Find Melita“We do not use AI for the final result.”Where to Find Melita CekaniInstagram · LinkedIn · Cekani Architectural Design · Melita Cekani“You gotta keep AI creativity low… otherwise your lights start growing arms.”Where to Find The Blueprint TourYouTube · TikTok · TheBPTour.comKenneth Shultz (Host) · Carter Huddleston (Host) Get full access to The Engineering Stack at www.thebptour.com/subscribe

May 11, 2026Episode 102 min

S4E10 Teaser | Can AI Design Beautiful Spaces?

In this episode of The Blueprint Tour, hosts Kenneth Shultz and Carter Huddleston sit down with Melita Cekani, Founder of Cekani Architectural Design, to discuss how AI is reshaping the creative side of architecture and interior design.From AI-assisted concept generation and hyper-realistic renders to global design collaboration and client communication, this episode explores where artificial intelligence helps and where human creativity still leads.Recorded live at the IIBEC Metro New York Chapter’s Building Smarter with AI conference in New York.🎧 Full episode drops Tuesday, May 12th, 2026. Get full access to The Engineering Stack at www.thebptour.com/subscribe

May 5, 2026Episode 918 min

Do People Still Buy From People?

SummaryIn this live-recorded episode of The Blueprint Tour from the IIBEC Metro New York Chapter’s Building Smarter with AI conference in New York, hosts Kenneth Shultz, Engineering Director at PermitZIP, and Carter Huddleston, Electrical Principal Engineer at PermitZIP, sit down with Juan Vides, Vice President at Hire Point USA, Founder of Winning on Wednesday, and Business Development Manager at TechAcs, Inc.With a background in programming turned business development, Juan shares practical insights on what actually drives sales in today’s world. From building a network through consistent outreach to creating meaningful relationships that go beyond transactions, the conversation explores the fundamentals of trust-based business.The discussion covers the power of in-person networking, the limitations of digital-only communication, and why consistency is the most underrated advantage in sales and content creation. Juan also explains how his long-running networking group and podcast have helped him connect with professionals across industries, from students to executives, by focusing on authenticity and value.Along the way, the trio dives into real-world lessons on personal branding, lead generation, and why many professionals struggle to promote themselves effectively. They also unpack the idea that people still prefer to work with those they trust, and how building that trust requires time, repetition, and genuine interaction.Candid, relatable, and highly actionable, this episode is a practical guide for anyone looking to grow their network, improve their sales approach, and build long-term business relationships in an increasingly digital world.“People do business who they know, like, and trust.”KeywordsSales strategy, business development, networking, relationship marketing, personal branding, B2B sales, lead generation, professional networking, content creation, trust-based selling, digital marketing, in-person networking, sales consistency, podcast marketing, LinkedIn networking, business relationships, entrepreneurship, client acquisition“Consistency is key, you gotta keep doing it over and over.”Takeaways* People still do business with those they know, like, and trust.* In-person interaction remains one of the most effective ways to build relationships.* Consistency in outreach, content, and networking compounds over time.* Trust and rapport cannot be built instantly—it requires repeated interaction.* Authenticity and sincerity are critical in building long-term business relationships.* Personal branding and visibility play a key role in attracting opportunities.* Many professionals underutilize self-promotion, which limits growth.“You have to be in person… a phone call or Zoom call is not gonna do you justice.”Chapters* Welcome and After-Hours Setup* Meet Juan Vides: From Programming to Business Development* Selling Safety Gear and Understanding Market Needs* Building Leads Through Networking and Digital Strategies* Why In-Person Networking Still Matters* The Impact of COVID on Business Relationships* Launching Winning on Wednesday: A Networking Community* Podcasting and Content Creation for Growth* Consistency as a Competitive Advantage* Building Trust Through Relationships* Authenticity vs Transactional Selling* Personal Branding and Self-Promotion* Golden Nuggets: Consistency and Genuine Connection* Final Thoughts and Where to Find Juan“Be genuine, be sincere, people will see right through the fakeness.”Where to Find Juan VidesLinkedIn · TechAcs · Winning on WednesdayWhere to Find The Blueprint TourYouTube · TikTok · TheBPTour.comKenneth Shultz (Host) · Carter Huddleston (Host) Get full access to The Engineering Stack at www.thebptour.com/subscribe

May 3, 2026Episode 92 min

S4E9 Teaser | Do People Still Buy From People?

In this episode of The Blueprint Tour, hosts Kenneth Shultz and Carter Huddleston sit down with Juan Vides, Vice President at Hire Point USA, Founder of Winning on Wednesday, and Business Development Manager at TechAcs, Inc.From building relationships through networking to the power of consistency and authenticity in sales, this episode dives into what actually drives business today. Juan shares practical insights on in-person connection, personal branding, and why trust still matters more than ever.Recorded live at the IIBEC Metro New York Chapter’s Building Smarter with AI conference.🎧 Full episode drops Tuesday, May 5th, 2026. Get full access to The Engineering Stack at www.thebptour.com/subscribe

April 28, 2026Episode 823 min

Who Really Fixes Dangerous Buildings?

SummaryIn this live-recorded episode of The Blueprint Tour from the IIBEC Metro New York Chapter’s Building Smarter with AI conference in New York, hosts Kenneth Shultz, Engineering Director at PermitZIP, and Carter Huddleston, Electrical Principal Engineer at PermitZIP, sit down with Spiro Markatos, President at Skyline Restoration Inc.This episode dives deep into the hidden world of facade restoration, an industry responsible for maintaining some of the most iconic and historic buildings in cities like New York. Spiro shares firsthand insights from decades in exterior restoration, including working on nationally recognized landmarks and navigating the risks that come with repairing aging structures at extreme heights.The conversation explores the origins of modern facade safety laws, including how real-world tragedies led to regulatory changes that still shape building maintenance today. Spiro explains how restoration companies calculate risk, manage complex projects, and coordinate across multiple trades to keep buildings safe and operational.Beyond construction practices, the discussion touches on emerging technology in the field, including how AI is beginning to support quantity takeoffs, submittal generation, and workforce tracking. The hosts and guest also explore the growing issue of fraudulent claims in construction, an expensive and widespread problem that impacts insurance costs, project planning, and industry sustainability.From skateboarding down the ramps of the Guggenheim during late-night restoration work to overseeing large-scale facade rehabilitation projects, this episode highlights the technical, legal, and human challenges behind maintaining the buildings we rely on every day.Practical, candid, and grounded in real-world experience, this episode offers valuable insight into the people and processes responsible for keeping cities safe, functional, and standing strong.“Restoring iconic buildings like the Plaza Hotel or the Guggenheim, you feel accomplished doing that work.”KeywordsFacade restoration, building envelope, construction safety, historic restoration, exterior restoration, rope access, high-rise maintenance, construction technology, AI in construction, facade inspection laws, urban infrastructure, structural maintenance, waterproofing systems, restoration contractors, construction fraud prevention, skyline restoration, building safety compliance, historic landmark repair, urban building maintenance“My first drop was on a 38-story building when I was 15 years old.”Takeaways* Facade restoration plays a critical role in preventing dangerous structural failures in aging buildings.* Modern facade safety laws were created in response to real-world tragedies involving falling building materials.* Historic restoration requires specialized expertise and careful coordination between engineers, contractors, and safety professionals.* Restoration work often involves high-risk environments such as rope-access repairs and high-rise scaffolding systems.* AI tools are beginning to support construction workflows, especially for estimating, documentation, and safety tracking.* Fraudulent injury claims are a major cost driver in the construction industry, impacting insurance rates and project economics.* Collaboration between design professionals and contractors is essential to ensure projects are both buildable and safe.“A piece of terracotta fell… and from there the laws started changing.”Chapters* Welcome and Guest Introduction* Meet Spiro Markatos: Restoration Industry Leader* Introduction to Skyline Restoration Inc.* Working on Historic and Iconic Buildings* The Reality of High-Rise Restoration Work* How Facade Safety Laws Were Created* Understanding Building Envelope Restoration* Design-Build Collaboration in Construction* Estimating Risk and Pricing Restoration Projects* AI Applications in Construction Workflows* Technology for Worker Tracking and Safety* The Growing Problem of Construction Fraud* Lessons from Decades in the Restoration Industry* Final Thoughts on Keeping Cities Safe“You could lose a lot of money if the technology gets the numbers wrong.”Where to Find Spiro MarkatosSkyline Restoration Inc. · LinkedIn · InstagramWhere to Find The Blueprint TourYouTube · TikTok · TheBPTour.comKenneth Shultz (Host) · Carter Huddleston (Host) Get full access to The Engineering Stack at www.thebptour.com/subscribe

April 25, 2026Episode 83 min

S4E8 Teaser | Who Really Fixes Dangerous Buildings?

In this teaser for Season 4, Episode 8 of The Blueprint Tour, hosts Kenneth Shultz and Carter Huddleston sit down with Spiro Markatos, President at Skyline Restoration Inc., to explore what it really takes to maintain and restore dangerous building facades in cities like New York.From restoring iconic landmarks to understanding how safety laws were shaped by real tragedies, this conversation dives into the risks, responsibilities, and evolving technologies behind exterior restoration work. The episode also touches on workforce safety, fraud challenges in construction, and how AI is beginning to support field operations.Season 4 was recorded live at the IIBEC Metro New York Chapter’s Building Smarter with AI conference in New York.🎧 Full Episode releases Tuesday, April 28th, 2026. Get full access to The Engineering Stack at www.thebptour.com/subscribe

April 15, 2026Episode 733 min

Is Your IP Safe From AI?

SummaryIn this live-recorded episode of The Blueprint Tour from the IIBEC Metro New York Chapter’s Building Smarter with AI conference in New York, hosts Kenneth Shultz, Engineering Director at PermitZIP, and Carter Huddleston, Electrical Principal Engineer at PermitZIP, sit down with Eugene Gurevich, Senior Structural Engineer and Construction Phase Director at Rand Engineering & Architecture.The conversation dives into one of the most pressing questions facing engineering firms today: what happens when AI tools gain access to proprietary drawings, reports, and internal company knowledge? Eugene shares real-world concerns about protecting intellectual property while still leveraging the massive efficiency gains AI can provide.Together, they explore the technical and philosophical implications of integrating AI into engineering workflows, from prompt injection risks and data privacy tradeoffs to the rise of local AI models designed to protect sensitive information. The group also examines how licensing laws may keep engineers legally responsible in an increasingly automated world, even as AI systems handle more design and coordination tasks.Beyond AI, the discussion expands into broader industry shifts, how engineering business models could evolve, whether intellectual property will retain its value, and what lessons the music industry’s transition to digital distribution can teach the design and construction world.The episode also highlights Eugene’s unique dual perspective as both a licensed structural engineer and architect, including his work performing high-rise inspections using rope access systems, sometimes hundreds of feet above ground level.Thought-provoking, technical, and forward-looking, this episode offers a candid look at how engineers must adapt to protect their knowledge, maintain responsibility, and navigate the rapid evolution of AI-powered design workflows.“You unleash an AI… and now it has access to your intellectual property, the value of your business.”KeywordsArtificial intelligence, AI security, intellectual property, AI in engineering, data privacy, prompt injection, engineering workflows, digital transformation, construction technology, structural engineering, rope access inspection, building inspections, engineering responsibility, AI risk management, Rand Engineering & Architecture, PermitZIP, IIBEC conference, local AI models, engineering automation“Maybe there is no IP anymore… maybe it’s all available to everybody.”Takeaways* AI tools can unlock massive productivity gains—but they also introduce new risks around intellectual property exposure.* Combining private data, internet access, and external inputs creates security vulnerabilities such as prompt injection risks.* Local AI models may become a key solution for protecting sensitive engineering data.* Engineers will likely remain legally responsible for decisions—even as AI automates more workflows.* Business models in engineering may shift, with value moving from drawings to real-time decision support.* Intellectual property may become harder to protect as digital tools accelerate data sharing and duplication.* Real-time feedback from AI can significantly improve decision validation and reduce long-term design risk.“What if drawings become the commodity, and answers become the product?”Chapters* Welcome and Guest Introduction* Meet Eugene Gurevich: Structural Engineer and Architect* Engineering Hierarchies and the “Pencil Tip” Concept* AI Adoption Challenges in Engineering Firms* Understanding Prompt Injection and Data Security Risks* Protecting Intellectual Property in AI Workflows* Local AI Models vs Cloud-Based Systems* The Future of Engineering Responsibility* Business Model Shifts in Design and Construction* Lessons from the Music Industry’s Digital Transformation* High-Rise Rope Access Inspections and Real-World Risks* Final Thoughts on the Future of Engineering in an AI Era“You can’t sue a bunch of GPUs if a building collapses.”Where to Find Eugene GurevichRand Engineering & Architecture · LinkedInWhere to Find The Blueprint TourYouTube · TikTok · TheBPTour.comKenneth Shultz (Host) · Carter Huddleston (Host) Get full access to The Engineering Stack at www.thebptour.com/subscribe

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