BuildOps Forge 2024 brought together some of the brightest minds in commercial contracting to tackle the big questions keeping contractors up at night. From high-energy keynotes to casual conversations over Vegas-themed cocktails, the event zeroed in on what truly matters: finding actionable solutions to the challenges ahead.
Here’s what we learned—and why it’s crucial as we head into 2025.
A key theme this year was the eagerness to learn from one another. The focus was less on chasing the latest tech trend and more on sharing practical strategies. Contractors were keen to dive into how peers are using BuildOps to solve real-world challenges—streamlining workflows, overcoming staffing issues, and navigating compliance hurdles.
It wasn’t just about adopting new tools but understanding workarounds and best practices already put to the test. Sessions on Dispatch, Fleet Management, and Labor Optimization sparked robust discussions, with contractors eager to exchange insights on enhancing their operations.
Beyond the scheduled sessions, the real value often emerged from unscripted moments. Whether catching up between panels or swapping stories at our Vegas night party, contractors found camaraderie in shared challenges.
Collaborative discussions in sessions like Service Agreements, Inventory, and Project Management became hotspots for brainstorming. The takeaway? While many contractors face similar obstacles, the best solutions are often unique to their specific circumstances. Peer-to-peer learning proved invaluable, reinforcing that sometimes the best advice comes from those who’ve been in the trenches.
This year’s keynotes were packed with practical advice tailored to the realities of contracting. Garrison Wynn kicked things off with humor and hard-won insights, emphasizing that adaptability is essential but must start with building a culture that values change. It’s not just about new processes—it’s about leveraging the experience of seasoned employees and fostering trust.
Wynn stressed that “people don’t resist change; they resist being changed.” By aligning new approaches with existing expertise, leaders can make employees feel heard and valued—leading to higher engagement, better retention, and a culture primed for innovation.
On the final day, Jocko Willink delivered a powerful message on leadership, emphasizing that it’s the most critical factor in both business and the battlefield. He shared four core principles:
Several key trends emerged from Forge that highlight where the industry is heading:
AI and Practical Innovation: Contractors are shifting focus from automation to leveraging AI for revenue generation and cash flow. The conversation is no longer just about saving time but using AI to unlock new growth opportunities.
Workforce Planning & Forecasting: Accurate labor planning is crucial. Metrics like “1 hour for maintenance equals 1.2 hours for service” are helping contractors better estimate manpower needs.
Advanced Reporting: The focus is on transforming raw data into actionable insights. Businesses are increasingly prioritizing tools that turn metrics into strategic decisions, enabling them to gain a competitive edge.
Labor Optimization: Identifying training gaps and inefficiencies through metrics like “Additional Work Required” helps refine processes. Rewarding technician efficiency—without sacrificing quality—was highlighted as a way to maintain high standards.
Contractors are laser-focused on solutions that drive real, immediate results. Our Power Station sessions—where contractors sat down 1:1 with our team to tackle specific challenges—provided a firsthand look into this mindset. Whether it was refining service agreements or fine tuning reporting, these hands-on conversations underscored that the best solutions are often tailored to specific needs.
Contractors are ready to embrace change and are actively seeking ways to optimize their operations. Whether it’s adopting AI, leveraging better data, or building stronger teams, the industry is positioned for transformative growth in the coming year.
The future isn’t just about doing more—it’s about focusing on what truly matters. That’s the sentiment driving our efforts as we continue developing solutions tailored to contractors’ real-world needs. We’re excited to keep this momentum going and collaborate with contractors to shape the future. If you missed Forge this year, we’d love to connect with you next time.
Until then, keep building.
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