Attending Autodesk University 2024 in San Diego was a great opportunity to dive into the latest advancements in digital workflows and innovative technologies. It was a packed schedule, full of sessions, keynote speeches, and face-to-face conversations with like-minded professionals from all corners of the globe. Every moment reaffirmed just how crucial technology is becoming in shaping the future of construction.

 

Day 1

I had the chance to meet with Australian industry peers such as COX, D&E, and Metricon, as well as a variety of international players. COX’s digital and BIM teams were eager to see how international firms are embedding Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) into their workflows, particularly in terms of collaboration. We shared ideas on how tools like ACC are driving design efficiency and project delivery across borders.

D&E’s interest lay in modernising their processes, and we had a robust discussion about how ACC is being applied by major firms in America. Learning from international best practices was a running theme, and these exchanges sparked ideas on how we can continue evolving at Kapitol.

Throughout the day, sessions emphasised the importance of integrating digital tools to optimise workflows. The surroundings of San Diego lent a sense of inspiration that carried into my conversations, leaving me eager to explore more over the coming days.

 

Day 2

Day two kicked off with a powerful reminder that technology is only part of the equation: “Technology is easy; people are the real challenge.” This resonated deeply with me. At Kapitol, we know that while implementing new tools like ACC is essential, the real key to success lies in change management—getting our people on board and ensuring thorough training.

The keynote from Gamuda was a highlight, showcasing how prefabrication was used to complete an 8-level data centre in just 8 months. Their efficiency was astounding, with a 1% waste rate and 40% carbon reduction. This was a concrete example of what can be achieved when embracing digital tools and innovative methods. I couldn’t help but think how this approach could enhance our own prefabrication processes at Kapitol.

The integration of Autodesk Forma with ACC was another game-changer for me. Real-time document updates from design through to construction will significantly improve our collaboration efforts. And with 250 new features added to ACC this year, including AI-powered tools to accelerate decision-making, there’s no doubt that the future of construction is digital. Firms like BAM and Kraus-Anderson have fully embraced these changes, underscoring the potential for ACC to transform even the most complex projects.

 

Day 3

The final day was filled with further exploration into the digital tools shaping our industry. I started the day with a morning run along the beautiful San Diego promenade—a chance to clear my mind before the day’s intense learning.

One session that stood out to me was titled “Boots on the Ground While Having Your Head in the Clouds,” which delved into how ACC can help field workers transition to fully digital workflows. The practical applications of ACC for on-site teams were particularly interesting, as we’ve been exploring similar changes at Kapitol. The focus on reducing errors and enhancing real-time collaboration is something I’m keen to apply more rigorously when I return.

Another discovery was the DroneDeploy stand. I spent time investigating how this application could consolidate some of the multiple tools we currently use for scans and reality captures. Its potential to streamline processes could be a game-changer for our team.

 

What’s Next?

My experience at Autodesk University 2024 reinforced the potential for digital tools to revolutionise our workflows at Kapitol. Whether it’s integrating Autodesk Fusion with Revit for deeper prefabrication engagement or exploring the use of Tandem to offer our clients a digital twin for post-construction asset management, the opportunities are endless.

The conference concluded with a closing party, bringing together everyone who had spent the last few days sharing knowledge and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in construction. It felt like a fitting end to an event that’s not just about technology—but about collaboration, learning, and imagining a better future for the industry.

This experience was a glimpse into the future of construction, I’m excited to return to Kapitol and continue driving our digital transformation, applying these new insights to keep us at the forefront of innovation. From improving client outcomes to reducing inefficiencies, the future looks bright with the power of digital at our fingertips.

 

Next Steps

1. Pilot New Tools: Test DroneDeploy and Tandem to assess their potential impact on Kapitol’s workflows.
2. Organize Training Programs: Roll out ACC training and workshops for Kapitol staff and trade partners.
3. Explore integration opportunities with Autodesk Construction Cloud Suite.