
In this episode of Steel & Whiskey, David Zabka sits down with Josh Hawley, a senior technical consultant at SDS2. They dive into his background in steel detailing – from taking an internship with a joist manufacturer in high school to joining SDS2 a little over a year ago - and everything in between, including Josh’s teaching stint at a local community college and time spent on his local school board. The two discuss the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the ever-evolving industry, as well as staying up to date on software features, sharing stories about discovering new tools and their functionalities.
Dec 20, 2023
46 min

Join us on another episode of "Steel and Whiskey" as we chat with Dave Eckrote from IDEA StatiCa. Discover the innovative world of IDEA StatiCa and their recent release, which includes a new integration with SDS2. Learn how this collaboration is enhancing the experience for both SDS2 and IDEA StatiCa users and improving the connection design process across the steel construction industry. Eckrote shares insights into IDEA StatiCa’s connection library, their plans for the future, and how they're working to make the lives of engineers and detailers easier. Plus, don't miss the unboxing of a unique gift that might just make you chuckle a bit. So, sit back, pour yourself a glass, and enjoy the conversation!
Nov 8, 2023
33 min

Join us for a special episode of Steel & Whiskey, recorded on-site at SDS2 Summit 2023 in Omaha, Nebraska. Hosts David Zabka and Michelle McCarthy catch up with customers, speakers, and sponsors halfway through the event to hear what SDS2 Summit means to the steel community and what they’ve loved most about the event so far. Tune in and learn why SDS2 is the premiere learning and networking of the year for the steel community--and why you should mark your calendars for next year’s event in Louisville, Kentucky, September 25-26.
Oct 19, 2023
50 min

In this episode of "Steel and Whiskey," host David Zabka welcomes Randy Warnaar, co-founder of FabStation, for an insightful conversation about the innovative use of augmented reality in the steel fabrication industry. They discuss how FabStation's technology is transforming the way steel structures are inspected and assembled, increasing accuracy and efficiency. Randy shares his background in the steel industry, the challenges faced by fabricators, and how FabStation's cloud-based solution is simplifying the process. Join them as they delve into the future of steel fabrication and the impact of augmented reality technology.
Oct 3, 2023
38 min

Meet Chris Riley, a steel detailing veteran whose journey began under his father's, equipping him with skills that span generations. With roots dating back to the 1950s, Chris's evolution from traditional drafting to cutting-edge software like SDS2 and paperless workflows using Bluebeam showcases his innovative spirit. An early adopter and close industry insider, Chris shares stories of some of his favorite, challenge, and current projects and showcases the creative thinking that continues to drive his success at Cartee-Berry & Associates.
Sep 6, 2023
57 min

This week we’re sharing a glimpse behind the curtain with Chris Rodgers, certified “Scrum” master who keeps our development teams running smoothly by coordinating projects, challenging processes, and keeping the paths of progress clear of external obstacles. He discusses the unique challenges posed by the many customized workflows in our customers’ steel shops and explains the Scrum methodology driving SDS2’s development teams through direct communication, problem-solving, and team accountability. Things might get a little nerdy as they dive into some Python, .NET development, and programming talk, but Chris knows his stuff and offers many fascinating insights into the world of construction software innovation that are well worth the listen!
Aug 28, 2023
36 min

Paul Hemenway’s dynamic journey at Delta Structural Steel Services is a close mirror of the company’s technological evolution. Starting out as a detailer, he now spearheads client relations and manages estimating while championing innovative solutions. Listen in as he shares his journey—with a few humorous detours—and explains Delta’s commitment to innovation, which began with their early adoption of SDS2 and later, SDS2 Cloud and other technology. Hear why it’s so important to be tech-savvy in today’s marketplace and why Paul is so pumped up for SDS2 Summit 2023—and why you should be, too!
Aug 21, 2023
1 hr 2 min

In this podcast episode, Marv Moreno and Mike Olson from Bluebeam discuss various topics, including introductions, Bluebeam's place in the Nemetschek portfolio, the relationship between Bluebeam and SDS2, and the efficiency of project communication using Bluebeam's features. They delve into how Bluebeam aids in drawing and document management, design review, QA/QC processes, and how SDS2 customers can benefit from these workflows. They also explore what Marv and Mike want to learn about SDS2 and present a promotion for Bluebeam customers interested in trying SDS2. The episode concludes with a call to action for interested listeners to reach out for more information and a special offer.
Aug 14, 2023
48 min

Today's episode features two guests as SDS2’s Nate Bloch sits down with Chris Legnon, a fellow member of the Steel Erectors Association of America. Learn how Chris got started in the field as an early intern at Cooper Steel and has climbed the ladder to serve as their VP of technology 20 years later. Shoutout to local fabricator Midwest Steel Works for Nate's start, too! Chris discusses the value of the SEAA membership, including networking opportunities, access to a wealth of shared knowledge, as well as managing the impact of BIM, technology, data, and software on our future.
Aug 9, 2023
44 min

Join Geoffrey Blumber, the Technical Sales Manager for Hexagon's 2D/3D Design and Analysis Solutions, as he discusses how technology, like SDS2, is revolutionizing construction. Discover how data interoperability is streamlining piping and industrial design, leading to better business outcomes and superior structures. Explore the challenges faced in P&ID, such as design sequencing and information flow to steel detailers. Gain valuable insights from Geoff, an industry visionary transforming the construction landscape.
Jul 5, 2023
42 min
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