Dive into the world of construction with CO Pod, where we dig deep into the triumphs and trials of industry trailblazers.
View all episodes
EPISODE
17

Greg Sikes

Director of Product Management,

Acumatica

Acumatica

In this episode of CO Pod, host Caroline Raffetto is joined by Greg Sikes, Director of Product Management focused on construction at Acumatica, for an in-depth conversation on how AI and emerging technologies are reshaping the construction industry.

Greg shares insights from his extensive background in product management and reflects on major technology shifts from the early days of the internet to today’s AI revolution. Together, Caroline and Greg explore how construction companies are adopting AI at different speeds, what practical AI use cases look like today, and why the industry may no longer be the technology laggard it’s often assumed to be.

This episode dives into real-world examples of AI in construction, including automation, data anomaly detection, virtual assistants, and how ERP platforms like Acumatica are helping contractors scale smarter, work more efficiently, and make better data-driven decisions—while navigating risk, security, and workforce challenges.

Episode Highlights

0:00 – 3:30 | Introduction to Acumatica & Greg’s Role

Greg explains his role in product management at Acumatica and how he helps shape strategy, roadmaps, and innovation for construction-focused ERP solutions.

3:31 – 7:30 | Technology Disruption & the Rise of AI

Greg reflects on past disruptive technologies and explains why AI is the next major shift—comparable to the internet and smartphones.

7:31 – 11:30 | The Consumerization of IT in Construction

How personal technology expectations are influencing workplace software and why ease of use matters more than ever.

11:31 – 16:45 | How Construction Companies Are Adopting AI Today

From early adopters gaining competitive advantage to grassroots experimentation and hesitation driven by fear and uncertainty.

16:46 – 21:30 | Workforce Challenges & Attracting the Next Generation

A discussion on Gen Z, workforce shortages, and how AI and technology are making construction careers more appealing.

21:31 – 28:30 | Acumatica’s AI Vision & Virtual Assistants

Greg outlines Acumatica’s AI strategy, including intelligent document processing, anomaly detection, task automation, and role-based virtual assistants.

28:31 – 33:30 | Real-World AI Success Stories

Greg shares examples of construction companies using AI to expand into service and maintenance work and unlock new revenue streams.

33:31 – 38:30 | AI, Data Security & Risk vs. Reward

How construction leaders can balance innovation with data protection, establish guardrails, and adopt AI responsibly.

38:31 – 42:30 | Getting Started with AI: Practical Advice

Greg’s advice for hesitant leaders: start small, ask questions, experiment safely, and don’t wait for the technology to pass you by.

42:31 – 44:30 | Final Thoughts on the Future of AI in Construction

Why AI will continue to accelerate productivity, decision-making, and business growth—and why now is the time to dip your toes in.

Be our next podcast guest
Want to tell your story on CO Pod?
Apply Now