The construction sector has grown and developed at an incredible pace, and while technology has certainly played a part in these changes, the true heroes are the people who think outside the box, empower their teams, and push for innovation.
Autodesk is all about celebrating the people who elevate the industry, which is why we're thrilled to unveil the 2024 40 Under 40: Champions of Construction!
Now in its 6th year, Autodesk's 40 Under 40 Construction Champions is a list of peer-nominated industry professionals who've demonstrated immense creativity, drive, and innovative thinking.
We're not exaggerating when we say these folks are shaping the industry's future.
So, without further ado, let's get into it!
The list appears in alphabetical order by company name. Click on a name to jump to the individual, or scroll on.
Throughout 2024, Joshua has driven substantial impact across AECOM through several strategic initiatives that have modernized digital delivery processes and enhanced team performance. Notably, he helped lead the development and rollout of "Project Create," an internal tool that revolutionized project setup and unlocked 85% time savings across more than 100 projects.
Joshua also helped spearhead the creation of a comprehensive SharePoint database, centralizing all regional and company BIM standards, which provided a single source of truth for all project teams. This initiative streamlined access to critical resources and fostered a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the company. He is also helping establish a new training, assessment, and upskilling program, further showing his commitment to driving technological excellence and empowering teams to achieve their full potential.
Joshua is a true construction champion due to two important factors. First is his innovative approach to digital technology, exhibited by a relentless drive to move past norms to work smarter. Secondly, his selfless commitment to advancing the field of Building Information Modeling (BIM), both within and outside the doors of AECOM, has made an enormous difference. As a Regional Director of BIM & Digital Technology, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership by managing and coordinating BIM workflows across our West Region offices, significantly improving efficiency and collaboration.
As team lead of the BIM Team, Timothy has played an important role in the Agency for Roads and Traffic over the past six years. He successfully led teams in applying the BIM methodology in road infrastructure projects and supported the necessary IT and data management developments, including an Object Type Library (OTL) as an open data standard for infrastructure assets.
Another area where Timothy is committed is his involvement in training and mentoring young professionals. He conducts various guest lectures and training sessions to enhance the knowledge and skills of future engineers and surveyors. Through his efforts, many have gained valuable insights into the benefits and applications of BIM and AIM (Asset Information Management), which led to broader acceptance and implementation of this process. Additionally, he serves as a guest lecturer at the University of Antwerp, where he teaches a part-time course on BIM and Systems Engineering for infrastructure projects.
Due to organizational shifts, 2024 has been a hectic year. But as the newly appointed head of the whole AIM-BIM Team, Timothy is ready to tackle the challenges of further implementing BIM and AIM in infrastructure asset management.
Katie's ability to navigate the complexities of the construction industry while driving innovation and growth sets her apart as a trailblazer.
As Vice President of Operations at Ample Electric, she has led efforts to enhance operational efficiency and technology and streamline processes, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. Her strategic vision has empowered teams to work more cohesively, improving communication and productivity at all levels.
She has also consistently promoted the adoption of advanced technologies, such as digital project management tools (Autodesk Construction Cloud) and data analytics, to enhance efficiency and streamline operations.
Katie exemplifies what it means to be a rising star in the construction industry, specifically within the heavy civil and electrical sector. Less than three years after joining Ample Electric, she earned the title of Vice President—a testament to her exceptional work ethic, leadership, and strategic vision.
Despite his young age, Josha demonstrates authentic leadership and a high level of maturity in strategic business decisions. From Autodesk Construction Cloud to new innovative APIs like the AEC Data Model and AIsearch, his proactive ability to identify, implement, and advance new technologies is remarkable.
It's no wonder he has taken the stage at Autodesk University three times in the past 12 months.
As a key member of the Autodesk Platform Team at Arcadis, Josha is deeply involved with Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) and the Project Creation Tool (PCT). He led the development of the PCT, a tool that automates data standardization and streamlines project creation within the Autodesk Construction Cloud, ensuring efficiency and consistency. Additionally, as Product Owner, he leads the Object Type Library (OTL) team, leveraging AI to drive innovation in data standardization and automation. His work across ACC, PCT, and OTL directly contributes to Arcadis's data strategy, where he provides input and advisory support to optimize business processes.
Josha’s influence extends beyond his teams, inspiring engineers and Arcadians to embrace digital transformation. He actively delivers training sessions and mentors colleagues, fostering a culture of innovation.
Ed's role is pivotal in promoting BIM processes and digitization within Badge Constructions. He doesn't just advance the technological aspects of BIM; he also emphasizes collaboration by providing continuous support to project teams throughout implementation milestones. He leads the implementation of BIM methodologies and practices within the business, showcasing courage and leadership.
He's also a strong advocate for digital transformation. Case in point: Ed researched digital platforms for project support, developed a detailed business case for Badge's transition to Autodesk, and integrated traditional and modern approaches in the construction industry for digitalization.
Ed has been instrumental in driving the success of numerous projects across the country. He has achieved this by gaining in-depth knowledge of the system, effectively navigating the digital platform, and meticulously investigating and implementing streamlined processes. This has ultimately resulted in ensuring that our users are able to utilize the systems with maximum efficiency.
Ashlyn has done wonders in optimizing construction processes and team efficiency. In 2024, she delivered a huge undertaking in developing standardized Autodesk Construction Cloud workflows to create Barton Malow Builder's Quality Management department.
She's also very proactive in enhancing the team's learning and development. When she noticed a lack of engagement with digital Autodesk Construction Cloud training, she led multiple initiatives to solve the problem. Virtual training videos weren't the best learning method for all team members, so she created a hands-on, interactive training option for employees to learn Autodesk Build in person, leading them through the software module by module and incorporating their specific project-based scenarios.
She worked closely with Autodesk's Learning & Development team to roll out an Autodesk Construction Cloud Learning environment customized for Barton Malow, incorporating the company's standard practices into curated, role-based training playlists for team members.
Beyond that, Ashlyn actively contributes to developing industry tools, providing research and assistance to Autodesk by submitting feature requests, engaging herself and team members in beta testing opportunities, and always giving feedback.
In the year and a half she's been at Barton Malow, Ashlyn has continuously redefined what it means to be a Technology Implementation Manager. She goes above and beyond in continuously seeking ways to make the jobs of project team members easier by evaluating and improving their workflows and how we can best leverage our technological tools.
Paniz joined Beca in October 2023 as part of the Digital Transformation team that supports those using CAD and design engineering platforms. As Digital Delivery Systems Advisor, she works closely with people to understand their business challenges and to be proactive in implementing pragmatic and enduring solutions to those challenges.
Her willingness to learn and adapt is remarkable. Despite having no experience in the AEC industry or with Autodesk, she has grown to be a specialist and the go-to person for Autodesk Construction Cloud.
Moreover, Paniz has quickly built a strong network in the business and is now actively being sought out to set up projects, manage the Beca Autodesk Construction Cloud environment, and provide guidance to both Beca staff and various teams within Autodesk.
Paniz embodies high empathy levels, tenacity, and a drive to revolutionize traditional workflows. She drives a continuous improvement culture, challenges business thinking, embraces new technologies, and thrives on upskilling and enabling staff.
Tim has a strong track record of improving work processes from pioneering various cloud-based project management software solutions as early as 2009, to implementing BIM/VDC programs across multiple companies focusing on small projects since 2012. Today, he continues pushing Autodesk Construction Cloud’s boundaries at Brinkman Construction, leading a team to develop new integrations between Autodesk Construction Cloud and CMiC.
He is heavily involved in critical projects, including Brinkman Construction's rollout of a new financial management system within Autodesk Construction Cloud. The initiative aims to eliminate manual processes and create a new dashboarding system that helps teams understand their project's performance.
Tim has a long history of finding better ways of performing his work. He also supports the use of Autodesk Construction Cloud and is responsible for configuring the software to ensure it meets the company's objectives and performance expectations. From this information, he maintains a best practice library to drive standardization of use between projects and drives our training program.
As a Senior Structural Engineer and BIM/Technology Coordinator, Fatlum has been instrumental in advocating for and implementing collaborative approaches across various projects. He has significantly increased project efficiency by leading structural engineering efforts and driving the adoption of a common data environment.
His work in the ACEGID Nigeria Phase II and the Maternal Center of Excellence (MCOE) projects in Sierra Leone was momentous in translating every challenge into a successful opportunity. These large-scale projects have greatly impacted collaboration and communication between stakeholders and advanced the work in resource-constrained settings.
Fatlum is also passionate about advancing Design & Build platforms, focusing on the integration from design to construction, setting new standards, and promoting collaborative project models. His continuous exploration of expanding Autodesk Construction Cloud's collaboration capabilities into different departments within BHI—including integrating architecture, engineering, and financial processes—showcases his dedication to driving innovation and efficiency. He has actively shared his industry insights through various platforms. For example, he collaborated on a blog post for the Autodesk Foundation website detailing the adoption of Autodesk Construction Cloud in key projects.
Fatlum's leadership in integrating advanced tools, driving collaborative project models, and sharing industry insights makes him an exemplary figure in the construction industry. His contributions are advancing his team's capabilities and setting new standards for project management and collaboration across the industry.
Nicole—aka Nikki—is an industry star, thanks to her dedicated and impeccable work on Clayco projects. Her responsibilities grew with Clayco's growth and success, while her tenacity to execute new challenges only increased over time. She is an intrepid adopter of new processes and technology while being earthbound in her project experience and a sense of urgency.
Nikki was instrumental in supporting the adoption of Autodesk Construction Cloud across all Clayco jobs, as well as in tailoring the firm's Autodesk Construction Cloud adoption strategy to project teams and clients. She excels in communicating the company's directives while contributing to the significant build-up of the company's knowledge base. Nikki orchestrates the deliberate and standard-driven use of Autodesk Construction Cloud technology across 80 live jobs that mark Clayco's transition from BIM 360 to Autodesk Construction Cloud.
Nikki is right to the point, observant, and definitely thinks on her feet while having a keen ability to mentor and share her knowledge. Nikki is a true leader in this industry.
Nigel is a strong proponent of implementing digital transformation to the entire construction process—from pre-construction to project completion. He understands the need for a seamless transition between these stages.
In line with that, Nigel has played a crucial role in driving Autodesk Construction Cloud adoption at D&E Air Conditioning and frequently shares technological successes with the company's customers and prospects.
He's a true pioneer in the digitization of the design and construction process, including finance and accounting. He also actively promotes industry knowledge, often doing presentations at meet-up events.
Nigel is a huge advocate for digitizing the entire design-to-construction process, believing in the importance of a seamless transition from one phase of the project to the next.
Victor has been playing a key role in shaping the construction industry's future, notably with his work on a joint committee with the Government of Canada, where he is consulting on the digitization of the built environment and pushing ISO 19650 standards forward. Victor is also actively involved with buildingSMART Canada, supporting the adoption of openBIM to ensure construction projects run more smoothly and efficiently.
Aside from his committee work, Victor often speaks at industry conferences, sharing his insights on the state of BIM in Canada and responsible AI use in architecture. He has led discussions on how to implement ISO 19650 into practice. His ability to break down these complex topics and lead these conversations highlights his forward-thinking approach and eagerness to share his knowledge and insights with his peers.
Over at Diamond Schmitt, Victor is the go-to person for all things BIM, supporting each of the firm's projects and ensuring project teams are set up for success. Victor actively provides clients with guidance on implementing BIM standards in their projects, helping them navigate the industry's technological landscape. His involvement across different levels of professional practice—from government collaboration to advising clients—demonstrates his leadership as someone driving real change in the industry.
Victor has a major influence on all the projects in the office, supporting teams with BIM integration and ensuring staff have the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. One of the standout projects Victor recently worked on was the Atlantic Science Enterprise Centre in Moncton, New Brunswick, where he played a key role in guiding the client, government organization Public Services and Procurement Canada, and the construction manager through BIM implementation.
Ritesh Mittal is a pivotal figure in the realm of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and digital transformation within the construction industry.
His expertise in Autodesk Construction Cloud and Autodesk BIM Collaborate demonstrates his commitment to enhancing construction workflows and fostering innovation.
With a deep understanding of construction processes and technology, he is not only shaping the future of construction in India but is also inspiring others in the field. His leadership and dedication make him a remarkable choice for the recognition.
Ritesh has been a guiding force in implementing Autodesk Construction Cloud solutions, ensuring seamless integration and collaboration across projects within DLF.
Katie made a significant impact at DPR Construction by leading the adoption of Autodesk Construction Cloud workflows on three large campuses and numerous individual projects throughout San Diego.
Beyond supporting team members through workflow improvements and training, Katie ensured that Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) subject matter experts were involved in all projects valued at $5 million and above. She also leveraged field technology for various purposes, including quality control of work-in-place, documenting as-built conditions, conducting drone flights for site logistics, and using field tech data to inform designs.
And that's just in 2024.
An employee at DPR for more than 12 years, Katie has spearheaded the implementation of technology trends throughout the region and nationally. She has been integral in developing a team that took the company from inconsistent modeling and field technology utilization to 100% project modeling over the past 5 years.
Katie has driven significant technological advancements within DPR Construction. She has been a driving force in implementing cutting-edge technology trends throughout the region and the company.
Matt has expanded EnviroVantage's reputation as an innovative and ambitious company by investing in technology to support on-site field operations, preconstruction, and project management. His investment in these areas has elevated the company's ability to develop and meet efficient schedules and budgets.
In addition, Matt has carefully curated a team of leaders at EnviroVantage who are a combination of company veterans and experts in their respective fields. As a supportive and transparent leader, Matt has developed several team members, providing additional training and encouraging employees to grow as the company grows.
In 2024, Matt pushed the company's operation team forward by implementing real-time project tracking software that was developed proprietarily in-house. The application was designed with the preconstruction, operations, and finance teams all in mind in how they would enter, access, and receive reports on the various data points.
Matt has made a name for himself in the federal construction industry by connecting with small, medium, and large businesses alike to develop joint venture relationships, partnerships, and subcontracting relationships throughout the United States and its territories. He sees value in every business relationship and supports his industry colleagues in various ways. Matt constantly seeks opportunities to collaborate with other businesses and will not hesitate to pass along contract opportunities to colleagues who would be a better fit.
Sara embodies some of the most essential values in construction: collaboration, open and respectful communication, and positive critical thinking.
These principles shined through in Sara’s involvement in forming the “Werkgroep Digitaal Bouwen” (taskforce digital construction), a group of like-minded professionals from the four TBI general contractor companies.
Charged with accelerating innovation through collaboration, the taskforce has spearheaded numerous initiatives, including a succesful pilot with Forma for early stage design, as well as developing their own application for parametrically optimizing building designs in the following design phases.
They also hosted “Digital University,” an in-house conference that brought together directors, management, and specialists for sessions on topics like AI, generative and parametric design, digital construction, and the psychology of change and transformation. The event highlighted the taskforce’s achievements over the past year and featured external speakers to inspire further progress. It also successfully raised awareness about the critical need for C-level involvement in driving a true digital shift within the company.
Sara is a trailblazer in incorporating new technologies into design and construction processes at ERA Contour. Under her leadership, the company has successfully integrated state-of-the-art tools and systems that enhance productivity and sustainability. Her commitment to leveraging technology optimizes operational workflows and ensures that the company stays ahead in an increasingly competitive market.
Joyce is considered a rising star and leader in the construction industry due to her implementation of innovative technologies like Autodesk Construction Cloud, which facilitates seamless collaboration and information sharing among the project team, including cross-functional stakeholders.
She also led the use of AI for construction logistics, helping the firm make data-backed decisions, implement predictive planning, and automate resource management.
Joyce's ability to navigate organizational and cultural challenges is truly admirable and demonstrates her strong leadership skills.
As an early adopter and champion of innovative construction technologies, Joyce has played a pivotal role in spearheading the company's digital transformation initiatives. Her success in implementing these solutions has influenced the organization to further invest in and scale digital capabilities, positioning the company as an industry leader.
Arthur is a key driver of digital transformation initiatives in Gamuda.
From orchestrating the business strategic and resource plans to addressing technical challenges and risks in operations, Arthur has been instrumental in driving these efforts across Gamuda projects in Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and Australia.
Coming from an engineering background, Arthur has deep understanding of the AEC industry, and is keen to advance the industry through digitalisation and innovation.
Arthur manages the end-to-end digitalisation process, ensuring data is captured from the ground to facilitate insights and decisions upstream. He fosters a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within his organisation and his effort has been exemplified by the full implementation of Autodesk Construction Cloud in projects, such as Rasau Water Treatment Plant in Malaysia, CR111 Defu station and tunnels in Singapore and QTMP Rail Depot in Brisbane.
Arthur has exemplified what it means to be innovative by taking the reins of a major digitalization strategy in our growing multi-national company. Arthur can work with diverse teams from different countries, including Vietnam and Australia, to ensure the vision of a connected and integrated workplace is realized in Gamuda. He is also generally a wonderful person to work with and communicates well—a critical but often overlooked attribute in workers in this industry.
As HKA's Technical Director, Sarah oversees the firm's digital transformation initiatives, ensuring that technology is effectively integrated to enhance project outcomes.
But her accomplishments go beyond leading digital strategies.
In 2024, Sarah acted as an expert witness in multiple high-value arbitrations. She sat at the witness stand to help legal decision-makers understand digital evidence and claims involving information management and BIM.
Despite her busy schedule, she has found time to mentor others through the Women in BIM program. She has also lectured and taught students about the legal framework surrounding BIM and digital transformation. These have all had a positive impact on the industry.
As a technical director at HKA, Sarah leads the digital division within the business, and is a visiting lecturer at the University of Middlesex MSc BIM programme. These are all rare accomplishments at her age and are a testament to her dedication and hard work.
Ibens has been a pioneer in using Building Information Modeling (BIM) for almost two decades. In 2020, Christopher took up the responsibility of creating a foundation that would enable the company's ability to become data driven. One of the pillars of this foundation was the implementation of OpenSpace, a cutting-edge tool that bridges the gap between digital design and the construction phase and Autodesk Construction Cloud.
Providing a focus on the use of Autodesk Construction Cloud for all the stakeholders through the construction lifecycle, from BIM to on-site activities to service issue management to the supply chain. ibens was able to streamline decision making, safety analysis, enhanced collaboration, and maintain their outstanding 8-10% EBITDA throughout the last economically complex years.
He joined ibens in 2013 as BIM Modeller in execution with a Masters degree in Construction Engineering and an affinity for Data/IT, led to the position of Digital Innovator. Since joining in 2013, he has taken massive strides in advancing BIM, prefabrication, Autodesk Construction Cloud Docs, Build, and Openspace. His strategic vision and technical expertise have been crucial in modernizing the company's construction practices.
Christopher stands out for his leadership in digital innovation at Ibens. Since joining in 2014, he has taken massive strides in advancing BIM, prefabrication, Autodesk Construction Cloud Docs, Build, and Openspace. His strategic vision and technical expertise have been crucial in modernizing the company's construction practices.
Under Madhu Aravind's leadership, ITC Limited achieved a significant milestone by obtaining the ‘Project Kitemark certification for ISO 19650’ for the ITC Green Centre Phase II Building 3 project—making it the first project in India and the fourth in the world to receive this recognition.
In addition to achieving the Kitemark certification, Madhu spearheaded efforts to eliminate paper-based collaboration, advancing ITC's digital transformation. This success not only underscores Madhu's impact but also led to him and his team to start exploring ways to digitize procurement and cost management framework for Central Projects Organization.
Madhu has been redefining leadership in digital project management and procurement at ITC's Central Project Organization. Not only has he led the transformation on integrating design, quality, documentation, and project controls, but he also collaborated with Autodesk to provide tailored project management solutions for the AECO industry.
Jamal has successfully led numerous high-profile projects that exemplify his commitment to quality and environmental responsibility.
In 2024, he made a significant impact by leading a major hospital expansion project with innovative construction techniques and advanced project management tools, achieving notable efficiency and cost reductions. Additionally, he championed the adoption of sustainable construction practices, positioning his company at the forefront of eco-friendly building.
Even more impressive? Jamal also oversees his own hospital facility, demonstrating his versatility and ability to handle complex, high-stakes environments. This role highlights his capability in both operational management and strategic planning, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star and influential leader in the field.
Jamal has rapidly ascended as a prominent figure in the construction industry, distinguished by his innovative practices and leadership qualities. What's more, his engagement in industry forums and his focus on client satisfaction underscore his forward-thinking approach and dedication to excellence.
Charlotte is a leading advocate for Industrialized Construction across the UK and Europe, playing a pivotal role in establishing and implementing offsite processes and standards. Early in her career, Charlotte gained hands-on experience by working on the factory floor, understanding the realities of manufacturing, and ensuring seamless integration of design into the manufacturing process.
She has been quite busy in 2024 and has made an impact on the development of software that addresses the challenges of designing with prefabricated components. She also plays a crucial role in guiding the development team to stay aligned with the core mission of integrating products into projects and advancing Industrialized Construction practices.
Because of her achievements, Charlotte was selected to join the British Standards Institute, where she focuses on developing the standards and consistent datasets necessary to drive the evolution of Industrialized Construction.
Charlotte's trust and empathy have been incredibly impactful. We are a small tech company in a big industry, and being able to relate to our customers has been so important for us. Charlotte has an understanding of their day-to-day, which gives them trust that we are building to truly provide value. On the flip side, it has also helped us be more grounded as a team and not build software for the sake of it.
Kwik Trip handles around 90% of its construction projects in-house, so smooth project workflows are a must.
Seth has been instrumental in helping the company achieve that through digital transformation.
He undertook the challenge of finding the right software to fit Kwik Trip's unique construction model—a fast-growing C-store that builds and renovates multiple locations annually. Given that Kwik Trip built its processes internally, selecting complementary software was no small feat.
Seth helped implement Autodesk Construction Cloud, and thanks to his efforts, Kwik Trip now boasts over 1,200 active users and 150 projects within the first two years of using the software.
Seth has been a pivotal player in implementing Autodesk Construction Cloud at Kwik Trip. He is currently in the process of taking his architecture exams and has taken strides throughout his career to continuously improve the construction process around him.
Sara's unique approach to integrating architectural expertise within Live Nation, combined with her leadership in developing efficient workflows, really sets her apart.
She significantly improved the quality and efficiency of her team's work by introducing tools like Autodesk Construction Cloud and creating a robust, adaptable template for venue design.
Her ability to collaborate effectively with her peers—while also taking the initiative to drive decisions and improvements—demonstrates her strong leadership capabilities. Sara's efforts don't just enhance her current projects; they are setting new standards within the industry, influencing how venue design is approached in a sector that typically focuses more on entertainment than architecture.
Sara's work at Live Nation's Blueprint Studio showcases her as a forward-thinking leader bridging the gap between architecture and entertainment. By ensuring that venues are aesthetically outstanding and operationally efficient, she is redefining what it means to design spaces for live events.
Since 2018, Hantong has been a critical contributor to Meta's world-class quality program. From defining program metrics to overseeing the execution of the largest data centers in the world, Hantong has been instrumental in ensuring Meta's projects get completed on time and under budget.
He has spearheaded Meta's quality program from legacy ADSK tools (B360) to Autodesk Construction Cloud Build. He has ensured that the program's objectives are measured by performance KPIs using data from Autodesk Construction Cloud and worked with consultants to build custom tools to ensure a successful transition to data-driven construction management.x
Hantong’s thought leadership and technology innovation with our tools have led to 5,000 monthly users within Meta and their ecosystem. He has also supported "Quality Culture" within Meta and its partners, including "Quality Week," which leverages insights.
Carlee is a passionate and dedicated professional whose deep understanding of construction processes empowers her to tackle even the most complex challenges with confidence. Her unwavering work ethic shines through as she consistently goes the extra mile to ensure that projects are completed not just on time, but also to exceptional standards.
What truly makes Carlee stand out is her genuine empathy. She deeply cares about her team, recognizing the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive work environment. This heartfelt connection not only uplifts team morale but also sparks collaboration and innovation, making everyone feel valued.
As a proactive manager, Carlee has a knack for anticipating challenges before they arise, steering her projects smoothly with minimal disruptions. Her reputation as the "go-to" problem solver speaks volumes about her resourcefulness and creativity in finding solutions to persistent issues.
By staying one step ahead and being a reliable source of support, Carlee has made a significant impact on her team and projects, setting the stage for long-term success for the company. Her inclusive and inspiring leadership style empowers her team, encourages open dialogue, and fosters massive growth, cultivating a culture of respect and shared success. With these remarkable qualities, Carlee is poised to make a meaningful difference in the construction industry.
Melissa has been at the forefront of innovation at Miron Construction, driving efficiency within self-perform and field groups by introducing Model-Based Progress Tracking in Autodesk Construction Cloud. This shift has led to increased profitability on projects and has provided valuable insights for more accurate future estimates.
Beyond her work at Miron, Melissa represents Wisconsin on a national strategic council for the AIA and actively explores the potential impact of AI on the construction and architecture industries.
Recognizing the industry's demand to do more with less, she has championed 3D site logistics workflows, enabling on-site personnel to know precisely where and when equipment and materials will be delivered, ultimately contributing to a safer and more efficient worksite.
The continued rollout of Autodesk Construction Cloud has been a huge success and spread organically, thanks to Melissa's willingness to innovate and sell the benefits internally.
Kristoffer leads Norconsult's strategic and business activities, with a strong emphasis on digital transformation for renewable energy.
He's made massive contributions in the many years that he's worked in AEC, but in the last two years, in particular, he made significant steps for the water industry.
Kristoffer has successfully delivered large projects on time by leveraging Autodesk Construction Cloud to coordinate complex multidisciplinary efforts. His work earned the prestigious Design and Make Award last year. Well-known across Norconsult's 65 offices and among its 6,500 employees, Kristoffer has also collaborated closely with Autodesk management to identify the true potential of its solutions. This deep insight has allowed him to support the internal IT department's future needs while effectively scaling tools and user capabilities to meet project demands.
For 15 years, Kristoffer has held management roles in immense projects. He bridges people, organizations, and technology solutions. He is also responsible for identifying opportunities to enhance process agility, optimize operational efficiency, and leverage emerging technologies to improve KPIs.
Nick's exceptional ability to integrate advanced technology into construction processes makes him a strong leader. He leverages his industry background in manufacturing and strategy consulting to expand the possibilities and optimize project workflows.
His visionary leadership is evident in the development of a long-term strategic vision and execution plan that aligns technology objectives with overall company goals. Nick's commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement has propelled their company forward and set a benchmark for industry standards.
In 2024, Nick made a considerable impact at Pan-Pacific Mechanical through initiatives like leading an automated company-wide innovation system, implementing an end-to-end, real-time reporting infrastructure, and driving automation projects to enhance productivity.
Nick has led the most well-thought-out, impactful, and deepest pilot of Autodesk Construction Cloud I have ever witnessed by a customer. His vision of data, end-user efficiency, and multi-platform CDE, all while staying empathetic to the end user, is extraordinary.
Suchet spearheads the BIM and Digital Transformation Unit in Building Project Department of Qatar's Public Works Authority and drives digital project delivery across business units through advanced digital platforms and tools.
He implemented BIM and digital technologies on major projects like the FIFA World Cup 2022, Lusail International Circuit, and National Museum of Qatar.
He's also demonstrated strong leadership in public works projects, effectively integrating BIM across large-scale jobs like bus transport infrastructure, healthcare facilities, parks, and schools.
Another impressive accomplishment? In 2024, Suchet was awarded the Guinness World Record for his participation in the Expo 2023 Project, which boasts the largest green roof in the world, exemplifying the potential of digital tools and modern construction methods.
Suchet emphasizes the Authority's visionary approach, particularly its transformative digital initiatives that are setting new standards for technology adoption in the public sector.
Suchet's leadership led to a 40% year-on-year increase in public projects using BIM within the Building Project Department of the Public Works Authority. He successfully garnered support from decision-makers to expand BIM implementation across numerous projects. As a result, we have noticed increasing demand for BIM in the region.
Ravi is an expert BIM Manager in Architecture with projects across the US, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, Singapore, and India. He specializes in BIM execution and implementation across large-scale projects, including infrastructure, residential, hospitals, commercial, and retail. His astute acumen and proven track record in handling large teams and successfully delivering BIM projects have helped jobs become more profitable for both the firm and its clients.
It's also worth noting that Ravi's impact transcends Samsung Semiconductors. An industry expert and member of the AU advisory council, he has mentored several industry experts and continues to be a great supporter of Autodesk Innovation and products in the AEC industry.
Ravi's passion for innovating new processes and technology in BIM continues to help transform challenges into opportunities and problems into successful solutions.
In 2024, Clayton propelled Saunders Construction forward through his strategic leadership in technology innovation and project execution, notably on transformative projects like The Academy at Mapleton Hill and the Steamboat Springs Ski Area revitalization. His role as Continuous Improvement Manager has been pivotal in integrating advanced technologies such as Autodesk Build and BIM 360 across Saunders' projects, enhancing communication, collaboration, and efficiency throughout the project lifecycle.
On the Steamboat Springs project, Clayton's leadership was instrumental in adopting Autodesk Construction Cloud, specifically Autodesk Build, to streamline workflows and improve project management capabilities. His team successfully navigated complex challenges posed by remote mountain terrain and stringent construction timelines, leveraging real-time collaboration and data management functionalities to ensure seamless execution. This approach not only accelerated project timelines but also minimized rework and enhanced overall project outcomes.
His initiatives have elevated Saunders' capabilities to connect design with construction, enabling proactive issue resolution and data-driven decision-making.
Outside of technology, Clayton actively champions diversity and inclusion initiatives within Saunders and across the industry, exemplified by his involvement in the 2023 Circles Program and other community engagement efforts.
Clayton Neiman epitomizes the future of construction leadership, blending compassion, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to advancing industry standards. His holistic approach to project management, coupled with a strong foundation in technology and engineering, positions him as a force in driving Saunders Construction towards sustainable and innovative practices.
Val currently serves as the Director of VDC and Emerging Technology at Skanska USA Building, where he oversees an impressive $800 million to $1.5 billion annual construction project portfolio in the Metro New York region.
In this role, Val manages a team of seven VDC managers and engineers, mentoring them to become tech leaders.
With over 14 years in the AEC industry, Val has been instrumental in implementing project-specific digital strategies, establishing robust digital platform standards, and integrating disruptive technologies to enhance Skanska's core business operations.
One of his most notable achievements was leading the construction technology efforts for the $5 billion LaGuardia Terminal B Redevelopment project—one of the largest public-private partnerships in NYC history.
In 2024, Val has driven significant impact across projects, teams, and the company through his leadership and mentorship in construction technology. He has been instrumental in integrating advanced technologies such as underwater drones, FPV drones, and thermal drones into quality control and inspection programs, which has greatly enhanced project accuracy and efficiency.
A significant part of Val's career has been dedicated to building out advanced technology programs that push the boundaries of traditional construction methods. He has developed drone and robotics programs that enhance site monitoring and data processes.
As Executive Director of Soilbuild Construction Group Ltd, Han Ren has led efforts in digitalizing the construction process, to streamline tender processes and project execution, by incorporating advanced technologies to enhance our BIM capabilities, including 3D, 4D (Scheduling), and 8D (Health & Safety), as well as the use of Virtual Reality.
Externally, he has been pivotal in adopting digital tools that streamline tender processes and project execution, adding significant value to Soilbuild's operations. His efforts in developing data-rich 3D BIM models and digital twin technology for construction sequence and Facilities Management have enabled the company to engage clients more effectively and deliver high-quality projects, driving growth and strengthening company's market position.
Han Ren's leadership in expanding into high-value industrial buildings and driving new sustainable initiatives, further positions him as a forward-thinking leader who is not afraid to challenge traditional norms and push the industry towards a more modern, efficient, and environmentally conscious future.
Miyoshi Kouhei began using Autodesk Construction Cloud in 2024, and in just a year, he has become a champion for driving construction DX through data-driven management at Takenaka, and is now playing an active role as a top runner. Since joining the team, he has significantly expanded Autodesk Construction Cloud's usage, overseeing over 30 projects implementing the platform.
Last year, the team he previously belonged to utilized the common data environment he had set up to centralize information and save time. Among the features, they were particularly effective in using the BIM360 review features. He then built on that success in 2024 by expanding Autodesk Construction Cloud adoption to enhance workflows and data management.
In terms of environment and system establishment, we are systematically advancing the management of effective utilization with internal and project-related stakeholders, implementing introductory education, and training personnel who will become strong partners in utilizing and setting up ACC to accelerate its promotion and necessary Autodesk Construction Cloud environment configuration.
Not only that, Miyoshi has taken on a leadership role within the ACC User Group (ACCUG), which launched in Japan this year, fostering collaboration and sharing best practices to drive industry-wide digital transformation efforts.
Miyoshi collaborates with construction site leaders, owners, and designers to lead project success by utilizing Autodesk Construction Cloud.
Nicél has played a pivotal role in transforming project management within the construction sector, especially in the environment of subsidized housing in South Africa. Working in local government for the City of Cape Town, Nicél leads the implementation of projects aimed at addressing apartheid-era spatial inequalities.
Her use of Autodesk's suite of tools, including BIM, has optimized workflows, improved team coordination, and enabled more efficient communication.
Case in point: in 2024, Nicél led several subsidized housing projects in Cape Town, improving the lives of residents in previously disadvantaged communities. These projects are complex by nature: they require bulk upgrades, full civil engineering services, electrification and construction of top structures (houses). All of this must be done against the backdrop of a massive and desperate need for housing; with the housing waiting list for the City of Cape Town currently being in the region of 350,000 potential beneficiaries. This means that housing is a contested space; bringing much complexity to managing the ‘people’ side of the business. By leveraging Autodesk tools, Nicél brought predictability to this environment by streamlining project lifecycles—integrating planning, execution, and reporting— thereby significantly improving not only the transparency and accountability of these projects; but also their manageability.
Nicél's leadership has brought transformation to an essential sector of the South African landscape, where housing projects are multidisciplinary, and Autodesk Construction Cloud has been key in simplifying these complexities. Her ability to overcome the logistical and social challenges posed by South Africa's spatial legacy makes her a standout leader in the construction industry.
Karima's commitment to pushing herself beyond conventional limits sets her apart from her peers. She consistently demonstrates a unique ability to tackle complex challenges and deliver outstanding results, which has earned her recognition and respect within the industry.
Karima's hard work and commitment to personal and professional growth embody the evolving nature of construction, where success is not just about meeting expectations but constantly pushing boundaries.
Her dedication to achieving success and improving processes reshaped Turner Construction's culture, making it more dynamic and forward-thinking.
Her proactive approach and innovative mindset have significantly contributed to modernizing our practices. Karima doesn't just adapt to change; she actively seeks opportunities to drive it, inspiring her colleagues to do the same.
Camilo is a passionate digital visionary at HEB Construction, leading a diverse team of specialists to develop and implement practical approaches that truly enhance collaboration and add value to design, construction, and asset management. He supports HEB in delivering great project outcomes by finding creative solutions that focus on enabling construction efficiency and enhanced asset quality while keeping in mind the whole life cycle to enable opportunities for smart digital approaches in downstream activities such as operations and maintenance.
He is a skilled practitioner who leads teams to effectively harness Autodesk functionality, including Autodesk Docs, BIM Collaborate, Takeoff, Schedules, and Build, and creates bespoke project systems integrations through Data Connector and API. He adds value through the establishment of insightful and robust data analytics tools using Power BI, significantly boosting data-driven decision-making.
Camilo supports industry betterment and advancement through the development and delivery of digital training to HEB staff, joint venture partners, and clients, openly sharing digital lessons and participating on digital advisory boards for significant public sector clients. As a visionary and superuser, Camilo is on the Autodesk Infrastructure Customer Advisory Board, helping shape future capability
Paulo is evolving the construction industry, not just by shifting methods, but by addressing its fundamental challenge—how to create scalability and effectiveness in a field often burdened by fragmented processes. His approach goes beyond product delivery; championing a vision where processes become the products, enabling a shift from traditional, one-off construction projects to streamlined, repeatable systems. Through Autodesk Construction Cloud and the principles of Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA), he is leading a future where construction isn't just managed—it’s maximized for performance and long-term value.
Paulo’s mission is clear: to enable stakeholders—whether in aviation, defense, or healthcare—to achieve their vision of faster, more effective project delivery. By uniting teams under Autodesk Construction Cloud, he has redefined collaboration, allowing architects, engineers, and contractors to work seamlessly by developing custom processes that fit industry standards. This is more than improved communication; it’s about eliminating barriers that lead to costly rework, enhancing quality, and drastically reducing waste.
Where others see disconnected workflows, Paulo envisions connected opportunities. With Autodesk Construction Cloud Build, he has centralized all project documentation, ensuring that every team member—from designers to fabricators—works with the most up-to-date data, reducing risk and enabling smoother transitions across all construction phases. This shift is not merely technological; it’s strategic, driving the move toward productization and allowing the construction industry to embrace Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), reducing reliance on traditional, inefficient, labor-intensive practices.
Paulo’s leadership reflects a forward-thinking vision, where the how of construction takes precedence over the what. By upskilling his teams and transforming complex projects into scalable, coordinated systems, he is ushering in a new era of Industrialized Construction (IC)—one that harnesses technology to deliver not just buildings, but opportunities for growth. Through his work, the power of combining vision with process, proving that standardization, effectiveness, and innovation are the future of the construction industry.
It's great to officially recognize these 40 individuals for their exceptional contributions to their firms and the industry.
Of course, it's worth noting that there are construction champs in every firm, and you likely know someone who goes above and beyond to make a difference. So, don't forget to take the time to acknowledge and celebrate the construction champions in your organization who may not be on this list but whose impact is just as valuable.
Also, if you'd like to get updates about upcoming 40 Under 40 lists and hear more inspiring stories, be sure to subscribe to our blog so you're always in the loop.
