JANUARY 2026CONSTRUCTIONTECHREVIEW.COM8By Joshua Nelson, Director of Technology Experience, Power Design, Inc.INNOVATING THE FUTURE OF CONSTRUCTION: INSIGHTS FROM POWER DESIGN'S LEADERSHIPAlthough I didn't come from a traditional electri-cal or engineering background, my career has been grounded in technology and leadership, providing a strong foundation for my role at Power Design, Inc.As the Information Systems Chief for the 2d Tank Battalion in the USMC, I developed skills in preparation and adaptability--essential qualities in fast-paced, technical environments. Managing mission-critical systems in high-stakes situations taught me to anticipate challenges, create contingency plans, and remain agile.In the private sector, my role as a Field Service Representative at Nielsen emphasized the importance of relationships. Effective communication, trust, and collaboration were key to driving success, especially when working with cross-functional teams.Later, as Manager of Technology Services at Pasco County Schools, I learned the value of work-life balance and building sustainable, high-performing teams. These experiences have equipped me to navigate complex projects, foster innovation, and contribute to Power Design's success.Technological Advancements Shaping the Industry's FutureThe construction and engineering industry is evolving rapidly, driven by the need to build faster, maintain high quality, and ensure safety at every stage of a project. One of the most significant advancements shaping the industry today is the use of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI). These technologies allow us to think differently, be proactive rather than reactive, and streamline processes before construction even begins. By leveraging AR, VR and AI, we can identify potential challenges early, optimize workflows, and enhance collaboration among teams, ultimately reducing rework and improving efficiency.Beyond technology, investing in people remains key to staying ahead of industry trends. At Power Design, Inc., we recognize that our talent is our greatest asset. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and equipping our teams with the latest tools and knowledge, we empower them to maximize the benefits of emerging technologies. This combination of cutting-edge innovation and skilled professionals enables us to deliver high-quality projects efficiently while maintaining the highest safety standards.By embracing new technologies and prioritizing people-first innovation, Power Design continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in the construction and engineering sector.Navigating Challenges in Construction and ContractingThe construction and electrical contracting industry is at a pivotal moment, facing challenges that require innovation and adaptability. A key challenge is scaling efficiently to take advantage of market opportunities while maintaining speed, quality, and safety. As demand increases, companies must embrace new ways of working to stay competitive.At Power Design, Inc., we're addressing this by expanding our capabilities. A prime example is the initiative I led to take our operations international, establishing an enterprise resource management office in Costa Rica. This enables shared services to streamline operations and IN MYOPINIONJoshua Nelson
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