Offsite construction and robotics have the potential to revolutionize the construction industry, providing new solutions to age-old problems and helping to improve efficiency, accuracy, and safety. In this panel discussion, we will bring together experts from some of the most promising start-up companies focused on offsite construction robotics. They will share their insights and experiences about how robots are changing the industry, the challenges they have faced, and the opportunities they see for the future.
Stephen Fai holds a professional BArch (Carleton) and a PhD in religious studies (Ottawa). He is an Associate Professor at the Azrieli School of Architecture and Urbanism where he teaches in the design studio and co-chairs the PhD program. He has taught courses on hand drawing and on various themes in the history and theory of architecture. Professor Fai served as the acting director of the School of Architecture (2002 - 2004), director (2004 - 2005), and associate director, graduate programs (2006 - 2010). His current research interests are at the intersection of architecture, image making, and hybrid technologies. He became the director of the Carleton Immersive Media Studio (CIMS) in 2007. Over the past decade, CIMS has developed five lines of inquiry that address the application of digital technologies in the context of architectural conservation and rehabilitation: digitization; building information modelling (BIM); simulation; digitally assisted fabrication; digitally assisted storytelling.
Offsite construction and robotics have the potential to revolutionize the construction industry, providing new solutions to age-old problems and helping to improve efficiency, accuracy, and safety. In this panel discussion, we will bring together experts from some of the most promising start-up companies focused on offsite construction robotics. They will share their insights and experiences about how robots are changing the industry, the challenges they have faced, and the opportunities they see for the future.
Cooper Lane is VP of Sales with Brave Control Solutions, a full-service systems integrator. Brave has been delivering leading-edge automation solutions since 2008. In his 15+ years, Cooper has held multiple management roles working in several industries including Offsite Construction, Automotive, Aerospace, and Nuclear Power Generation. His well-rounded experience lends itself to offering open-minded solutions with a clear understanding of customer needs. In his spare time, Cooper attempts to keep up with his three small children while he struggles to keep his handicap down on the golf course.
Greg has been in the solid wood processing industry for over 40 years. Specialized in the joinery machinery and tooling sector, he is a principal of a few related companies delivering robust, high-performance European woodworking tools, supplies, and accessories, to the millwork and offsite construction industries in North America.
In the offsite construction sector, Soukup America provides engineered solutions and proven European workflow and technologies for the prefab industries in North America. From panels to modular production, Greg and his teams help new offsite manufacturers on new facilities and existing prefab shops on expanding capacity with new technologies and workflows. Offsite construction is a proven cleaner and higher quality option for the building industry. By placing knowledge and collaboration opportunities at the front end of his businesses, Greg and his team deliver the needed elements to a successful manufacturing and wood product marketplace.
Greg enjoys exploring cities, volunteering in his communities, and pleasure reading. He tries to do it all with his companion and a four-legged friend.
