Higher Education Archives - ��ý Construction

Eyes in the Sky: How drones support risk management on construction sites

nisaschmitz — Wed, 20 May 2026 16:58:50 +0000

Publication: , May/June 2026

On most construction sites, risk often hides in blind spots — on rooftops, behind façades, and within small misalignments that lead to costly rework or litigation. Contractors are increasingly turning to drones, not as a marketing tool, but as a component of their risk management strategy to reshape how projects are documented, monitored, and protected. Aside from capturing images, drones can also generate defensible data, reduce exposure, and provide visibility that traditional methods cannot match.

For many firms, the shift is deliberate. ��ý Construction’s drone program sits squarely within its risk management department.

“��ý’s drone program lives in our risk management department because its primary function is to to support our people and construction operations to drive safer and higher quality outcomes,” said Charles Wilson, vice president of risk management at ��ý, a member of multiple AGC chapters. “Given the increased demand for drone flights for safety, quality, and production needs, it made financial sense to invest in our own drone program.”

Data Collection

Drones generate measurable, timestamped, and verifiable data that can stand up in disputes, audits, and claims. Contractors using drones rely on 2D maps, 3D models, and geospatially accurate imagery to create precise project conditions. These datasets allow teams to quantify earthwork, verify installations, and compare progress against design without stepping foot in a hazardous area. Traditional inspections often require ladders, lifts, or scaffolding. Drones offer a safer alternative and allow teams to capture detailed data without putting people in harm’s way. In addition, drones give access to remote stakeholders who are not on-site every day but can sometimes hold up decision-making processes if they cannot see the reality on site.

“The amount of data collected in a short flight surpasses the amount that a person inspecting an installation can provide on their own,” said Wilson. “Anytime we can eliminate the need for a person to work at an elevated position is a win.”

Beyond safety, contractors can also document site conditions daily, creating a record that can resolve disputes before they escalate. Matt Daly, CMO for , an AGC of California and TEXO member, has hundreds of stories from contractors who have saved money because of their drone programs.

“Giving contractors one source of truth for what is happening on site is massively useful,” said Daly. “One contractor avoided a $250,000 delay claim by using drone imagery to prove materials were on site when claimed, invalidating allegations. Another contractor had a $45,000 backcharge withdrawn because aerial overlays proved that a driveway slab matched the plan.”

By providing high-frequency, sitewide visibility, drones enable remote owners, engineers, and inspectors to verify progress, assess conditions, and make faster decisions. This reduces information delays. In addition, consistent aerial data can help teams identify issues before they become costly problems.

FAA Regulations and Airspace

Construction drone operations are governed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and compliance is a critical component of risk management. At a minimum, commercial drone operators must hold a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate by passing an FAA knowledge exam and staying current with ongoing training.

Airspace considerations can also add some complexity. Projects located near airports or in controlled airspace require
advance authorization through systems like LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability). However, many drone platforms include built-in airspace awareness tools that alert operators to restrictions and facilitate authorization requests.

The regulatory landscape continues to evolve, especially with the FAA’s proposed Part 108 rule on beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations. The proposed framework, outlined in a 2025 Federal Register notice, aims to normalize routine BVLOS flights by establishing requirements for detect-and-avoid systems, airspace coordination, and operational oversight. For construction, BVLOS restrictions are one of the biggest barriers to drone operations, so easing limitations could allow drones to cover larger sites more efficiently and enable automated, scheduled data capture.

“The FAA’s proposed Part 108 rule is a big deal because it would move drone flights beyond one-off approvals and into a clear, nationwide set of rules that allows companies to fly drones BVLOS on a regular basis,” said Logan Decker, ��ý’s drone operator. “Instead of needing special waivers each time, operators would have a consistent path to run larger, more efficient drone programs that can cover much bigger geographic areas per flight. This shift would reduce time and labor costs and unlock high-value use cases.”

Insurance: Coverage, Requirements, and Opportunities

While drone insurance is not mandated by the FAA, it is not optional in practice. Many project owners require contractors to carry specific liability coverage for drone operations, often through preauthorization requirements. Coverage structures can vary with some policies tied to individual operators and others that cover broader organizational use.

On the upside, drones can offer a path to reduced insurance costs over time. By improving documentation, reducing accidents, and enabling early issue detection, drones can lower the frequency and severity of claims.

Data Ownership and Security

As drones generate more sophisticated data, questions around ownership and control are becoming more prominent. In most cases, data ownership is defined by contract. Owners may require access to all documentation, while contractors may retain rights to use the data for internal purposes. Third-party providers may use anonymous data to improve their services, but they typically do not claim ownership or share project data externally without permission.

Security is equally critical. With sensitive project information at stake, providers are investing in certifications, access controls, and data governance protocols to ensure that only authorized users can access information.

Policy, Procurement, and Geopolitical Risk

Beyond project-level considerations, broader policy shifts also shape the drone landscape. Federal scrutiny of foreign-made drones, for example, has introduced new considerations around procurement and cybersecurity. In December, President Trump banned the sale of new foreign-manufactured drones amid growing concerns surrounding data security and supply chain integrity. However, the FCC recently exempted some of those models. For contractors, it is important to stay up to date with changing policies to ensure they maintain compliance since these policies can influence equipment selection and vendor relationships.

Less Adoption Challenges

Some contractors remain hesitant to adopt drone technology because of perceived complexity, regulatory hurdles, and safety risks. However, many of these barriers are diminishing. Contractors can choose to build in-house drone programs or use third-party providers who handle compliance, data capture, and processing. Training resources are widely available, and the technology itself has become more reliable and user-friendly.

“The biggest challenge with launching a drone program is getting employees to adjust to conducting safety inspections and other protocols in a new way,” said Decker. “Forming new habits takes time. Once our team experienced the advantages of the drone program, flight requests dramatically increased.”

Automation and AI

Looking ahead, the next phase of drone-enabled risk management is already taking shape.

Automated “drone-in-a-box” systems can capture data on a schedule without human intervention, ensuring consistent documentation throughout the project. At the same time, artificial intelligence is transforming how that data is analyzed. AI-powered tools can now identify safety hazards, track progress, and compare conditions against schedules and design models in real time.

“We’ve only just begun integrating drones’ asset capture with AI’s safety monitoring,” said Wilson. “It is possible someday AI will use drone imagery to predict and prevent accidents from occurring.”

A New Standard of Care

As regulatory frameworks evolve, technologies mature, and usage expands, drones are becoming more than a competitive advantage — they are becoming a standard of care.

Having eyes in the sky may be one of the most effective ways to keep risk under control.

“Construction firms that haven’t adopted drones should explore the technology. The potential is significant: safer jobsites, stronger quality control, more accurate estimating, and smoother operations that can drive savings and set them apart competitively,” said Wilson.

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��ý Announces NextGen Program Recipients

daniellebergmann — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 18:28:22 +0000

Publication:

��ý Construction has announced the 2024 recipients of its NextGen program. ��ý selected five recipients for the program’s inaugural year and presented two scholarships and three community impact contributions.

NextGen is a collaboration between ��ý and its education clients to connect students and teachers with the construction of their facilities and unlock interactive opportunities for students to build their futures while advancing communities. ��ý also provides advanced education opportunities through impact contributions or post-high school scholarships.

Scholarships were awarded to:

Noah Foppe of Freeburg Community High School in Freeburg, Ill.
Kirsten Gudausky of Litchfield High School in Litchfield, Ill., part of the South Central Illinois Regional Training and Innovation Center

The 2024 Community Impact Contributions were presented to:

Litchfield Elementary School’s Olympiads Program in Litchfield, Ill.
Richland County Early Learning Center in Olney, Ill. and
South Central Middle School in Kinmundy, Ill.

“As a longtime partner in education, we believe that fostering development in our schools greatly impacts our communities,” said Jon Carroll, executive vice president and COO at ��ý Construction. “Our mission goes far beyond building quality buildings; we seek to inspire and promote positive character building and believe we can do that by offering real-time learning and skills training into each grade-level curriculum, from early education through high school and beyond.”

Launched in late 2023, NextGen aims to encourage students in the PreK-12 sector to pursue careers in construction management, architecture, engineering, skilled trades, safety, or quality. Through NextGen, students participate in celebrating major project milestones, from groundbreaking and dedication ceremonies to on-site class tours. ��ý also offers hands-on career success opportunities through STEAM learning, paid internships, and workforce development programs.

School districts submit applications for community impact sponsorships or academic scholarships based on the focused age group of the students.

The community impact sponsorship benefits elementary or middle school districts by supporting community initiatives. Classes submit an impact application detailing their plans and goals for a group project or initiative that has a lasting impact on their community.

The academic scholarship benefits high schools, community colleges, or universities by offering an annual sponsorship to a high school senior or college student pursuing a career in the AEC industry.

For more information about ��ý’s NextGen Initiative, visit /poettker-nextgen/

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Collaboration, Shared Goals Drive ��ý’s Construction Management Work

daniellebergmann — Fri, 03 Mar 2023 18:11:32 +0000

Publication:

Building relationships and buildings in the safest and most cost-effective way possible while maintaining the highest degree of quality and emphasis on sustainable design solutions has been ��ý’s mission since 1980.�� This is best represented by 95% of ��ý’s construction management portfolio coming from repeat clients and referrals.

As experts in Construction Management, ��ý engages with the owner early in the design development and preconstruction process to review and recommend practical constructability techniques, innovative value engineering solutions, construction planning, and cost certainty to make ��Գٲ�’ facility dreams a reality.��

From new construction, facility additions, interior renovations, and master planning, the construction management approach offers clients the greatest financial transparency, safety performance, quality construction, and schedule management – all of which are instrumental for owners seeking durable and flexible long-term growth solutions. ��ý serves as the construction lead to ensure a collaborative approach is taken to maximize local and regional trade contractor engagement and deliver projects on time and on budget.

��ý’s construction management expertise is highlighted through several ongoing partnerships with PK-12, higher education, and municipal clients throughout Illinois and Missouri. In the PK-12 market, ��ý is actively building new elementary schools in Litchfield and Pana, Ill.; an early education center in Olney, Ill., and transforming an agricultural warehouse into a regional workforce development center to serve South Central Illinois high school and college age students.��

With higher education, ��ý is gearing up for another phase of interior renovations and heating and cooling system improvements at Kaskaskia College. This multi-year master planning initiative has involved a variety of intense renovations, roof replacements, and architectural upgrades to help the college accomplish sustainability goals, increase student engagement through enhanced learning environments, and attract and retain students and faculty.��

In the municipal sector, ��ý recently started the construction of two new engine houses for the North County Fire & Rescue Fire Protection District. These modern engine houses are strategically located to help improve the district’s rapid response times.��

Additionally, ��ý is preparing to kick-off bidding and construction of more than 10 education and municipal projects during 2023. Click here for more information on upcoming trade opportunities.��

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Construction Spotlight | Kaskaskia College

daniellebergmann — Thu, 29 Sep 2022 03:01:46 +0000

Publication: Illinois Business Journal, October 2022

��ý Construction, an award-winning family-owned construction company, is proud to continue our partnership with as their construction manager for a network-wide facility improvements initiative.

This 5-year program kicked off in 2020 and is one of ��ý’s most significant construction management programs in Southern Illinois this year. The goals for the program are to help Kaskaskia College accomplish sustainable energy improvements, increase student engagement through enhanced learning environments and attract and retain students and faculty.

As the construction manager, ��ý is overseeing the master facility planning, renovations, and maintenance repairs to the entire college network, including six education center facilities. Additionally, the program addresses water infiltration, site drainage improvements, roof replacements, and parking lot upgrades to ensure the college meets its structural and deferred maintenance goals in a fiscally responsible and efficient manner.

Building quality relationships and buildings in the safest and most cost-effective way possible has been ��ý’s mission since 1980. “We have proven to operate by this statement, as ninety-five percent of our business comes from repeat clients and referrals,” says Ryan ��ý, President of ��ý Construction. “Kaskaskia College is a longtime valued client of ��ý. We are honored to be a part of this major initiative to support the college’s mission and commitment to provide an outstanding educational opportunity at an affordable cost.”

��ý is nearing the completion of the first phase of the major, multi-year interior renovation to the connected Health & Business and Library buildings. This facility serves as one of the primary administrative and public space facilities on Kaskaskia’s main campus in Centralia, IL. To achieve this project’s goals with limited impact to the students and faculty, ��ý and the college elected to phase the project over two summers. Phase I renovations entailed significant asbestos abatement, HVAC system replacement, and interior finish upgrades to the second floor. Phase II renovation work will focus on the first floor and will take place during the summer of 2023.

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Community Spotlight: Ryan ��ý on McKendree Metro Rec Plex

daniellebergmann — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 20:51:01 +0000

In a one-on-one interview, Ryan ��ý discusses what ��ý is about, their relationship with the Metro Rec Plex, as well as future developments the firm has in store!

What kind of message do you try to convey to your clients through your services?

“We strive to foster meaningful, long-lasting, and beneficial relationships with our clientele through high-quality, safe, and efficient construction processes. We have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the Rec Plex Community since we first began construction in 2015 and have continued to cultivate our relationship. Health, wellness, and recreational activities are very important to our employees and our community. Our employees enjoy the amazing amenities the offers through our company-paid fitness memberships.”

What were some of the key takeaways from the Metro Rec Plex project?

“Having the McKendree Metro Rec Plex within our portfolio has been a tremendous asset and benefit. This unique development combines both an ice rink and aquatic complex into one facility. There are a limited amount of dual complexes like this in the United States. Collaborating with the Rec Plex and national partners throughout the design and construction phases helped ��ý gained a great deal of knowledge about the ice technology necessary for a high-quality rink. We are excited to utilize that knowledge in the future.”

Are there any new developments the ��ý team is working on?

“Locally, ��ý Construction is in the final construction stages for the Shoppes of Richland Creek mixed-use development, located at the intersection of Green Mount Road and I-64 in Shiloh, IL. The initial phase of this development includes a mixture of retail and restaurant space. We will also be breaking ground on a new senior living facility in O’Fallon, IL in early 2021.”

��ý Contruction’s 40^th Anniversary and Their Dedication to the Local Community

Established in 1980, ��ý Construction is celebrating 40 years of work and dedication to the local community. We are committed to philanthropic partnerships, encouraging and supporting employees to advocate, fundraise and volunteer in the communities where they live and work.�� Earning a St. Louis Business Journal Corporate Philanthropy award for 3 consecutive years, ��ý contributes to major causes for youth education and mentorship, workforce development, and healthcare awareness and research.�� We proudly support local non-profits including Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois, Boy Scouts, STEM and workforce learning programs at Scott AFB and area schools, Junior Achievement, and various regional hospitals and cancer research organizations.

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��ý Partners Again With SIU-Edwardsville

daniellebergmann — Mon, 13 Apr 2020 07:24:32 +0000

��ʳܲ��پ��ǲ�: Illinois Business Journal, April 3, 2020

Repeat business and strong relationships with clients, design teams, trade contractors, vendors and community partners have been instrumental in ��ý’s success over the past four decades. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville has been a client of ��ý’s for various projects over the years. Their most recent endeavor together is the $11.5M addition to the School of Dental Medicine (SDM) facility that will house the university’s new Advanced Care Clinic (ACC) on the Alton campus.

“��ý Construction is excited to serve the SIU School of Dental Medicine as the general and coordinating contractor on this important project to the local community,” said ��ý President Keith ��ý.�� “We are grateful for the enhanced education opportunities SDM offers students wishing to study dentistry, as well as the extensive treatment capabilities for patients of all ages.”

The ACC project began in March 2020 with the demolition of the vacant former MDL Building 283, which connects Hogg Hall to the MDL Simulation Lab that ��ý constructed in 2013.

The new 23,000 SF innovative clinic addition, anticipated for completion in June 2021, will provide state-of-the-art accommodations for the SDM to facilitate treatment for its most vulnerable patient population, children who require general anesthesia for the completion of care. By adding general anesthesia capabilities in two medical operating suites, the SDM will be able to offer more comprehensive, predictable and safe treatment, allowing for the timely completion of care, particularly for children and patients with special dental care needs.

“The SIU School of Dental Medicine is preparing future dental professionals who will shape a changing world through their important work as clinicians and service to the community,” said SIUE Chancellor Randy Pembrook. “The new Advanced Care Clinic will allow our students to develop their skills in a top-level facility, with important focus placed on the care of vulnerable patient populations.”

With construction taking place on an active school campus, safety and communication are key to the project’s success.�� ý Project Manager Nelson Vogt said, “Detailed coordination efforts and communication amongst all project stakeholders will help ��ý and the supporting contractors maintain safe construction operations and limit disruptions to the students who will occupy the adjacent buildings throughout the project’s duration.”

This project is made possible by the generous financial support of Delta Dental of Illinois and the Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation.

FGM Architects is serving as the architect on this project. MEPFP prime contractors included GRP Wegman Company for electric, France Mechanical Corp for heating, Hock Inc. for ventilation, Kane Mechanical, Inc. for plumbing, and Kane Fire Protection, Inc. for fire protection.

Additionally, ��ý is actively working on $30 million in recent and ongoing higher education projects.

This article originally appeared in the April 2020 issue of the Illinois Business Journal.��

Also featured in: St. Louis Construction News & Review

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Higher Education Archives - ������ý Construction