In this episode, we dive into the path from the job site to ownership with Karl Volkmann of Wolf Exteriors. From growing up in a construction family to getting his start in architectural sheet metal right out of high school, Karl shares how he carved out his lane in the industry and built a company that’s not afraid to go where others won’t—literally.

We get into what it’s like running crews on remote job sites across BC (think bison on site and 30+ hour drives), the realities of scaling a construction business, and why building a strong team culture is everything. Karl also breaks down the rise of metal exteriors, working on high-end residential projects, and how the trades are evolving for the next generation.

Plus, a few unexpected rabbit holes—from lawn care experiments gone wrong to why people drive on opposite sides of the road—because no good shop talk stays strictly about work.

Cam and Jeff are back for another one, all-conversation episode—covering everything from milestone celebrations to mega infrastructure projects and real-world lessons from the jobsite.

They kick things off with a recap of Ram Construction’s 40-year anniversary event—highlighting industry relationships, legacy projects, and the people who’ve shaped decades of work. From there, the conversation dives into current industry chatter, including market hesitation, the importance of diversification, and creative ways companies are adapting to stay busy.

You’ll also hear:

• Insights into major local infrastructure like SkyTrain expansions and hospital projects
• The realities of construction scheduling (and curveballs like FIFA-related permit delays)
• A behind-the-scenes look at building performance, mezzanine design challenges, and why small details matter
• Stories from the field—both technical and hilarious (yes, including a concrete mishap you won’t forget)

As always, it’s a mix of industry insight, real talk, and a few laughs along the way.

👍 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share—and let us know what topics or guests you want to hear next.

In this episode of the Construction Dirt Podcast, Cam and Jeff sit down with Dylan from RiteTech Construction to talk about his journey from apprentice to General Manager. They dive into the realities of working in concrete construction, transitioning from the field to the office, and the evolving landscape of tilt-up, precast, and mass timber projects.

The conversation covers everything from job site camaraderie and labor challenges to early project involvement, logistics, and problem-solving in complex builds. The crew also shares personal “welcome to construction” moments, industry stories, and a few off-topic rabbit holes—from Olympics logistics to BBQ setups.

A grounded, honest look at construction life, leadership growth, and what it really takes to build from the ground up.

In this episode, Cam and Jeff sit down with Dylan James of HJB Engineering to talk about his unique journey from welding in the field to becoming a structural engineer specializing in tilt-up construction. Dylan shares stories from working in extreme conditions in Fort McMurray to tackling some of the most complex seismic design challenges in BC.

The conversation dives into the realities of modern construction—from evolving building codes and seismic demands to the collaboration between engineers, architects, and contractors. Dylan also gives insight into innovative problem-solving, including how he uses 3D printing to model and test real-world construction scenarios.

Whether it’s navigating tough site conditions, pushing design limits, or embracing new technology, this episode is packed with practical insights and behind-the-scenes stories from the engineering side of construction.

Recorded live from Las Vegas at the World of Concrete Show, Jeff and Cam sit down with Jonas DeWeber from Nox-Crete to talk about the real value of manufacturer relationships in construction.

From product compatibility and troubleshooting on site, to evolving concrete mix designs and the importance of education, this episode dives into what it takes to stay ahead in an industry that’s changing fast. Plus—Vegas hidden gems, BBQ talk, and why the schedule can’t override chemistry.

Cam and Jeff explore the crossover between construction and sport, sharing thoughts on earthworks, stadium builds, and the logistics behind large-scale venues.

From watching fields and stadiums come together to revisiting early ideas for a new Whitecaps stadium, the conversation highlights how design, location, and long-term planning shape fan experiences.

They also discuss recent BC Place improvements ahead of FIFA and what it takes to adapt existing infrastructure for global events, all through the lens of real-world construction experience.

In this episode, Cam sits down with Scottie Forin for a wide-ranging conversation about waste management, recycling in construction, jobsite logistics, and the realities of building in a tight city like Vancouver.

From thousands of discarded ratchet straps to placing booms, tower cranes, and chaotic downtown sites, they dive into the stories, challenges, and innovations shaping the industry today.

Cam and Jeff are back — this time recording on location and holding mics like pros (or at least trying to). The duo dives into real talk on field-level efficiencies, tech in construction (hello, dusty robots!), and how standardization vs. flexibility plays out on site.

They reflect on the fine line between office goals and field realities, explore new tools, and share laughs about holding mics, missed deliveries, and lessons from past projects. A casual, honest catch-up packed with insights from the trenches.