Construction's Digital Future: AI, Data, and the Connected Site

Description

The goal of this session is to prepare future leaders to be fluent in how technology creates efficiency and a competitive advantage in an accelerating digital landscape.

Why It Matters

Digital transformation is accelerating, impacting everything from estimating to project management and site safety. Future leaders must understand these tools to drive productivity.

Key Learnings

• The Data Advantage: Leveraging data from sensors, drones, and project management software to enable predictive analytics and better decision-making.

• Innovation in Action: An overview of how AI and Machine Learning are currently being used to optimize project workflows and reduce risk.

• BIM and Digital Twins: Understanding these tools as project management platforms beyond design, focusing on lifecycle management and operational efficiency.

ABOUT OUR SPEAKER

Corey Shelson – Co-Founder, Appello Inc.

Corey Shelson is a Canadian entrepreneur and former Military Engineer Officer whose career has been defined by leadership, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to safety. From serving in the Canadian Armed Forces to leading ventures in both engineering and technology, Corey has built a reputation for driving operational excellence and creating solutions that protect and empower people in high-risk environments.

Corey began his career (2003–2012) as a Military Engineer Officer in the Canadian Armed Forces, where his deployment to Afghanistan instilled a deep respect for precision, teamwork, and the responsibility of safeguarding lives. Following his military service, he transitioned to the Canadian nuclear sector (2014–2015), leading engineering teams in highly regulated environments—an experience that sharpened his skills in project management, compliance, and strategic leadership.

In 2015, Corey founded 44 North Digital Marketing, an award-winning agency that became one of Canada’s Fastest Growing Companies in 2020. As Founder and President, he guided 44 North through rapid growth and innovation until its successful acquisition in 2022—a milestone that highlighted his ability to build strong, purpose-driven teams and scalable businesses.

Today, as Co-Founder of Appello Inc., Corey is leveraging his diverse background across engineering, operations, and technology to transform field operations in the ICI construction sector. Appello’s mission goes beyond efficiency—it’s a commitment to worker health, safety, and ensuring every worker returns home safely each day. For Corey, Appello represents more than a business—it’s the culmination of a lifelong mission to create safer, smarter workplaces.