Revolutionizing Construction Scheduling with AI
This episode of AEC Trailblazers: The Founders Files features René Morkos, the founder and CEO of ALICE Technologies, a software solution aimed at revolutionizing construction planning and scheduling.
The conversation begins with a discussion about the gap between academic theory and practical application, a challenge René encountered during his PhD research. Prior to his academic pursuits, René had an unusual career, including a stint in Afghanistan where he gained valuable leadership experience at 22 years old managing a team of 140. These experiences shaped his entrepreneurial spirit, leading him to eventually become an AEC Startup co-founder and leader.
René dives into the capabilities ALICE is unlocking for the industry. By leveraging AI, the platform optimizes project scheduling and planning, resulting in significant time and cost savings. The core functionality of ALICE lies in its ability to explore millions of scheduling sequences, identify potential bottlenecks, and provide actionable insights to project teams, achieved through a rule-based system that works in conjunction with 3D BIM models.
Finally, René emphasizes the importance of passion and perseverance in entrepreneurship, highlighting the numerous challenges faced by startups, such as financial constraints and client retention.
Overall, the podcast provided a fascinating glimpse into the world of construction technology and the entrepreneurial journey of René.
Host
René Morkos
Founder and CEO of ALICE Technologies
René Morkos is the founder and CEO of ALICE Technologies. He obtained his Ph.D. in artificial intelligence applications for construction as a Charles H. Leavell fellow at Stanford University. He is a second-generation civil engineer with over 15 years of construction industry experience divided between industry and academia. His professional experience includes working as a project manager in Afghanistan, underwater pipeline construction, automation engineering on a $350 million gas refinery expansion project in Abu Dhabi, ERP system implementations, and various Virtual Design and Construction projects.
With the launch of ALICE, René introduced the industry to a paradigm shift in construction scheduling and is on a mission to empower the construction industry with AI-powered generative construction scheduling technology to derisk projects and recover from delays. Now, our latest innovation, ALICE Core, allows users to quickly ingest P6 and Microsoft Project schedules and start optimizing them right away. With the AI-powered 'what-if' feature, users can explore scenarios to find the most efficient path forward for their construction project.
René is a passionate mountaineer who relishes the challenge of conquering new peaks.
A former Varsity Baseball standout, he transitioned from the diamond to the world of entrepreneurship after playing as both an infielder and pitcher.
Valentin Noves
CEO at e-verse
A versatile leader with broad exposure to projects and procedures and an in-depth understanding of technology services and product development. He has a tremendous passion for working in teams driven to provide remarkable software development services that disrupt the status quo. He is a creative problem solver who is equally comfortable rolling up his sleeves or leading teams with a make-it-happen attitude.
Samuel Barcenas
BIM Consultant Founder of AVES
A highly motivated and experienced architect with a proven track record of success in designing and delivering innovative and sustainable buildings. He is also a BIM expert with a deep understanding of how to use technology to improve the efficiency and quality of the design and construction process.
