In episode 171 of the Asset Champion podcast, host Mike Petrusky speaks with Kris Lengieza, Field Chief Innovation Officer at Procore Technologies, where he channels his passion for construction and technology to drive meaningful change in our industry. Mike asks Kris about his experiences hosting the “Power of Construction” podcast, with his colleague, Sasha Reed. They explore the strong alignment between construction and facilities management, especially around the use and handover of data throughout the asset lifecycle. Kris says that the construction process represents only about 20% of an asset’s lifecycle, with operations and maintenance of the building encompassing the rest, so FM leaders must demand better collaboration and data flow between stakeholders. Technological advancements like AI and automation are poised to fundamentally change how documentation and decision-making are handled, so Kris encourages upskilling, a focus on soft skills and digital literacy as we head into the future of the built environment.
Agenda
- Convergence of construction, FM, and asset management, with emphasis on holistic lifecycle thinking
- Industry challenges including labor shortages and fragmented handover processes
- Deep dive into AI and emerging technologies reshaping industry workflows
- Recommendations for upskilling: communication, adaptability, and digital literacy
What you need to know: Facility and maintenance takeaways
Takeaway 1: Construction–FM collaboration is essential for improving the asset life cycle
Chris emphasizes that 80% of a building’s life cycle occurs after construction — reinforcing the importance of connecting construction teams with facilities and asset managers early and often.
He explains, “I’m really thinking about those who are trying to find a new way or a better way to serve the life cycle of that building… whether they’re applying technology or a process, or they’re trying to just make sure that they leave it better than they found it.”
This mindset ensures buildings perform better, data flows more efficiently, and end users have an improved experience throughout the building’s life.
Takeaway 2: Labor shortages are a shared challenge across construction and FM
Both industries are facing a critical talent gap, making communication, leadership, and upskilling vital.
Chris highlights that staffing issues span far beyond the construction site, “There is a recognized labor shortage not only in construction but also in facilities and asset management.”
To succeed, organizations must empower people with better tools, training, and opportunities to grow — especially as expectations rise and resources become stretched.
Takeaway 3: Data handover and information management are crucial for long-term performance
Traditional handover processes remain fragmented, leaving facilities teams without the full picture of what was built.
Chris stresses that better data continuity from construction to operations will define future efficiency and clarity in asset performance. Seamless documentation, structured asset data, and standardized workflows reduce risk and support more informed decision-making across the building’s lifespan.
Takeaway 4: AI is accelerating change and transforming workflows
Chris is candid about the future, “We can’t turn a blind eye to the fact that AI is changing things… a lot of those form-based processes are going to die. There’s no reason for us to fill out forms anymore.”
AI is shifting the industry toward conversational interfaces, automation, and data-driven workflows — reducing manual documentation and enabling faster, more accurate decisions.
Mike adds, “It’s all about the connectivity of people and data and the asset life cycle.”
Organizations that embrace these tools will gain a competitive edge, while those who ignore them risk falling behind.
Takeaway 5: Upskilling in digital literacy, communication, and adaptability is essential
The most valuable professionals will be those who evolve alongside the technologies shaping the built environment.
Chris advises, “If you aren’t taking advantage of [AI], you are going to be at a disadvantage. You are going to have to work exponentially harder than the person who is using it.”
He encourages FM and asset leaders to focus on continuous learning, emotional intelligence, and strong communication — capabilities AI cannot replace but can amplify.
Maintenance management insights
- Effective asset leadership requires merging technical expertise with people-centered mindsets, especially as expectations rise and teams navigate resource constraints.
- Labor shortages across construction and FM reflect a human challenge as much as a technical one; buildings perform well only when the teams maintaining them are supported and empowered.
- Strong asset performance depends on seamless data management and continuity from construction to operations, reducing long-term risk and improving facility outcomes.
- AI, automation, and data-driven technologies are redefining workflows — moving the industry away from manual, form-based tasks toward more intelligent, conversational systems.
- The future of FM leadership hinges on adaptability, digital literacy, and a commitment to lifelong learning in emerging tools and technologies.
Do a deep dive into more asset management insights by exploring all Asset Champion Podcast episodes.
Watch the full video here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J
