50. Building a Better Future: Productivity, Innovation, and Industry Insights with Andrew Chapman

Building Doors with Lauren Karan

In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, host Lauren Karan speaks with Andrew Chapman, a prominent figure in the construction industry and the CEO of the Queensland Major Contractors Association (QMCA).

Andrew addresses the significant productivity decline in the sector over the past decade, driven by shifts from private to public sector projects and evolving regulations. He underscores the need for innovation and improved project sequencing.

He also shares personal anecdotes and his vision for a more efficient and appealing industry.

Andrew is a civil engineer with extensive experience across the entire project lifecycle—from planning and design to construction and maintenance. His career includes roles at Seymour Whyte, Thiess, GHD, and Transfield Services. As CEO of QMCA, Andrew leads the organization representing major construction and civil engineering firms in Queensland.

In this episode we explore:

• Family experiences and the importance of underlying passion in your career of choice
• The productivity decline over the last 5 years and what needs to change
• Why we should be avoiding boom-bust cycles with better planning
• How our industry standards and agreements impact productivity
• The goals of innovating and attracting talent for a better industry.

In this episode, Andrew provides a deep dive into the challenges facing the construction industry, from productivity issues to regulatory impacts. He advocates for embracing innovation and effective project management to improve the industry. His personal and professional insights offer a compelling look at his commitment to creating a better, more efficient industry.

Connect with Andrew Chapman:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-chapman-30711216

About your host:

Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast. The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

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In case you missed it:

You can listen to our previous episode here

👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [e-mail].