The construction industry is at a crossroads, where the weight of tradition meets the promise of innovation. As the sector grapples with labor shortages, technological disruption, and the urgent need for mental health support, events like the Construction Owners Summit (CO Summit) Atlanta ’25 emerge as critical hubs for dialogue and progress. Scheduled for September 22, 2025, at Kennesaw State University, this event is more than just a gathering—it’s a testament to the industry’s commitment to evolution.
At the heart of CO Summit Atlanta ’25 are three pivotal themes: careers in construction, mental health in construction, and artificial intelligence. These themes are not isolated; they are deeply interconnected, reflecting the industry’s multifaceted challenges and opportunities. “The construction industry is at a pivotal moment where traditional building expertise meets advanced AI technology,” said Lou Perez, co-founder of Lumber and a featured speaker at the summit. His words underscore the event’s mission: to bridge the gap between tradition and innovation, ensuring that the industry doesn’t just adapt to change but leads it.
The summit’s lineup of sessions is designed to spark thought-provoking discussions and actionable insights. Lou Perez will delve into “AI and Digital Solutions for Next-Gen Talent in Construction,” exploring how AI-powered technologies are reshaping hiring practices and workforce engagement. This session is particularly timely, given the industry’s ongoing struggle with labor shortages and the need to attract younger generations to the field. Perez’s expertise in this area is invaluable, as he brings a unique perspective on how technology can humanize the recruitment process, making it more efficient and inclusive.
Another standout session, “From Frustration to ROI: Making Construction Technology Actually Work,” will be moderated by Theo Halstead, CEO of The Rollout Crew, alongside Joel Hoffman, Director of Product Management (Construction Edition) at Acumatica. This panel promises to demystify the often-daunting process of integrating new technologies into construction workflows. With a focus on real-world examples and measurable outcomes, Halstead and Hoffman will provide attendees with a practical playbook for navigating the complexities of technology adoption. Their insights are particularly relevant in an era where digital tools are no longer optional but essential for staying competitive.
The third session, “From Burden to Breakthrough: Agentic AI’s Impact on Prevailing Wage,” will be led by Girish Ramachandra, Head of LumberCare. Ramachandra’s expertise in autonomous AI systems offers a fresh perspective on compliance, shifting the narrative from reactive processes to proactive, intelligent solutions. This session is a reminder that technology isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about transforming the way we approach age-old challenges.
Beyond the sessions, CO Summit Atlanta ’25 is a dual-purpose platform that serves multiple stakeholders. For construction companies, the event offers unparalleled opportunities for talent recruitment, professional networking, and exploration of the latest software and AI tools. For students, it’s a gateway to the industry, providing direct access to prospective employers and industry professionals. The event’s free admission for students, coupled with breakfast and lunch, underscores its commitment to fostering the next generation of construction leaders.
The summit also recognizes excellence through its Construction Industry Awards, which honor organizations and individuals who are setting new standards in workforce development, technology innovation, safety, education, and student achievement. These awards are more than just accolades; they are a celebration of the industry’s collective progress and a call to action for continued improvement.
CO Summit Atlanta ’25 is proudly sponsored by Acumatica as the Title Sponsor and The Rollout Crew as the Gold Sponsor, demonstrating strong industry support for advancing construction technology and workforce development. Strategic media partnerships with BuilderFax and ConstructionOwners.com ensure comprehensive coverage and engagement, amplifying the event’s impact across the sector.
As the construction industry stands on the precipice of transformation, events like CO Summit Atlanta ’25 are not just necessary—they are essential. They provide a space for industry leaders, students, and technology innovators to come together, share ideas, and chart a course for the future. In a world where change is the only constant, the summit serves as a beacon of progress, guiding the industry toward a more sustainable, technologically advanced, and human-centered future.