BuildWitt is developing construction training software designed to help solve the people problem construction companies are facing. Called BuildWitt Training, the new video-based training platform is designed to improve crew training. Pricing for the platform ranges from a $3,000 annual basic package for a two-user license to a $51,000 annual enterprise package for 500 user licenses. Each of the five pricing packages can be scaled as contractors add additional users.
“In the past four years, we’ve been to hundreds of job sites, had thousands of conversations, and have seen construction businesses in-depth from all different angles,” said Aaron Witt, BuildWitt CEO and founder. “And contractors are telling us they need to get new hires up to speed as quickly as possible."
It won’t replace hands-on experience, but the first rollout of the BuildWitt Training platform offers bite-size training videos on five critical construction jobs: laborer, grade checker, pipelayer, operator (with instructions for ten machines), and field supervisor or foreman. The platform launched this month and has more than 350 video lessons that go over industry basics, safety, roles and responsibilities, and tips and tricks, among other topics. Another several hundred video lessons will be available by the end of the year. The microlearning app-based format delivers short videos, assessments and quizzes.
“We’re just doing something that’s never been done in the Dirt World before,” said Witt.
Using the BuildWitt Training app, users can spend a couple of minutes watching a lesson during downtime, on their own, during rain delays or on training days.
“They can consume it in small chunks daily without taking them away from the job,” explained Allen Hurst, chief technology officer, BuildWitt.
“Many learning management systems produce content for people who sit in front of a desk all day,” said Hurst. “But that’s not what’s going to make us successful in this industry. We’re addressing some of the most underserved needs first.”
Each lesson features an industry expert, including contractors and BuildWitt Training specialists, headed by Jay Collup, the company’s director for field development and an industry veteran of 16+ years. One of the most valuable pieces of our brand is our credibility with the people in the field,” highlighted Hurst. “It’s important that we keep that top of mind with every video we create."
Admins of the platform can also take the role-based courses and customize them to their processes. They can upload their own videos, create quizzes and assessments, or use the hundreds of options built into the program.
Contractor Response
Before its launch, the platform had more than 60 contractor customers. These early adopters say they were attracted to the platform’s ability to provide real-time communication, correction and direction on a 24/7 basis.
"Training is one of the biggest ways to eliminate inefficiencies, maintain safety and eliminate downtime,” said Ben Ruthven, superintendent, Peitzmeier Demolition and Concrete Cutting, Omaha, Nebraska. “BuildWitt Training allows us to integrate our in-house material seamlessly and offers the potential to help develop content and learn from others in the trade."
"I’ve been looking for a platform that would line up with the way I have always trained. Now I have the tools to do it,” said Dusty Neil, environmental manager, L4 Construction, Lyons, Colo.
Software Developments
Hurst said additional features are coming quickly, including multi-lingual formats, additional job site roles and safety-specific modules. According to Witt, since it’s unaffiliated with any OEM, association, union, trade school, vendor or contractor, BuildWitt can use its middle-ground position to help unite the industry in addressing its people problem.
"We have the best shot to get everyone on the same team because we are everyone’s friend,” cited Witt. “We also have a brand that means something on job sites around the U.S.”
Fueled by additional investment through Series A funding, BuildWitt plans to expand. Plans include hosting weekly training classes, providing equipment simulators for kids and adults and eventually building a DIRT (Demonstration, Inspiration, Research, and Training) Facility at its Nashville headquarters.
