As a proud member of the WDS Construction team, I recently had the opportunity to attend the Procore Groundbreak Conference—an event that brings together construction professionals from across the globe to explore cutting-edge tools, network with industry peers, and refine our craft. Here are my reflections and key takeaways from this transformative experience.
Valuable Takeaways from Groundbreak 2024
The workshops at Groundbreak provided me with practical insights into some of Procore’s most utilized tools, such as the punchlist feature. A hands-on activity during the sessions left me eager to share the knowledge with the WDS team during an upcoming company training in January. These interactive elements underscored how essential it is to understand the software from multiple perspectives—owners, general contractors, and subcontractors alike.
One of the most exciting aspects of the conference was the Innovation Labs. Each lab shared detailed roadmaps for future updates to Procore tools, offering end-users reassurance that their feedback is being heard. For me, it was thrilling to see how the platform evolves to meet the dynamic needs of the construction industry.
The more I continue to educate myself on the software systems that we use, the better I can adjust my implementation with new hires and current employees. Groundbreak reinforced that Procore is not just a construction software but a global communication platform—a fact highlighted by the representation of 37 countries at the event. This global perspective emphasized the pivotal role construction plays in our daily lives.
An Absorbent Experience
If I had to describe my overall experience at Groundbreak 2024 in one word, it would be “absorbent.” The wealth of information presented sometimes felt overwhelming, but every moment was valuable. The ability to tailor my schedule to my specific interests ensured the sessions were both engaging and relevant. I particularly appreciated the opportunity to have face-to-face interactions with Procore experts, an experience that’s often hard to replicate through digital communication.
A unique feature of Groundbreak was its point system, encouraging attendees to network with vendors and Procore employees. This gamified approach fostered meaningful conversations and allowed me to explore tools like Sage and My COI. I also found it beneficial to connect with someone from DSG, gaining insights into their experiences and takeaways from the conference.
The sessions this year were better than last year, and I’m truly grateful for the knowledge I’m taking away from the conference.
Looking Ahead: Why Groundbreak is Worthwhile
Reflecting on my second Groundbreak experience, I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to attend and for the event’s impact on my role and beyond. Procore is turning into an all-encompassing management system that WDS can benefit from if we continue to use it effectively.
My post-conference plans include a robust list of 15-20 actionable items to bring to the team, ensuring WDS continues to optimize its processes. Would I recommend Groundbreak to others? Absolutely. I firmly believe that the event holds immense value not only for my department but for others as well.
Conclusion
Groundbreak 2024 offered me and my colleagues an incredible opportunity to expand our expertise, connect with industry leaders, and explore innovative solutions. As we gear up to implement these insights at WDS, it’s clear that the knowledge gained at Groundbreak will have a lasting impact on our company’s growth and efficiency.
Here’s to another year of learning, innovating, and building a stronger future together!
