By Rachael Mahoney

What’s rarer than growing up on a remote homestead in Alaska, where fewer than 3,500 people ever claimed homestead patents? Or navigating the high-stakes world of Silicon Valley tech, where only 29% of executive roles are held by women? Or leading in the heavy civil construction industry, where women make up just 1% of CEOs globally? The intersection of these worlds is nearly unheard of—and yet it’s the story of my life. These unlikely paths, though unconventional, have converged to create the most rewarding career I could have imagined.

How Tech and Construction Intersect

Growing up on a homestead in Alaska, I was surrounded by hardhats and safety gear—worn by my parents, brother, cousins, uncles, and aunties—all contributing to the critical infrastructure that keeps our rugged state running. In a place where everything feels just a little bigger and harder, the challenges were as monumental as the land itself. Winters that freeze eyelashes into icicles. Summers swarming with mosquitos as big as birds. From remote roads cutting through dense wilderness to electrical grids powering isolated communities and buildings like those at the North Pole, where my dad, Tim Mahoney, is currently working, there was almost always a Mahoney on site.

The work wasn’t easy. Alaska is one of the most extreme environments on earth, where nature constantly tests human ingenuity. Projects mean contending with brutal weather, rugged landscapes, and isolation, where even the simplest task requires careful planning, adaptability, and grit.

That environment taught me early on about resilience, creativity, and teamwork—the qualities that make construction possible. These lessons didn’t just shape how I saw my family’s work; they became foundational to who I am.

It turns out those tough Alaskan experiences were the perfect training for Silicon Valley, which might not have subzero temperatures but definitely has its own wild terrain. Instead of dodging moose on the highway, you’re navigating jargon-filled pitches, endless obstacles and lower odds of success. In Alaska, we deal with storms that knock out power; in The Valley, its servers crashing during a big launch. Both places have high stakes, and neither gives you much room for error.

Bouncing between these two extremes is shaping my career in the best possible ways and serving me well in the land of startups. Now, working to bring technology solutions to heavy civil construction, I get to blend both worlds, proving that even the most unlikely paths can lead to something meaningful.

Two Roads Merge

Two years ago, I found myself standing at the edge of a massive quarry, trying to take in the sheer scale of what I was seeing. The Trappe Brothers, owners of Canyon Rock, were giving me a firsthand look at the intricate process of producing bulk materials. We drove in a giant truck through the site, passing towering stockpiles of rock, watching automated loaders in action, and standing close enough to feel the ground tremble during blasting.

It wasn’t just the size of the operation that left me in awe—it was the realization that a small, family-owned business was at the heart of these engineering marvels. Seeing the care, precision, and innovation required to deliver something as seemingly simple as aggregates shifted my perspective forever. It’s an experience I’ll never forget, and it marked the beginning of my deeper connection to heavy civil construction.

From Building in Alaska to Building in Silicon Valley

What I didn’t fully appreciate until recently was how much those same qualities apply to building technology solutions. Today, I work in construction tech, helping to build the Bulk Exchange marketplace for the heavy civil industry. While the setting couldn’t be more different—transitioning from the wilds of Alaska to the fast-paced, high-stakes world of The Valley—the parallels are undeniable.

Most startups fail. It’s a reality of working in the heart of the technology capital of the world, where innovation is constant, competition is fierce, and success demands extraordinary effort. In many ways, building a technology solution feels like building a road through a remote Alaskan wilderness. The conditions might not involve snow or wind, but the challenges are just as daunting.

Much like construction in Alaska, technology requires navigating unknowns, solving problems with limited resources, and bringing people together to achieve a shared goal. These parallels have given me a deeper appreciation for both industries and reinforced just how interconnected they are.

Bringing It All Together

One of the most fulfilling parts of my journey has been connecting my upbringing with my career in a way that wasn’t possible before. My family has always understood construction, but when I worked in other areas of tech, the connection between what I did and what they did wasn’t always clear.

Now, it is. They see how technology can directly impact the work they do, and I get to be part of something that feels bigger than myself. It’s been a rewarding experience, one I didn’t expect, but am deeply grateful for.

Lessons in Relationships and Innovation

Coming into construction wasn’t without its challenges. As an introvert, the relationship-driven nature of the industry intimidated me at first. Construction is built on trust and face-to-face connections, a stark contrast to the digital, often impersonal world of tech.

But two years in, I can confidently say that the people I’ve met and get to work with are the best part of my career. They’re teaching me the value of slowing down, listening, and prioritizing quality over speed. It’s a lesson that other industries, including tech, could learn from. Too often, we assume that faster and more automated is better, but construction shows us the value of staying close to our roots and prioritizing human connection.

At the same time, I’ve seen firsthand how much opportunity there is to bring meaningful technology to this field. The industry is still catching up, which means the potential to make an impact is unlimited. Every new tool or system we introduce has the power to transform workflows, save time, and reduce waste without sacrificing the relationships that have defined this industry for generations. That ability to contribute to something lasting feels as consequential as the infrastructure we’re building.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Heavy Civil Construction Workers

Despite the rewards, construction still faces a perception problem. It’s no secret that the industry is struggling to attract the next generation of workers, even though it offers good salaries, job stability, and the chance to work on tangible, meaningful projects.

I think part of the issue is that construction doesn’t always look as exciting as tech, medicine, or other industries that get more attention. But what I’ve found is an industry filled with complexity and heart. From small, family-run businesses managing massive engineering feats to large-scale projects that shape entire communities, there’s so much here to inspire pride and purpose.

For anyone considering this field—especially those with backgrounds in tech or other industries—my advice is simple: don’t overlook construction as I almost did. Yes, it’s hard work, and yes, it’s different. But the challenges are what make it exciting, and the opportunity to innovate and leave a lasting impact is enormous.

Heavy Civil Construction: A Career Worth Building

My career has taken twists I never expected. But those turns have brought me to a place where I can combine my skills, my upbringing, and my passion in a way that feels deeply fulfilling. ConTech is challenging me, inspiring me, and reminding me why I love solving problems and connecting people.

This isn’t just a job—it’s a chance to make a difference that matters to everyone. And for me, that’s as exciting as anything I’ve ever done.

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Weather plays a pivotal role in shaping the outcomes of heavy civil construction projects. From routine challenges caused by rain and wind to the devastating impacts of major weather events like hurricanes or floods, weather can disrupt schedules, strain resources, and inflate costs. For projects involving bulk materials such as ready-mix concrete, aggregate, and soil, as well as waste disposal needs, weather-induced delays, and material shortages are not just inconvenient—they can derail entire operations.

The Challenges Weather Brings to Construction:

1. Material Delivery Delays

Rain, snow, or extreme heat can slow down the transportation of bulk materials. For instance, wet conditions can compromise the usability of aggregate and soil, while high humidity can reduce the setting time of concrete.

2. On-Site Inefficiencies

Adverse weather can render equipment unusable, make materials harder to handle, and reduce worker productivity. Saturated soil or frozen ground often requires additional prep work, adding time and cost.

3. Waste Management Bottlenecks

Major weather events create a surge in debris and damaged materials that need immediate removal. Existing disposal sites may lack the capacity to handle sudden increases in volume, creating bottlenecks and delaying recovery efforts.

4. Increased Demand During Disaster Recovery

Extreme weather events like hurricanes or floods often require large-scale repairs, leading to spikes in demand for construction materials and waste disposal. Without a well-coordinated system, this demand can outpace supply, prolonging recovery efforts.

How Bulk Exchange's Platform Can Help Heavy Civil Construction

Digital platforms like Bulk Exchange offer innovative solutions to mitigate weather-related challenges in heavy civil construction, especially during disaster recovery. These platforms ensure projects can adapt and recover efficiently by streamlining the supply and disposal of materials.

1. Real-Time Access to Materials

Bulk Exchange connects contractors with suppliers in real-time, allowing for quick sourcing of essential materials like aggregate, soil, and concrete. This is particularly critical during emergencies when traditional supply chains are overwhelmed.

2. Efficient Waste Disposal Solutions

After major weather events, construction sites generate enormous amounts of waste, including broken concrete, contaminated soil, and other debris. Bulk Exchange facilitates access to disposal sites with available capacity, preventing costly delays.

3. Scalability During Crisis Response

In disaster recovery scenarios, these platforms act as a centralized marketplace, efficiently matching increased demand for materials and disposal services with available resources. This scalability allows communities to recover faster and more cost-effectively.

4. Last Minute Material Changes Based on Weather Shifts

Weather can have a significant impact on the materials used depending on preferred cure temperature ranges and/or working ranges. Even the time (distance) spent in the truck on the way to the job site could require a different material if the conditions are significantly warmer/cooler than predicted at the time of design/estimation.  If there is a last weather shift affecting temperature, Bulk Exchange can assist contractors in locating materials that are closer to a job site to offset temperature swings or select alternative mixes/materials that will perform better if the ambient temperatures are out of expected tolerances.

The Future: Weather-Resilient Construction with Smart Platforms

Heavy civil construction must evolve as climate change drives more extreme and unpredictable weather. Platforms like Bulk Exchange are not just tools for convenience—they are essential for resilience. By integrating real-time data, predictive analytics, and an extensive network of suppliers and disposal providers, these platforms empower contractors to adapt to weather challenges proactively.

Whether managing day-to-day operations or responding to large-scale disaster recovery, the ability to source materials, optimize logistics, and handle waste efficiently will set successful contractors apart.

In the face of weather’s unpredictability, digital tools like Bulk Exchange ensure that the construction industry can weather any storm—literally and figuratively. 

Discover how Bulk Exchange can modernize your material sourcing and waste disposal processes.

Author byline: Chris Garvey is the COO of Bulk Exchange, overseeing Product, Technology, and Operations. With deep expertise in building and scaling technology services businesses, he excels in focusing go-to-market strategy to creating delivery efficiency. Based in the Pacific Northwest, Chris witnesses firsthand how dynamic weather conditions can influence heavy civil projects of all types.

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By Rachael Mahoney, Chief Strategy Officer, Bulk Exchange

In moments of crisis, the heavy civil construction industry plays a critical role in recovery. However, the challenges faced during emergencies—like the recent LA fires—can be overwhelming. Disrupted supply chains, urgent material needs, and the difficulty of accessing reliable information can turn an already chaotic situation into a logistical nightmare. The need for a centralized platform for the heavy civil industry is particularly acute during natural disasters, when contractors and suppliers need to respond and operate quickly...In that disaster article? Can you let me know when that's done?

A Personal Motivation for Change

Bulk Exchange’s founder and CEO, Paul Foley, knows firsthand the chaos and challenges that follow a disaster. During the devastating Camp and Tubbs fires in Northern California, he was a small excavation contractor on the frontlines, trying to help communities recover. But instead of finding support, he encountered misinformation, confusion, and bad actors exploiting the situation.

“I saw people take advantage of the lack of structure and clear information—whether it was through price gouging, unfair practices, or outright misinformation,” Paul recalls. “It slowed down recovery and made it harder for those of us who genuinely wanted to help.”

This experience became a driving force behind the decision to create Bulk Exchange. Recovery efforts would continue to be hindered without a platform that would streamline recovery efforts, create a level playing field, and ensure transparency and efficiency during times of crisis. Today, Bulk Exchange is fulfilling that vision by improving how the heavy civil construction industry operates, particularly in disaster response.

Addressing the Challenges of Disaster Recovery

Disasters like wildfires generate massive amounts of debris, often contaminated and requiring specialized disposal solutions. Finding suitable facilities for these materials is no small task, especially when time is critical. Bulk Exchange simplifies this process with its comprehensive, accurate directory of producers and disposers, allowing contractors to quickly locate facilities capable of handling specialized materials.

Additionally, emergencies often create opportunities for bad actors to exploit the situation through price gouging or unethical practices. A public marketplace like Bulk Exchange plays a crucial role in promoting transparency and accountability. By connecting producers, contractors, and disposers in a neutral environment, the platform helps protect against inflated prices and ensures fair access to resources for all parties involved.

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The Power of Time-Sensitive Information

In a disaster, minutes matter. Whether sourcing base rock for infrastructure repairs or coordinating the disposal of hazardous materials, access to real-time, accurate information is essential. Bulk Exchange’s centralized communication tools enable seamless coordination among multiple parties, ensuring everyone—from contractors to facility operators—is on the same page.

More Than a Tech Solution: A True Partner in Recovery

At Bulk Exchange, we pride ourselves on being more than just a technology provider. We see ourselves as true partners to our customers, many of whom are on the frontlines of recovery. Disasters bring immense pressure and uncertainty, and we are committed to going beyond the platform to support our partners.

This means leveraging our deep industry expertise, tailoring our tools to the specific needs of recovery efforts, and standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our customers to help them succeed. When our partners win—whether they’re a small contractor like our founder once was or a large-scale operation—communities recover faster, and the industry grows stronger.

Building Resilience for the Future

Disasters like the ongoing wildfires in LA will continue to test the heavy civil construction industry, but platforms like Bulk Exchange will help build resilience. By modernizing how the industry connects, communicates, and collaborates, we are improving day-to-day operations and equipping our partners to respond more effectively when emergencies arise.

Our mission remains clear: to be the trusted partner the industry can rely on, whether in times of growth or crisis. Together, we can tackle even the toughest challenges and pave the way for a stronger, more connected industry—one that can rise to meet any emergency, just as Paul Foley envisioned when he created Bulk Exchange.

As we continue to support recovery efforts from the LA fires, it’s crucial to come together as a community. If you’re looking for ways to help, consider supporting organizations like the California Community Foundation, Wildfire Relief Fund, American Red Cross - Southern California Region, or Direct Relief, actively aiding victims and first responders. For more information and additional resources for donating or volunteering, visit https://www.bulkexchange.com/help.

In construction and bulk materials management, inefficiencies often hide in plain sight, quietly inflating costs and delaying projects. While it’s easy to spot the immediate impacts of delays or over-ordering, the hidden costs—spanning procurement, logistics, and even waste disposal—are where businesses lose the most.

Before founding BX, I worked as a contractor. I experienced firsthand the frustrations of working with suppliers, coordinating with dumpsites, and managing the unpredictable nature of construction projects. Those years gave me invaluable insight into contractors' daily challenges—from procurement delays to misaligned waste management. As the CEO of BX, I’ve combined my hands-on experience with an amazing team from the world of technology to build solutions that address these pain points head-on.

In this blog, I’ll outline the key inefficiencies plaguing bulk material transactions and share how smart technology solutions can help contractors and suppliers solve them.

The True Cost of Inefficiencies

Inefficiencies in bulk materials management cost far more than what’s visible on the surface. Here are some of the most common (and costly) areas:

1. Delays in Material Availability

• Impact: Delayed access to materials can cause equipment downtime and idle labor, leading to cascading project delays.
• Hidden Cost: Each hour of downtime can cost $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the scale of the project.

2. Manual Processes

• Impact: Spreadsheets and email chains increase the likelihood of errors, miscommunication, and inefficiency.
• Hidden Cost: Manual workflows can inflate procurement costs by up to 5%.

3. Mismanaged Disposal Logistics

• Impact: Inefficient coordination with dumpsites can lead to extra hauling costs, overflow issues, and compliance risks.

Hidden Cost: Inefficient disposal logistics can lead to significant unforeseen expenses, ranging from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands in wasted resources.

How BX Solves These Problems

The good news? These inefficiencies are solvable. At BX, we’ve developed a platform that integrates the entire lifecycle of bulk material transactions—from procurement to disposal—into a seamless, tech-driven experience.

Here’s How We Help:

• Real-Time Material Availability: Find and book suppliers instantly to avoid delays and downtime.
• Centralized Communication: Streamline interactions between contractors, suppliers, and dumpsites to save time and reduce errors.
• Smarter Waste Management: Integrate disposal planning into project workflows to minimize hauling costs and ensure compliance.

Gary Ogle, CEO, Chief Estimator at Double O Engineering:

"We were working on a project in Richmond, CA.  My crew and equipment were costing me $8K per day, putting in a new parking lot.  As we were offhauling and importing to a site 1 hr away, I discovered EcoTerra on Bulk Exchange, which was 20 minutes away.  The job was completed a couple of days earlier because my crew had no stand-by time between trucks, less trucking, and cheaper material costs.  Just on that one small job, I saved $20K plus due to greater visibility to the supply and disposal sites close to my job, which I would never have known about".

Spotting Inefficiencies in Your Operations

Ready to assess your operations? Here’s a quick checklist:

1. Is inconsistent material availability frequently disrupting your timelines?
2. Does your team rely on manual processes for procurement and logistics?
3. Are waste disposal trips often misaligned with project schedules?

If you answered “yes” to any of these, you’re not alone—and there’s a solution.

A Smarter Future for Bulk Material Transactions

The bulk materials industry is evolving, and businesses that embrace innovation will lead the way. You can unlock significant savings and build more sustainable operations by holistically addressing inefficiencies- from sourcing materials to managing waste.

At BX, we’re proud to partner with contractors, suppliers, and dumpsite operators to make every transaction more efficient and profitable.

Let’s Build Smarter Together

Don’t let hidden inefficiencies hold your business back. Take control today. Schedule a free demo of BX to see how our platform can help you streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve project outcomes. Click here to schedule your demo, or visit BX’s Website for more information.

Efficiency is more than a buzzword—it’s your competitive edge. Let’s build it together.

Heavy civil projects rely on materials like aggregates, asphalt, and concrete. Suppliers are essential to these projects, yet many don’t market themselves effectively. This creates inefficiencies and missed opportunities.

The Current State for Material Suppliers

Material suppliers often rely on word-of-mouth and existing relationships. Many don’t have up-to-date websites or invest in digital advertising. As a result, the internet isn’t a reliable place for contractors to find materials near their job sites.

This lack of online visibility leads to the following:

• Contractors spend unnecessary time sourcing materials.
• Suppliers miss out on new customers and opportunities.
• A fragmented, outdated process that slows down the industry.

The Risks of Not Adopting Modern Marketing

Suppliers who don’t adapt to modern marketing face significant risks:

• Decreased Visibility: Competitors with online presence will outpace them.
• Lost Revenue: Limited reach means missed opportunities and slower growth.
• Frustrated Customers: Contractors need efficient, reliable sourcing options.
• Falling Behind: The industry is digitizing; suppliers that don’t evolve risk becoming obsolete.

‍Why Marketing Matters for Heavy Civil Projects

Your customers are searching for solutions online. They expect quick, clear access to information. Without a sufficient digital presence, your business remains invisible to contractors outside your network.

The challenge? Building websites, running Google Ads, and optimizing for SEO require time and money that many suppliers lack.

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How Bulk Exchange is Solving the Problem

Bulk Exchange (BX) offers a solution. We help suppliers focus on what they do best—providing high-quality materials—while we increase their visibility and awareness to contractors.

BX makes the internet a trusted place to connect with contractors. Our platform allows suppliers to:

• List materials and services in a searchable national directory.
• Share inventory, pricing, and updates with contractors in real-time.
• Gain exposure without the cost and complexity of building websites or running ads.

With BX, suppliers can grow their customer base and streamline communication while avoiding the heavy lifting of digital marketing.

Practical Marketing Steps for Suppliers

To stay competitive, suppliers can:

1. Use BX to list materials, pricing, and updates for contractors.
2. Leverage BX’s platform to reach new markets without a significant investment.
3. Run targeted ads through tools like Google to supplement BX’s reach.

The Benefits of Better Marketing with BX

Using BX to improve marketing helps:

• Increase visibility to contractors nationwide.
• Attract more customers without draining resources.
• Allow suppliers to focus on their core business while BX handles awareness.

The heavy civil industry is moving online. BX is the easiest and most cost-effective way for suppliers to stay competitive. Use BX as part of your marketing solution so you can focus on delivering the materials contractors need. The future is digital—make sure your business is part of it.

About the Author

Ryan Brown is the Chief Growth Officer at Bulk Exchange. With over 20 years of experience in marketing, sales, and go-to-market strategies, Ryan is passionate about driving revenue growth and scaling businesses. Follow Ryan on LinkedIn for practical insights on marketing, growth, and business development.

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The heavy civil construction industry operates on tight deadlines, razor-thin margins, and complex logistics. Yet, many companies still rely on outdated, manual processes to procure materials and manage waste, leading to significant inefficiencies and missed opportunities. Unlike other industries that have embraced digital marketplaces and directories, heavy civil construction remains fragmented, burdened by inefficiencies that impact profitability, workforce productivity, and project timelines.

The Problem With Heavy Civil Construction:

An Outdated, Fragmented Process

1.    Inefficient “Bird-Dogging” for Basic Inventory Information

Contractors often waste hours or even days calling suppliers, landfills, recycling centers, and transfer stations just to get basic information about availability, pricing, and services. This inefficient process, known as “bird-dogging,” pulls staff away from higher-value tasks and creates bottlenecks in procurement and logistics.

2.     Lack of Transparency in Pricing

Without a centralized marketplace, pricing for materials and services varies widely and is often negotiated through opaque channels. This lack of transparency leads to inconsistencies, overpaying, and difficulty accurately budgeting. Contractors are left in the dark, unable to compare options effectively.

3.     Limited Awareness of Facilities and Their Offerings

Many contractors are unaware of nearby suppliers, landfills, or recycling centers that could more cost-effectively meet their needs. This lack of visibility forces reliance on existing networks, even if they aren’t the best options.

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The Impact Of Heavy Civil Construction: Strained Margins and Workforce Productivity

1.    Reduced Margins

Inefficient procurement increases costs, eats into already slim margins, and often results in unplanned expenses.

2.     Wasted Staff Hours

Estimators, project managers, and site superintendents spend valuable time navigating fragmented supply chains instead of focusing on core project needs.

3.     Project Delays

The time spent sourcing materials and coordinating logistics contributes to delays, leading to penalties, strained client relationships, and lost opportunities for future work.

A Look at Other Industries

Industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and retail have embraced online marketplaces and directories to streamline operations and reduce inefficiencies:

1.    Manufacturing

Platforms like Alibaba and Thomasnet connect suppliers and buyers globally, offering transparency, competitive pricing, and comprehensive directories.

2.     Agriculture

Marketplaces like Farmers Business Network provide farmers with data-driven insights, transparent pricing, and easy access to suppliers.

3.     Retail

Amazon Business revolutionized procurement by creating a centralized marketplace where businesses can easily find and compare products.

These tools have significantly improved efficiency, reduced costs, and empowered businesses in these industries. Heavy civil construction has much to gain by following suit.

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The Solution: A Comprehensive Marketplace for Heavy Civil Construction

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A platform like Bulk Exchange can address these challenges head-on by providing:

  1.   A National Directory: An exhaustive, searchable directory of material suppliers, landfills, recycling centers, and transfer stations, ensuring contractors can quickly find what they need.

  2.   Real-Time Search Tools: Instant access to inventory information and list prices, saving time and eliminating the inefficiencies of manual inquiries.

  3.   Transparent Pricing: Clear, comparable pricing enables better budgeting and cost control.

  4.   Integrated Marketplace Features: Streamlined communication tools for scheduling and negotiating reduce the back-and-forth that slows down projects.

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The Benefits of a Digital Marketplace

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  1.   Increased Efficiency: By centralizing information and streamlining communication, contractors can cut procurement time from days to minutes.

  2.   Cost Savings: Transparent pricing and better supplier visibility enable smarter decisions that improve margins.

  3.   Enhanced Productivity: Teams can focus on strategic tasks rather than time-consuming administrative work.

  4.   Scalability: A national directory allows businesses to expand into new markets without rebuilding supply chain networks from scratch.

Conclusion

The heavy civil construction industry can no longer afford to ignore the inefficiencies caused by its fragmented supply chain. The lack of an online marketplace costs contractors time, money, and opportunities. The industry can streamline procurement, improve transparency, and unlock significant cost savings by adopting a platform like Bulk Exchange. It’s time for heavy civil construction to join other industries in embracing digital transformation and reaping the rewards of a more connected, efficient ecosystem.

‍The future of heavy civil construction is here—don’t get left behind.

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About the Author

Rachael Mahoney is the Chief Strategy Officer at Bulk Exchange. With extensive experience in the construction and technology sectors, she is passionate about driving innovation and fostering sustainable growth in the heavy civil construction industry. Follow Rachael on LinkedIn for more insights.

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