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Constructing with CareAuthor: DPR Construction
Welcome to the Constructing with Care podcast, brought to you by DPR, a trusted healthcare builder. A dialogue among health industry leaders discussing the impact of construction to the healthcare environment. Language: en Genres: Business, Health & Fitness, Management, Medicine Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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AI, Labor Shortages & the Future of Healthcare Facilities: Originally from Healthcare Facilities Network
Episode 23
Friday, 19 June, 2026
Today, we're sharing a conversation from the Healthcare Facilities Network podcast featuring DPR Construction's Healthcare Core Market Leader, Hamilton Espinosa. In this discussion, Hamilton joins Patrick Murphy, Regional President at CREF, and podcast host Peter Martin to explore the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of healthcare facilities. From workforce shortages and evolving career paths to artificial intelligence and emerging construction technologies, this conversation examines how healthcare organizations, facility leaders, and builders can adapt to a rapidly changing landscape while keeping people at the center of every decision. In This Episode Why labor shortages continue to impact healthcare facilities and construction alike How data centers and other industries are competing for the same skilled workforce The growing role of AI in healthcare, construction, and facility operations How prefabrication and off-site manufacturing are transforming healthcare construction Why mentorship, apprenticeships, and hands-on learning are critical for the next generation The importance of creating workplaces that attract and retain skilled talent How healthcare organizations can rethink hiring requirements to expand their talent pool Why mission-driven work remains one of healthcare's greatest strengths Key Takeaways The Workforce Challenge Isn't Going Away Healthcare facilities are facing a perfect storm of aging infrastructure, aging employees, and growing demand for services. At the same time, industries such as data centers are attracting skilled tradespeople with higher wages, making recruitment and retention increasingly difficult. AI Is Changing How We Work Rather than replacing people, AI is creating opportunities to automate routine tasks, improve decision-making, enhance safety, and allow professionals to focus on higher-value work. The conversation explores both the promise and the practical realities of AI adoption across healthcare and construction. Alternative Career Paths Matter The panel discusses the growing acceptance of vocational training, apprenticeships, and hands-on career development. As labor shortages continue, organizations must broaden how they recruit and develop talent rather than relying solely on traditional degree requirements. Construction Is Becoming More Industrialized Prefabricated building components, robotics, automated layout tools, and data-driven workflows are helping construction teams improve efficiency and address labor shortages while maintaining quality and safety. Culture Is a Competitive Advantage Creating better work environments—from mentorship programs to improved jobsite conditions—plays a critical role in attracting and retaining talent. Investing in people is no longer optional; it's essential. Featured Guests Hamilton Espinosa National Healthcare Core Market Leader, DPR Construction Patrick Murphy Regional President, CREF Hosted by: Peter Martin, Healthcare Facilities Network Connect With Us If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe to Constructing with Care for more discussions on healthcare construction, facilities, leadership, innovation, and the people shaping the future of the built environment.
