Revolutionising the Steel Industry with Virtual Reality
In a remarkable stride towards innovation, BZI® is transforming how the steel industry operates. As a trailblazer in integrating cutting-edge technology, the company is among the first to adopt virtual reality (VR) to enhance customer experiences and streamline construction processes. From safer work environments to increased efficiency, VR is changing the face of steel construction—and BZI is leading the charge.
By partnering with Resolve BIM, BZI offers an accessible, off-the-shelf solution that transforms 2D project designs into immersive 3D virtual walkthroughs. This approach doesn’t just provide a visual aid; it bridges the gap between conceptual design and real-world execution, making projects more efficient, collaborative, and safer.
A Game-Changer for Customers
The application of VR has sparked excitement among BZI’s clients. Joe Jessop, Project Executive at Visco, a general contractor, enthusiastically stated: “BZI’s VR capabilities enable us to not only see, but feel, what to expect when BZI’s exclusive building processes are applied to our projects.” Jessop isn’t alone in his sentiments. Many clients are finding that these virtual walkthroughs offer a tangible sense of what the final project will look and feel like, reducing surprises and enhancing collaboration.
Imagine walking through a building that doesn’t exist yet, identifying potential issues before they become real-world problems. That’s the value VR brings to construction. Clients can now have a clear, virtual preview, which aids in decision-making and planning, ensuring smoother project execution.
Why VR is a Game-Changer for the Steel Industry
VR’s capabilities extend far beyond visualisation. BZI is leveraging this technology to improve project planning, quality control, and safety training. One of the most remarkable aspects of VR is its ability to integrate with existing 2D systems, allowing a seamless combination of traditional and modern construction methodologies. The virtual walkthroughs provided by BZI allow contractors, architects, and engineers to foresee and solve potential issues well before they arise, effectively reducing costs and saving valuable time.
BZI also utilises VR in its training programs at SteelTech Academy, their nationally recognised and exclusive training centre. The Academy uses VR for skills training, safety drills, and quality control, creating a hands-on experience that traditional methods can’t match. Wilford Jessop, BZI’s Chief Information Technology Officer, explains: “VR is one way we are making construction safer for our team members and our trade partners.” Considering that steel erection is still one of the top 10 most hazardous occupations, this is a significant leap forward.
BZI’s Vision for the Future
It’s clear that BZI isn’t stopping at visualisation. The company sees immense potential in VR for improving communication, safety, and collaboration between all stakeholders in a project—from trade partners to clients. Wilford Jessop highlighted the flexibility of VR, saying: “With wireless abilities, I can have team members, trade partners and customers throughout our national work sites and offices walking through a virtual view of a project simultaneously.”
This connectivity fosters collaboration, even when key players are geographically dispersed. VR allows all parties to be on the same page, quite literally, as they walk through a project together in real-time. This reduces the likelihood of miscommunication, accelerates decision-making, and ensures everyone is aligned from the outset.
BZI’s Internal Innovations
BZI is using its own corporate buildings as a testing ground to experiment with VR applications across various phases of construction. This innovative approach allows the company to fine-tune the use of VR for both internal projects and client-facing solutions. By testing these applications in real-world environments, BZI is ensuring that they’re delivering the highest quality of service to clients while learning the most efficient ways to apply the technology.
But what does this mean for trade partners? BZI’s approach isn’t limited to steel. The company is bringing in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other critical sectors into the fold. As Wilford Jessop puts it, “Our application of this technology will help our trade partners in electrical, plumbing, HVAC and others learn about and experience the benefits of virtual reality.” In essence, BZI’s VR capabilities are enhancing collaboration across all facets of the construction process.
Enhancing Safety with Virtual Reality
Safety is a major focus for BZI, and VR is playing a crucial role in enhancing workplace safety. At SteelTech Academy, VR is incorporated into safety and skills instruction, simulating real-world scenarios in a controlled environment. This method of training allows workers to familiarise themselves with potential hazards and learn to navigate them safely, all before stepping onto a job site.
Wilford Jessop sees VR as a critical component in making construction safer for everyone involved. “VR is one way we are making construction safer for our team members and our trade partners,” he adds. BZI’s commitment to safety doesn’t stop there. Their efforts have been recognised by the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), which awarded BZI the prestigious Erector Award of Honour for outstanding safety standards.
Building a Legacy of Innovation
Founded in 2016, BZI has quickly become a leading force in the steel and construction industries, thanks in large part to their commitment to innovation. Headquartered in Kanarraville, Utah, BZI operates through three main entities: Building Zone Industries, LLC handles steel erection, BZI Steel, LLC specialises in steel fabrication, and Innovatech™, LLC focuses on developing innovative construction equipment and processes. Their workforce is supported by SteelTech Academy, which offers vocational training and safety certifications, helping maintain BZI’s high standards of safety and quality.
Since its inception, BZI has been committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in construction. CEO James Barlow, who also serves on the Forbes Business Council and is a recipient of the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige Award, has overseen major construction projects across the United States, ensuring that BZI remains a key player in the global construction industry.
A Bright Future for VR in Construction
With VR rapidly changing the way construction projects are planned and executed, BZI’s adoption of the technology marks a significant milestone for the industry. By improving safety, enhancing collaboration, and streamlining processes, VR is set to revolutionise how buildings are designed and erected.
BZI’s forward-thinking approach positions them at the forefront of this transformation. As VR technology continues to evolve, BZI is well-placed to explore its full potential, sharing insights with trade partners and clients alike. With a relentless drive for innovation and a commitment to safety, BZI is not just embracing the future—they’re building it.
