A robot that can lift and place various materials that weigh up to 135 pounds.

Another robot capable of handling its own bricklaying.

This is not science fiction. It is work possibly taking place at the nearest construction site.

Technology and innovation is increasingly important to make up for workforce shortages, and to work smarter, including expanded use of panelized systems, as well as technology like lift-assist and robotics, said Andy Breuer, president of Hueber-Breuer Construction Company, Inc. We expect to see CR robotic masonry and lift-assist technology in use at both SUNY Poly Utica and Nexus.

Hueber-Breuer of Syracuse, founded in 1872, currently is run by the fifth and sixth generation of the Hueber and Breuer families.

The companys award-winning work includes construction management, building construction, design and development.

Hueber-Breuer has done extensive work in Oneida and Herkimer counties over the years. The company currently is working on the Nexus Center, a downtown Utica sports recreation facility primarily used for ice hockey, box lacrosse and soccer. Hueber-Breuer also is working on the new residence hall at SUNY Polytechnic Institute and has completed work on commercial spaces at the Doyle in Utica.

Breuer said technology will drive the field moving into the next decade.

Over time, information that was once gleaned from paper notes transcribed into the computer by a person at the home office can now be captured right on the spot in the field and goes directly online to our cloud-driven Project Management System, Breuer said. Digital photography, time-lapse photography and the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) have also delivered huge efficiencies in quickly documenting and communicating many aspects of the project and in doing so, advance our ability to deliver a quality product to our clients.

Mary Thompson, executive director of Home Builders and Remodelers of Central New York, said the use of technology has gone crazy in the industry over the last 30 years.

Thompson spoke about cellphones in particular, noting how they now can scan documents and take measurements.

However, unlike other business fields where technology pushes out workers, Thompson does not see that happening in construction.

The tools help the people, she said, adding the field would still require people.

Development in Oneida County including the downtown hospital and Nexus Center in Utica, Cree in Marcy and ongoing development in Rome, including at Griffiss Business and Technology Park has increased work in the construction field, Breuer said.

The recent development boom in Oneida County has been the catalyst for growth and new investment, he said. It has led to new construction and renovation projects, which in turn builds confidence for further investment.

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PROGRESS MOHAWK VALLEY: How robots will help build the construction industrys future - The Times Telegram