Turner Construction Company hosted its 10th Innovation Summit in Nashville, Tennessee, uniting more than 300 change leaders, innovators, and collaborators from Turner and other ACS Group companies. Under the theme “Empowering Transformation,” participants explored how innovation, artificial intelligence (AI), and collaboration are reshaping the future of construction—across personal, organizational, and societal dimensions.
“Turner is committed to equipping our people with the tools, skills, and confidence to solve challenges and transform how they work,” said Jim Barrett, Vice President and Chief Innovation Officer at Turner. “The summit provided attendees with a playbook to amplify individual impact, advance company growth, and drive meaningful progress across the industry.”
AI in Action: From Learning to Building
Following AI learning sessions led by experts from OpenAI, participants applied their new skills during Turner’s largest-ever AI agent build session—a collaborative hackathon that produced more than 100 custom AI tools to address real-world project challenges, such as streamlining contract reviews, enhancing safety, and optimizing project planning.
Turner has already embedded AI across its operations, from AI-powered assistants and image analysis tools that bolster safety and planning, to digital tracking systems and autonomous drones that accelerate project delivery. The company’s Production Control System further standardizes execution, reduces stress on project teams, and enhances consistency across projects.
These advancements have saved tens of thousands of work hours while creating new opportunities for learning and growth. During the Innovation Circuit, attendees explored ten interactive exhibits showcasing practical solutions such as AI-driven contract analysis, digital work-in-place tracking, and predictive safety systems.
Collaboration with OpenAI
Turner’s industry-leading engagement with OpenAI ensures that every employee has access to ChatGPT Enterprise, empowering teams to work smarter, make faster decisions, and unlock new efficiencies. This initiative reflects Turner’s commitment to making innovation accessible and practical, embedding digital fluency into the daily fabric of construction operations.
Inspiring Perspectives
The Summit featured thought-provoking sessions from an impressive lineup of global innovators and thought leaders, including:
- Cassie Kozyrkov, CEO of Kozyr and former Chief Decision Scientist at Google
- Fred Mills, Founder and Managing Director of The B1M
- Mike Sewell, Director of Innovation at Gresham Smith
- Alex Willis, CEO of Leadership Surge
- Robbie Bach, Former Microsoft Chief Xbox Officer
- Mike Singletary, NFL Hall of Famer and leadership author
Empowering People to Lead Transformation
The event reinforced that Turner’s greatest asset is its people—their creativity, curiosity, and courage to challenge what’s possible.
“Our people are constantly shaping the next generation of construction solutions,” added Barrett. “Innovation and AI will continue to expand what our teams can achieve—helping us build smarter, connect globally, and lead transformation across our industry.”
Through sustained investment in innovation, culture, and talent, Turner is defining the future of construction—connecting technology, people, and purpose to create more resilient, intelligent, and sustainable projects for communities around the world.
