By: Sarah Clarkson
Omar Zhan, a seasoned professional in technology and construction, has overseen 7 million square feet of projects across general contracting, project management consulting, and design firms. He studied civil engineering at the University of Nottingham, later contributing to major projects like the Ritz Carlton Hotel and Expo 2017. After earning a graduate degree from Duke University, Omar shifted into construction technology. At Katerra, he managed project controls for multifamily platforms and expanded Rivian’s infrastructure with 300+ projects. Currently, Omar focuses on AI-driven solutions in construction and infrastructure, aiming to pioneer autonomous technologies while being an active member of the Los Angeles tech community. This interview delves into his tenure at Katerra and the company’s impactful journey, shaping the construction tech industry.
Sarah Clarkson: Omar, your journey in construction and technology, particularly at Katerra, has been impactful. Could you provide an overview of what made the Katerra and K90 project so innovative?
Omar Zhan: Katerra, founded in 2015, was a pioneering venture-backed construction technology company. The K90 project was a pivotal initiative aimed at revolutionizing traditional construction practices. It leveraged digital technology, offsite manufacturing, and integrated project management to streamline the building process. Our ambitious goal was to deliver a 24-unit garden-style building in just 90 days, challenging industry norms and demonstrating the potential for rapid, efficient construction.
Sarah Clarkson: What were some key methodologies or innovations employed during the K90 project?
Omar Zhan: The project introduced a manufacturing mindset into construction, meticulously planning every phase from design through assembly. We optimized workflows such as framing and MEPF (mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection) installation using prefabricated components and advanced logistics. For instance, our panelization process enabled us to complete framing and gain third-party inspection approval in a record 26 working days.
Sarah Clarkson: How did digital technology contribute to achieving these efficiencies?
Omar Zhan: Digital tools were integral to our approach. RFID tracking enabled real-time monitoring of building materials from factory to site, enhancing supply chain management and reducing wastage. Additionally, our proprietary project management software facilitated seamless communication and data analysis across project teams, enabling proactive decision-making and resource allocation. My role was pivotal in developing an efficient project schedule, employing advanced trade sequencing to optimize labor costs and conducting productivity analysis to establish standards. Throughout the project, we implemented continuous feedback and improvement programs, facilitating rapid iterations to refine baseline methodologies and set benchmarks for future buildings.
Sarah Clarkson: Given the challenges in construction productivity, how did Katerra address these with the K90 project?
Omar Zhan: Katerra addressed the perennial challenges in construction productivity by fundamentally rethinking traditional methods through the K90 project. Recognizing the industry’s historical inefficiencies—such as lengthy project durations and unpredictable costs—we implemented a comprehensive strategy centered on offsite manufacturing and integrated project management. This approach enabled us to prefabricate building components in controlled factory environments, reducing onsite construction time by nearly half compared to conventional methods. Moreover, our focus on standardized building platforms and modular designs facilitated faster assembly and minimized construction waste. By optimizing logistics, adopting lean manufacturing principles, and embracing digital tools for enhanced coordination, Katerra successfully met the K90 project’s ambitious 90-day delivery goal while setting new benchmarks for efficiency and innovation in the construction industry.
Sarah Clarkson: Looking forward, how do you envision these innovations shaping the future of construction?
Omar Zhan: Projects like K90 showcase the transformative potential of integrating manufacturing principles into construction. As the industry evolves, adopting advanced technologies and standardized practices can drive productivity gains and address global housing shortages. Lessons from K90 inspire new approaches and solutions for efficient, affordable housing today.
Sarah Clarkson: Katerra is no longer operational today. How do you reflect on the impact of projects like K90 on the industry?
Omar Zhan: Katerra’s closure marked a shift in the construction technology landscape, but projects like K90 continue to resonate. They demonstrated that combining technology, manufacturing, and design can achieve significant advancements in construction efficiency and quality. Today, new ventures backed by major funds build upon K90’s foundation, pushing further innovation in standardized construction delivery methods.
Sarah Clarkson: What role do you see these new ventures playing in advancing construction technology?
Omar Zhan: These ventures leverage lessons from Katerra and other innovators. By harnessing cutting-edge technologies and scalable business models, they drive innovation in modular construction and sustainable practices. The focus remains on enhancing productivity, reducing costs, and meeting urbanization and housing needs globally.
Sarah Clarkson: Thank you, Omar, for sharing insights into Katerra’s work and the future of construction technology. Your experience with K90 highlights the impact of innovation in shaping the built environment.
Omar Zhan: It’s been a pleasure discussing these topics. I’m optimistic about construction technology’s future and eager to see how new ventures build upon K90’s foundation. Thank you for reflecting on these developments.
Sarah Clarkson: What do you foresee regarding the tech landscape of construction technology in Los Angeles and its evolving role?
Omar Zhan: The tech landscape of construction in Los Angeles is vibrant and evolving rapidly, buoyed by a concentration of talent in contech and proptech sectors. Organizations like LACI (Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator) and the Net Zero Accelerator are pivotal in fostering innovation, particularly in decarbonizing the built environment. This focus aligns with the city’s goals of sustainability and resilience, driving advancements in modular and prefabricated construction technologies.
The high cost of housing in Southern California further underscores the relevance of modular and prefabricated construction. These methods offer not only faster and more cost-effective building solutions but also align with sustainability targets by reducing waste and energy consumption. As digital platforms and AI-driven tools continue to integrate into construction processes, we anticipate a shift towards standardized practices and greater efficiency, addressing both housing demand and environmental impact challenges in Los Angeles.
Sarah Clarkson: Can you tell us about projects you’re currently working on?
Omar Zhan: Currently, I’m focused on developing an internal product at an electric vehicle charging company that utilizes AI and machine learning for project design and construction estimating. Concurrently, I’m dedicating time to my startup, aiming to achieve autonomous construction through construction artificial general intelligence (AGI). It’s an ambitious endeavor, but with the right blend of technology and innovative thinking, we aim to revolutionize the construction industry.
Sarah Clarkson: Thank you for sharing your insights, Omar. Your work at Katerra and your vision for construction technology are fascinating. We look forward to seeing how you shape the industry.
Omar Zhan: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure discussing my experiences, and I’m excited about the future and the opportunities ahead.
Published by: Holy Minoza
