Everyone’s talking about a skilled labor shortage — but what if it’s not real? In this episode of The Deconstruction Podcast, Kosta, Johny, and Charlie sit down with Matteo Nunziata, founder of UBILD, to unpack how AI is transforming hiring in construction and why the real problem isn’t a shortage — it’s a labor utilization crisis.

Matteo shares how UBILD's AI interviewer helps contractors vet and hire skilled trades faster and smarter, while uncovering the hidden potential in today’s workforce. The crew dives deep into teaching culture on job sites, foreman-apprentice dynamics, and how technology like Jobtable and UBILD are empowering small construction businesses to compete with the big players.

This one’s a must-listen for contractors who care about growth, leadership, and staying ahead of the curve as AI reshapes the trades.

👉 Learn more about Jobtable: https://www.jobtable.com

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👉 UBILD: AI-powered construction staffing platform connecting contractors with reliable workers. Use coupon JOBTABLE for a special discount!

⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps:

00:00 – Technical difficulties & hilarious cold open
02:00 – Introducing Matteo Nunziata & the story behind UBILD
05:30 – From temp staffing to AI-powered hiring
09:40 – How AI interviews and ranks tradespeople
13:00 – The “labor shortage” myth: what’s really happening
18:00 – Teaching apprentices vs. technical skill: the real gap on site
27:00 – Detecting honesty, attitude & personality through AI
33:00 – Why UBILD and Jobtable focus on blue-collar innovation
40:00 – Overcoming fear of technology in the trades
54:00 – Apprenticeships, incentives & passing down skills
1:06:00 – Labor trends, falling trade rates & what’s next for hiring
1:12:00 – The rise of AI robots and jobsite automation
1:13:00 – Matteo’s special offer for listeners + closing thoughts