“How much quicker can you be? How much more work can you get done in a year? Training and technology will separate you like nothing else.”
—Bob Sweeney, President, Sweeney, A Better-Built Connecticut
Bob Sweeney has never been afraid to fail. “I’m a very curious person, which can be a detriment at times,” he admits.
In business, however, his fearless approach has led to tremendous success. Starting with a single piece of heavy equipment for pool excavation in 1986, Sweeney’s company—aptly named Sweeney—has grown through a series of bold moves and technology adoptions. Today, the family-owned business is experiencing double-digit year-over-year growth, handling $26 million a year in earthwork services on job sites ranging in size from 2 to 30+ acres as well as concrete foundation construction, a concept Bob calls “site to slab.”
“It’s a unique offering in that now you’re only hiring one contractor to handle all your earthwork and infrastructure as well as your concrete foundations,” Bob explains. “It gives us more control over the project, and it’s extremely efficient for our clients.”
Getting to that point required Sweeney’s boldest move yet: investing in a new technology provider.
Support: The Backbone of Innovation
As one of the first companies in Connecticut to use GPS machine control more than 20 years ago, Sweeney recognized the value of technology early on. But as his excavation business was powering forward, Bob found himself hitting roadblocks with the concrete foundation trade.
“On one project, the concrete contractor didn’t even show up,” he says. “I had a building ready for him to start footings and walls in, and he wasn’t there.”
Realizing he needed more control over the process, Bob launched a concrete division in 2014. He further expanded his company’s concrete foundation services by acquiring a concrete contractor in March 2024. For layout, he initially used the same technology brand he had been using for machine control, mostly because it was familiar.
“Staying innovative means trying new things. Leica and ABTECH make it easy from a training and workflow perspective.”
—Bob Sweeney, President, Sweeney, A Better-Built Connecticut
Meanwhile, his sons Ryan and Tyler had started working for ABTECH, one of North America’s leading Leica technology distributors. Bob took notice. He already knew about Leica and respected the technology. Now he could get a closer look.
“I’m always interested in what other brands do, but I want to know the support they provide,” he explains. “I don’t proceed with technology unless there’s some infrastructure behind it.
“What impressed me about Leica and ABTECH is that the attention to support is completely unmatched,” he adds.
Preparing for the Future
Sweeney’s commitment to technology is not just about staying current; it’s about preparing for the future.
For the concrete side of the business, the company purchased two Leica iCON iCR80 total stations and the tilt-compensated AP20 AutoPole, which provides faster and more accurate layout.
On the earthwork side, they quickly added two Leica iCON GNSS rovers with a network connection to provide more flexibility on smaller projects. The company also invested in advanced equipment like the Caterpillar 315 hydraulic excavator with Leica machine control, ensuring they remain at the forefront of innovation.
Above: Leica 3D machine control technology effortlessly guides Sweeney’s Cat® 315 Next Gen excavator and works seamlessly with the legacy technology on Sweeney’s other heavy machinery.
“My goal is to make sure that we’re always using the best technology,” Bob asserts.
Overcoming Challenges with Innovation
Despite challenges like labor shortages, Sweeney’s use of technology has allowed them to maintain and even exceed project schedules. Leveraging technology is also helping them attract and retain talent. “We need more skilled tradespeople,” Bob admits, adding, “but we’re more attractive to that young 30-year-old who wants to come work for a company that’s cutting edge.”
Importantly, for earthwork, the new Leica technology works seamlessly with Sweeney’s legacy machine control on their other heavy machinery.
“A lot of contractors run the same brand throughout their organization just because it’s familiar, but I don’t want to miss the boat because someone else has better technology,” Bob says. “Staying innovative means trying new things. Leica and ABTECH make it easy from a training and workflow perspective.”
A Legacy of Innovation and Open-Mindedness
Sweeney’s story is one of continuous growth and adaptation, driven by an open-minded approach to technology and innovation. By embracing new ideas and technologies, Sweeney has positioned itself as a leader in the construction industry, ready to tackle future challenges with confidence and creativity.
“If you’re serious about being a leader in your industry and growing your business, you can’t brush off technology by saying it’s too expensive,” Bob says. “How much quicker can you be? How much more work can you get done in a year? Training and technology will separate you like nothing else.”
To speak with a heavy construction expert who can guide you on your technology journey, contact us.
