Building smarter, safer jobsites with machine control

Author: Reka Vasszi

In heavy civil construction, efficiency, safety, and precision aren’t optional, they define success. For Carmichael Development, a Georgia-based earthmoving and sitework contractor, embracing machine control and connected workflows has transformed how work gets done in the field and the office.

By bringing together Leica Geosystems machine control, AGTEK earthwork software, and hands-on support from Leica Geosystems’ distributor, Terrawise Solutions, Carmichael Development has implemented a model-to-machine workflow that boosts productivity, strengthens operator performance, and supports long-term growth.

“Innovation and technology have really boosted our efficiency,” says Jake Brineman, Vice President of Construction at Carmichael Development. “There’s no way you can do it as efficiently without this technology.”

Turning Models into Production

Today, Carmichael Development runs a seamless office-to-field workflow. Using AGTEK in the office, the team builds detailed 3D models and exports them directly to the field. Operators see the same data in their cabs through Leica Geosystems 3D GPS machine control, eliminating guesswork and miscommunication.

“The field guys and the office staff are seeing the same information,” Brineman says. “There’s no communication breakdown by utilizing this technology.”

Because AGTEK and Leica Geosystems are both part of Hexagon, the systems work naturally together. “The big differentiator with AGTEK is that it works in tandem with Leica Geosystems’ machine control,” says Jay Allen, Regional Vice President of Machine Control at Terrawise Solutions. “That seamless workflow makes everything easier, for both the office and the field.”

Empowering operators at every skill level

Machine control has also changed who can succeed in the operator’s seat. “The machine does the thinking,” Allen explains. “It allows operators, regardless of experience level, to produce a precision, on-grade product.”

For Carmichael, this has been a key driver of growth. “Leica Geosystems was one of the big reasons for our growth,” says Carmichael. “It takes a lot of the pressure off the field.”

By reducing the mental load on operators, crews are more productive, less fatigued, and safer at the end of the day. “Our crews are safer, more efficient, and more productive,” Brineman says. “And we’re delivering a better-quality product to our customers than we did in the past.”

Support that makes the difference

Technology alone isn’t enough. Carmichael Development credits much of its success to the ongoing support from Terrawise Solutions. “The support that Leica Geosystems provides through Terrawise is unmatched,” Brineman says. “When our people call, they jump in and help.”

That partnership ensures Carmichael isn’t just using machine control, but using it to its full potential. “These days, it’s not about whether you have machine control,” Allen says. “It’s about how well you’re utilizing it to be more efficient than your competition.”

For Carmichael Development, adopting Leica Geosystems machine control and AGTEK software has done more than improve production numbers. It has created safer jobsites, stronger teams, and a scalable foundation for the future.

“Technology allows us to take everyday people in construction and produce an exceptional product,” says Carmichael.