Curtis Watson

Background

About Curtis Watson

With a career in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) industry that began in 1994, Curtis Watson brings a unique blend of hands-on construction experience and software innovation to every project he touches. His journey started in consulting engineering, where he spent 8 years progressing from a drafter to a drafting manager and mechanical designer. In 2002, he joined University Mechanical Contractors (UMC) in Mukilteo, Washington, stepping into the role of plumbing and piping detailer. Over the next 17 years, Curtis became a key figure in UMC’s VDC (Virtual Design and Construction) efforts, contributing to major projects like hospitals, cancer research centers, wastewater treatment plants, and district energy systems across the Seattle area. For a decade, he led the VDC team as Manager, driving the adoption of cutting-edge technologies long before they became industry standard. In 2018, Curtis transitioned to the software side of the industry, joining STRATUS as Director of Customer Success. By 2022, he had earned the role of Chief Product Officer (CPO), where he helped shape and deliver innovative digital solutions tailored for the construction world. His time at STRATUS broadened his perspective on how technology can truly enable and empower teams in the field and the shop. In early 2024, Curtis returned to his construction roots by joining Modern Construction Services. Modern provides VDC services and construction technology consulting to contractors across the country, and Curtis plays a key role in bringing innovative tools, processes, and strategy into the hands of project teams. His mission: to bridge the gap between innovation and execution by applying software-driven insights directly to real-world construction challenges. Outside of work, Curtis enjoys DIY and home automation projects, gaming (especially World of Warcraft), playing tennis, hiking, and most of all, spending time with his wife and two teenagers.