Description: This session is designed for anyone working with codes and construction documents—especially plan examiners, permit techs, inspectors, building officials, planners, and fire marshals. As today’s building departments are doing more with less, reviewing complex projects, enforcing evolving codes, and serving growing communities, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a partner. But how do you separate the hype from practical help and how do you trust it with the critical work you do? In this session, AI Company, Ichi, will explore how AI can support that work by acting as a trusted copilot, helping reduce bottlenecks, improving consistency, and giving time back to the people who keep our cities moving. They will demystify how AI works and show what it takes to trust it in the kind of nuanced, high responsibility work you do every day. If you’re ready to explore how the right tools can help you lead the future of code compliance, this session is for you.

This webinar is presented in collaboration with Ichi, an AI-native platform for the building safety industry. While some examples and case studies featured in this webinar will include Ichi clients and technology, the webinar is designed as an educational experience. The goal is to explore the broader role of AI in building safety and code enforcement by highlighting real-world examples, general principles, and practical insights – using Ichi as a representative case study. Any references to specific tools or technologies are intended to illustrate concepts and do not constitute an endorsement by California Building Officials.

Instructor: Brandon Levey is the founder of Ichi, with over 20 years of leadership in technology and startups. He founded Stitch Labs, an inventory software company he led for a decade before it was acquired by Square in 2020. After the acquisition, Brandon led several of Square’s R&D platform teams. Earlier in his career, he worked at Sandia National Laboratories, focusing on domestic nuclear security. Brandon’s connection to the building industry runs deep—his first job was in his father’s HVAC sheet metal shop. He now lives in Rockridge with his family, in a home he and his wife remodeled together.

Originally aired July 10, 2025
Watch the full recording here.* 

*Please note that CEUs are not available for individuals who did not register and watch the presentation live.