College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
Construction Management Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Construction Management
Date
5-2026
Primary Advisor/Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Philip Barlow, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Construction Management Department
Abstract/Summary
The construction industry regularly produces a surplus of earthwork materials: clean fill, topsoil, gravel, and crushed concrete, that are disposed of at considerable cost. All the while, contractors actively seek those same materials, and no dedicated digital platform existed to connect these two groups efficiently. DrtFndr ("Dirt Finder") is a mobile-first web application developed to address this gap, providing a marketplace where contractors can post available or needed earthwork materials, browse geographically filtered listings by material type and proximity, and connect directly with other users. The application was built using Base44, an AI-powered application development platform, and includes real-time mapping, GPS-based location filtering, and direct call and text functionality. The app is accessible on both mobile and desktop browsers and is designed specifically for field use within the construction industry, where jobsite conditions require a fast, intuitive interface. This paper documents the origin of the project, the steps taken during the development process, the deliverables produced, and the lessons learned throughout. Notable challenges include those associated with mobile app deployment through the Apple App Store and limitations encountered during AI-assisted development. And future development opportunities, including cross-platform integration and the addition of tools helpful to other earthwork related industries.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cmsp/946
Poster Board