New Study Finds Only 8% of Construction Pros Use AI on the Job; Training is Critical to Drive Implementation

As artificial intelligence rapidly transforms industries and becomes an essential jobsite tool for construction and industrial businesses, a new national study from DEWALT reveals an emerging disconnect – the construction workforce is eager for AI, but lacks the hands-on training needed to unlock its full potential.

The AI in the Trades study surveyed construction professionals across the globe. In the U.S., 90% of construction professionals believe AI will be indispensable within five years, yet only 8% use AI on the job. The primary barrier to using AI cited by professionals is a lack of formal, job-relevant training. An overwhelming 87% of respondents say AI education must be embedded in trade schools and technical programs, while 59% expressed a need for hands-on training directly tied to real construction tasks.

Key findings of study include:

1) AI is rapidly expanding on the jobsite
• 88% expect adoption to increase over the next year
• 83% say AI will be standard within three years
• 90% believe it will be indispensable within five years

2) Belief in AI’s potential is meaningful, but everyday use remains limited
• 37% are piloting and researching AI
• Only 8% say AI is part of their day-to-day work

3) For early adopters, jobsite workflows come first
• 46% report exploring AI in site operations and monitoring
• 46% report leveraging it in the planning and design phase of projects
• 41% are using AI to help with estimation, procurement and supply chain processes

Training is missing link in AI adoption
While 86% of construction professionals expressed feeling somewhat or very prepared to work with AI, most cited fragmented, informal learning as a barrier. Currently, tradespeople rely heavily on self-directed resources such as YouTube (40%) and online platforms like Coursera (39%) for AI education. Video tutorials are also popular, with 42% citing them as a preferred learning method.

Among early adopters, the top benefits cited include increased productivity (35%), cost savings (34%) and improved quality control (35%).

To begin addressing the AI training gap highlighted by these findings, DEWALT is launching a pilot program with Associated Builders and Contractors Central Florida chapter’s Innovation and Technology Center. The program’s goal is to deliver hands-on, jobsite-relevant AI training for the next generation of skilled trades professionals.

Ahead of National Apprenticeship Week, which is being held the week of April 27, DEWALT facilitated a case-study session for apprentices and young construction professionals enrolled in ABC Central Florida’s NextGen leadership program. The session featured a senior virtual design and construction manager from a national construction firm, providing participants with real jobsite use cases and steps for apprentices and young pros to begin implementing AI immediately.

To provide access to AI education nationally, DEWALT has also committed $75,000 to ABC’s Trimmer Construction Education Fund toward Trimmer grants that include AI-related initiatives. ABC chapters across the United States can apply for funding to initiate AI education programs and resources in their regions.

TCEF promotes a safe, skilled and sustainable workforce by providing funding for the direct support of training initiatives/programs or the expansion of a training facility that promotes careers in the merit shop construction industry.

Click here to view the global results of DEWALT’s AI in the Trades survey.