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

  • Posted on

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% … Read more

Filed under: NewsTagged with: ,

New Radar, AI Method Reveals Hidden Flaws in Cold-Formed Steel Structures

  • Posted on

A University of Houston engineer has developed a method to detect possible damage in concealed cold-formed steel construction framing materials hidden behind walls, without having to tear the walls open. The new technology uses ground-penetrating radar and artificial intelligence to automatically detect possible damage in materials like studs and joists made of the lightweight steel found in 30% to 35% of nonresidential buildings in the United States.    Over the past decade, as advancements in developing cold-formed steel surged, its use in the construction industry has soared. In comparison to hot rolled steel, cold-formed steel is more affordable and offers … Read more

Filed under: NewsTagged with: ,

NFPA Report Reveals Disconnect Between Organizational & Workforce Priorities

  • Posted on

Skilled Workers Look to Technology Amid Workforce Shortages and Codes & Standards Rollbacks The National Fire Protection Association released its annual “State of the Skilled Trades” report, which highlights workforce perspectives, sentiments and anticipated challenges as artificial intelligence, deregulation and labor shortages remain pervasive industry concerns. The report unveils what is driving uncertainty, where avenues for progress are opening, and how industry leaders can better align with their employees in the coming year. As AI reshapes work, employees want more training, not just more technology Most skilled trade professionals anticipate significant growth in AI usage throughout 2026, but many believe that improved training should be a higher priority. This reveals an emerging … Read more

Filed under: NewsTagged with: ,

AGC Report: Contractors Have ‘Dampened’ Expectations for 2026

  • Posted on

Construction contractors have “dampened” expectations for 2026, aside from surging demand for data centers and power facilities, amid broader worries about the direction of the economy, according to Dampened Expectations: The 2026 Construction Hiring and Business Outlook, which the Associated General Contractors of America and Sage released. In addition to lower expectations, contractors report they have been impacted by tariffs, enhanced immigration enforcement and challenges finding qualified workers. “While there are pockets of optimism in select private-sector markets, contractors’ overall sentiment has dampened notably compared to last year,” said Jeffrey Shoaf, the association’s CEO. “One reason for their lowered expectations is … Read more

Filed under: Economic NewsTagged with: ,

New NFPA Study Spotlights AI Adoption, Training Trends in Skilled Trades

  • Posted on

The National Fire Protection Association released findings from its third-annual industry survey conducted at the NFPA 2025 Conference & Expo. The survey highlights how people across the skilled trades are viewing industry changes and where their fields are headed, against the backdrop of persistent labor shortages and growing demands fueled by infrastructure investment and technological advancement. “The skilled trades are at a turning point: rising safety hazards, rapid technology adoption and an unprecedented demand for training are reshaping how work gets done,” said Jim Pauley, president and CEO at NFPA. “Leaders must understand how these forces are affecting skilled professionals. … Read more

Filed under: eNews, Industry NewsTagged with: , ,