Construction industry adopts AI and new technologies to enhance efficiency and safety

The construction industry is undergoing a technological transformation, with artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced machinery reshaping operations. A report from the Berkeley Research Group indicates that AI is primarily being used to change team structures and automate information-intensive tasks—such as cost estimating, procurement, and contract review—rather than reducing headcount. In North America, 46 percent of respondents have changed team structures, and 38 percent have retrained employees to manage new applications.

Research from Suffolk Construction and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology suggests that AI implementation could potentially reduce total project costs by 17-20 percent and shorten timelines by 22-25 percent. While some firms struggle to find clear use cases for automation, others are focusing on repetitive, volume-based tasks like asset management and predictive maintenance.

Beyond AI, the sector is seeing increased adoption of electric skid loaders to reduce emissions and noise in urban environments. Additionally, the Associated Builders and Contractors highlights a rise in safety-focused technologies, including wearable devices, AI-powered risk detection, and real-time hydration monitoring to protect worker health.