Architecture, engineering and construction sector slow to adopt AI
Despite widespread excitement about artificial intelligence, adoption across the architecture, engineering and construction sector remains limited. A recent survey found that only about a quarter of AEC professionals currently use AI, largely because many firms still rely on paper-based processes and manual approvals. Industry leaders note that hesitation is understandable, since AI depends on clean, accessible data and clear use cases. Companies that have moved forward successfully started by identifying specific problems AI could solve, rather than treating the technology as a cure-all.
Early adopters such as Bechtel and Skanska are using AI primarily as an assistant to improve efficiency, safety and decision-making. These companies apply AI to manage massive volumes of documentation, support safety compliance, evaluate project changes, optimize modular construction planning and monitor jobsites. AI is also helping transfer institutional knowledge to younger workers as experienced professionals retire, while addressing labor shortages by boosting productivity. However, challenges remain, including data security concerns, cost and complexity, regulatory uncertainty and skills gaps. Experts emphasize that successful adoption requires cultural change, better data integration, training and starting with small, practical applications that can scale over time.
