By OLIVIA GAVLAK

In the words of AI itself:

“AI-powered technology is revolutionizing the construction industry by improving efficiency, precision and safety. Tools like generative design and AI-enhanced Building Information Modeling streamline project planning and optimize designs, while predictive analytics help manage schedules, costs and risks. Autonomous machinery, drones and robotics automate repetitive tasks, enhancing productivity and reducing errors. AI also improves safety through real-time monitoring, hazard detection and predictive maintenance, while optimizing material usage and enabling sustainable construction practices. With innovations like digital twins and smart construction sites, AI is transforming the way projects are planned, executed and managed.” – ChatGPT

Imagine ending it right there without sources to back it up? No authentic voice to relate stories back to readers.

It’s an easy choice to stick a prompt into AI and have it write out the most monotone explanations. However, it is more authentic to have a human being describe and give a more reflective story and message about AI’s impact on the construction industry, while putting the final version into AI for spell-check.

Construction professionals have been leveraging technology since the 1960s with the introduction of Computer-Aided Design for construction designs. The 1980s brought in automation, specifically in building component and tool production. Fast-forward to the early 2000s, predictive maintenance (using AI algorithms to monitor equipment health and forecast failures) became one of the first examples of AI in construction. Now, we are in the Fourth Industrial Revolution – era. This is the time for more experimental uses of AI technology and a push for greater automation in the industry.

The Age of Construction 4.0

The Fourth Industrial Revolution is paving the way for AI. And when it comes to Construction 4.0, this path involves a broad spectrum of technologies. This includes the Internet of Things, Digital Twins, additive manufacturing, cloud computing, Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) and BIM – all leading to automation. Some phases, such as preconstruction, are already benefiting from AI. From sorting data for project types and scope of work to decision-making and strategic planning, Construction 4.0 helps companies and workers complete projects more efficiently. Whether it’s building codes, project lifecycles, or on-site safety, AI is there to assist.

Construction Deep Dive – Buildertrend and the Rise of Construction Management Software

Remember when I said the earliest construction system was CAD? That wasn’t a joke. It all started in 1963 in Bayern, Germany where the Nemetschek Group pioneered software for construction management, including BIM, digital twins and project tracking. From there, construction management software took off – Viewpoint in 1976, Autodesk in 1982 with AI/Machine Learning, e-Builder and Jonas Construction Software in the 1990s and in the early 2000s, the rise of Procore and Buildertrend.

I know, that was a lot to take in. But stay with me.

Buildertrend is now one of the most widely used construction management software solutions, with more than two million completed projects, 1.5 million mobile app downloads and services in 100-plus countries. At GloJoy, we use Buildertrend for everything, which is why I may have some bias towards the software. With Buildertrend, users can track every step of a project – scheduling, daily logs, change orders, bids, rebates and financial tracking. Entry-level users get a basic set of tools, but project managers and administrators have access to a vast library of features.

For construction professionals, using Buildertrend makes life easier, similarly to how AI is making life easier. AI is an aid, and so is Buildertrend. When a GloJoy employee goes out into the field for a site visit, he or she can take pictures on a smartphone and upload them to Buildertrend as part of his or her daily log for the day. He or she can also keep track of materials for the project, such as lighting, plumbing and other accessories.

Buildertrend has been in the industry for a while now, and it is constantly getting updates – that’s what makes it so great to use. It adapts and evolves with the times.

The Negatives to AI

While this all sounds fantastic and innovative, let’s be real. There are always downsides to technology. AI in construction is projected to grow from $3.21 billion in 2023 to $9.53 billion by 2028, so it’s crucial that this technology isn’t misused or abused.

One major concern is data security and privacy. AI collects vast amounts of sensitive data, which, if not properly secured, could end up in the wrong hands. Construction companies need robust cybersecurity measures to protect their data and ensure compliance with privacy regulations.

Another common fear is job displacement. Many industries worry that AI will take jobs away, but instead of replacing workers, AI should be seen as an aid. In construction, where there’s already a labor shortage, AI can fill gaps and create new roles for those trained in CRM software or AI tools. That said, AI in construction must adhere to ethical and regulatory standards – something that will evolve as AI adoption increases.

There’s also the financial aspect. AI technology isn’t cheap, and not every company can afford to integrate it into its budgeting. The software, robotics and sensors come with significant upfront costs, which sometimes requires custom implementation. Some AI systems need continuous updates and maintenance, another added expense in the long run. Overall, an easier way to approach this is phased AI adoption; start with budget-friendly tools, like AI-powered scheduling or safety monitoring, before going to larger AI-driven automation and robotics.

“The Toolbelt Generation” and AI in Construction

What does all of this mean for the future of AI in construction?

Gen Z is driving a resurgence in trade jobs. In 2024, nearly 25 percent to  50 percent of all new hires in skilled trades were aged 18 to 25, a trend that’s expected to grow. Many young people are opting for trades over four-year college degrees, and this is especially true for women and people of color in fields like electrical work, plumbing, and HVAC maintenance.

What does this mean for AI?

According to an Axios report presented by Sumner College, “Many young people believe jobs in the trades will be more resilient to the rise of AI than white-collar alternatives.” AI isn’t eliminating jobs. It’s providing a toolset that young workers can leverage. Unlike white-collar professions where automation can replace tasks outright, skilled trades require hands-on work that AI can assist, but not fully replace.

Gen Z is known as the iGeneration for a reason. Having grown up surrounded by technology, this generation is eager to integrate AI into construction to maximize efficiency, productivity  and safety – on and off the jobsite.

Author’s Note

For me, I was one of those teenagers who followed the norm and pursued a four-year college degree in film and media. Now, as a college graduate searching for a financially and socially fulfilling career, I’ve found my way into construction – not just because of AI, but because it offers opportunities to grow and gain experience in unexpected ways. I use Buildertrend to complete assignments and have used AI to help write this post. It all seems so simple, yet for some, it’s a complex transition. At the same time, it’s an experience that’s hard to put into words.

AI continues to shape every industry, but construction might just be the one that outlives them all. And I’m proud to be part of it.

Olivia Gavlak is project coordinator and media specialist at GloJoy Co.