Artificial intelligence is increasingly impacting civil engineering and construction, particularly in roles involving design, analysis, planning and project management, so what can you do?
The current thinking is to learn how to use AI to your advantage as opposed to seeing it as a threat. Artificial intelligence may automate certain tasks it may not replace the need for skilled professionals who can think critically, solve problems, and lead people.
AI cannot replace emotional intelligence or communication skills, stakeholder management, negotiation, conflict resolution, and team leadership. These are your new superpowers!
The roles most susceptible to disruption by AI or automation are design engineers, quantity surveyors, estimators, planners, schedulers, document controllers and administration co-ordinators, according to ConsultANZ.
While AI presents opportunities for greater efficiency and smarter decisions, it can and will redefine some roles or replace them altogether so learning software tools like BIM, scheduling platforms, estimating software and digital collaborating tools will enhance your skills and strengthen your value.
Specific advice for design engineers is to master AI-powered CAD/BIM, Revit with AI plug-ins, and AI-assisted simulation platforms. Engineers who know how to guide, interpret, and refine Ai-generated models will remain valuable. Basic coding and scripting skills will help engineers automate repetitive CAD/BIM tasks themselves, thus providing a competitive edge, making them tech enablers.
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