A new national study from Dewalt reveals that the construction workforce is eager for AI, but lacks the hands-on training needed to unlock its full potential.
Dewalt's 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% currently 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% of respondents say AI education must be embedded in trade schools and technical programs, while 59% expressed a need for hands-on training directly tied to real construction tasks.
What company leadership says
"Tradespeople are the backbone of our industry, and their hands-on expertise is what brings every project to life. As jobsites become increasingly complex and technology-driven, the need for practical AI training has never been more important," says Bill Beck, President, Tools & Outdoors, Stanley Black & Decker. "Our research shows that trades professionals are eager to develop and apply AI skills that will enhance their effectiveness and adaptability on the jobsite. Yet, too many still lack access to this essential training. At DEWALT, we believe that empowering our workforce with AI education is not just about keeping pace with technology - it's about equipping tradespeople with the tools and knowledge they need to solve real-world challenges, drive productivity, and lead the industry forward."
Key findings of the survey
1. AI is rapidly expanding on the jobsite
- 88% expect adoption to increase over the next year
- 83% say AI will be standard within three years
- 90% believe it will be indispensable within five years
2. Belief in AI's potential is meaningful, but everyday use remains limited
- 37% are piloting and researching AI
- Only 8% say AI is part of their day-to-day work currently
3. For Early Adopters, Jobsite Workflows Come First
- 46% report exploring AI in site operations and monitoring
- 46% report leveraging it in the planning and design phase of projects
- 41% are using AI to help with estimation, procurement, and supply chain processes
Dewalt launches AI training pilot program
To begin addressing the AI training gap highlighted by these findings, Dewalt is launching a pilot program with Associated Builders and Contractors Central Florida chapter's Innovation and Technology Center. The program's goal is to deliver hands-on, jobsite-relevant AI training for the next generation of skilled trades professionals.
Dewalt facilitated a case-study session for apprentices and young construction professionals enrolled in ABC Central Florida's NextGen leadership program. The session featured a senior virtual design and construction manager from a national construction firm, providing participants with real jobsite use cases and steps for apprentices and young pros to begin implementing AI immediately.
To provide access to AI education nationally, DEWALT has also committed $75,000 to ABC's Trimmer Construction Education Fund toward Trimmer grants that include AI-related initiatives. ABC chapters across the United States can apply for funding to initiate AI education programs and resources in their regions.