Artificial intelligence may play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Nevada's construction industry. As one of the fastest-growing states in the nation, Nevada is witnessing rapid developments and projects across its landscape.

From new sports stadiums in Las Vegas to a growing number of data centers in Northern Nevada, the state's terrain is transforming at a remarkable pace, fueling heightened demand in construction.

However, alongside these large-scale projects comes a growing need for housing, driven by Nevada's population surge. Recent data shows Nevada ranks among the top two states with the greatest increase in home construction permits.

The Las Vegas metro area leads the nation in this regard. While these developments are positive signs of growth, they also highlight a significant issue—there are simply not enough construction workers to meet the demands of these projects.

National labor shortages in the construction industry have impacted Nevada severely. According to the National Association of Home Builders, 33-65% of builders across the U.S. report a labor shortage. Furthermore, 54% of contractors have experienced project delays due to these shortages. With numerous large projects in Nevada, these shortages are proving to be especially disruptive, delaying timelines, inflating costs, and causing significant bottlenecks. The problem has become so urgent that Senator Jacky Rosen is leading an initiative to pass legislation aimed at strengthening the national construction workforce and tackling the skilled worker shortage.

While such efforts may yield results in the future, immediate solutions must also be explored. This is where technological innovations, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), come into play. Even in the early stages of generative AI development, builders are already leveraging it throughout the construction process.

For example, during the preconstruction phase, where planning and development teams are typically essential, AI’s machine learning abilities are streamlining design and planning efforts.

In later phases, generative AI aids architects and designers in transforming their concepts into reality, while helping project managers create realistic timelines and manage other administrative responsibilities. On construction sites, AI is making projects safer, more efficient, and faster.

To combat ongoing material and labor shortages, site managers are increasingly turning to AI to adjust projects for optimal efficiency.

Additionally, AI is enhancing safety by helping managers modify timelines to minimize the effects of extreme heat and utilizing data-driven insights to anticipate potential hazards before they occur. The technology is also automating some of the most dangerous tasks on the job site.

These applications are improving worker safety while addressing labor shortages through automation. As AI technology continues to advance rapidly, its role in construction will expand, offering even more ways to support Nevada’s builders.

As lawmakers consider solutions to rising construction costs, a sensible first step is to embrace AI advancements while avoiding restrictive regulations that could stifle innovation.

Aaron West, a 20-year veteran of the construction industry, is the founding CEO of the Nevada Builders Alliance.

Originally reported by Aaron West in NNBW.