Contractors See AI as a Game Changer for Construction

A strong majority of construction contractors believe artificial intelligence will play a transformative role in the industry, according to a new industry report that highlights growing optimism despite ongoing concerns around data quality, security, and implementation costs.

The report, AI for Contractors, released by Dodge Construction Network in partnership with CMiC, found that 87% of contractors surveyed believe AI will have a meaningful impact on construction, with many anticipating widespread changes to how projects are planned, managed, and delivered.

Contractors expect AI to significantly reduce time spent on repetitive and administrative tasks. According to the survey, 85% of respondents believe AI will allow them to spend less time on routine work, freeing teams to focus on higher-value responsibilities. More than 70% of contractors also anticipate improved decision-making, citing AI-generated insights that may uncover patterns or solutions that would otherwise go unnoticed.

While enthusiasm is high, AI adoption across the industry remains in early stages. The report notes that more than half of surveyed companies are currently exploring AI through pilot programs or internal evaluations, while also preparing their workforce for new AI-related roles and responsibilities.

Among surveyed contractors:

• 40% have allocated a dedicated budget for AI initiatives
• 38% have established AI implementation teams
• 19% are adapting legacy workflows to support AI integration
• 51% are evaluating multiple AI-driven changes across their organizations

Early adopters are already reporting productivity gains, but challenges remain. The report identifies data quality as the most significant barrier to broader AI adoption. Only 26% of contractors rate their current data quality as high, limiting the effectiveness of AI tools that rely on clean, structured information.

Concerns around data accuracy (57%) and cybersecurity (54%) remain widespread, while more than one-third of respondents cite implementation costs and internal resistance to change as obstacles slowing adoption.

Despite these hurdles, the findings suggest momentum is building as contractors balance caution with opportunity. As firms modernize workflows, improve data governance, and train staff, AI is increasingly viewed as a strategic tool capable of reshaping productivity, risk management, and long-term competitiveness across the construction sector.

Originally reported by Peter Fabris, Contributing Editor in BDC Network.