A new global study from DEWALT has highlighted a growing disconnect in the construction sector: while demand for artificial intelligence (AI) is accelerating, the workforce isn’t yet equipped with the training to match.
The research found that 90 per cent of construction professionals believe AI will be indispensable within five years, yet only eight per cent are currently using it day-to-day on the job.
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“Tradespeople are the backbone of our industry, and their hands-on expertise is what brings every project to life,” Stanley Black and Decker President of Tools and Outdoors Bill Beck said.
“As jobsites become increasingly complex and technology-driven, the need for practical AI training has never been more important.”
High expectations, low adoption
The findings point to a clear trend: belief in AI’s potential is strong, but real-world usage remains limited.
- 88 per cent expect AI adoption to increase within the next year
- 83 per cent say it will be standard within three years
- 37 per cent are already piloting or researching AI tools
- Just eight per cent say it’s part of their daily workflow
For those already experimenting with AI, the focus is practical—site operations, planning, and supply chain management are leading use cases.
“Our research shows that trades professionals are eager to develop and apply AI skills,” Beck said.
“Yet, too many still lack access to this essential training.”
Training emerges as the critical gap
Despite confidence in the technology, the biggest barrier is clear: education.
An overwhelming 87 per cent of respondents said AI training needs to be embedded into trade schools and technical programs, while 59 per cent called for hands-on, job-relevant learning tied directly to real construction tasks.
Currently, many tradies are piecing together their own learning through informal channels like YouTube and online platforms—hardly a structured pathway for an industry-wide shift.
“Empowering our workforce with AI education is not just about keeping pace with technology,” Beck said.
“It’s about equipping tradespeople with the tools and knowledge they need to solve real-world challenges, drive productivity, and lead the industry forward.”
Industry steps in with solutions
To help close the gap, DEWALT is rolling out a series of initiatives in partnership with Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC).
A new pilot program, launched through ABC’s Central Florida Innovation and Technology Center, will focus on delivering hands-on, jobsite-relevant AI training for apprentices and early-career professionals.
The company has also committed $75,000 to ABC’s Trimmer Construction Education Fund, supporting grants for AI-focused training programs across the United States.
“Education is vital to bringing fundamental AI skillsets to our future workforce,” said Matthew Abeles.
“DEWALT’s commitment… will be invaluable to improving safety and productivity on jobsites.”
Building a future-ready workforce
Beyond pilot programs, DEWALT is backing ongoing initiatives like “AI Toolbox Talks,” a monthly webinar series designed to help construction businesses understand and adopt AI across design, robotics and quality control.
These efforts sit within a broader commitment to invest $60 million globally through the company’s Grow the Trades program by 2030.
“AI is starting to reshape the future of construction, and we need to make sure tradespeople are ready for it,” Beck said.
“These educational programs are about giving early-career workers and current pros access to the tools and skills that will matter on tomorrow’s jobsites.”
From hype to practical use
The takeaway from the study is clear: the construction industry isn’t resisting AI—it’s waiting for the right tools and training to use it properly.
As Beck put it, the goal isn’t just adoption—it’s usability.
“DEWALT’s goal is to help make AI practical, useful, and accessible for the people doing the work every day.”
And for a sector built on hands-on expertise, that practical approach may be exactly what ensures AI becomes a tool—not a barrier—on the jobsite.
