The construction workforce is eager for AI, but lacks the hands-on training needed to unlock its full potential, according to a new survey by toolmaker DeWalt.
“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,” said Bill Beck, president, Tools & Outdoors, Stanley Black & Decker.
DeWalt’s “AI in the Trades” study finds that 90% of U.S. construction professionals believe AI will be indispensable within five years, yet only 8% currently use AI on the job.
The primary barrier cited is a lack of formal, job-relevant training.
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.
“As jobsites become increasingly complex and technology-driven, the need for practical AI training has never been more important,” Beck added.
Key survey findings
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. Everyday AI use is 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 AI in the planning and design phase of projects
- 41% are using AI to help with estimation, procurement, and supply chain processes
Training is the missing link
While 86% of respondents feel somewhat or very prepared to work with AI, most cite fragmented, informal learning as a barrier. Currently, tradespeople rely heavily on self-directed resources such as YouTube (40%) and online platforms like Coursera (39%) for AI education. Video tutorials are also popular, with 42% citing them as a preferred learning method.
Among early adopters, the top benefits cited include increased productivity (35%), cost savings (34%), and improved quality control (35%).
To begin addressing this training gap, DeWalt is launching a pilot program with the Innovation and Technology Center at Associated Builders and Contractors’ Central Florida chapter. The goal is to deliver the hands-on, jobsite-relevant AI training that’s been missing.
DeWalt also 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, who provided participants with real jobsite use cases and steps for implementing AI immediately.
To provide access to AI education across the nation, DeWalt has also committed $75,000 to ABC’s Trimmer Construction Education Fund toward Trimmer grants that include AI-related initiatives.
“Education is vital to bringing fundamental AI skillsets to our future workforce,” said ABC vice president of construction technology and innovation Matthew Abeles. “ABC thanks DeWalt for its generosity and dedication to lifelong learning in the construction workforce.”
About DeWalt’s survey
The survey was conducted online in December 2025 across six countries among skilled trade workers and decision-makers working in small, medium, and large companies across residential, commercial, and industrial construction.
The results above are the survey findings from the United States exclusively.
Respondents included carpenters, concrete workers, electricians, HVAC technicians, general contractors, and construction technicians, as well as company decision-makers.
