Artificial Intelligence in the Construction Industry: A Competency-Based Examination Through Expert Lens

In recent years, there has been a significant surge in educational institutions' interest in integrating artificial intelligence (AI) as a fundamental resource in the learning process. This trend is not limited to any particular sector but extends to the construction field, an ever-evolving sector where new technologies continually emerge in materials, construction techniques, and contractual relationships. As AI has become an indispensable tool in the construction industry, it is not just a trend but a necessity. It becomes essential for graduates in this discipline to acquire the necessary competencies to effectively address the challenges presented by the current job market. This article, a collaborative effort between academia and industry, explores the competencies and skills essential for students in a construction engineering program at a private university in Chile, particularly in integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the industry. This examination is grounded in the insights and requirements identified by representatives from companies within the construction sector, ensuring that the research is not only academically rigorous but also practically relevant. This research is situated within a qualitative framework and relies on in-depth interviews with industry representatives. For convenience, the sample consists of 14 actively employed professionals in the construction sector who were located through networks of contacts. This study aims to provide a precise understanding of the competencies and skills that underpin the relevance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in today's job market in the construction industry. With the increasing demand for professionals skilled in areas such as AI-based robotic technology operation, virtual reality, and augmented reality, university programs in construction engineering must adapt to meet the current and future job market demands. The results will not only identify specific AI competencies deemed vital in the construction industry, per the perspectives of the interviewed professionals and experts, but also provide actionable insights into how these skills can be developed and integrated into the industry, enhancing project efficiency and quality. The analysis of semi-structured interviews with industry experts reveals a labor market that highly values critical reflection, ethical principles, interpersonal and management skills, technical mastery in programming, data analysis, mastery of emerging technologies and construction-related software, English, and cybersecurity knowledge. These findings underline the importance of adapting educational programs to prepare future professionals for a labor market where AI is increasingly involved. This article aims to transform how we educate and prepare future professionals to ensure their swift and successful integration into the workforce.