By Catalyst Communications Network Staff

However, a recent survey by Catalyst Communications Network( CCN) reveals that while awareness is high, actual adoption remains in its early stages. Surveying 150 construction professionals across North America— primarily in heavy equipment, lifting and contracting sectors— the results highlight a cautious approach to AI integration.

Key findings include:

• Limited Implementation: Only 18 % of respondents reported active use of AI tools in their daily operations. This limited uptake echoes broader industry trends, as companies grapple with implementation challenges even as AI’ s potential becomes increasingly clear.

• Awareness is Growing: 72 % of respondents believe AI could significantly improve efficiency in areas such as scheduling and risk management.

• Barriers to Adoption: Cost( cited by 45 %), lack of training( 32 %) and integration concerns with existing workflows( 25 %) were cited as the top hurdles.

• Early Wins: Among adopters, 65 % reported benefits in predictive analytics for equipment maintenance and site safety, aligning with emerging tools highlighted in recent industry reports.

These results come at a time when AI is making headlines for its role in addressing longstanding crane operation and construction challenges. A July 2025 survey by Slate Technologies reinforces CCN’ s findings, showing that while 74 % of construction leaders see value in AI, only 13 % plan to adopt it soon. This“ beliefaction gap” suggests the industry is still in the exploratory phase, with many firms testing AI on a small scale before full commitment.

Setting the Stage

Experts emphasize that early adoption, though limited, is laying the groundwork for broader transformation.“ If 2024 was the year that AI in construction started to walk, then 2025 will be the year it starts to run,” said an Autodesk executive in their

18 October 17, 2025 www. contractorshotline. com