The construction industry is undergoing a revolution with the integration of technology and artificial intelligence, making it more appealing to women and other underrepresented groups.
The construction industry is one of the most male-dominated fields, with women making up only 14% of the workforce. However, new technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and Building Information Modeling (BIM) are changing the game.
The Benefits of Digitalization in Construction
Larissa Zeichhardt, owner of LAT, a medium-sized construction company based in Berlin, has seen firsthand the benefits of digitalization in her industry. Her company uses robotic dogs to document daily work on site, allowing human colleagues access to a virtual 3D model of the structure. This technology not only streamlines administrative tasks but also helps prevent damage to cables that could lead to power outages and costly repairs.
From Bricklaying to AI
Bianca Weber-Lewerenz, a construction engineer with a PhD, has been a trailblazer in her field for over two decades. She became the first female mason in the regional German state of Baden-Württemberg in 1997 and has since written extensively on diversity in construction. ‘AI is creating new roles for women in construction, allowing them to work more efficiently and effectively.’ Weber-Lewerenz believes that AI is creating new roles for women in construction, allowing them to work more efficiently and effectively.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the construction industry by increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and improving safety.
AI-powered tools can analyze building designs, predict construction timelines, and detect potential errors.
Additionally, AI-driven robots are being used for tasks such as excavation, welding, and bricklaying.
According to a report, the global construction AI market is expected to grow from $1.5 billion in 2020 to $6.4 billion by 2025.
The Power of BIM
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a digital platform that gives all trades involved in a project access to documentation. ‘BIM simplifies communication and prevents chaos and conflict,’ Weber-Lewerenz says. She also launched an initiative to promote sustainable, human-led AI in construction, which has gained support from the German construction industry and beyond.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a digital representation of a building's physical and functional characteristics.
It uses a 3D model to create a collaborative environment for architects, engineers, and contractors to design, construct, and manage buildings.
BIM provides accurate spatial coordination, cost estimation, and scheduling.
According to the U.S. National Institute of Building Sciences, widespread adoption of 'BIM could save the construction industry $6.2 billion annually by 2018.'
A New Era for Women in Construction
The construction industry is slowly starting to attract more women, thanks to initiatives such as WIR.KÖNNEN.BAU (We can construction), which calls for more flexible hours, child care support, and remote work options. Companies like LAT are already seeing positive results from these efforts, with women making up a significant portion of their workforce.
Women have been making strides in the male-dominated construction industry, with their numbers increasing steadily over the years.
According to a report by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, women comprised only 2.5% of construction workers in 1970.
However, this number grew to 3.7% by 2020.
Women are now taking on various roles, from site managers to engineers and 'architects'.
Despite these gains, challenges persist, including limited career advancement opportunities and a lack of female role models.
Conclusion
The use of technology, AI, and BIM is changing the face of the construction industry, making it more appealing to women and other underrepresented groups. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how these new technologies shape the future of construction and create a more inclusive and diverse workforce.
