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2026 Key Construction Technology Trends

  • Writer: Dustin South
    Dustin South
  • Jan 12
  • 2 min read

January 2026 – By Dustin South


Prediction is difficult. New technologies emerge and trends are established in ways we may not expect, but we can look forward to several trends continuing into 2026 that will help evolve construction, engineering and design.


Artificial Intelligence (AI):

AI has become the fastest growing market in the construction industry, expected surge from $1.76 billion in 2024 to over $7 billion by 2029. At AU2025 this past year Autodesk unveiled it’s plans to provide new tools utilizing AI in almost every product that they offer. These tools will help construction managers, designers and engineers automate repetitive tasks, iterate solutions quickly, predict risk, and streamline resource allocation and scheduling. Look for AI to become an essential tool in the construction industry toolbelt in 2026.


Robotics & Drones:

Coupled with AI technologies, robotics and drones are helping the onsite construction crews streamline repetitive tasks, monitor site progress, and improve productivity and safety. We have seen drones used in many creative ways already, beyond just scanning and mapping, including assembling materials, drilling, and automated re-bar tying. While Robotics can help with things like lifting heavy loads and marking layouts.


Extended Reality (XR):

BIM technologies have become standard in construction design and manufacturing. Almost every subcontractor on a major construction project using some form of modeling to create a “digital twin”. Augmented reality (AR) will overlay this digital twin onto job sites in real time, helping detect errors, visualize plans, and guide installation precision. Virtual Reality (VR) studios can help immerse designers and owners into the building before a shovel has hit ground. Extended reality is largely untapped in the construction space, look out for the potential of these technologies to be on the rise in the coming year.



Written by: Dustin South, Technology and BIM Lead


 
 
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