In AEC technology, 2024 was undoubtedly the year of AI. Every company seemed to announce its pledge to embrace artificial intelligence in the coming years, not to mention the numerous startups that peppered their pitch decks with promises of bleeding-edge innovation.

Tech developers who had been using machine learning before the generative AI boom were delighted. They no longer needed to invest significant resources in convincing the industry of AI’s potential. The mainstream success of generative AI in 2024 created a ripple effect, making AEC firms eager to explore and adopt AI solutions.

Many all-digital startups also got a boost from the AI frenzy, even though many significant innovations happened in hardware and material technology that did not rely on AI.

In November, I interviewed Stjepan Mikulić, who collects and maintains a database of AEC AI tools. The database currently has over 1,400 entries. I suppose many of them won’t be around three years from now, but the message is clear: AI is becoming a key technology in construction.

My picks

Undoubtedly, my 2024 content also reflected the topic of the year. At least one-third of the content I created (podcast, blog, newsletter) was related to AI in AEC. I also launched a new podcast series, the AI AEC Show.

Here are picks from my 2024 content:

Exploring Architects’ Perspectives on AI: A Survey of Fears and Hopes

In the RIBA 2024 AI Report, 35% agree that AI threatens the architectural profession, 36% think the opposite, and 29% could not say one way or another.

Building Optimization with TestFit’s New Generative Design

I talked with Clifton Harness, the Co-Founder and CEO at TestFit, to learn more about their approach to generative design.

AI Transforming Quantity Takeoff

Marty Cornish, CEO of Workpack, explains how the company’s AI pre-construction software can automatically detect various elements in construction drawings, making quantity take-off up to 95% faster.

ACTOR Streamlines Construction with Automation and AI

The ACTOR webinar discussed how robotics, sensors, AI, machine learning, extended reality, and standardized data make real-time situational awareness possible. ACTOR’s company partners showcased the technologies developed during the project.

Transforming Construction Management with Wendy AI

Wendy AI is a groundbreaking virtual assistant tailored for the construction industry. It offers features that cater to professionals’ unique needs. This technology enhances productivity, project control, risk reduction, and cost savings, significantly improving lead time and project outcomes.

How to Make LLMs Work in Construction

The Building 2030 Week discussed AI and LLMs in construction.

Construction and AI: What Contractors Need to Know from ABC’s New Report

The Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) released its fourth annual construction technology report, which dives deep into AI’s evolving role in the construction industry.

Safeguarding AEC Data: Best Practices and Insights from Egnyte’s Kevin Soohoo

I had the pleasure of speaking with Kevin Soohoo, Senior Director of the Global AEC Practice at Egnyte. We discussed the critical topic of data security in the AEC industry, particularly in the context of AI.

The Future of AI Agents with Alexander De Ridder of SmythOS

I sat down with Alexander De Ridder, a technology visionary and founder of SmythOS. We discuss AI agents and how they will change our everyday.

To read and listen to more of my AI-related content, visit AEC-Business.com.

What’s coming next

I’ll continue to explore and report on AI advancements in the AEC industry throughout 2025. As the focus shifts from isolated pilot projects to real-world, scalable implementations, I’m excited to highlight impactful innovations. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have a project or insight to share!