DEWALT Launches AI Training Push as Contractors Seek Practical Jobsite Skills

TOWSON, MD — Construction professionals increasingly see artificial intelligence becoming a standard tool on the jobsite, but many say the industry lacks the practical training needed to put it to work.

That is the key takeaway from DEWALT’s new AI in the Trades study, which found strong interest in AI across the construction workforce—paired with limited day-to-day adoption and a growing need for hands-on education.

Construction Pros Expect AI to Become Standard

According to the US findings, 90% of construction professionals believe AI will be indispensable within five years.

Another 83% expect AI to become standard within three years, while 88% anticipate adoption increasing over the next year.

Despite that momentum, only 8% said AI is currently part of their daily work routine.

For contractors, the results suggest AI interest is moving faster than implementation.

Training Gap Slows Real-World Adoption

Respondents identified lack of formal, job-relevant training as the top barrier to using AI on the job.

An overwhelming 87% said AI education should be built into trade schools and technical programs, while 59% said they need hands-on instruction tied directly to real construction tasks.

Currently, many workers are relying on self-guided learning sources such as YouTube, online courses and video tutorials rather than structured employer or school-based programs.

“Tradespeople are the backbone of our industry, and their hands-on expertise is what brings every project to life. As jobsites become increasingly complex and technology-driven, the need for practical AI training has never been more important,” said Bill Beck, President, Tools & Outdoors, Stanley Black & Decker.

Early AI Use Centers on Core Contractor Workflows

Among companies already exploring AI, the most common applications are tied to everyday project execution.

Respondents reported using or piloting AI for site operations and monitoring, planning and design, and estimating, procurement and supply chain tasks.

Those are areas where contractors often face labor pressure, scheduling challenges and margin compression—making efficiency gains especially valuable.

Among early adopters, top reported benefits included increased productivity, cost savings and improved quality control.

DEWALT Launches Training Pilot With ABC

To help close the skills gap, DEWALT is launching a pilot program with the Associated Builders and Contractors Central Florida chapter’s Innovation and Technology Center.

The initiative is designed to provide hands-on, jobsite-focused AI training for apprentices and early-career trades professionals.

Ahead of National Apprenticeship Week, DEWALT also hosted a case-study session for participants in ABC Central Florida’s NextGen leadership program, featuring practical AI use cases from an experienced virtual design and construction manager.

National Grants and Ongoing Education Expand Access

DEWALT also committed $75,000 to ABC’s Trimmer Construction Education Fund to support grants that include AI-related training initiatives.

ABC chapters nationwide can apply for funding to launch AI education programs and resources in their own markets.

In addition, DEWALT is supporting ABC’s monthly “AI Toolbox Takeaways” webinar series, aimed at helping member companies understand AI’s impact on design, robotics and quality control.

“Education is vital to bringing fundamental AI skillsets to our future workforce,” said Matthew Abeles, ABC vice president of construction technology and innovation.

Part of Broader Workforce Development Strategy

The new AI initiatives build on DEWALT’s existing Grow the Trades commitment, which includes a pledge to invest $60 million through 2030 to expand access to education and resources for the skilled trades.

For contractors, the larger message is clear: AI may become another essential tool—but only if the workforce receives training practical enough to use it in the field.

“AI is starting to reshape the future of construction, and we need to make sure tradespeople are ready for it,” Beck added.

Click here to view the global results of DEWALT’s AI in the Trades survey. 

For more information on DEWALT products and solutions, visit DEWALT.com.