Train Tracks

Dewalt study finds gap between AI training and trades

As artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly transforms industries and becomes an essential jobsite tool for construction and industrial businesses, a new national study from DeWalt purports an emerging disconnect: that "the construction workforce is eager for AI, but lacks the hands-on training needed to unlock its full potential," per an April 20 DeWalt press release emailed to EA.

DeWalt's "AI in the Trades" study surveyed construction professionals worldwide. Among its findings were projections that in the U.S., 90% of construction professionals believe AI will be "indispensable within five years," yet only 8% currently use AI on the job. The primary barrier to using AI cited by professionals is a lack of formal, job-relevant training. A reported 87% of respondents say AI education must be embedded in trade schools and technical programs, while 59% expressed a need for hands-on training directly tied to real construction tasks.

“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, the president of Tools and Outdoors at Stanley Black & Decker, DeWalt's parent company. “Our research shows that trades professionals are eager to develop and apply AI skills that will enhance their effectiveness and adaptability on the jobsite. Yet, too many still lack access to this essential training. At DeWalt we believe that empowering our workforce with AI education is not just about keeping pace with technology - it’s about equipping tradespeople with the tools and knowledge they need to solve real-world challenges, drive productivity, and lead the industry forward.”

Key findings of the DeWalt "AI in the Trades" survey:

1. AI is rapidly expanding on the jobsite

• 88% expect adoption to increase over the next year

• 83% say AI will be standard within three years

• 90% believe it will be indispensable within five years

2. Belief in AI’s potential is meaningful, but everyday use remains limited

• 37% are piloting and researching AI

• Only 8% say AI is part of their day-to-day work currently

3. For Early Adopters, Jobsite Workflows Come First

• 46% report exploring AI in site operations and monitoring

• 46% report leveraging it in the planning and design phase of projects

• 41% are using AI to help with estimation, procurement, and supply chain processes

While 86% of construction professionals expressed feeling somewhat or very prepared to work with AI, most cited fragmented, informal learning as a barrier. Currently, tradespeople rely heavily on self-directed resources such as YouTube (40%) and online platforms like Coursera (39%) for AI education. Video tutorials are also popular, with 42% citing them as a preferred learning method.

Among early adopters, the top benefits cited include increased productivity (35%), cost savings (34%), and improved quality control (35%).

Methodology

The survey was conducted online in six countries in December 2025 among skilled trade workers and decision‑makers working from small, medium and large companies across residential, commercial and industrial construction.

Skilled trade respondents included carpenters, concrete workers, electricians, HVAC technicians, plumbers, drywall installers, general contractors and construction technicians. Decision‑makers included professionals in business leadership, project and site leadership, design and engineering, safety and compliance, procurement, and logistics.

This report includes findings for the United States exclusively. In total, 2,481 answered the survey in the United States, including 1,730 skilled trade workers (70%) and 751 decision-makers (30%).