AI is changing the nature of construction so builders can spend more time on-site, make better decisions and keep people’s judgment at the center of every project.

For centuries, construction has been powered by people. A construction professional’s judgment, experience, relationships and ability to solve problems in real time have always been at the heart of every build. Yet as tools, systems and administrative demands have multiplied, too much of that expertise has been pulled away from the work that matters most. Today, technology is giving the construction industry an opportunity to reverse that trend. Not by replacing people, but by restoring balance and helping it get back to the people side of building.

A people‑centered approach to construction innovation recognizes the value of partnership between people and machines. When technology takes on repetitive work such as searching, reconciling, documenting and navigating multiple systems, it frees project teams to concentrate on what they do best: building, leading and making informed decisions. This shift is about restoring focus, not reducing headcount or cutting jobs. The goal is to get boots back on the ground, restore meaningful interaction and use technology as a tool that supports how we build instead of letting it get in the way.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a powerful tool to discover new and better ways to lead the industry. At PCL Construction, that belief led to the creation of a new corporate AI lead role, with Holynde Smiechowski appointed to guide companywide AI implementation and adoption in a way that is grounded in how PCL builds. With deep experience leading projects in the field and across diverse sectors, Smiechowski brings a practical, builder‑first perspective to how AI can support field teams.

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