A group of engaged structural engineering firm leaders participated in a virtual one-on-one conversation program hosted by NCSEA last month to discuss urgent topics affecting SE firms’ success. This first-of-its-kind NCSEA event matched executive-level leaders with each other for a candid and valuable virtual conversation on important issues and successful approaches to common challenges.
The session’s themes were AI in structural engineering, preparing young engineers for a successful career, and building relationships among project team members (architects, contractors, construction management, etc.)
Across the discussions, firm leaders recognized that structural engineering work is becoming more technology-enabled, more integrated with other disciplines, and more dependent on soft skills and relationships. While AI and advanced software are being used to automate routine tasks, the consensus was core engineering judgement, experiential learning, and ethical responsibility must remain with humans.
Interestingly, a common approach to using AI in the business was relying on native AI embedded in tools engineers are already using vs standalone specialist tools.
As one leader said, “As soon as companies like Autodesk put solid AI into widely used programs like Revit, it benefits firms more than having a top-tier technology they must manage separately. Integrated, even average, AI is more useful than advanced tools that are hard to adopt.”
A full anonymous report of all the discussions from the one-on-one sessions will be shared at the NCSEA Structural Engineering Executive Retreat held March 18-20 in Amelia Island, Florida. Designed to inspire current and emerging leaders, the retreat features expert presentations and roundtable discussions for valuable learning through formal insights and open dialogue. For more information on the event and to register, click here.