Engineering Firms Tackle Workforce Challenges with AI Solutions

Every February, National Engineers Week provides a unique opportunity to celebrate the incredible contributions of engineers who shape the world around us. Engineers play a pivotal role in solving some of the world's most complex challenges. This week not only honors the profession but also serves as a moment to reflect on the future of engineering and the importance of cultivating a strong and talented workforce to continue driving progress.

Engineering firms face challenges acquiring and retaining top talent. According to the Deltek Clarity Architecture and Engineering A&E Industry Study, 90% of architecture and engineering (A&E) firms report difficulty finding the right candidates to fill crucial roles. Despite fewer overall job openings in the industry, firms are struggling to attract skilled workers, provide competitive compensation and align candidates with their organizations' specific needs. These challenges highlight the importance of workforce planning and talent management in sustaining innovation and ensuring project success.

National Engineers Week is an opportune time for firms to celebrate their teams' achievements and double down on strategies to attract and retain the best talent. Firms that leverage cutting-edge technology and foster an inclusive workplace culture are likelier to stand out in a competitive talent market, appealing to the next generation of engineers eager to make an impact.

"Embracing AI and data analytics not only boosts efficiency and outcomes but also helps firms attract and retain top talent, deliver greater value to clients and remain competitive in the market," said Neil Davidson, Deltek's Group VP of Sales. He added, "However, firms need to identify the right AI technology and digital tools that enable smarter project lifecycles and can help attract and retain top talent, deliver value to clients and differentiate firms in a competitive market." 

Studies from Deltek Clarity and the ACEC Research Institute show that firms are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) to help with these challenges. According to the ACEC Research Institute 2024 Economic Assessment Forecast, more than half of firms have an AI strategy or are developing one, with 63% optimistic about AI's positive impact. The Clarity Study reports that 62% believe AI will boost operational efficiency.

A recent article from Johns Hopkins University School of Engineering highlights how engineers are finding new ways to incorporate AI into their work. AI boosts productivity, efficiency and creativity across various engineering fields by handling repetitive tasks, allowing engineers to focus on higher-level decision-making, innovation and problem-solving.

Using AI to Acquire and Retain Talent

To solve hiring challenges, firms need tools to speed up the process. AI can quickly create job postings and streamline job requisitions. It can also help attract and hire talent more efficiently by analyzing resumes to find qualified candidates. In addition, AI predictive algorithms can identify gaps in current staff capabilities and suggest tailored recruitment or training strategies such as personalized employee development by analyzing skills, performance data and career goals.

AI Helps Increase Employee Productivity

AI tools can handle repetitive tasks like drafting, data entry or analysis. AI-powered tools like generative design and real-time simulation software enable faster, more efficient design processes, reducing engineers' workload. The Clarity Study notes that A&E firms increasingly use AI for marketing, data analysis, 3D modeling and business process automation. While adoption is still partial, firms see AI as a key tool for improving efficiency, project delivery timelines and reducing costs.

Using Data for Better Decision-Making

Firms rely on data to make the right business decisions, but the data is often stored in multiple places, making retrieval cumbersome. Deltek's AI-powered business companion, Dela™, makes finding data easier using generative AI (GenAI). Dela allows users to ask questions, initiate emails or calls, and use voice recognition and natural language processing to provide answers based on relevant data. Users can engage with Dela to locate specific files, such as contracts or proposals and receive summaries highlighting details like deadlines, milestones or compliance requirements.

AI tools can also gather data from multiple sources, simplifying decision-making. Understanding a client's history, ongoing projects, and potential opportunities is crucial for meaningful conversations. Within Deltek Vantagepoint, users can Ask Dela to locate contracts, identify projects associated with a specific firm, or even draft a proposal summarizing a particular project. Firms can also get Smart Summaries of firms they work with, helping executives, business development managers and project managers stay informed and nurture client relationships.

Engineering firms must embrace AI for operational improvement and strategic growth to stay competitive and future-proof their operations. This approach allows them to navigate workforce challenges effectively and secure a stronger position in the evolving A&E landscape.

At Deltek, we celebrate Engineers Week and are proud of our many customers who are rising to these challenges and looking to the future with bold ideas and transformative solutions. Their dedication to innovation and excellence is helping to change the world and make it a better place for generations to come. Together, we can continue to support and empower the engineering community to achieve even greater success.