As the construction industry continues to evolve, one topic is increasingly taking center stage – Artificial Intelligence (AI). At the Construction Technology Confex, Wissam Hijazi, Vice President of Innovation for the MENA region at EllisDon, delivered a compelling presentation titled “Leaders Don’t Fear AI, Embrace It!” In this video, he addressed the concerns surrounding AI while passionately advocating for its potential to revolutionize the industry.
AI: A Tool for Enhancing Human Expertise
Wissam Hijazi opened his presentation by acknowledging the widespread apprehension that often accompanies discussions about AI. The fear of job displacement and the unknown future it brings are common concerns. However, he quickly reframed the narrative, emphasizing that AI should not be seen as a threat but rather as a powerful tool to enhance human expertise.
He reminded the audience that AI is fundamentally a simulation of human intelligence. Its role is not to replace human critical thinking or creativity but to complement these abilities by handling repetitive tasks and processing large amounts of data more efficiently. This allows professionals to focus on higher-level strategic thinking and decision-making.
Addressing the Key Concerns: Job Security, Skill Relevance, and Ethics
Hijazi didn’t shy away from the difficult questions surrounding AI. He discussed the impact of AI on job security, acknowledging that the technology could reduce the need for certain roles. However, he stressed that this doesn’t mean AI will replace humans entirely. Instead, it will shift the nature of work, creating opportunities for new skills and roles that didn’t exist before.
Another major concern is skill relevance. As AI continues to advance, there’s a fear that human expertise may become obsolete. To counter this, Hijazi emphasized the importance of continuous education and training. He outlined how EllisDon has implemented programs to educate employees on AI, helping them understand its applications and how it can be integrated into their daily tasks.
Ethical implications also play a crucial role in the AI conversation. Hijazi pointed out the risks associated with AI, such as data security and potential misuse. He highlighted the importance of transparent communication within companies and the need for robust ethical guidelines to ensure that AI is used responsibly.
A Collaborative Approach to AI Implementation
Wissam Hijazi underscored the importance of a collaborative approach to AI. At EllisDon, they’ve engaged with various business units to understand their needs and how AI can best serve them. Rather than imposing AI solutions from the top down, they’ve involved employees in the process, allowing them to define the tools they need and ensuring they feel empowered rather than threatened by the technology.
This approach extends to hiring new talent, such as data scientists and data analysts, who can provide the necessary support and guidance for AI implementation. By fostering a culture of collaboration, EllisDon is ensuring that AI is not just another tool but an integral part of their operations that enhances rather than disrupts.
The Future of AI in Construction: A Journey of Innovation
Wissam concluded his presentation by reflecting on the journey of AI adoption. He acknowledged that while not all AI applications have been successful, the process of testing and learning is crucial. Monitoring progress, adapting strategies, and embracing failures as learning opportunities are all part of the journey.
The future of AI in construction is one of collaboration between human intelligence and AI’s computational power. As Hijazi eloquently put it, “Let AI do the heavy lifting, and let humans make the final decisions.” By embracing this balance, the construction industry can harness AI’s potential to drive innovation, improve efficiency, and ultimately create a more sustainable and resilient built environment.
Stepping Confidently into the AI-Driven Future
Wissam Hijazi’s presentation at the Construction Technology Confex was a powerful reminder that the future of construction lies in embracing AI with open arms. By addressing fears head-on, fostering collaboration, and investing in education and training, companies can transform AI from a source of anxiety into a catalyst for growth and innovation.
As Hijazi encouraged, it’s time for leaders in the construction industry to overcome their fears and step confidently into the AI-driven future. The possibilities are endless, and the time to act is now.
Construction Technology ConFex 2025
Construction Technology ConFex is the region’s biggest and best platform to help the AEC industry deliver better. Over 2 days, it brings together 1000+ project owners, developers, contractors, consultants and technology companies to share lessons learned from new approaches to work that will increase performance, competitive edge and viability in the industry. Don’t miss the industry’s annual meeting for all things digital and sustainable. Find out more here!
