Fire, electrical and life safety professionals have begun embracing AI and digital tools while still investing in training, professional development and industry collaboration, according to a survey released by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Respondents recognize that embracing emerging technologies will be critical to meeting increased work demands amid the labor shortage.
Skilled labor shortages have long been a challenge within trade industries, and with the emergence of new technologies like AI, there has been more pressure put on a strained workforce. According to the report, 36 percent of respondents said that demand for labor services related to AI infrastructure has increased. Meanwhile, 88 percent of respondents have said that work overall has increased over the last three years.
While it is predicted that skilled labor related to AI will increased over the next several years due to the upscaling of data centers and electrical infrastructure, the industry is concerned for the potential downstream effects it will have on skilled trade workers.
According to the report, trade workers are seeing more value of AI and digital tools when it comes to streamlining administrative work, documentation and access to technical knowledge. Eighty-seven percent of respondents said that technology has made their jobs significantly easier over the last five years. Technology like AI and automation have had the greatest, 39 percent of respondents say. While 36 percent said that digital tools and software platforms follow closely behind.
Still, professionals must rely on codes and standards to guide the work. Continuing education and training remains essential to help workers adapt to the changing industry. According to the survey, 94 percent of respondents participate in one training or development program per year, while 37 percent say they participating in one or more trainings a month.
While technology has boosted confidence, industry professionals still value having a community to turn to for knowledge, support and professional development, with 65 percent of respondents saying that networking and collaboration is an industry perk.
Mackenna Moralez is the managing editor of the facilities market and the host of the Facilities in Focus podcast.
