A few weeks ago, I wrote about the American Jobs Plan and its investment in infrastructure improvements as well as its support for equipment manufacturers. An article published by Forbes this week and authored by Mark Schwartz, Chief Digital Officer at Trimble, showcases the ways that technology may accelerate the progress of projects under the American Jobs Plan.
The adoption of "connected construction" technology could reduce costs by 4–6%, saving taxpayer dollars, and also lower carbon emissions and increase construction productivity gains significantly. Two technological advancements making a big difference in the efficiency of projects—like bridge and highway repairs, development of electric vehicle charging stations, and improvements for public transit services—are advanced machine control and augmented reality (AR).
In an occupational sense, it's becoming more important than ever that companies train their employees to use these kinds of technologies. In a broader sense, the American Jobs Plan's emphasis not simply on infrastructure improvement, but on streamlining this infrastructure for the 21st century, is sure to change the field in the years to come. While this will likely and painfully spell the demise of some legacy positions and competencies, there will also be new opportunities for innovation in what is fast becoming a dynamic field in the national spotlight.