As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, the construction industry is eyeing its next big leap: agentic AI. Unlike traditional generative AI tools that respond to single prompts, agentic AI is designed to act more autonomously—planning, reasoning, and executing multi-step tasks.
What Is Agentic AI?
Agentic AI is an evolution of generative AI that can take on more complex tasks without constant human input. Tech leaders like Nvidia describe it as a shift from simple Q&A interactions to AI agents that function as “knowledge robots,” capable of managing workflows on their own.
In construction, this could mean an AI not only tracking what’s owed to a subcontractor, but building and proposing a payment strategy based on multiple factors.
While the potential is exciting, industry leaders are approaching the technology with a mix of curiosity and caution. “Even though it might be overhyped in the first year, we’re going to be seeing some interesting results this year and also probably some epic failures,” said Vladimir Lukic of Boston Consulting Group.
Slate Technologies CTO Senthil M. Kumar offered a measured perspective:
“There is of course no magical overnight transformation and if one is expected, people will be disappointed,” Kumar told Construction Dive via email. “Those integrating this AI strategically, will gain a significant competitive edge.”
Implementation Matters More Than Hype.
Kumar emphasized that while AI won’t solve every problem, it could offer real advantages for contractors who implement it wisely. “Agentic AI could, for example, help builders manage their schedules, manage risk and compliance, optimize how resources are used and anticipate supply chain disruptions. But knowing that it isn’t a technological cure-all is important.”
Still, he cautioned contractors to be thoughtful in their adoption.
“Selecting the wrong vendor, adopting suboptimal technology, or executing a flawed implementation strategy can result in operational inefficiencies, unrealized potential and wasted investments,” Kumar wrote.
Looking Ahead
Agentic AI may be in its early days, but as the tech matures, thoughtful implementation—not hype—will be what separates the leaders from the rest.
Senthil Kumar is CTO and Head of AI at Slate Technologies, with over 20 years of experience driving innovation across AI, blockchain, and cloud computing. He’s contributed to global tech standards and advises startups and academic institutions.
Source: Construction Dive
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