AI adoption surging across AE industry

AI adoption is surging across the architecture and engineering industry, with 53% of firms using AI tools, up from 38% last year, according to the latest annual Deltek Clarity Architecture & Engineering (A&E) Industry Study.

Industry use cases for AI include proposal development, project planning, business development, and data analytics. Despite the progress in AI adoption, a gap remains between intent and full integration, with many firms still heavily relying on manual processes for core functions like accounting and resource management.

Digital maturity is among firms’ top technology priorities, with 38% now rating themselves as digitally mature or advanced. Within three years, 74% of firms expect to reach that stage.

The survey also found that operating profit on net revenue reached a 10-year high of 21.4%, with net revenue per employee rising 11% year-over-year. Firms are forecasting net revenue growth of 9.6% for 2025, signaling continued optimism in most areas, although some firms are expecting a decline.