How Construction Technology is Changing the Trades Industry in Ontario

These days, technology in construction is essential for any job site. Take a look around and you’ll see 90 percent of construction workers using smartphones to optimize processes and communication and over 80 percent working with laptops. But these common tools are just the beginning. This isn't the construction industry of your parents' generation.

With new construction technology and tools, better safety measures, and accessible training programs, technology is transforming how we build while creating exciting opportunities for the next generation of skilled tradespeople. Here’s how construction technology is shaping the construction industry in Ontario.

What Is Construction Technology?

Beyond smartphones and laptops, construction technology refers to any tool, equipment, or software that improves how we plan, build, and maintain construction projects. It makes construction safer, faster, and more efficient by streamlining processes and reducing the margin for error. 

Some construction technology examples include:

Impact of Construction Technology

Ontario’s construction companies are evolving and benefitting from the rise of construction technology, with notable effects across the industry. Here are some of the advantages of these cutting-edge construction technology solutions.

Boosted Efficiency and Productivity

One of the biggest perks of new types of construction technology is improved efficiency and productivity within the construction industry. Building infrastructure typically involves many time-consuming and labour-intensive tasks, but promising construction technology trends are optimizing projects for tradespeople. Here’s how: 

• Streamlined workflows with project management software keep every task running smoothly.
• Drones provide real-time data that can improve measurement accuracy by up to 61%.
• Automated machinery does repetitive tasks, freeing skilled workers for more complex, hands-on work in construction processes.
• Cloud-based collaboration tools keep the whole team on the same page, preventing miscommunications and project delays.

For construction professionals, this means less time spent on labour intensive, repetitive tasks and more focus on the skilled work they’re trained for. The result? Projects are completed faster and with fewer avoidable setbacks throughout the construction process—a win-win for everyone involved.

Improved Safety for Construction Companies

Construction technology doesn’t just speed up construction operations—it also improves worker safety on the job. Construction ranks among the riskiest industries in Canada, with heavy machinery, work at heights, and many other potential hazards. However, thanks to recent innovations and new types of construction technology, we’re seeing a positive shift.

New construction technology like AI-driven hazard detection systems and wearable safety monitors makes construction sites much safer by identifying risks before they lead to accidents. Drones and sensors also oversee site conditions in construction projects, enabling proactive safety measures and reduced accidents.

BIM, robotics, and animated project data are also construction technology examples that contribute to the safety of construction teams. These technologies reduce the risk of accidents and allow safety supervisors and construction managers to address issues more proactively. 

Students and apprentices are now being trained on this new construction technology. That means they’re stepping into a safer, tech-empowered construction industry from day one.

New Construction Industry Roles and Opportunities

With new construction technology hitting job sites, we’re also seeing fresh roles and career paths emerge in the industry. For many construction companies, it’s not just hammers and hard hats anymore. Mastering the latest tools and technologies means tradespeople have even more opportunities to develop and specialize their skills. 

• Electricians are becoming smart home specialists, installing automated lighting and security systems
• Plumbers use digital tools to detect leaks and monitor water usage
• Renovators use 3D modelling to give clients virtual reality tours of their future spaces.
• General contractors and project managers are managing construction projects with digital platforms and drones
• HVAC technicians program and maintain smart climate control systems
• Specialized positions like drone operators and BIM specialists are becoming more common
• Data analysis roles are increasing as companies rely more on real-time project information and diagnostics
• There are emerging leadership opportunities to train teams on new construction technologies 

These changes mean more career flexibility and opportunities for tradespeople in the construction business to upskill and specialize. For students entering the field, it’s a chance to get in on the ground floor with industry trends that are rapidly evolving and expanding.

More Interactive and Accessible Training Methods

Gone are the days of sitting in a classroom for hours, flipping through outdated textbooks. Thanks to new construction technology, training is now more interactive, engaging, and accessible than ever before. Students and apprentices can now:

• Access 3D models and digital blueprints on their tablets
• Practice with virtual and augmented reality tools that overlay instructions onto real equipment
• Join online classrooms for theory training, making education more flexible
• Use simulation software to learn heavy equipment operation
• Track their progress through digital apprenticeship portfolios

Even better news: Ontario's new Focused Apprenticeship Skills Training program lets students fast-track their journey in the trades. High school students can spend up to 80% of their senior courses doing hands-on co-op placements at construction firms. With technological education now mandatory for all students, going into the trades has become easier than ever.

Better Regulatory and Industry Support

Ontario is backing technology in construction with major programs and funding. The Critical Industrial Technologies Initiative, for example, has launched a $1 million challenge statement to drive the use of AI, robotics, and automation to speed up housing projects.

With these efforts, the Ontario government is helping construction companies adopt cutting-edge technology, boosting productivity, and making it easier to meet housing demands. For students considering the trades, these investments signal a growing, evolving industry ready to welcome new talent. 

Build Your Construction Career With Next-Gen Trades Skills

With next-generation construction technology transforming the industry, now is the perfect time to gain skills in this area. The Skilled Trades College of Canada gives you a competitive advantage with training that combines hands-on skills and innovative technology. Our pre-apprenticeship programs prepare you for today's digital job sites and tomorrow's opportunities with:

• Exposure to the latest construction technology
• Industry-experienced instructors
• Hands-on practice with the latest tools and equipment
• Small class sizes for personalized attention
• 12-week programs to get you working sooner

Whether you're starting fresh or upgrading your skills, this is your chance to build a rewarding career in Ontario’s booming construction sector. Contact us now to speak to one of our advisers.