A report from the Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE) in partnership with Autodesk shows how AI is driving a rapid shift in the UK engineering and consultancy sector.
The report titled 'AI and the New Era of Engineering Innovation' claims that 68% of business leaders in the UK are stepping up investment in technology, a figure that surpasses global averages.
AI-powered automation is reported to enhance productivity by up to 40% and minimise project overruns by as much as 25%.
The research also points to an evolution of engineering roles, highlighting a rising need for skills such as AI literacy, ethics, data interpretation, and professional oversight.
Rather than substituting engineers, AI is described as reinforcing their expertise and supporting more effective solutions.
The report also includes case studies from companies such as Mott MacDonald, Stantec, and AECOM.
These case studies illustrate how AI is now integrated into regular operations, increasing productivity, speeding up design and analysis, and altering professional responsibilities in the built environment.
ACE CEO Kate Jennings said: “AI will not replace engineers; it will empower them to reimagine what is possible. We are at an historic inflection point for the UK’s consultancy and engineering sector.
“From energy resilience to national infrastructure, our work underpins prosperity and progress - and AI is now reshaping how we deliver it. With the right frameworks, leadership, and skills, the UK can lead the world in safe, ethical and innovative engineering.
“Our priority is ensuring technology enhances the human expertise that defines our profession, delivering lasting value for communities and the planet.”
The publication calls for immediate action from both the industry and domestic government.
It recommends that industry bodies implement ethical frameworks for AI use, allow controlled pilots to help drive adoption, and invest in developing digital skills and relevant training schemes.
For government bodies, the document advises creating a ‘National AI in Engineering Strategy’ with industry input, modernising procurement practices to encourage technological innovation, and broadening access to apprenticeships and accreditation programmes focused on AI.
The document concludes that the UK has an established industrial base, strong research infrastructure, and a skilled workforce to support the advancement of AI in engineering and infrastructure delivery.
The report states that sustained investment and detailed workforce planning are necessary to maintain global competitiveness.
Autodesk EMEA construction director Paul Marland said: “AI is revolutionising engineering, driving both creativity and efficiency. It enables engineers to envision solutions previously unimaginable. By automating routine tasks, AI allows engineers to focus on strategic insights and innovation.
“The world's designers, engineers, builders, and creators trust Autodesk to help them design and make anything, and we are committed to fostering ethical AI adoption that amplifies human expertise and creates sustainable solutions.
“Collaboration between industry and government will be key to establishing effective frameworks and policies, ensuring the UK remains at the forefront of engineering excellence and can deliver the infrastructure that will underpin long-term growth.”
