Digital construction technology is revolutionizing the way we build modern infrastructure. Advanced tools, including integrated sensors, digital twins, 3D modeling, Building Ireinforcement MODELING (BIM), automation and drones considerably improve safety results, reducing material waste, preventing expensive project errors and reducing global construction costs.
With current surface transport invoice set to expire In September 2026, It is essential that Congress continues has support investment In This technology. In response, AEM and its industry partners have an increase in advocacy In the past year To obtain federal incentives, encouraging the project sponsors to invest in digital construction technologies.
These technological advances are of persistent challenges of the industry like inflation, Material costsand labor shortages, While opening new avenues for innovation,, operational efficiency,, and economic opportunities. While these systems continue to mature and integrate into existing workflows, they become essential to meet global infrastructure demands, advance sustainability objectives and promote security.
In 2021, as part of the infrastructureTent and Jobs Act (iija),, Congress recognized the importance Acceleration of the teenagerdigital construction technology pion. Congress has invested $100 million ($ 20 million per year on five years) in funding has support ADvanced digital Constation Mmanagement sSystems (ADCMS) technologies –– specifically Target improvements in the design of transport infrastructure, engineering, safety of work areas, construction processes and current operations. In heavy non -road construction equipment, ADCMS technology leads to efficiency gains thanks to sophisticated control systems of machines and notes, optimized engines and transmissions, advanced digital control interfaces and complete machines.
To strengthen this effort, Aem submitted official comments to the Transport and Infrastructure Committee of the Chamber and the Senate environment and public works Committee and Join a coalition letter highlight the critical importance of these investments. The two initiatives underline the importance of ADCMS program And the need for reautical program in the next surface Bill of transport.
These technological investments offer substantial value to taxpayers through several channels: accelerated construction deadlines that reduce the duration of the project, an optimized use of materials that reduces waste and cost and increased capacity to attract qualified workers to the construction industry. In 2023, Aem published a study,, “BEnefits of construction dequesting technologies and their impact on the company.“” This study to propose Tangible examples of efficiency and advanced caused by the adoption of digital construction technology. For example, thanks to the use of Construction equipment equipped with precision Grade control technologies,, The amount of concrete and asphalt saved on projects to build public roads each year is sufficient for concrete and asphalt to pave a two-Chicago HighwayILlinois, in PhoenixARizona (approximately 1,700 miles).
In addition toSe Tangible examples, state transport departments recognize the importance of This technology. Since his creationThe ADCMS program has been overwrittenbut a lot State Transport departments are wanting to Adcms additional program funding. While an increase in Program financing solve a lot problems, the current political climate poses Several opposite winds. Although not ideal, interview Current financing levels be a victory not only for industry, but also Also for state transport departments.
While the chamber and the Senate committees begin maintain Their bipartite commitment with the members of the Congress. Current awareness The efforts were welcomed positive reactions On Capitol Hill, with legislators Understand the cost and time–Save the oppositeOrtinities. We thank our champions for this question, the senators Boozman and Cramer, For their leadership on this subject and look forward to Additional discussions During the rekinding of surface transportation.
Aem aim remains Clear: highlight the strategic importance of digital construction technology and secure the investments and support necessary to maximize the impact of federal infrastructure financing.