A majority of engineers believe artificial intelligence (AI) is improving productivity rather than replacing engineering expertise, according to a new industry survey released by Engineers Australia.
The survey found that 67 per cent of respondents identified productivity and efficiency as the most significant impact AI is having on the engineering profession today. A further four per cent said AI’s greatest contribution was fostering innovation.
In comparison, 22 per cent of respondents viewed job disruption as AI’s primary impact, while seven per cent identified security issues as the main concern.
Engineers Australia National President and Board Chair Tom Goerke said the findings indicate that engineers are largely viewing AI as a tool that supports their work rather than one that displaces professional expertise.
“The fact that productivity and efficiency benefits for the profession were identified as the most significant impacts of AI underlines the potential of these technologies to support engineers in delivering better outcomes for Australian industries, communities and the economy,” Goerke said.
According to Engineers Australia, AI is already becoming more widely adopted across engineering workplaces.
Its research found that around 56 per cent of engineering workplaces have integrated traditional AI technologies, including machine learning and predictive data analytics, while 43 per cent of engineers report using generative AI in their work.
Goerke said AI can assist engineers with routine tasks, streamline processes and free up more time for complex engineering work.
He also stressed that engineering expertise remains essential as Australia’s adoption of AI continues to grow.
“AI is not a replacement for engineering expertise, judgement or accountability. The most successful applications will be those that combine the power of technology with the critical thinking, technical skills, and professional responsibility that engineers bring to solving society’s biggest challenges,” Goerke said.
Engineers Australia said the growing use of AI highlights the importance of ensuring engineering expertise is incorporated into the design, implementation and governance of AI technologies.
The organisation also noted that it recently welcomed the Federal Government’s new national framework for AI and has advocated for engineering perspectives to be included in the development of future AI policy.
