6 Hot Topics Everyone in Construction Is Talking About

The construction world has been buzzing lately, and not just from the sounds on the jobsite. There’s been a ton of chatter about new tech, labour challenges, sustainability, and how to keep up in an industry that just won’t slow down. 

At BuildingPoint Canada, we’re all about staying connected to what matters most in our industry. So we took a look at a great article from our partners at Trimble and put our own spin on it. 

Here are six topics that had everyone talking—and why they matter. 

1. The Labour Shortage Isn’t Going Anywhere

Finding skilled workers is tough right now. With fewer people entering the trades and many experienced pros retiring or moving on, crews are stretched thin. It’s a challenge across Canada, and it’s changing how companies think about hiring, training, and tech. 

A lot of teams are turning to automation, robotics, and prefabrication to help fill the gaps. AI is also stepping in to speed up workflows and keep projects on track when people are in short supply. 

2. Tech Is Taking Over (In a Good Way)

Construction tech is no longer a “nice to have.” It’s essential. 

AI is helping with everything from project planning to safety. Drones are flying over sites to monitor progress. Robots are lending a hand in tough environments. And tools like BIM (Building Information Modeling) are giving teams better ways to make decisions and manage data. 

Even 3D printing is making waves. One company, ICON, built a system that can print an entire building, foundation, walls, and roof. Pretty wild, right?  

3. Building Green Is the New Standard

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore; it’s part of the plan. From smart energy systems to recycled and low-carbon materials, green building is becoming the norm. 

We’re seeing more interest in things like cross-laminated timber, green roofs, and smarter home design that cuts down on energy use. Whether it’s for homes, offices, or big infrastructure projects, building better for the planet is a top priority. 

4. The Economy Is Forcing Smart Decisions

With higher costs and some pretty unpredictable market conditions, budgets are tight. Between inflation, material price swings, and supply delays, planning a project takes more strategy than ever. 

To stay ahead, many teams are using AI tools to predict issues and recommend smarter, cheaper options—whether that’s materials, timelines, or suppliers. 

5. AR, VR, and XR Are Changing How We Build

Augmented and virtual reality (AR and VR) are no longer just for gamers. Construction crews are using them to spot issues before they happen, train workers, and bring digital plans to life on the jobsite. 

Extended reality (XR) lets teams walk through a full-scale 3D version of a building before it’s built. It helps avoid mistakes and keeps everyone from the field crews to the head office on the same page. 

6. Mental Health Is Finally Part of the Conversation

Construction is tough work, physically and mentally. But for a long time, mental health didn’t get much attention. 

That’s changing. More companies are talking openly about the stress workers face and looking for real ways to support mental well-being on the job. Creating a culture where people feel supported isn’t just the right thing to do, it also leads to better projects and safer teams. 

BuildingPoint Canada Can Help

The construction industry is evolving fast. Whether it’s new tech, new challenges, or a new way of thinking about our people and the planet, it’s clear we’re not building the same way we used to. 

At BuildingPoint Canada, we’re proud to work alongside teams who are embracing change and driving the industry forward. Contact us to partner with us on your next project.