Robots on the Jobsite: The Next Construction Revolution

AI is improving efficiency across construction businesses, and Trent Cotney expects AI-powered robots to begin handling repetitive jobsite tasks sooner than many contractors anticipate. As robotics advances, contractors will need policies addressing safety, liability, cybersecurity, privacy and the verification of AI-generated information.

For Cotney, the connection between construction's persistent labor shortage and the rise of automation is difficult to ignore.

“For as long as you and I have been in the industry, that's been the biggest topic by far,” Cotney said of skilled labor shortages. “Anytime you have a gap between supply and demand, technology usually fills that space.”

AI is already filling some of that gap. Cotney noted that contractors are using the technology to improve efficiency in customer service, marketing, scheduling, material ordering, estimating and other areas of their businesses. The capabilities available today are dramatically different from those available just a year ago, he said.

From AI to Robots

The next step may be connecting increasingly capable AI systems with physical machines.

Cotney pointed to predictions surrounding humanoid robots and their potential use in manufacturing and construction. He expects robots to begin taking on repetitive construction tasks, such as lifting materials and cleanup, before eventually moving toward more skilled applications.

His message to roofing contractors is not to dismiss the technology as something decades away.

“I think it's gonna happen sooner rather than later,” Cotney said. “AI will end up powering a lot of these robots.”

Bloom said RC plans to continue exploring robotics and AI through its editorial coverage and at Best of Success Conference, particularly as contractors begin investigating opportunities to test robotic technology in real-world construction environments.

New Technology, New Liability

Putting robots on roofing jobsites also creates questions that contractors will eventually have to answer.

Cotney said safety and liability will become significant considerations as automated equipment enters the field. Contractors may need to determine who is responsible when robotic equipment causes property damage or injures someone, along with issues involving equipment ownership, leasing and operation.

The groundwork for managing those risks can begin now.

Cotney encouraged contractors to stay connected with industry associations and peers while establishing policies, procedures and guardrails around emerging technology. Cybersecurity, confidential information and privacy are already concerns surrounding AI and could become increasingly important as technology advances.

That includes requiring employees to verify AI-generated information rather than simply accepting the technology's output.

“Yes, these are cutting-edge technologies, yes, they make life a lot more efficient,” Cotney said. “But you can't get sloppy.”

And what happens if a humanoid robot falls off a roof?

As Bloom and Cotney joked during the podcast, the robot itself getting hurt isn't necessarily the legal problem. The bigger question may be what happens if that robot damages property or injures someone below.

Navigating those scenarios will require new thinking from contractors, insurers, regulators and attorneys. For now, Cotney's advice is straightforward: pay attention, establish safeguards and prepare for technology that may reach roofing jobsites sooner than many contractors expect.