Seriun and Burnley College have partnered to deliver a new series of industry-focused technology events, helping businesses across Lancashire explore the opportunities and challenges artificial intelligence present.
The first event in the series, Construction vs AI, brought together construction professionals, business leaders and technology experts to discuss one of the industry’s most topical questions: can AI replace the people behind great construction projects?
Representing the technology perspective, Seriun’s Mark Edwards demonstrated how AI is already helping businesses save time, automate repetitive tasks, improve efficiencies and free employees to focus on higher-value work.
Providing the counter argument, Hannah Bolton of DK Architects made a compelling case for why AI will never replace the human element. While technology can support processes and improve productivity, it cannot replicate experience, creativity, empathy, relationships or the understanding needed to create spaces where people genuinely want to live and work.
The discussion continued with a panel featuring Hannah Bolton (DK Architects), Reid Lewis (Hawthorn Estates Design), William Tobin (Rider Levett Bucknall) and Chris Wright (Speedy Hire), who explored where AI is already delivering value across the construction sector and where human expertise remains irreplaceable.
A common theme emerged throughout the event: AI is not replacing construction professionals, it is giving them better tools. From reducing administration and speeding up reporting to supporting planning and decision-making, the greatest opportunities lie in combining technology with the knowledge, judgement and experience that have always driven the industry forward.