Critical Insights and Ideas Leaders Need to Know: A Comprehensive Breakdown of the 2026 Present and Future of Work in Engineering and Architecture Research Report

Just 21% of engineers and architects use AI daily — yet among those who do, more than half report high or transformational productivity gains. For those who use AI less often, not a single respondent describes its impact as transformational. 

The gap between those who have experienced what AI can do and those who haven’t may be the most consequential divide in the profession right now, but it’s just one of several fault lines running through engineering and architecture firms in 2026. 

For our 6th annual report, we surveyed over 400 engineers and architects across the country to understand how AI is reshaping work, what professionals need to thrive, and what distinguishes firms where talent stays and engagement runs high.

Join Peter C. Atherton, PE, as he breaks down this year’s report and shares specific insights related to: 

• What AI adoption actually looks like on the ground: who’s using it, who isn’t, and why the gap between daily users and occasional users matters more than overall adoption rates.
• The state of the AEC profession in 2026, including where talent is thriving and what drives professionals to stay or go. 
• How ownership structure shapes engagement, retention, and the employee experience.
• The three characteristics — clarity, confidence, and connection — that top-performing firms share.