This story was originally published by Frank Kalman on the Bluebeam Blog.

The construction industry is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in its history.

Rapid advancements in technology, evolving regulations and an ongoing workforce shortage are forcing professionals across architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) to rethink how they approach their projects. These changes bring both new opportunities and complex challenges, leaving many in the industry searching for solutions.

How will artificial intelligence shape workflows? Can the industry bridge the ever-growing labor gap? What role will sustainability play in construction’s future?

These are just some of the pressing questions shaping the industry in 2025. As construction professionals adapt to an increasingly digital and data-driven world, the need for collaboration, innovation and foresight has never been greater.

Unbound, Bluebeam’s new premier global event for design and construction professionals, will serve as a hub for exploring these challenges and discovering the solutions that will define the next era of construction.

Taking place from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2 in Washington, D.C., Unbound will bring together industry leaders, technology pioneers and hands-on professionals to discuss the future of construction in a way that is both practical and forward-thinking.

Through keynote speeches, hands-on learning sessions, expert panels and networking opportunities, attendees will gain insight into the most critical trends shaping the industry—and leave with actionable takeaways to apply in their own work.

Below are five of the biggest questions facing construction professionals in 2025, and why Unbound is the place to find the answers.

1. How Will AI Change Construction Jobs?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a concept of the future but already reshaping construction workflows in real time. From AI-assisted design tools to automated scheduling and predictive analytics, technology is helping firms optimize efficiency and reduce costly errors. But this shift also raises concerns about job displacement, workforce adaptation and the evolving role of human expertise in a technology-driven industry.

Will AI replace traditional construction jobs, or will it serve as a tool to enhance productivity and safety? How can firms integrate AI without disrupting existing workflows? And what new skill sets will be required as AI becomes a standard part of project management?

Unbound will feature sessions that explore real-world applications of AI in construction, offering case studies, expert perspectives and insights into how professionals can embrace AI while ensuring that human expertise remains at the core of the industry.

2. Can the Industry Solve Its Labor Shortage?

The construction labor shortage is one of the biggest obstacles facing the industry today. As experienced workers retire and fewer young professionals enter the field, companies are struggling to find skilled talent to fill essential roles. This shortage not only slows down projects but also increases costs and affects overall productivity.

What can be done to attract new talent to construction? How can digital collaboration tools and automation ease the burden on an already stretched workforce? And what role does training and education play in preparing workers for the demands of a modernized industry?

Unbound will explore innovative workforce development strategies, including:

• The role of technology-driven training programs in preparing workers for high-demand roles.
• New approaches to hiring and diversity initiatives aimed at broadening the talent pool.
• How automation can complement, rather than replace, skilled labor to enhance jobsite productivity.

3. What’s Next for Connected Construction?

The future of construction lies in connectivity. Cloud-based collaboration, digital twins and Internet of Things-enabled job sites are making it easier than ever for teams to work together, even across vast distances. However, many firms still struggle with fragmented workflows, siloed data and interoperability challenges that prevent them from fully realizing the benefits of connected construction.

How can firms break down barriers between design, engineering and field teams? What new technologies are helping unify workflows and streamline project management? And what are the best practices for integrating digital tools into existing operations?

At Unbound, industry experts will explore how companies are leveraging connected construction to:

• Reduce project delays and improve efficiency through real-time collaboration.
• Minimize costly errors by centralizing project data and eliminating duplication.
• Enhance communication between stakeholders to ensure seamless coordination.

4. How Will Sustainability and Regulations Shape Future Projects?

As climate change concerns grow and government regulations tighten, sustainability is no longer just a trend but an industry imperative. Still, many construction firms struggle to balance environmental responsibility with cost efficiency and regulatory compliance.

How can firms reduce their carbon footprint without increasing project expenses? What new materials and energy-efficient building techniques are emerging to meet sustainability demands? And how can companies navigate evolving environmental regulations without slowing down project timelines?

Unbound will feature sessions on:

• Innovative green building materials and their long-term cost benefits.
• Strategies for navigating new ESG regulations and sustainability reporting requirements.
• The intersection of digital workflows and sustainability, including reducing paper waste and optimizing resource use.

These discussions will provide practical, real-world solutions for firms looking to meet sustainability goals while maintaining profitability.

5. What Will Construction Technology Look Like in 2030?

The construction industry is experiencing a digital revolution, but this is only the beginning. By 2030, automation, robotics and AI-powered analytics could fundamentally change how projects are managed, designed and built. The question is: How can firms prepare for the next wave of innovation?

What role will robotics play in reducing labor shortages? How will digital permitting and automated compliance streamline regulatory processes? And what emerging technologies are poised to disrupt the industry in ways we haven’t yet anticipated?

And just recently, the White House issued a directive requiring all federal agencies to digitize their permitting and environmental review processes—a clear sign that regulatory workflows are going digital, fast. Unbound’s sessions on connected construction and compliance will explore what this shift means for the future.

At Unbound, forward-thinking sessions will explore:

• The next generation of BIM and digital project management tools.
• The rise of robotics and automated jobsite monitoring.
• What construction leaders must do now to stay ahead of future innovations.

Unbound 2025: The Event That Will Define the Future of Construction

These five questions are just the beginning. Unbound will offer a firsthand look at the trends, challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the AEC industry. Whether you are a project manager, architect, engineer or construction executive, this event will provide the knowledge and tools you need to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving field.

Attendees will leave with actionable insights, meaningful connections and hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies that will define the future of construction.

Early registration is now open. Secure your spot at Unbound 2025 today and be part of the industry’s most important conversation.