Predictions for 2026
From artificial intelligence (AI) reshaping workflows to transportation leapfrogging other sectors in the digital space, WSP’s Chris Harman and Jay Wratten shared their bold predictions for 2026 on a recent episode of the Infrastructure Technology Podcast (ITP). Here’s what they think will redefine engineering in the year ahead.
Conversational Interfaces Everywhere
On the Nov. 18 episode of the ITP, Harman predicted engineers will soon design through conversation — using AI-powered chat windows to describe project constraints and let the system generate the results. Instead of drawing schematics, engineers could describe physical constraints considerations, and AI will produce the design. While the interface may not be fully accurate at first, Harman said he expects users will learn to work around limitations and improve prompts for better outputs.
Proof-of-Concept AI Tools Moving to Production
In 2025, engineering firms experimented with AI to create proof-of-concept tools for automating tasks and improving workflows on a small scale. These prototypes worked in limited settings but weren’t ready for company-wide use. For 2026, Wratten predicted firms will evaluate which concepts can scale and which remain niche. He noted a big gap between AI spitting out a personalized workflow solution and a tool deployable to thousands of employees, so expect some concepts to fade while others gain investment to become production-ready.
Shift in Project Delivery: More QA, Less Production
As AI takes on more design work, Wratten said he expects engineering roles to shift toward quality assurance. Engineers will spend less time producing drawings and more time ensuring outputs are safe, efficient and code compliant. Faster production means more time verifying structural integrity and compliance.
AI on Org Charts and New Roles for Oversight
Wratten said that he also expects that AI will soon appear on organizational charts, accompanied by new roles responsible for overseeing AI agents and ensuring their outputs are accurate and effective.
Transportation Infrastructure Will Leapfrog Other Sectors Digitally
Harman expects transportation to accelerate its digital adoption, surpassing building construction. Traditionally reliant on 2D plans and manual processes, the sector is now embracing digital twins, data-centric workflows and full 3D modeling — from planning through operations. These tools are especially valuable for long-life assets like highways and bridges, enabling predictive maintenance and optimized operations at lower long-term costs.
Remote Sensing and Satellite Imagery Will Transform Workflows
With improved access to real-time satellite data, Wratten predicted engineers handle more tasks from their desks. Instead of sending crews to inspect coastal erosion or bridge conditions, they can review imagery remotely — saving time, money and improving safety.
Shift in Business Models Due to AI Efficiency
AI will force firms to rethink billing models. Traditional time-and-materials pricing won’t work when AI slashes project timelines. Wratten said he foresees charging for technology as a separate line item, shifting to value-based pricing and creating contracts that reflect upfront investment in digital tools. In short, faster delivery doesn’t mean cheaper projects — firms will need new pricing models to stay viable.
Engineers Must Become Knowledge Managers
Harman said engineers will need to think like software developers — using version control, reusable workflows and collaborative platforms to manage knowledge. As AI takes over repetitive tasks, engineers will focus on organizing, storing and reusing information efficiently, relying on modular digital assets instead of starting from scratch.