driving equity in construction: the role of AI in building inclusive workplaces.

The construction industry has always been about building—bridging physical divides, creating infrastructure, and shaping the communities we live in. Yet, within its own workforce, the industry faces significant gaps in inclusivity, particularly for disabled workers. In the UK, where 18% of the working-age population lives with a disability, only 9.3% of the construction labour force identifies as disabled. Fewer than 5% of professional and managerial roles are filled by disabled individuals. 

This is not just a moral issue—it is a business imperative. Creating a truly inclusive construction sector requires cultural transformation, and technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) can play a crucial role in accelerating that change.

• Randstad’s recent Workmonitor report on Equity and AI, shines a light on the systemic barriers and potential missed opportunities to leverage the skills of an underrepresented talent pool, while providing recommendations to employers on how they can improve greater inclusivity for the nations' workforce. 

Understanding the barriers

According to the responses from employees working in construction who state they have a disability, a staggering 46% indicated that workplace accessibility remains a significant issue. Construction sites often lack basic accommodations, such as facilities designed for those with mobility impairments, and the industry’s physically demanding nature can exclude talented individuals who are otherwise eager to contribute.

Cultural barriers also persist. Over a third of disabled construction workers have experienced discrimination or prejudice in the workplace. While there has been some progress—nearly half reported experiencing greater inclusivity and reduced discrimination compared to five years ago—the pace of change remains slow.

Managers, however, are emerging as powerful allies in fostering inclusion. 58% emphasised that their manager’s approach significantly shapes their sense of belonging. When leaders actively promote inclusivity, it signals that the organisation values all its employees, creating a ripple effect throughout the workplace.

The transformative power of AI

AI is often lauded for its ability to improve efficiency and productivity, but its potential to enhance equity is just as profound. Our findings highlight how AI is already making a difference in the construction sector. 43% of disabled workers reported that AI has improved accessibility in their roles, from voice-activated systems that eliminate the need for traditional input devices to tools that facilitate communication across language barriers.

Importantly, disabled workers are optimistic about AI’s future impact: over half (53%) believe it will enhance their roles. These technologies can be equalisers, breaking down barriers and enabling individuals to participate fully in the workforce. For example, voice-command applications allow workers with mobility impairments to navigate complex systems seamlessly, while AI-powered translation tools foster collaboration in increasingly global teams.

However, this optimism is tempered by disparities in access to AI skilling opportunities. A quarter (27%) of disabled workers feel that their non-disabled colleagues have greater access to training. This gap is more than an issue of fairness—it poses a risk to retention. Nearly a quarter of disabled workers also say they would leave their job if their employer failed to provide AI skilling opportunities.

The implication is clear: employers must democratise access to AI training. Disabled workers are among the most advanced users of AI, and failing to support their growth risks losing some of the most innovative talent in the workforce.

Moving beyond technology

While AI offers significant promise, technology alone cannot create an inclusive industry. The adoption of AI must be part of a broader cultural shift within construction. Inclusivity starts with leadership and extends through every layer of an organisation.

Managers are key to driving this transformation. When leaders actively listen to the needs of disabled workers, provide accommodations, and foster a culture of respect, they set a powerful example. Equally important is designing workplaces—both physical and digital—that prioritise accessibility from the outset.

Equity also requires a proactive approach to recruitment. To close the inclusion gap, construction firms must reach out to diverse talent pools, offering clear pathways for disabled professionals to enter and thrive in the industry. The result is not only a more equitable workforce but also one enriched by the diverse perspectives that drive innovation and creativity.

Diversity as a catalyst for innovation

The case for inclusion is about more than fairness—it is about unlocking potential. Diverse teams bring varied perspectives, challenge entrenched ways of thinking, and are better equipped to solve complex problems - according to a Harvard Business Review study, diverse teams were able to solve problems faster than cognitively similar teams. For an industry as dynamic and essential as construction, these qualities are not just advantageous; they are essential.

AI has a pivotal role to play here. By enabling disabled workers to overcome barriers and excel in their roles, it fosters a more innovative and resilient workforce. But technology is not a substitute for culture. Organisations must prioritise inclusivity as a core value, embedding it into their operations, leadership practices, and strategic planning.

A call to action

The construction industry is uniquely positioned to lead on inclusion, setting an example for other sectors. The latest findings highlighted above make it clear: the combination of cultural transformation and strategic AI adoption can drive meaningful change. This is a moment for the industry to step forward—not just to meet regulatory obligations or fill labour gaps, but to create a workforce where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

Equity in construction is not just about building structures; it is about building futures. By investing in AI, championing inclusivity, and empowering leaders to foster belonging, the sector can unlock a wealth of untapped talent. Together, we can ensure that construction becomes a model of what a truly equitable industry can achieve.

To explore the findings in more depth and access insight into way to drive equity in AI adoption, download the full report “understanding talent scarcity: AI & equity” below: