AI vs Engineers: Who Wins?

Artificial intelligence (AI) can now write reports, generate images, videos, summarize lengthy documents, code and build applications, and analyze data in seconds. As its capabilities continue to evolve, will AI one day take over our jobs?

A growing number of companies are integrating AI into their workflows to automate repetitive tasks and improve productivity. In fact, 40% of employers expect to reduce parts of their workforce where AI can automate tasks by 2030, according to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025.

Does that mean engineers should be worried?

For Dimas Andrea Maradona, Senior Architect at TeamworX Indonesia, the answer is no.

“There are two mindsets when it comes to AI: seeing it as a threat or seeing it as a tool to make work faster and better. I choose the latter perspective,” says Dimas.

Rather than replacing professionals, Dimas believes AI should be viewed as another technological advancement, similar to the transition from manual drafting to CAD software.

AI can execute instructions quickly, but it still relies on human expertise to provide direction, evaluate outputs, and make critical decisions.

How does AI support engineering and construction work?

In his day-to-day responsibilities, Dimas uses AI to streamline repetitive tasks that would otherwise consume significant time, like screening building regulation compliance. Instead of manually searching through numerous documents, AI can quickly identify relevant requirements, allowing him to focus on higher-value analysis.

AI is also useful for drafting formatted reports, summarizing technical references, and accelerating information gathering. Tasks that previously took hours can often be completed in minutes with the right workflow.

However, Dimas emphasizes that AI should not be treated as an autonomous expert.

“The output still needs to be double-checked and verified. Ultimately, it’s the engineers who are responsible for the final result,” he explains.

Why does human expertise still matter?

While AI is becoming increasingly capable, it does not possess the professional judgment required for engineering and construction projects. It may generate inaccurate information, misinterpret context, or produce inconsistent results if prompts or input data are insufficient.

This is why domain expertise remains essential. Engineers must verify AI-generated outputs, ensure compliance with applicable regulations, and apply their technical knowledge before incorporating AI-assisted work into real projects.

“AI has the capability to accelerate execution, and engineers should know how to navigate it to produce accurate results. It is also important to understand the AI capabilities. AI technology updates are moving very fast. Upgrades are introduced monthly if not weekly. More and more capabilities are updated as we speak. To be able to utilize AI better, we then need to understand what it is capable of today, not one month ago. Therefore, updating our knowledge about AI is also essential,” Dimas says.

The future belongs to engineers who embrace AI

Nowadays, engineers should focus less on mastering a single AI platform and more on understanding how the technology evolves. With new tools and features emerging rapidly, adaptability is a valuable skill to stay relevant.

In engineering, AI is best viewed as a productivity partner rather than a substitute. Those who learn how to integrate it into their workflows can work more efficiently while continuing to provide the expertise, judgment, and validation that technology alone cannot deliver.

“AI should not be avoided. It should be understood,” Dimas concludes.

Curious about how TeamworX Indonesia leverages AI in architecture and engineering projects? Ask for more insights from our engineers on Instagram and LinkedIn!