2026 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

The construction industry is experiencing a rapid transformation as emerging technologies reshape conventional practices. Driven by advances in remote sensing, information technologies, and artificial intelligence, Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) are becoming increasingly popular in construction, offering wide-ranging applications at a relatively affordable cost. However, their integration also introduces challenges that extend beyond traditional construction requirements, demanding specialized technical knowledge and practical competencies not typically addressed in current construction education. While prior research has acknowledged the importance of developing UAS-related curricula to better prepare future construction professionals, little work has focused on identifying the core skills and educational content most appropriate for construction programs. To address this gap, this study examines industry expectations of current education in light of the growing adoption of UAS in construction, using a mixed-method approach that combines a comprehensive literature review with an industry survey. The results identify a set of priority knowledge areas that can serve as a foundation for curriculum development in construction management programs. This work contributes to practice by clarifying the value of UAS applications and articulating the skills most needed by employers, while also offering educators a roadmap for embedding UAS-focused content into existing courses or designing targeted learning modules. Ultimately, the findings bridge a critical gap between technological innovation and workforce readiness, positioning UAS not merely as tools of efficiency but as integral components of the construction industry’s digital transformation and underscoring the importance of aligning education with rapidly evolving industry needs.