David Sanderson: AI Will Not Replace Engineers

Engineers spend too much time fixing broken data instead of focusing on high-level design. This inefficiency, known as workflow friction, is a major enemy of modern construction projects. This episode explores how intelligent automation and verified software can eliminate manual rework and enhance global collaboration. We discuss the crucial challenge of trust between engineers and fabricators, the necessity of specialised AI solutions, and the innovations of Trim BIM. Our guest is David Sanderson, a former site engineer who now leads Product Strategy for Trimble’s structural tools. He offers a unique 40-year perspective, having witnessed the digital transformation of engineering since 1982 THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Accidentally invented structural software in 1982 Lack of trust creates workflow friction Specialised AI best for tedious tasks Commercial value prioritises software features Contractual deliverable is still 2D drawing GUEST DETAILS David Sanderson is the Senior Product Manager for Structural Design Products at Trimble. His expertise is rooted in structural design, leading product strategy for major tools like Tekla Structural Designer, and championing the use of verified, quality-assured software in the industry. Connect with David Sanderson, Senior Product Manager for Structural Design Products at Trimble: PUBLIC CONTACT DETAILS: https://www.trimble.com/en/products/tekla SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-sanderson-49926852/ MORE INFORMATION Looking for ways to explore or advance a career in the field of engineering? Visit Engineers Ireland to learn more about the many programs and resources on offer. https://www.engineersireland.ie/ Engineers Journal AMPLIFIED is produced by DustPod.io for Engineers Ireland. QUOTES The contractual deliverable is still a 2d drawing, believe it or not. - David Sanderson The biggest issue that I can see now is that within a project, you've got many stakeholders. - David Sanderson People have got to start accepting other people's models on trust, in my view. - David Sanderson KEYWORDS #StructuralEngineering #IntelligentAutomation #WorkflowFriction #TrimBIM #PortalFrameDesign