NFPA Data Reveals AI & Automation Drive Skilled Labor Demands
The National Fire Protection Association released findings from its fourth annual industry survey conducted in-person between June 22 and June 24 at the 2026 NFPA Conference & Expo. The survey illustrates an industry embracing AI and digital tools, while recognizing that continued investment in training, professional development and industry collaboration will be critical to meeting heightened work demands amid ongoing workforce shortages.
NFPA collected responses from 326 U.S. and international-based workers, 18 years and older, in the electrical, manufacturing, construction, engineering, architect/design, facility maintenance, government/municipality, compliance, fire protection, fire service and insurance/risk management fields to determine the findings of this industry research.
Key findings from the survey include:
- While 36% of respondents reported increased demand for labor services related to AI infrastructure, 88% said demand for their work overall has increased over the past three years
- AI and automation tools have the greatest impact on work (39%), followed by digital tools and software platforms (36%)
- 87% of trade workers said technology has made their job easier in the last 5 years
- 94% of respondents participate in at least one training or development program per year
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