Experts have warned the engineering industry that businesses relying on AI automation could result in a huge engineering skills crisis in the coming years.
Precision engineering experts at Accu believe that the danger to the engineering industry isn’t artificial intelligence itself, but organisations that believe AI can replace the apprenticeship and learning process of engineering.
This comes after a recent report from automakers Ford, as the company rehired more than 300 veteran quality inspectors in recent years to make up for the pitfalls of automated systems after they consistently failed quality checks, as the AI tools lacked the training and expertise of veteran technicians.
Engineering judgement can’t be automated
While artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly capable of performing calculations, and analysing data, engineering is not simply the application of information. It is the application of judgement developed through years of practical experience.
“AI can process data at a scale far beyond human capability, but engineering expertise is built on understanding context, recognising risk and applying lessons learned from previous projects,” said Patrick Faulkner, Lead Engineer at Accu.
“Engineering decisions are rarely black and white. Experienced engineers develop an instinct for questioning assumptions, identifying potential failure points and recognising when something doesn’t look quite right. That judgement cannot simply be replicated through automation.”
The risk to future engineers
For generations, engineers have developed their expertise through an apprenticeship model of learning. Graduate and trainee engineers gain experience by performing calculations, producing drawings, reviewing designs and learning from mistakes under the guidance of more experienced colleagues. Many of these routine but essential tasks are now being automated by AI systems.
“These activities may seem repetitive, but they are where engineers develop their understanding,” said Faulkner.
“The concern is that if AI performs all of the foundational work, we risk removing the experiences that help engineers build the judgement and confidence needed later in their careers.”
Productivity shouldn’t be confused with competence
According to Accu, businesses should be careful not to confuse productivity improvements with engineering competence.
Although AI can help engineers work faster and more efficiently, expertise is developed through exposure to real-world challenges, problem-solving and practical experience.
“The danger isn’t AI itself,” said Faulkner. “The danger is organisations believing that AI can replace the apprenticeship of engineering. If we remove the learning journey, we shouldn’t be surprised if we struggle to develop the next generation of senior engineers.”
“If the industry fails to develop the next generation of senior engineers, the consequences could extend far beyond a skills shortage. Organisations may find themselves with fewer professionals capable of making critical decisions, managing complex projects and identifying risks.
“Over time, this could lead to a loss of institutional knowledge, reduced innovation and an increasing reliance on technology without the experienced oversight needed to challenge it. In safety-critical sectors, the impact could be even greater, with engineering judgement remaining a vital safeguard against costly mistakes and unforeseen failures.”
AI should augment, not replace
Despite these concerns, AI has an important role to play within the engineering sector.
Rather than replacing engineers, AI should be viewed as a tool that enhances productivity, supports decision-making and allows engineering teams to focus on higher-value activities.
“Used correctly, AI can be a powerful asset,” says Faulkner. “But the future of engineering depends on maintaining the transfer of knowledge from one generation to the next. Technology should support that process, not replace it.”
