The Integration of Artificial Intelligence to Enhance Construction Engineering in the Federal Government

Abstract

This article chronicles an investigation into the practical application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the administrative framework of a federal construction engineering entity. The project was initially conceived with ambitious objectives to leverage AI for a wide range of functions, including administrative assistance, project scheduling, and proposal analysis, with the aim of addressing a noted research gap at the intersection of AI in construction and government. To test this potential, the CAMO GPT platform, an AI tool operating on the secure NIPR Network, or Non-classified Internet Protocol Router Network (a private network used by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to exchange unclassified information, such as emails and documents, and to provide access to the public internet), was assessed. The findings revealed a significant disparity between technology’s potential and its current capabilities. While the platform excelled at text-based administrative tasks, such as information retrieval and redaction, it demonstrated critical limitations in data manipulation and analysis, failing to meet the project's original objectives for scheduling and quantitative analysis. This article synthesizes the initial proposal, a literature review, and the practical assessment to provide a realistic framework for AI integration, highlighting its current utility as a specialized assistant rather than a comprehensive project management tool. Key Terms — Artificial Intelligence, Construction Engineering, Data Analysis, Federal Government.