Ben Goodwin’s appointment signals new policy and innovation focus for CECA amid AI-driven industry transformation

Ben Goodwin has been appointed as the new director of policy and public affairs at the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA), bringing 15 years of senior policy and public affairs experience across both built and natural environments. Prior to this role, Ben led policy and public affairs at the Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals. His background includes six years heading the policy team at the Institution of Civil Engineers, where he worked on supporting the UK’s economic infrastructure networks and improving government and industry collaboration on investment and productivity. Goodwin has also contributed to several government advisory boards and industry initiatives.

Taking up his post at a particularly critical moment for the sector, Goodwin expressed enthusiasm about working with CECA members, regional bodies, governments, and wider stakeholders to foster a supportive policy landscape. He emphasised the critical role civil engineering contractors play in delivering the infrastructure that underpins the UK economy, societal needs, and the transition to net zero emissions. His appointment was welcomed by Ross Markwell, Chair of CECA’s Chairs’ Strategic Forum, who noted Goodwin’s broad experience in infrastructure, sustainability, and government engagement as key to advancing the industry’s interests and equipping it for future challenges. Markwell highlighted that Goodwin’s role would strengthen CECA’s voice with policymakers, aiming to secure a favourable environment for the UK’s civil engineering contractors.

CECA has also been at the forefront of addressing emerging industry challenges, notably the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into construction. In May, CECA published a detailed report advocating firms to adopt AI technology while acknowledging its risks. The report identifies AI as a potentially transformative tool in optimising design processes, error identification, and decision-making, positioning it as the “next major leap” for the sector. However, the report carefully outlines concerns such as privacy issues, over-reliance on AI, cybersecurity threats, ethical considerations, and risks of losing intellectual property. To mitigate these challenges, CECA recommends promoting existing AI standards, developing comprehensive risk reviews, and establishing confidential reporting systems for AI-related risks. The association also calls for cross-industry collaboration through sector-specific AI communities and the development of implementation plans.

CECA’s active engagement with AI continues beyond reports. In March 2024, it hosted a webinar featuring insights from industry players like OnWave and Costain, illustrating AI’s growing applications in project planning, safety, commercial management, and workforce development. This reflects a wider industry trend confirmed by a recent survey by the Association for Project Management, which found AI adoption in construction projects surged from 15% to 75% over two years. The survey reveals significant practical benefits from AI integration, including improved resource allocation, enhanced reporting and forecasting, task automation, and better stakeholder communications.

Globally and within Europe, AI’s impact on construction has been described as ushering in a new era of efficiency, safety, and sustainability. According to recent analyses, AI-driven technologies such as robotics, defect detection systems, and predictive analytics are helping reduce waste, accelerate workflows, and create safer working environments. Nevertheless, widespread adoption still faces hurdles such as high costs, workforce training needs, ethical concerns, and organisational resistance to change. Industry experts underline the importance of strategic investments, cross-sector collaboration, and specialised training to bridge these gaps and ensure the sector fully benefits from smart construction technologies.

Goodwin’s appointment and CECA’s proactive stance on AI highlight the organisation’s dual focus on policy advocacy and innovation readiness. As the UK’s civil engineering contractors navigate evolving challenges from infrastructure needs to technological disruption, CECA is positioning itself as a critical enabler for sustainable economic growth, job creation, and improved industry outcomes across all regions of the country.