Skanska USA Building, the American arm of Swedish construction giant Skanska, recently unveiled the Skanska Advanced Technology (SAT) unit. Launched earlier last month, this new initiative aims to harness the latest technological advancements to transform the construction process. Katie Coulson, a 25-year veteran with Skanska, has taken the helm of this new division. In an exclusive interview, Coulson shared insights into how the SAT unit will drive innovation and improve efficiencies across various projects.

The SAT unit was created in response to the growing demand for cutting-edge technology in the construction industry. With its focus on integrating advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), data analytics, and robotics, the unit aims to streamline processes and increase productivity. By bringing these technologies into its projects, Skanska USA Building intends to reduce costs, enhance quality control, and shorten project timelines.

“Technology is reshaping the construction industry, and our goal is to be at the forefront of that change,” said Coulson. “With SAT, we are leveraging AI and data to improve every aspect of our projects, from planning and design to execution and maintenance.”

A primary focus of SAT will be on data centers, which have become one of the most critical infrastructure elements in the modern world. Using AI and machine learning tools, SAT aims to optimize data center construction, making it faster, more cost-effective, and scalable. “Data centers are the backbone of the digital world, and using advanced technology will help us keep up with the growing demand for faster, more reliable services,” Coulson explained.

In addition to data centers, SAT will also target other sectors, including commercial, residential, and public infrastructure projects. The use of advanced technology will enable better collaboration, reduce risks, and increase overall performance on the job site.

Skanska’s initiative to introduce the SAT unit also reflects a larger trend within the construction industry to adopt tech-driven solutions. The company is already known for incorporating sustainable practices, and the addition of a dedicated tech division positions Skanska as a leader in both construction innovation and environmental stewardship.

The launch of the SAT unit comes at a time when the construction industry is undergoing rapid digital transformation. Industry leaders are increasingly turning to AI, robotics, and 3D printing to optimize everything from building design to construction processes. Skanska’s investment in SAT positions the company to take advantage of this technological evolution, ensuring it stays competitive in a market that is becoming more tech-driven.

Coulson further emphasized the importance of collaboration and integration. “Technology isn’t just about adding gadgets; it’s about creating an ecosystem where data flows seamlessly across all departments and phases of a project,” she said. “With SAT, we’re focusing on intelligent construction solutions that connect the dots from design to execution and beyond.”

As the construction industry continues to embrace more advanced technologies, Skanska USA Building's SAT unit is poised to lead the way, proving that innovation isn’t just a trend but a fundamental part of the future of construction. The unit will not only improve the efficiency of Skanska’s operations but will also set new standards for how the industry as a whole approaches the integration of cutting-edge technologies.

Originally reported by Construction Briefing.