S3E18: AI and Digital Twins with Burcu Akinci

Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform the way we live and work. Burcu Akinci, Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University, accompanies our host, Bill O’Brien, on a fascinating journey through the functions of AI in construction and civil engineering. Akinci also defines a “Digital Twin” and explains its importance when used in combination with AI functions. The revolutionary AI program, ChatGPT, is discussed with respect to the implications of generative AI for our industry. Also discussed are the concerns about the use of these tools and the related education of our professionals about AI. To conclude, Burcu Akinci emphasizes the value of civil engineers leading the transformation in the future instead of letting AI steer the wheel.