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Less Than 5 % of Heavy Lifting Jobs at Risk from AI, Industry Faces Workforce Gaps
The heavy lifting industry is seeing continued growth alongside long-term workforce challenges. While artificial intelligence( AI) is increasingly discussed across sectors, less than 5 % of occupations requiring physical dexterity in complex environments, including heavy lifting roles, are considered at immediate risk of full replacement by AI, according to the McKinsey Global Institute report“ A Future That Works.”
The heavy lifting market is expected to require a workforce increase of 3 % to 5 % annually to meet demand in areas such as offshore wind energy development, civil infrastructure construction and mining-related projects.
Forecasts referenced from McKinsey also indicate the construction sector will need to replace approximately 41 % of its workforce by 2031 due to retirements.
Industry companies such as Sarens, a global provider of crane rental, heavy lift and engineered transport services, are addressing workforce needs through recruitment from technical schools, internal training programs and career development pathways. Sarens operates training initiatives as well as an internal learning platform offering more than 150 courses.
While AI is expected to support planning and operational design in at least 30 % of roles in the sector, physical execution remains largely dependent on skilled operators. According to McKinsey research, AI impact in heavy lifting is more likely to focus on operational planning rather than replacing core field work.
Sarens reports continued hiring needs across sectors, including wind energy, civil construction, oil and gas and aerospace. The company noted it filled 1,580 vacancies in 2025, reflecting ongoing demand for skilled labor.
Konecranes Adopts VR Crane Simulator to Expand Training Capacity
Konecranes has adopted Industrial Training International’ s( ITI) VR Crane Simulator to expand customer training capacity through the Konecranes Training Institute while reducing the need to remove equipment from service during training.
Konecranes said the new approach combines VR simulations with traveling master trainers, allowing hands-on training to reach more customer sites, including remote locations and facilities with limited space. The company said the format also reduces reliance on crane availability during training sessions.
The simulator is used as an intermediate step between classroom instruction and live equipment operation. Trainees can perform lifts, navigate scenarios and practice in a repeatable environment before moving to field applications.
According to Konecranes, the approach also allows instructors to present more scenarios in less time, which can increase repetition and participant exposure to operating conditions without affecting production schedules.
Konecranes said it has incorporated the VR simulation technology into several
Link-Belt Cranes Earns 2026 Energy Award
Link-Belt Cranes has been recognized for its energy efficiency efforts and operational performance with the 2026 SAAZ Energy Performance Excellence Award.
The award, presented by Big Shine Energy, highlights the company’ s investment in energy-saving initiatives at its headquarters in Lexington. The recognition is tied to a rooftop solar photovoltaic installation designed to reduce energy costs, improve operational resilience and support long-term sustainability goals.
According to the company, the solar installation generates up to 915,800 kilowatt-hours of energy annually, offsetting electrical usage and contributing to projected lifecycle savings exceeding $ 1.5 million. The system includes 1,302 solar panels covering approximately 35,000 square feet.
The SAAZ program, which stands for“ Sustainability Awards Approaching Zero,” recognizes organizations for measurable progress in energy performance and decarbonization efforts.
Engineered Giving Opens Scholarship for Future Heavy Lifting Professionals
Engineered Giving, a nonprofit foundation established by Engineered Rigging, is accepting applications for a $ 3,000 scholarship aimed at supporting students pursuing careers in the heavy lifting and specialized transport industry.
The scholarship is designed to encourage education and workforce development in sectors tied to crane, rigging and lifting operations. Applicants must plan to enter a related field and be residents of Indiana or Arkansas. Eligibility also requires enrollment or acceptance into an accredited college, university, vocational school or technical training program in those states.
In addition to academic qualifications, applicants must demonstrate a strong record of volunteerism, reflecting the foundation’ s focus on community involvement.
Applications are open through June 30, 2026.
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