The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has released new survey findings showing that artificial intelligence, automation, workforce training and professional development are shaping priorities across the fire, electrical and life safety sectors.
The fourth annual NFPA industry survey, conducted during the NFPA 2026 Conference & Expo, found that professionals are increasingly turning to AI and digital tools to manage rising demand, while also highlighting the need for continued investment in training and collaboration as skilled labor shortages continue.
NFPA collected responses from 326 U.S. and international workers aged 18 and older across electrical, manufacturing, construction, engineering, architecture and design, facility maintenance, government and municipal services, compliance, fire protection, fire service, and insurance and risk management. The in-person survey was held from June 22 to June 24, 2026.
Ross Ashley, president and CEO of NFPA, said the results point to a significant moment of change for the industry.
“Results from this year’s survey clearly show an industry-wide inflection point,” Ashley said. “Change is accelerating, and now is the time for organizations to decide how they will keep up. As AI, new technologies, and changing infrastructure continue to reshape work for fire, electrical, and life safety professionals, we have a tremendous opportunity and responsibility to ensure today’s workforce has the training, resources, and professional support needed to adapt with confidence.”
According to the survey, 36 percent of respondents reported increased demand for labor services related to AI infrastructure, while 88 percent said demand for their work overall has increased during the past three years.
Kyle Spencer, director of NFPA LiNK at NFPA, said the growth of AI infrastructure could have wider effects on already stretched workforces.
“While we do anticipate a rise in demand for skilled labor related to AI, such as for building data centers and upgrading electrical infrastructure to support power demands, the bigger concern for every industry is the potential downstream effects,” Spencer said. “As demand for AI infrastructure is prioritized, and skilled workers begin leaving other jobsites to satisfy those needs, professionals who are already stretched thin will need to find new tools and strategies to fill those gaps.”
The survey also found that skilled trade workers are increasingly recognizing the value of AI and digital tools in reducing administrative burdens, improving documentation and supporting access to technical knowledge.
NFPA said ongoing training remains critical as technology changes the tools professionals use and the codes and standards that guide their work. The survey found that 94 percent of respondents participate in at least one training or development program each year, while 37 percent take part in one or more training programs every month.
Industry professionals also continue to value membership communities. Networking and collaboration with other professionals was the most cited membership benefit, selected by 65 percent of respondents. Continued education opportunities were cited by 57 percent, while 38 percent said memberships are valuable for technical support on codes and standards.
NFPA said the findings suggest that technology transformation in the skilled trades is becoming more mainstream. The organization added that stakeholders should continue to prioritize new technology, workforce development and industry collaboration as the sector responds to rapid technology adoption, evolving codes and standards, and changing workforce dynamics.
