The EPC Engineer of the Future

The EPC Engineer of The Future

Overview

Buro Matei’s Vision 

Buro Matei's Visions

Within the next decade, the role of engineers in the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) industry will undergo a dramatic transformation. Advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), automation, and digital tools like Virtual Reality (VR) and low-code platforms will revolutionize how engineers work. Yet this future is about more than technology—it’s about how engineers embrace new roles, develop skills, and collaborate to deliver exceptional results. 

At Buro Matei, we fully embrace this vision and welcome those who are ready to be part of a bold and innovative future. Together, we can shape the industry, starting today. 

A New Workforce: Generation Z and Generation Alpha 

A New Workforce Alpha and Z
A New Workforce Gen Alpha and Z

The next decade will see a blend of Generation Z and Generation Alpha entering the workforce. Generation Z, already joining the industry, brings a hunger for change and innovation. Having grown up with smartphones, apps, and social media, they are quick to adopt new technologies but value purpose and collaboration in their work. They thrive in diverse, team-based environments and seek roles where they can make an impact. 

Generation Alpha, who will enter the workforce slightly later, will push this even further. Raised with AI assistants, augmented reality, and automation as a normal part of life, they will seamlessly integrate cutting-edge tools into their workflows. This tech-savvy generation will demand flexibility, thrive on innovation, and expect constant opportunities for growth. 

To attract and retain talent from both generations, EPC companies must create workplaces that are not only innovative but also adaptable to the diverse needs of these new professionals. At Buro Matei, we are ready for this future, building a culture that values creativity, collaboration, and learning at every level. 

From Repetition to Mastery 

Repetition to Mastery
Repetition to Mastery

The days of engineers repeatedly performing the same manual tasks are ending. Instead, the focus is shifting toward mastery of digital tools and automation. Engineers of the future must be skilled in training, teaching, and managing advanced systems, ensuring these technologies produce accurate, high-quality results. 

For example, AI tools like Microsoft Copilot and low-code platforms will enable engineers to automate repetitive tasks, streamline workflows, and improve productivity. These tools allow users to code, design, or simulate complex systems with minimal effort, freeing engineers to focus on more strategic and creative challenges. 

However, automation is not enough. Engineers must also ensure their processes remain explainable and transparent. Clients, stakeholders, and team members must trust the results generated by these systems. This means understanding how digital tools work, refining their models, and clearly communicating outcomes. Buro Matei sees this as a critical skill and supports engineers in becoming not just users of technology but also its architects and educators. 

Infographics - The EPC Engineer of The Future
Infographics – The EPC Engineer of The Future

Embracing Low-Code and AI 

AI and low-code platforms are critical tools for the EPC engineer of the future. These technologies simplify complex tasks, enabling engineers to achieve more in less time. For example: 

A New Workforce - Embracing Low-Code and AI
A New Workforce – Embracing Low-Code and AI
  • Microsoft Copilot as the UI for AI: Assists with tasks like analysing project data, predicting risks, drafting reports, creating project schedules, suggest optimizations and solutions. Engineers can focus on solving problems while Copilot handles routine work or provide in-depth analysis. 
  • Microsoft Power Platform as Low-Code: Enables engineers to build custom applications, automation, and dashboards without needing advanced programming skills. Engineers can automate tasks without needing specialized coding expertise or being depending on others to develop these tools. 

By adopting low-code platforms and AI technologies, engineers can significantly boost productivity, enhance the quality of their work, and maintain better oversight of their projects. These tools are essential for unlocking the full potential of EPC engineers, enabling them to automate routine tasks, streamline workflows, and focus on solving complex challenges. 

At Buro Matei, we view these technologies as critical to driving efficiency and innovation. Our teams are trained to use low-code platforms and AI effectively, ensuring they can adapt to new tools and apply them to meet client needs while maintaining the high standards expected in EPC projects. 

Through workshops and practical learning, Buro Matei equips engineers to master these tools. Teams learn to build custom solutions tailored to project requirements and interpret AI insights to make informed decisions. By incorporating these technologies into our workflows, we empower our engineers to lead in a rapidly evolving industry and deliver efficient, high-quality results for our clients. 

Lifelong Learning: A Cornerstone of Future Engineering 

As digital tools become more advanced, the need for lifelong learning becomes more urgent. EPC engineers must keep learning new skills to stay ahead of industry changes and remain competitive. 

Technology like AI, robotics, data tools, and digital twins is changing quickly. Engineers need to stay updated on these tools to use them well in their projects. 

But lifelong learning is not only about technology. Engineers also need to improve their critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills. These skills are important for solving problems, working with teams, and managing complex projects. By learning both technical and personal skills, engineers can succeed in a fast-changing industry. 

Buro Matei encourages a culture of continuous learning. We believe engineers should: 

  1. Master Digital Tools: Develop expertise in AI, low-code platforms, and modeling software to maximize their impact. 
  1. Refine Problem-Solving Skills: Focus on creative, high-level challenges where human ingenuity adds the most value. 
  1. Share Knowledge: Act as mentors and educators, passing on their expertise to colleagues and training AI systems to deliver better results. 

This culture of learning benefits not just individual engineers but entire teams, fostering collaboration, innovation, and excellence. 

Human-Centered 

Human Centered
Human Centered

At Buro Matei, we believe that even in a technology-driven future, people remain the heart of the EPC industry. Technology should support engineers, not replace them. It should enable them to do their best work, whether that’s solving complex challenges, designing innovative systems, or leading multidisciplinary teams. 

While tools like robotics and AI enhance productivity, they cannot replace the creativity, intuition, and ethical judgment of skilled engineers. By reducing repetitive tasks, these technologies free engineers to focus on high-value activities such as strategic problem-solving, innovative design, and effective leadership. 

Our human-centered approach prioritizes: 

  • Meaningful Work: Automation takes over repetitive tasks, freeing engineers to focus on what matters most. 
  • Team Collaboration: Tools like Virtual Reality and cloud-based platforms enhance teamwork, enabling engineers to work seamlessly across locations and disciplines. 
  • Well-Being: Providing flexible, supportive environments where engineers can grow professionally and personally. 

As reliance on AI grows, ethical considerations will become increasingly important, particularly in safety-critical decisions. Engineers must ensure that AI and automation systems are used responsibly and transparently, upholding safety and trust at all times. 

At Buro Matei, we prioritize innovation alongside accountability to maintain trust and integrity in all projects. Our teams are trained to use AI responsibly, combining cutting-edge technology with ethical practices to ensure the highest standards in every project. By balancing innovation with accountability, we ensure that technology supports engineers while protecting the interests of clients, stakeholders, and communities. 

Preparing for the Future 

Preparing for The Future

To thrive in this new era, EPC companies must take proactive steps to prepare: 

  1. Adopt Advanced Tools: Gradually integrate AI, low-code platforms, and VR into workflows, ensuring teams are trained and ready. 
  1. Foster a Learning Culture: Support ongoing education and encourage knowledge-sharing across generations to keep teams adaptable and innovative. 
  1. Promote Leadership: Training leaders to manage innovation responsibly and inspire their teams to embrace change. 
  1. Welcome Diversity: Create inclusive workplaces that bring together skills and perspectives from Generation Z, Generation Alpha, and beyond. 

At Buro Matei, we are embracing these changes. We see them not as challenges but as opportunities to redefine what engineering can achieve. 

Conclusion 

The EPC engineer of the future will be a dynamic, skilled professional who combines technical expertise with creativity, adaptability, and leadership. By mastering advanced tools, embracing lifelong learning, and collaborating effectively, engineers will unlock new levels of productivity and innovation. 

At Buro Matei, we don’t just envision this future—we are building it. We welcome everyone who shares our vision and is ready to prepare for the next decade of change. Whether you are an experienced professional or just starting your career, we invite you to join us in shaping the future of engineering. 

Final Word 

The future isn’t just coming—it’s already here. Let’s get to work. 


References 

AIM-NET (2023). Artificial Intelligence In Manufacturing, Whitepaper. Retrieved from: https://aim-net.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/AIM-NET-Artificial-Intelligence-in-Manufacturing-white-paper.pdf 

Future Today Institute (2023). Tech Trends, 16th Edition. Retrieved from: https://futuretodayinstitute.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2023_TR_Executive_Summary.pdf

TNO / Rathenau Instituut (2024). Eigen ritme of algoritme? – Een verkenning van algoritmisch management. Retrieved from: https://monitorarbeid.tno.nl/publicaties/eigen-ritme-of-algoritme/

TNO (2023). Conceptual Framework of Industry 5.0. Retrieved from: https://publications.tno.nl/publication/34641442/JTRzzR/oeij-2023-conceptualising.pdf​ 

Techniek Nederland (2024). Artificial Intelligence, Robotisering en Industrialisatie: De Technieksector in 2030. https://leden.technieknederland.nl/downloadairapport 

Van Veen, M., & Niks, I. (2024). Generatieverschillen in werkgerelateerde behoeften, waarde van werk en mentale gezondheid. Retrieved from: ​https://monitorarbeid.tno.nl/publicaties/generatieverschillen-in-werkgerelateerde-behoeften-waarde-van-werk-en-mentale-gezondheid/