Partnership signals growing push toward robotics adoption in construction
The integration of robots on job sites is gaining momentum in the construction industry—and nowhere is that trend more visible than in labor-intensive trades like drywall finishing. As crews continue to deal with labor shortages, more companies are turning to autonomous tech to fill the gap.
That shift is what’s behind the new partnership between construction robotics firm Okibo and Autonomous Workforce-AI Solutions LLC (AWF-AI), aimed at expanding access to autonomous robotics across the Southern U.S.
AWF-AI will roll out four of Okibo’s autonomous robots to start, with plans to more than double the fleet by the end of 2026 as demand grows. These systems will support AWF-AI’s internal construction projects while providing on-demand support for contractors in the region.
“Adopting robotics is no longer just ‘in the future’; it’s about elevating our capabilities today,” said Cesar Espinoza, CEO, AWF-AI. “By integrating Okibo’s technology, we are setting new quality standards while driving true innovation on the job site. The value these autonomous systems bring to our workflow, our contractor partners, and our clients is transformative.”
Okibo’s EG7 autonomous plastering robots are designed to streamline operations on construction sites by improving speed, consistency, and safety while tackling multiple tasks—such as painting, coating, and drywall finishing—that are often physically demanding and hard to staff.
For AWF-AI, the goal is consistent Level 4 and 5 finishes—work that typically requires skilled labor and a high level of precision.
Bringing autonomous robots like the EG7 to construction sites does more than just address labor shortages—it offers major benefits like enhancing productivity, bringing down costs, and improving consistency across projects. It also safeguards workers by taking over tasks at heights, in high-risk zones, and in confined spaces.
To support this shift, Okibo and AWF-AI plan to open a regional training centre for robotics operators in the construction space. The facility will focus on supporting local construction workers and helping them gain the specialized skills needed to use this technology on site—not just see it in action, but operate it effectively.
“Partnering with AWF-AI is a vital step in Okibo’s strategic regional expansion across the United States,” said Nadav Shuruk, founder of Okibo. “Together, our planned deployment and the upcoming regional training center will ensure the scalable, successful integration of robotics into the southern construction market.”
The planned training centre aims to help crews actually adopt the technology—giving workers hands-on experience with robotics, not just exposure to it.
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