As one of the UK’s most established recruitment partners in the Highways sector, Matchtech sits at the forefront of the industry’s evolving talent landscape. With over 40 years supporting the delivery of essential infrastructure from maintenance schemes to major national programmes we have a unique vantage point on the skills, trends and technologies shaping the future of the UK’s roads. Our close partnerships with highways clients, contractors and industry bodies give us deep insight into how innovation is influencing not just project delivery, but the people and capabilities needed to drive it. This article explores one of the most significant shifts we’re seeing right now: the rise of AI-enabled, smart infrastructure and what it means for the workforce behind it.

AI driven smart infrastructure

A standout trend right now in the UK highways sector is the rapid rise of AI-driven, smart infrastructure, things like real-time data monitoring, connected road systems, and predictive maintenance. (highwaysindustry.com)

This shift means highways aren’t just built anymore, they’re engineered to think, anticipate and adapt. It’s a major change in how the sector delivers value and manages assets.

The rise of AI-driven, smart infrastructure in highways is reshaping the people side of the industry as much as the tech. Here’s how:

1. New Skills, New Roles

AI, data analytics, and digital twins are creating demand for hybrid skill sets such as engineers who understand both infrastructure and intelligence systems. Roles are emerging around digital design, systems integration, and smart asset management.

2. Upskilling the Workforce

Traditional highways engineers need reskilling to stay relevant. Employers are investing more in digital literacy, automation tools, and data interpretation training. Apprenticeships and early-career programmes are adapting to reflect this shift.

3. Collaboration Across Disciplines

The boundaries between civil, tech, and systems engineering are blurring. Teams now need people who can collaborate across physical and digital domains, bridging operations, analytics, and engineering.

4. Changing Leadership and Culture

Leaders are being challenged to manage transformation, not just delivery. That means fostering adaptability, curiosity, and a willingness to experiment, softer skills are becoming as vital as technical ones.

5. Retention Through Purpose

Smart infrastructure projects often align with sustainability and net-zero goals, helping attract and retain talent who want their work to have social and environmental impact.

About Matchtech

Matchtech is one of the UK’s leading recruiters in the Highways sector, supporting the full lifecycle of infrastructure delivery across transportation, the built environment, and the public realm. Whether it’s routine maintenance schemes, major frameworks, or large, complex projects, we understand the specialist skills, challenges, and innovation driving the industry forward.

Our vision is simple: to bring clarity, expertise, and efficiency to highways recruitment. We connect organisations with the talent they need to deliver safer, smarter, and more resilient infrastructure and we support professionals in finding roles where they can make a real impact.

If you're looking to hire for your highways projects or seeking your next opportunity visit matchtech.com to connect with our specialist Highways team, or contact our Highways Business Development Director, Sam.Forster@matchtech.com