Caterpillar’s new generation of machines is designed to help contractors prepare for an autonomous future—while improving how work gets done today.
At CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, leaders from Caterpillar outlined how AI, automation and connected data are starting to reshape the jobsite; and what it takes to make that technology actually work in the field.
“It’s about more than technology,” explains Jaime Mineart, Caterpillar’s Chief Technology Officer. “It’s about the people and process changes required to bring it to a jobsite.”
The bigger shift isn’t just about adopting new tools.
AI BUILT FOR THE JOBSITE
One of the clearest examples is Cat AI Assistant, designed to unify Caterpillar’s digital applications and data into a single, conversational experience.
The push toward AI is largely driven by the shortage of skilled operators and technicians. Rather than replacing jobs, the goal is to make work easier and faster.
AI can provide step-by-step guidance and basic instructions to help newer operators. Voice-enabled tools also allow users to access relevant machine and jobsite information without digging through manuals or searching online.
SAFETY THAT SEES MORE
Balancing productivity and safety remains a core challenge.
“Five percent of the workforce is employed in the construction industry, but 20% of workforce fatalities take place in the construction industry,” notes Rod Shurman, Caterpillar’s Group President.
Caterpillar is addressing that gap through its Cat Detect portfolio. Surround-view cameras expand operator visibility, while driver safety systems monitor fatigue and distraction.
The Collision Mitigation System adds another layer by alerting operators to hazards and stops the machine to prevent impact. It also records video before and after near-miss events, creating valuable training data.
TURNING DATA INTO PRODUCTIVITY
Beyond safety, data is also helping reduce inefficiencies that quietly erode margins.
Rework alone can account for up to 30% of work.
Tools like Cat Payload help reduce wasted passes by measuring material in the bucket, while Cat Grade uses 3D design files to guide machines to target grade.
“I always think of it as your Google Maps for your self-driving dozer,” Jaime says
Behind the scenes, platforms like VisionLink connect that data by tracking payloads, trips and overall productivity, while also enabling condition monitoring to predict maintenance needs before failures occur.
FROM OPERATORS TO ORCHESTRATORS
Technology is also reshaping how work gets done and who does it.
Remote operator stations allow operators to control machines from offsite locations, helping companies better manage labor constraints.
On some jobsites, up to 40% of work is considered unproductive. With remote capabilities, operators can manage multiple machines across different sites, shifting their role from hands-on operation to coordination.
THE CONNECTED FOUNDATION
Tying all of this together is VisionLink, which acts as a single platform for monitoring mixed fleets, consolidating data and simplifying workflows.
Instead of juggling multiple systems and logins, contractors can view performance, maintenance and production data in one place like a jobsite manager would.
When paired with AI tools, that data becomes even more accessible to help even less-experienced operators make informed decisions.
PREPARING FOR WHAT’S NEXT
Most of these technologies are already embedded in machines today and, in many cases, can be retrofitted onto existing equipment.
“We’re really wanting to help our customers get future ready with the technologies and with the machines that they’re investing in today,” Jaime says.
The bigger shift isn’t just about adopting new tools. It’s about how companies adapt their people, processes and workflows to take full advantage of them.
Explore more technology solutions from Caterpillar in our free on-demand recordings of the Ground Breakers stage from CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026.
PHOTO COURTESY CONEXPO-CON/AGG
