Engineers' perspectives on the use of generative artificial intelligence tools in the workplace

Abstract

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the workplace requires commitment not only from the leadership of company directors but, equally important, from the engineers responsible for its implementation. This article presents a survey on perceptions concerning the utilization of AI tools in engineering environments. It was focused on engineers and students in the areas of electricity, electronics, and computing. The questionnaire covered demographic information, AI knowledge level, preferred tools, primary applications, perceived impact, and attitudes toward labor substitution. With the endorsement of the IEEE Uruguay Section and IEEE Region 9, the survey was distributed via email to a diverse group of potential participants, in several countries, including all IEEE members in Region 9. There were 375 replies to the survey, from 20 different countries in the Americas.