Building Smarter Infrastructure With AI and Real-Time Data

On this episode of the Infrastructure Technology Podcast, Roads and Bridges Staff Writer Jessica Parks interviews Doug Kraus and Josh Zhou from North Highland about how artificial intelligence is transforming transportation infrastructure, workforce development and public sector operations. The discussion focuses on North Highland’s partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation to deploy AI-driven analytics for bridge management, roadway monitoring and infrastructure planning. At the conclusion of the interview, Parks is joined by Gavin Jenkins, head of content for Roads and Bridges, and Brandon Lewis, associate editor for Mass Transit magazine, where they discuss the broader impact of AI on transportation, construction and media industries, including workforce concerns, automation trends and the growing role of AI-powered technology in public transit and infrastructure operations.  Featured Guests Doug Kraus - North Highland Doug Kraus is North Highlands senior director of AI and data architecture, bringing over 25 years of experience leading analytics strategy and implementation across large complex organizations.   Josh Zhou - North Highland Josh Zhou is an AI and data engineer at North Highland, whose expertise in database management and dashboard development helps transform raw data and clear actionable insights.  What You'll Learn How AI-powered analytics, automation and real-time monitoring are transforming transportation and construction workflows How North Highland and the Oklahoma DOT are using AI to prioritize bridge maintenance, assess roadway conditions and guide long-term infrastructure planning How real-time data, sensors and predictive analytics improve safety by identifying issues like potholes, structural concerns and crash hotspots before they escalate What AI means for the future of the workforce, including its potential impact on construction jobs and related fields like journalism Inside the Episode Episode Length: 34:33 Timestamps 2:00 — Roads & Bridges interview with North Highland 24:10 — Interview takeaways 28:50 — Mass Transit news discussion Useful Links North Highland Roads & Bridges Mass Transit Send us a topic suggestion!  Don’t forget to subscribe to the ITP and rate and review our podcast! Email [email protected] with your thoughts on AI and the workforce — we might read them on air.