CTS Webinar: Industry and International Perspectives on AI Integration

About the Event

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly influencing how transportation and infrastructure projects are planned, delivered, and communicated. This webinar built on CTS’s December 2025 AI discussion by highlighting how AI is being used in practice both nationally and internationally. Speakers from outside Minnesota shared real-world examples of AI integration in infrastructure and construction contexts.

First, Nicole Moon from HDR discussed how AI is supporting transportation agencies and project teams through applied industry use. Then, Tomi Kotala with the City of Helsinki Public Works Department and Pieti Marjavaara with AINS Group gave an overview of the Infrastructure Programme Helsinki, Finland. This strategic urban development initiative is focused on designing and constructing a sustainable future for the city, including a massive expansion of the light-rail transit network. They explained how their approach to integrated project delivery and alliance models optimizes infrastructure life cycles through fair partnership. Their Project-AI concept transforms situational awareness into active AI-driven support for all project partners, ensuring smarter, more predictable, and value-driven outcomes.

The webinar was held in conjunction with a CTS Education and Engagement Council meeting.

Event Materials

• Watch the recording
• Summary article: Webinar shares industry and international perspectives on AI integration

Speakers

Nicole Moon is the strategic communications highways and roads market sector lead at HDR Inc., based in Phoenix, Arizona. She brings her background as a journalist and government communicator to support and enhance transportation projects through strategic public involvement, communications, and outreach. Moon has a passion for digital communications and using digital tools to connect communities with the projects that affect their lives. She has a BA and MBA from the University of Nevada, Reno and is accredited in public relations by the Public Relations Society of America.

Tomi Kotala is a project director in the City of Helsinki Public Works Department. He has 10 years of experience in leading integrated project delivery. He specializes in construction cost management and financial optimization. He focuses on driving value through collaborative models.

Pieti Marjavaara is the chief innovation officer in construction management at AINS Group. Leveraging extensive research and development experience, Marjavaara bridges the gap between high-level innovation strategy and the practical implementation of digital solutions. His work focuses on transforming the construction industry through knowledge management and AI.