Ahmad Shahroodi, Ph.D., P.Eng., CanDACC Adj., Vice President and Canada Forensic Engineering Team Lead, recently presented at the RIMS Maritime Conference 2026, sharing insights into the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on forensic engineering.
In his presentation, “AI: The Assistance to Forensic Engineering,” Dr. Shahroodi highlighted how AI is reshaping the investigation process by enabling engineers to process large and complex datasets, identify failure patterns, and support more efficient and consistent root cause analysis. From pre-examination planning through post-investigation reporting, and investigation report production, AI is increasingly being integrated across every phase of forensic work.
Dr. Shahroodi discussed several key benefits of AI adoption, including:
- Enhanced analytical depth through the integration of sensor data, imagery, and simulations
- Faster processing of large volumes of information
- Improved consistency and reduced variability in technical assessments
- Advanced pattern recognition for identifying anomalies and failure trends
However, the presentation also emphasized important limitations. AI tools are inherently dependent on the quality and completeness of available data, may lack transparency in decision-making processes, and can introduce risks if used without appropriate oversight.
Critically, Dr. Shahroodi reinforced that AI does not replace the expertise of professional engineers. Instead, it serves as a supporting tool—enhancing capabilities while relying on experienced professionals to interpret findings, validate conclusions, and ensure results are technically sound and legally defensible.
“AI assists—but the expert leads,” was a central theme of the presentation, underscoring the continued importance of engineering judgment in an increasingly data-driven world.
Dr. Shahroodi is Vice President and Canada Forensic Engineering Team Lead at EFI Global, where he oversees multidisciplinary investigations involving structural, infrastructure, and complex loss projects (in all engineering disciplines). Since joining EFI Global in 2021, he has led a team of engineers across multiple disciplines, conducted failure analyses on a wide range of structures, and provided expert reports and litigation support for cases. Ahmad is also a certified Federal Adjudicator by the authorized nominating authority under the Federal Prompt Payment for Construction Work Act. Dr. Shahroodi is able to hear construction adjudications, consider Claimants and Respondents positions, and come to the determination, which is ultimately enforceable by the courts of law.
Tags: technology