Joyce Lewis formerly known as Sira Lewis-Wikina, a Rivers-Born civil engineer based in the United States, has developed an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) system designed to revolutionise construction cost estimation. The system leverages machine learning to deliver precise, real-time cost predictions, addressing longstanding challenges in the construction industry such as budget overruns and inefficiencies.
Joyce, with over seven years of experience in sustainable civil engineering, created the AI tool to streamline project planning and financial management. The system analyzes historical project data, material costs, labor rates, and other variables to generate accurate cost estimates, reducing the risk of unexpected expenses. It also adapts to location-specific factors, ensuring relevance across diverse markets like Nigeria and the U.S.
Speaking on the project, Lewis highlighted its potential to transform the industry: “AI can eliminate guesswork in cost estimation, enabling better decision-making and sustainable project delivery.” Her work aligns with her advocacy for sustainable construction, a cause she championed during her April 2024 address to the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) in Lagos, where she emphasized technology’s role in advancing engineering.
The AI system has garnered attention for its scalability, with potential applications in infrastructure projects, housing, and disaster-resilient construction—areas Lewis is passionate about due to her experiences with flooding in Nigeria. Industry experts praise the tool for its ability to enhance transparency and efficiency, particularly in Nigeria’s construction sector, which often faces challenges like poor quality control and funding constraints.
Lewis plans to collaborate with Nigerian engineers and policymakers to deploy the system locally, aiming to bolster the country’s infrastructure development. Her innovation marks a significant step toward integrating AI into construction, positioning Nigeria as a potential leader in tech-driven engineering solutions.
Joyce Lewis Mini Biography
Joyce Lewis is a Nigerian-born civil engineer and program management specialist, renowned for her expertise in sustainable construction and innovative contributions to the industry. Currently a graduate student in Construction Management at San Jose State University, she serves as President of the CMAA SJSU Chapter, advocating for environmentally safe urban development. With over seven years of experience, Lewis has managed diverse construction projects in Nigeria and designed the Monitoring and Evaluation Framework for the Growing Businesses Foundation, a non-profit supporting large-scale impact projects. Her passion for sustainability drives her work on water management, waste disposal, and resilient infrastructure, inspired by her childhood experiences with flooding in Nigeria.
Lewis is a trailblazer in integrating artificial intelligence into civil engineering, notably developing an AI system for precise construction cost estimation, enhancing efficiency and transparency. A committed mentor, she engages with organizations like Build California, where she was named a ascended to ambassador in 2023, impacting over 28,000 students. Her awards include the Build California Ambassador recognition (2023) and the Nigerian Society of Engineers’ Excellence in Sustainable Engineering Award (2024) for her AI innovation and advocacy. Lewis continues to shape the future of construction through global collaboration and sustainable practices.
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