The AEC industry is on the cusp of its most significant transformation in a century, driven by the immense potential of Artificial Intelligence. From generative design and predictive analytics to enhanced safety monitoring, AI promises to redefine efficiency, innovation, and profitability. However, a critical and widening gap exists between this ambition and the industry’s current capabilities. Recent studies reveal a stark reality: while over 80% of AEC firms anticipate a major AI-driven transformation, a mere 20% consider themselves to have the mature data practices required to capitalize on it. This readiness gap represents the single greatest competitive risk for the unprepared. This 60-minute session directly addresses this challenge by providing firm leaders and practitioners with an actionable, strategic framework to move beyond the hype and build a resilient foundation for an AI-powered future. We assert that data readiness is not merely an IT project to be delegated, but a core business imperative that demands strategic planning and unwavering leadership commitment. This presentation will deconstruct the complex journey into a clear, manageable process, empowering attendees to return to their firms with the tools to lead this critical transformation.