Manuscript received April 16, 2026; accepted May 10, 2026; published June 17, 2026.

Abstract—This study addresses the skills gap in Kuwait’s construction sector through the design and pilot implementation of an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enhanced training program grounded in the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework. The program targets the development of Project Management (PM) competencies among trainees at Kuwait’s Construction Training Institute (CTI), affiliated with the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET), responding to Industry 4.0 demands for integrated digital, managerial, and analytical capabilities. Using a Design-Based Research (DBR) approach, the study proposes a conceptual training model that integrates adaptive AI tools, including intelligent simulations and guided automated feedback, to support experiential and context-specific learning. The training design aligns Kuwait-specific construction content with evidence-based adult learning strategies and advanced educational technology across the TPACK domains. The proposed design explicitly addresses technical, ethical, and implementation-related considerations associated with the use of AI in vocational training contexts. The pilot phase is intended to examine the program’s potential impact on trainees’ applied knowledge and integrated project management skills. The study is expected to contribute a scalable and contextually grounded training model that supports vocational project management education and workforce development within Kuwait’s Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector.