The construction industry significantly contributes to global greenhouse gas emissions, underscoring the need for sustainable building materials. Mass timber, an engineered wood product made from laminated lumber- stands out for its environmental benefits and aesthetic appeal. However, research on its adoption particularly in the U.S., is limited. This study addresses this gap by examining the knowledge, perceptions, and adoption factors among academia (students and faculty) and industry professionals in the U.S. construction Industry.A survey of 440 responses from the AEC community was analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test to identify key disparities in knowledge gaps, perceptions, and adoption factors between academia and industry. The findings revealed notable differences in knowledge gaps related to mass timber, emphasizing the need to address the distinct informational needs and perspectives of academia and industry. Additionally, the study uncovers significant variations in perceptions, particularly concerning mass timber performance and safety aspects. These insights highlight the necessity for tailored communication strategies and educational initiatives to bridge perceptual divides. Key factors influencing the adoption of mass timber were also identified, revealing significant gaps between academia and industry professionals. The study has additionally conducted among-group analyses for students, faculty, and industry professionals considering the AEC community, as well as industry groups based on their levels of experience. These findings provide crucial implications for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers, informing targeted interventions and policy measures to promote the widespread adoption of mass timber in sustainable construction practices. Overall, this thesis advances our understanding of the dynamics surrounding mass timber adoption in the U.S. construction industry.
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