There is a growing need to align human resources with the latest technologies. The paper explores industry 4.0 technologies and the role of human resource development in the South African fabrication and construction industry. It is understood that a higher level of human resource development results is an improved impact of industry 4.0 technologies.  The paper analyses the impact that human resource development has on the implementation of artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), Industrial IoT (IIoT), Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS), Cloud Computing, and the Smart Factory Environment.  The approach of this study is the use of a comprehensive survey process which includes a questionnaire and observation to obtain data from a selected sample of companies. The data collected on the level of research and development aligned to industry 4.0 was analyzed using statistical methods. The primary findings from the research show human resource development aligned to industry 4.0 have a moderate impact on the South African construction and fabrication industry. Further, the study reveals that adequate employee development focussed on emerging technologies has a positive impact on the productivity and efficiency of the industry. Strengthening the skills needed to implement emerging technologies is the key to a competitive advantage.