Industry Skills Workshop: Cost Estimating 101
Ever wondered how someone can look at a set of drawings and predict a project's cost before it's built? Join us for a practical introduction to construction cost estimating and learn how industry professionals develop budgets, perform quantity takeoffs, analyze labor and material costs, account for risk and escalation, and help owners make smarter project decisions.
Cost Estimating 101
Ever wondered how someone can look at a set of drawings and predict a project’s cost before it’s built? Join us for a practical introduction to construction cost estimating and learn how industry professionals develop budgets, perform quantity takeoffs, analyze labor and material costs, account for risk and escalation, and help owners make smarter project decisions. Whether you’re interested in project management, construction management, engineering, or finance, you’ll gain real-world insight into one of the most valuable skills in the construction industry.
You’ll leave understanding:
- How estimators “read” a project
- How quantities are measured
- Where construction costs come from
- Why projects go over or under budget
- How market conditions influence pricing
- What a career in cost estimating looks like
This workshop is proudly provided in partnership with CMAA.
About the Instructors
Conor Clarke is Vice President and Director of West Coast Cost Management at OCMI, with 18 years of experience in construction cost estimating and cost management, including seven years with OCMI. He holds a BA in Ethical and Political Philosophy and began his career in estimating, building his expertise through hands-on experience across a wide range of project types and sizes.
Today, Conor leads cost management efforts that help project teams understand what a project will cost, from early planning and design through construction. His expertise includes cost estimating, budgeting, value engineering, market analysis, and evaluating how design decisions, schedules, and changing construction costs can affect a project’s budget.
Throughout his career, Conor has developed and managed estimates for projects ranging from under $1 million to more than $2.5 billion. He works closely with owners, architects, engineers, and contractors to identify cost challenges early, evaluate options, and provide reliable cost information that supports better project decisions. His experience provides a practical perspective on the role of the estimator and the career opportunities available within construction cost management.
