Farewell & Goodbye: Lessons Learned Over a Lifetime of Cost Estimating 

John J. Carter, CPE, LEED Green Associate

As I patiently wait for my retirement date to arrive, I find that now is a good time to reflect on what I have learned over the span of 45 years of construction cost estimating. First, I want to thank my wife and daughters for always encouraging and supporting me in my constant quest to succeed in this difficult business we work in. Secondly, I want to give acknowledgements to the many mentors, bosses, colleagues and people who have worked for me. There are too many to name, but rest assured I remember most of them.

My very first lesson learned that still rings true today is to always write down the name, company, phone number and topic of every phone call. I can’t remember how many times my first year I was asked: Who did you talk to? Don’t remember. Phone number? Nope. Company? Not sure. What good was the call then? Soon after that, I started keeping a legal pad and pen next to the phone. Write it down and you don’t need to remember! Lesson learned!

Many of the other lessons I’ve learned relate to relationships. Don’t lie, someone will call you out. Return phone calls, it shows respect. Admit when you don’t know the answer, go find the answer and call that person back. Own up to mistakes, accept the consequences, and work together to find a resolution.

During my long career, I never stopped learning. Back in 1980, an estimator had a set of paper plans, a scale, a set of colored pencils, Walker Quantity Take-off pad and Recap sheets, a ten key calculator, Rolodex and desk phone. Estimates took over two weeks to complete. Now, we can work on two to three estimates in the same time frame. We have replaced paper plans with PDF plans, perform takeoffs on screen, and recap sheets are replaced by computerized estimating programs. Email, texts, and Teams messaging have replaced phone calls. The progression of technology in our industry continues to improve even to the point where we are exploring AI to assist with takeoffs and estimates. Those who don’t keep up will be left behind.

I was once told, “John, you may think you are the smartest person in the room, but you are not!” That stung at the time, especially in a room full of peers. I was in a project review meeting and was adamant that the cost input for the accounting system needed to match the cost estimate. I discovered later that I was wrong. The lesson I learned was to listen and read the room. I learned to see what I can take away from each meeting to either enhance my understanding or improve my work and how I can contribute to the team.

To those who are early in their careers, I urge you to be patient. One regret I have is that over the years I changed jobs too many times. The grass is not always greener. The problems you think you are escaping may end up growing exponentially at a different company. Learn to embrace difficult situations and your growth will come with how well you handle them. Management will see your efforts and eventually you will reap the benefits of your diligence. Work to create value in your position, build on your expertise, and establish your brand. Creating a long tenure will show future employers that you are dedicated to your work.

Finally, as far as retirement goes, plan early. I mean really early, like 40 years early. There is no good excuse to reach retirement age and not have a good nest egg saved up. Participate in company 401K, invest in an IRA, be careful in accumulating debt, and save for the unexpected.

As I look back at these past 45 years, I have truly enjoyed my career and the people I have had the honor to work with. I hope that all of you find fulfillment in your careers.

Now, I am off to enjoy the fruits of my efforts with my wife and extended family.

FORE RIGHT!