What it is that I do
Not many people understand what it takes to be a Chief Electrical Estimator, and that's okay—it's a role that's often behind the scenes but incredibly important. To most, I’m just an electrician, and for a long time, I was fine with that. After all, it was true. I started as an apprentice right out of high school and worked my way up to a Journeyman in the state of California. I absolutely loved it. The satisfaction of wiring complex systems and solving tricky problems fed my passion for the craft. It was hands-on, real-world work that kept me constantly engaged and learning.
But as time passed, I began to see the bigger picture. As technology advanced and the construction industry evolved, I realized there was more to explore. One opportunity led to another, and eventually, I found myself working with CAD designs. At first, it was daunting. CAD was a whole different beast compared to electrical systems. But I took it on as a challenge, investing time to learn and adapt. This push to embrace technology and innovation would become a significant turning point in my career.
The timing was perfect, too—my family was growing, and with that came the responsibility to provide more, both in terms of financial stability and future opportunities. I knew I needed to expand my skill set, so I shifted into project management. Here, I started learning the business side of things: reading plans, creating RFIs (Request for Information), managing purchase orders, dealing with manpower loading, and coordinating everything to keep a project on track. Every task was an exciting puzzle, but there was something about estimating that really grabbed my attention.
Estimating—The Heart of the Construction World
As I delved deeper into estimating, I realized this was where my skill set could truly shine. Estimating isn’t just about calculating numbers; it’s about understanding how a project is built from start to finish. It’s the blueprint for everything that happens on-site, and without an accurate estimate, nothing else can fall into place.
Each project is unique, and every day is different. I work with a diverse team of architects, engineers, and contractors, gathering all the information needed to create a detailed, accurate cost prediction for electrical work. I look at blueprints, analyze material requirements, and assess labor costs. It’s a mix of technical expertise and strategic planning, and it’s a world where no two projects are the same. There’s always something new to learn, always something that requires creative problem-solving.
But it's more than just crunching numbers. As a Chief Electrical Estimator, I take on a leadership role, overseeing the estimating process for large-scale projects and ensuring everything aligns with the client’s goals and budget. I collaborate with other departments, advise on design choices, and help steer the course of construction with my expertise. The stakes are high—because an estimate isn’t just about getting the numbers right; it's about building a foundation for a successful project.
Pacific Power's Role: The Dry Dock Project and More
At Pacific Power Electrical Contracting, where I currently serve as Chief Electrical Estimator, we are constantly tackling large-scale projects that require meticulous planning and coordination. One such project we’ve been deeply involved in is the Dry Dock Project, a monumental undertaking where we are responsible for all the underground electrical distribution, telecommunications, and secondary systems. This project has required not only our electrical expertise but also a deep understanding of how to integrate complex systems in challenging environments.
As we’ve taken on projects like the Dry Dock, our team has had to adapt and find innovative solutions that keep everything running smoothly. From ensuring the precise coordination of underground electrical work to handling intricate telecommunications systems, every detail must be meticulously estimated and executed. And, like every other project, no two are ever the same. But that’s the thrill of what we do—solving the unique challenges that each new job brings.
A Commitment to Excellence
Pacific Power is deeply committed to delivering high-quality electrical solutions. We pride ourselves on our ability to handle everything from underground electrical distribution to the complexities of telecom and secondary systems. Our diverse team brings expertise to each project, including the large-scale Dry Dock project, where we’ve played a vital role in shaping the infrastructure for this important endeavor.
What It Means to Me
Being a Chief Electrical Estimator isn’t just a job; it’s the culmination of years of hands-on experience, learning, and evolving. It’s about creating something from nothing—turning blueprints into reality—and seeing the end product come to life, knowing I had a hand in making it all possible. The satisfaction I get from estimating a project and seeing it succeed is unmatched.
I may have started out as an electrician, but what I do now is so much more than that. It’s about problem-solving on a grand scale, integrating technology, managing resources, and contributing to projects like the Dry Dock and others that shape the communities we live in. There’s a lot of pride in that.