Blog – Page 2 – Candels Estimating & Training

Best Practices to Succeed in 2021

It’s a new year. The calendar has been turned and everything is fresh and new, right? We all know that after 2020, as much as we want it to be true, the world is still exactly as it was “last year” and many of you are scratching your heads wondering how you are going to get through another possible chaotic year or, at the very least, the start of one.

I thought it would be interesting to look up the definition of chaos. Chaos is defined as, “complete disorder and confusion.” That definition is pretty accurate. Now, does this mean that you are doomed? No! You are only doomed if you think you are doomed. That fear can and will paralyze or blind you, or both.

I remember a time, a while back when the country was in chaos and we thought the sky was falling. We were literally paralyzed, not knowing what to do. Our business had almost completely dropped off. For a while, we felt hopeless. Through hard work and determination, we built our business back up even stronger than before. I can speak for both Marc and me when I say that we never want to be in that position again. That truly is the inspiration for this article.

Many of you may be feeling the same way as we once did. Maybe there has been a dip in your business, or perhaps some of your clients are cutting back on spending. However, now is surely not the time to be a wallflower.

The truth is, despite what is happening nationally or globally with politics and the pandemic, life still goes on and there will always be construction and the need for tradespeople. Almost every business has adjusted because, as we have all been forced to accept, we are not operating “business as usual.” There is hope and there are also many tools that will help us find the way through these unprecedented times.

VISIBILITY.

So, what are some strategies that you can utilize to move forward? Focus on your client base. Call! Check-in! Make sure they know that you are still around and ready to help. Personally, I am a big fan of face-to-face meetings, even if it is an impromptu visit to a client’s office to drop-off coffee and donuts. (Who turns down coffee and donuts? Right?) Perhaps some constructive, enlightening conversation will emerge over that glazed donut. That moment is your chance to learn how to accomplish my next tip.

VALUE.

Always create more value with your products and services. In addition to the chance to increase revenue for your business with things you are potentially already doing, more importantly, it shows your clients that you can help them achieve their goals with you as their partner. Now is the time to identify and educate your clients that you are an asset – not an added expense. It may sound complicated, but it is quite simple once you break it down. Think outside the box. Introduce new ideas, opportunities, and, even, ways of doing things that your clients may not have considered in the past. If you are having a hard time with this, or anything for that matter, Google is your new best friend. Ask questions, do research. You will be amazed at some of the fantastic ideas that you may have never considered.

TEAMWORK.

On the topic of ideas, I have found that our team members often come up with some great ideas. Ask them questions! This involves your team in moving forward and being a part of the solution. This is such an opportunity for you to be the leader that leads their team to help their clients navigate the diverse challenges faced every single day in our industry. You may just get lucky and discover a shining star that has been in front of you this whole time. Be sure you are willing and ready to nurture that star.

PATIENCE.

Another great piece of advice? Keep calm. Practice patience. Although this isn’t really related to estimating or construction, years ago when I was teaching our girls to cook, I always told them that if something goes wrong in the kitchen, the first rule is to NEVER PANIC! The same holds true for business. We are all looking for our recipe for success with the secret ingredients to make it all come together.

MARKETING.

As we move into this new year, perhaps some of you are reviewing the books and making necessary adjustments because of your reality – and that makes sense. During this process, I caution you to not cut much of your marketing and advertising budget. You and your message must remain top-of-mind to remain relevant. We are fortunate in that so many social media platforms are virtually free, so make sure to use them consistently while remaining on-brand. Most people are hungry for information, especially if it relates to a dilemma that your reader needs answers to. This is where relevant content comes in. Be the source of information as it relates to your expertise. Is there something special that you have learned in your business? Is it something that would be of interest to your clients or help them find a solution? Let that marinate and you will surprise yourself with what you come up with.

Now let me bring it all together for you. You will survive and thrive in a chaotic world if you work for it. Always strive to create new value for your clients. If something goes wrong, don’t panic! Pick yourself up, learn from the setback, and keep going. Your messaging should be on-brand and mindful of market conditions. Finally, remember that people are looking for information and answers. Be their conduit! (No pun intended.)

As we move into 2021, I am looking forward to sharing my thoughts with you about many things focused on estimating and the electrical industry. Stay tuned for Marc Candels’ new podcast series too! More information will be released on our many social platforms so be sure to follow us on your preferred one.

Happy New Year! Cheers to a bright year ahead!

Learn to Estimate at Your Own Pace

We have done it again with another transformation of the Candels Electrical Estimating Apprenticeship Program. In past semesters, we noticed a trend. Some students would want constant support and feedback, some would want little to no feedback and then there were always those few that fell somewhere in the middle. It was right then that we were asking ourselves how we could best accommodate these three distinct groups. Why would someone who wanted little to no support be paying the same amount as another person who is getting weekly 1-on-1 training sessions? The answer is… they shouldn’t!

The solution came to us and it felt like it was in front of us all along. Why were we deciding what you needed? The program now allows you, the student, to pick whatever level of support you want and the tuition cost would be based on that decision. Each student still gets a Course Workbook, 6-month PlanSwift license, and regular feedback on quizzes/assignments. The different tuition plans are broken out by email-only support, email plus weekly group office hours, or all that plus individual, weekly 1-on-1 support. The response we have gotten has been tremendous. Did I mention the virtual student machines loaded with all the industry-leading software?

If you haven’t had a chance to check out our new and improved program, you can learn more and enroll online by clicking here. Be sure to use Promo Code SOCIAL500 to save $500 on any of the single-pay tuition plans. For any questions, please feel free to call us during business hours at (877) CANDELS or email us at [email protected].

As always, happy estimating and please stay safe!

Electrical Estimating Training for Real-World Results

With four successful electrical estimating training sessions under their belts, Linda and Marc Candels are ready to kick off 2019 with their fifth Electrical Estimating Training and Apprenticeship which starts on January 29.

The Candels Electrical Training Academy teaches the art and science of electrical estimating. The four-month session covers a wide range of topics as it dives into great detail about electrical estimating. The Candels team builds the foundation to each student’s estimating experience by thoroughly reviewing estimating theory. The estimator’s role, building construction types, labor units, material pricing, specification review, and drawing review are discussed in detail. All training is then be put into practice via student projects that will be completed during the semester. There is no other program around of its kind! In four months, each student should be able to function as a junior level estimator.

Vice President and co-owner Linda Candels says it’s fairly simple to get started in this field. With a background in marketing analysis and management, she applied her expertise of seeking similarities and differences to her new field: Electrical Estimating. Without any specific background in electrical estimating, Linda said, “All you need is aptitude and attitude. If students are engaged and participate in class, they can succeed.”

Linda’s 15-year electrical estimating career alongside her husband, co-owner and President Marc Candels speaks for itself. Linda and Marc take the business of estimating to heart – they’ve been in business for almost as long as they’ve been married. How many spouses can live and work together for more than a decade? They truly care about the industry and want the industry to move forward in a positive direction—and their Estimating Academy demonstrates this in spades.

The Candels estimating team welcomes all levels of estimators. “Company owners also participate. They know the business but realize they need that formal detailed training in estimating,” Linda said.

About the Classes

Classes are held online twice a week via live webinar. Instructors are available to answer questions during the webinar, plus the webinars are recorded for reference at any point in time.

Samantha Kosteck Nagy, a project manager and estimator with Hy-Power Electric Co., was thoroughly satisfied with the course. “For the amount of time this course lasted, it was perfect for me – not rushed. They provided a syllabus that we followed throughout the course, too. This helped keep all of us on track.” And in a somewhat male-dominated field, it’s refreshing to see more women make electrical estimating their career.

Additionally, the Candels team conducts unlimited one-on-one training outside of regular class hours. This is a major advantage to taking this specific training with the Candels.

Samantha took advantage of that. “One-on-one training with Linda was KEY. This was my favorite part of the course by far, and also for me, the most informative…this was so incredibly helpful.”

Butch Naumann agrees. Butch has been an estimator for 14 years and felt he was missing something. He utilized the one-on-one sessions several times. “Linda and Marc are phenomenal. Marc helped me with ConEst and PlanSwift and took the time to help me with other projects.” Butch is owner and employer of five at BN Electric & Communications in Pittsburgh, PA.

Linda and Marc Candels are highly invested in not only the industry but leading their students to a path of success. “We want to elevate the industry because people are bidding jobs below cost.” The Candels want to teach electrical estimators that when they see a low bid, they need to look at the true cost of a project.

Linda adds, “Consider the quality of work you’ll be getting, the experience, when you should walk away – no one ever tells them that stuff. We want to elevate the industry so projects are priced appropriately and estimators do not fall prey to low bids.”

Why Should I Take this Course?

Linda and Marc hold the unwavering belief: “Solid theory combined with practice. The more you learn, the more value you have to employers and yourself. It’s a relatively small investment for potential lifelong earning capacity.”

And Butch couldn’t agree more.

“Linda and Marc make it very easy and fun. Not only did I have them to go to, but I also had the classes to go back to [online]. Before I took the classes, I wasn’t bidding the type of bidding we’re doing now. The classes saved me so much time. It’s worth every dime. The software programs cut my estimating time and I’m able to bid more work more frequently. We have doubled the work we’ve bid and double our revenue.” Butch now plans to expand his business.

Samantha says, “We were able to contact Marc and Linda at any time to either help us prepare our bids, answer questions, or go over our bids. They were extremely flexible, accommodating and responsive. This course has provided me with more knowledge and tools to use. I am definitely in a better position after taking the course than I was prior to taking the course. I feel more confident and secure in my estimating capabilities…I accomplish more work in less time.”

Job Prospects

Employers look at real-world experience. Depending upon where you live, with the right training, electrical estimators can earn upwards of $250,000/year without an official college degree.

The right training and real-world experience will guide you to a path of success. And this is exactly what the Candels team provides.

Samantha sums it up well. “I would highly recommend this course. I have been in this industry for a long time and I have not come across a more extensive or thorough course.”

Want more details? See below and don’t miss out on this unique and fun opportunity.

Space is limited! Register now to secure your spot!

Does knowing software make me an electrical estimator?

You took the electrical estimating software training. Are you now an estimator?

One of the biggest fallacies in the electrical industry is that knowing how to operate an electrical estimating software package automatically “makes you an estimator.” While knowing software is very important to the estimator’s role, this is only a piece of the estimating process. There is that old phrase “garbage in, garbage out” which may apply when a software operator randomly takes off items with no thought to reviewing any of the bid documentation. As you may know, apprentice electricians must complete 4 to 6 years of education and training to be a licensed journeyman electrician. What makes you think that taking a software class could make you an estimator in a week?

The estimator’s role is to determine the true cost of the project.

One thing that I think owners should remember is that the estimator’s role is to determine the true cost of the project. In that regard, an estimator has a fiscal responsibility to the company to determine the costs so that the company makes the anticipated profit, or at least doesn’t lose any money. We had one customer say “If I read the specs and covered everything, I would never get a job.” That is dangerous thinking right there. Determining the true cost doesn’t mean you have to bid at that price. The true cost becomes a guideline to make cuts to the costs based on known factors and historical data that you have collected over the years. That’s how you become more competitive on bid day.

This estimator not only knows the electrical estimating software, he knows how to estimate too!

Software does not teach you to think.

Every estimator’s career needs a foundation. In other words, an estimator must be taught to think and interpret drawing notes, specifications and other documentation. If you are never taught to look at the building construction before starting your take-off, how would you know that devices in block walls require different labor units than those in a sheetrock wall? If you never look at the reflected ceiling plan, how would you know to take-off a fixture in a grid ceiling versus a hard, gypsum board ceiling.

Is there demolition or existing walls that need to be chased or snaked? Different ceilings may require different wiring methods, flange kits, or even lifts depending on the height. Does your software determine this for you? No! Will software help you with project acceleration or delays in the schedule? The simple answer is no.

Electrical estimating software is great, but can it……????

You are back from your week of software training. Now you are back and ready to work. Where do you start? Does your software lay out a systematic approach? Will it help you get the counts out to the vendors for lighting fixtures? Or help you determine wiring methods for the project? Does the software calculate what you will need for homeruns? How does the software handle both human and non-human factors of labor effectiveness such as overtime work, compressed schedules, or building height adjustments? Will the software prepare your scope letter, detailing what it included in your proposal and our legal terms and conditions that may protect you from lawsuits?If you are lucky to get a project, will the software put together your schedule and manloading chart?

Electrical estimating is part science, and part art!

Perhaps being a great software operator will help you with the science part of estimating. However, there is an “art” to bidding and negotiating work. Determining the bid price has a psychological element to it. Software doesn’t think for you. Software is merely a tool that you use, just like a pencil. Electrical estimating software also does not help you to negotiate work. It doesn’t help with the human side of developing relationships with general contractors in your area. They don’t care what software you use! They care that you can do the work for the price that you quoted. Let’s not forget that there are many electrical estimating software systems available. All operate somewhat differently. If you aren’t a professionally trained estimator, how do you know which electrical estimating software is right for you? Some of our clients use multiple software systems due to estimators rolls and requirements within the company as well.

It’s like learning to drive…………

A software operator (versus an estimator) is like a new driver that never took driver’s ed. Sure you may be able to get in the car and drive down the road. However, you won’t know what to do when a light turns red, or there is a school bus stopped in front of you because you never learned the rules of the road. This may be a rather simplistic example, but estimating is just like this. You learn the rules of the road first, such as estimating theory, building construction, how to read and interpret the bid documents and more.

Want to learn more about electrical estimating? Candels is offering its premier “Electrical Estimating Apprenticeship” from January 29 through May 30. Visit our website or call for details 877-CANDELS.

Women in Electrical Estimating

The best students have a combination of aptitude and attitude!

When we teach our electrical estimating apprenticeship, we often say that the best students have a combination of aptitude and attitude. To our delight, some of our most successful students have indeed been women, women without any electrical experience.

How can a woman with no electrical experience be an estimator?

You might be asking yourself, how does that work? Well, the truth is that most women are detailed oriented, are able to follow directions (or ask for them when they are lost!), and are willing to prove that they can be very good estimators.

Candels teaches a systematic approach to estimating. We start with theory to build a solid foundation. Then we review things like building construction and why it is important to note how the building is being built. We spend a lot of time going over specifications because the devil is in the details! If the student follows our approach, success is ensured!

Any related experience can be helpful!

Aptitude is a subjective thing. Any experience related to some part of the estimating process can be the springboard into an exciting, lucrative career. We have had students that are office assistants with electrical contractors (logical fit). My background is marketing analysis so, believe it or not, part of my job used to be to compare and contrast products that I didn’t understand and knew nothing about. Estimating is kind of like that too! You don’t necessarily have to know how something works, you just have to know what to do with it in the take-off.

Think about your life and your work experiences. Is there something that relates to the estimating process? Call me to chat about it……….. 877-CANDELS.

Specification Review Checklist

Reviewing the specs is important to the estimating process.

When completing a construction specification review, an estimator should follow a systematic approach. The specifications, include information for each CSI division, however, none should be reviewed in isolation. Even though our focus is electrical, also known as CSI Division 26 (and previously Division 16), information related to the electrical specs will be shown in other sections and must be reviewed.

Why do we look at other specs sections other than electrical?

An untrained estimator may think that reviewing the electrical specs is enough. It’s not. A thorough construction specification review must include the “front end” of the specs (CSI Division 0 and CSI Division 1). This information includes the drawing list, Invitation to Bid, bid scopes, and summary of work. It may also include the project schedule, (Can you get it done it time with your team and tools?), walk through information (Often this in mandatory!), existing conditions, alternates, and allowances. This section also includes bonding information.

Never bid a job you cannot bond! Knowing your bonding capacity is important. Believe it or not, some contractors don’t know that there is an individual project amount bonding capacity, and an aggregate amount. The aggregate amount is the total dollar amount of all projects. If you have never bid a job with a bonding requirement, know that it takes time to get a bond. If you would like to work on projects requiring a bond, find a local agent and work on your bonding before you bid your project!

Before we move to reviewing the electrical specs, let’s talk about some other spec sections that are worthy of review.

In a previous blog post, I mentioned construction specification Divisions 10, 11, and 12 which detail specialty equipment and furnishings. The reason to review these specs is to determine if there is an electrical component with any of the equipment, and the requirements for the electrical contractor. You don’t need to spend hours reviewing these specs; it’s more like a quick review so you can watch out for these systems in the electrical specs and on the drawings.

Existing Conditions

It goes without saying that you want to know existing conditions. Will there be demo involved? Will the demo involve the removal of hazardous materials, such as ballasts containing PCB’s? If so, as an estimator, you want to be sure to cover the removal cost if it is part of your scope. Sometimes salvaged materials will be required to be returned to the owner so it is best to have this information before you bid the job.

Concrete

Concrete is a related spec section to electrical because some electrical equipment will require the use of a concrete foundation, such as a transformer or generator pad. Pole lighting may require bases made of concrete. Know your scope. Sometimes another contractor is responsible for concrete work, all or in part.

Fire and Smoke Protection

Fire stopping is required on projects. Generally this is a boilerplate spec section, however, be aware of specialty devices that cost more than the norm. Some pathways cost hundreds of dollars, so it is best to give this area of the specs a quick review to be sure to cover the cost of potentially expensive items.

Building Modules

We have seen more modular building. As a matter of fact, yesterday I reviewed a job for a KFC. I did not realize that the building was going to be built in four sections at an offsite warehouse. The customer wanted a price for a “stick built” electrical estimate as well as an idea of what it might cost for the electrical including modular construction. We have also seen projects where a portion of the building is built offside. One such project was a hotel where only the bathrooms in certain areas of the building were modular. It’s good to know this up front because you may unknowingly cover the costs for lighting fixtures, receptacles and other devices that are part of the modular construction and therefore not in your scope! With the rising cost of labor, I would suspect that modular building will become more prevalent.

Heat Tracing

Heat tracing is one of those gray areas where it’s not always clear “who owns what.” It’s good to review the specs in this area to see if the electrical contractor will be providing the circuit for the heat trace only, or the cable as well. The same would apply to electric heating mats, snow melt, and the like. If you have a question about your scope of work and cannot find it in the project documentation or specs, always consult with the general contactor and/or issue a Request for Information (RFI).

Next time, we’ll discuss all the hidden gems in the electrical specifications!

Project Specification Manual

The project specification manual is also known as the specifications.

Always review the entire project specification manual!

You’ve heard me say this many times before. “The devil is in the details.” The project specification manual, also known simply as “the specs,” contains a lot of details! You will notice as you review Division 26, or the electrical specs, to refer to other construction specification sections. Always review those sections for related work and how that pertains to the electrical scope of work.

Division 00 is where it all begins!

An estimator should review Division 00, or the “front end docs” first. Review all project information here, such as alternates, allowances and special job conditions. Always refer to the construction specification index for all specification sections, so that you can easily review information that is pertinent.

Always review Division 10, 11, and 12, Specialties, Equipment and Furnishings!

Divisions 10 through 12 of the construction specification detail information about special equipment and furnishings. While the electrical contractor might not have to furnish these items, every project is different. Always review and never assume what you own and don’t own! In class today, we reviewed a rather extensive project’s construction specification. It included photoluminescent egress markings, exterior sun control devices, dock levelers, projection screens and motorized project lifts, and roller shades.

What are photoluminescent lights?

Photoluminescent egress markings have become much more prevalent because they mark the egress path when both normal and emergency power fails. They are not electrical and recharge with regular light. We have seen some projects where the electrical contractor provides and installs this lighting. However, on the project we reviewed, the specifications clearly stated that the items must be installed by a contractor having 10 years experience. That still doesn’t solve the mystery of whether the electrical contractor on this project had to furnish the lighting with installation being subbed out to a qualified contractor. Honestly, we discussed that the construction specification does not stand alone. Sometimes you have to get additional information from the drawings, and other contract documents. You never know where you will find that missing piece of the puzzle to answer your question.

Sometimes sun control devices are just awnings!

We determined that the exterior sun control devices were not motorized, so we moved on.

Dock levelers may or may not require additional devices to be provided by the electrical contractor.

The dock leveler was provided with a disconnect and the control switch, so we will look for the electrical requirements of this item when we start the take-off. I just finished a project on Friday that had a dock leveler and control switch, but the electrical contractor was responding for providing the “traffic” (red/green) light at the dock. Look for notes on the drawings for additional items that you have to provide! In this case, there was a lighting symbol shown and a part number, so we added this to our list of items that need a quote.

Projector screens and lifts often require control wiring provided by the electrical contractor.

Rarely, if ever, does the electrical contractor have to provide the projection screen or projector lifts, and that was the case here. We were more interested in determining the control conduits and wiring that would be provided by the electrical contractor. Again, more information regarding this was shown on the actual construction drawings.

Roller shades can be motorized and they might be hidden on the drawings!

Finally, roller shades are often a stealthy item! We did determine that the roller shades were motorized, so that we could look for the circuits on the electrical drawings. I cited an example in class of a recent project we completed in Massachusetts. The roller shades were not clearly marked but were shown as a dotted line around the perimeter of a large room. All that the drawings mentioned was a simple note. Upon further review and a subsequent RFI document that was issued, we determined that there were 51 shades! You never want to not cover the circuits and small equipment connections for 51 items!

The project specification manual review can be a daunting task! It does get easier with practice!

We warned our students that it would take us about 16 hours to review everything that you should know about the construction specification. So far, we have reviewed related sections to electrical, as referenced in the specs. Always review the entire spec, paying close attention to related construction specification sections!

Construction Addenda and Scope of Work

Candels uses the acronym “B.A.D.A.S.S” to remember the steps in construction estimating. The “A” represents addenda and the “S” represents scope of work.

As you may recall from previous blog posts, we discussed B, bid forms and invitation to bid; A, alternates and allowances; and D, drawings. Having this acronym to refer to will ensure that you don’t miss anything when reviewing the project documentation.

The “A” (Addenda) and the “S” (Scope of Work) of B.A.D.A.S.S.

Sometimes an addendum will be a simple narrative, while other times and addendum will include new drawings. These new drawings may have changes “ballooned out” so they are easily identifiable, however there are times when there are changes that are not identified! Always try to overlay the drawings to ensure that you cover any changes!

You learn something new every day!

Every time we teach the electrical estimating apprenticeship, I make the statement “You learn something new every day.” While Marc and I have had this business for 15 years, during this class, Carrie noted that she has seen in the specs that if the addenda received are not listed on your proposal, your bid can be automatically rejected. Honestly, I never knew that! That is why I love class participation. You never know who will come up with a great idea or comment about the estimating process!

Pay attention to the scope of work!

A statement about the scope of work is important to review before you start your take-off. You may assume that a certain system is part of the work, but the scope of work may prove otherwise! Pay close attention to “materials supplied by others” and “work under separate contract.” Sometimes the owner may supply lighting fixtures while the electrical contractor will install them. Other times, a complete system will be under a separate contract, such as fire alarm or tel/data wiring, devices, terminations, patch panels and racks for example. Note: even if a system is under a separate contract, you, as the electrical contractor may be responsible for raceways! Be sure to review all the documentation so you cover the costs appropriately.

Other Things to Look For: Mock-ups, extra materials, and warranties!

At the risk of running long on this blog, I do want to mention three things that can potentially impact the cost of your project.

Mock-ups

Mock-ups are common, especially in hotels. A mock-up is usually set up in a warehouse and an entire room, such as a hotel room, will be built so that the designer can see if the room will work as intended. What this means for you as an estimator is that you have to carry the material and labor costs of lighting fixtures, devices, and wiring for the mock-up. These devices are usually retained by the owner. Make sure to carry enough labor for your electrician to “adjust” anything that the designer deems necessary.

Warranty

A one-year warranty is pretty standard on most projects, however, some projects require two or even a five year warranty on some parts. If that is the case, you want to be sure to carry the cost of the extended warranty. The cost will depend on the item(s) you are covering. A good tip, if the warranty is not specified, is to put a statement in your proposal to the effect of “warranty limited to the extent of the manufacturer’s warranty.”

Spare Parts

Extra materials and spare parts should be covered in your estimate. If your project requires supplemental fixtures as noted in the specs, make sure that your vendor quotes these items! We like to include notes to this effect on our count sheets to ensure that the vendor is aware of the extra materials. Spare parts are also known as “attic stock.” Again, make sure that your vendor quotes these items.

Next up is a discussion about the specifications. We always say that the “devil is in the details” and the specs prove that most of the time! Stay tuned!