An Introduction to Construction Estimating

This course will provide participants with an overview of the construction estimating process.

Overview

This course will cover:

• Introductions
• Construction Project Phases
• Role of the Estimator
• Types of Construction Contracts
• Types of Estimates
• MasterFormat®
• Definition of an Estimate
• Cost vs. Price
• Components of Cost
• Components of Price
• Risk Analysis
• Quantity Surveying
• Pricing
• Allowances and Contingencies
• Summarizing the Estimate
• Procurement Methods
• Laws and Rules of Tendering
• Basics of Bonding

Details

• Date: March 17, 18, 19 & 20, 2026
• Time: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM ET
• Member Cost: $600 plus HST + fees
• Non-Member Cost: $630 plus HST + fees
• Format: Zoom, Virtual

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Identify the various phases of a construction project from inception to commissioning and beyond.
2. Describe the role of the estimator in the modern construction industry.
3. Identify 6 common types of construction contract arrangements.
4. Identify 4 common types of construction estimates.
5. Detail the components of a construction estimate.
6. Recall the process of creating and applying various unit rates within a construction estimate as well as the completion and summarization of a construction estimate.
7. Identify various methods used for procurement of construction services.

About Ralph Lembcke, P. GSC.

Ralph Lembcke, P. GSC. holds a certificate in Construction Engineering Technology and Management from Fanshawe College, a teaching certificate from St. Clair College and a Professional Gold Seal certification from the Canadian Construction Association. His career has taken him from estimator to project manager, from self-employed contractor to a 30-year career as a professor with the Donald J. Smith School of Building Technology at Fanshawe College in London, where he still teaches part-time. Contact Ralph anytime at rlembckeassociates@gmail.com

Cancellation Clause

Cancellation by course participant:

A full refund will be provided to registrants who provide a minimum of two(2) business days cancellation notice prior to the start of the course. The course participant will also have the option of transferring their ticket to a different course start date, depending on availability.

Cancellation by Instructor:

Decisions on course cancellations will be made prior to the course start date, early registration is recommended. If you register for a course that is canceled by the instructor, you will receive a full refund.