Construction Cost Estimate Owners Can Trust

Construction Cost Estimate Owners Can Trust

In this episode of Project Insights, host Amanda Donovan is joined by PMA's Saumil Maniar and Terrance Cooper to explore what it takes to build construction cost estimates that owners can actually trust. The two experienced estimators share what high-performing owners consistently get right, how to spot red flags in contractor and consultant estimates, and practical approaches to modeling escalation and risk in today's volatile market. From early conceptual estimating and value engineering to documentation practices that protect all parties when change orders and disputes arise, listeners will gain actionable insights into how rigorous, transparent cost estimating drives better decisions at every stage of project delivery.

Value Engineering's Impact on Project Success

In this episode of Project Insights, PMA experts Rick Johnson and Jeff Plant join host Bryan Ritch to explore why value engineering (VE) remains a vital tool for successful infrastructure delivery. Drawing on decades of experience, they explain how true VE goes beyond cost cutting by using a structured, function‑driven approach to improve performance, constructability, and lifecycle value. Through real project examples, the conversation highlights how fresh perspectives and multidisciplinary teams can challenge assumptions and unlock significant savings. Rick and Jeff also discuss common barriers to early VE adoption and why applying VE sooner (not later) leads to better outcomes for owners navigating rising costs and complexity.

Winning Before the RFP Through Smarter Market Intelligence

In this episode of Project Insights, host Amanda Donovan is joined by Erika Flynn from GovSpend and Kim Varghese from PMA Consultants to explore the importance of market research and pre-positioning. Erika and Kim share how tools like GovSpend and proactive intelligence help firms identify decision makers, anticipate procurement trends, and uncover client priorities. Throughout the episode, our guests help listeners learn strategies for turning data into actionable insights, building capture plans, and aligning marketing and operations to position effectively. Additionally, Amanda and Kim recall examples of when prepositioning and relationship building led to winning work - proven real-world tactics! From identifying clients to determining what projects best suit your team, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how research-driven positioning creates stronger outcomes in a competitive marketplace.

Navigating Partnerships in Construction Delivery

In this episode of Project Insights, host Amanda Donovan is joined by PMA Executive Director Angel Ripepi and Managing Director of Marketing Bryan Ritch to explore the balance between collaboration and competition in construction project delivery. Angel and Bryan share insights on why strategic teaming is essential in today’s market, how early positioning and trust influence project success, and the role of cultural alignment in building lasting partnerships. Moving on to the "how," they also discuss practical strategies for selecting partners, managing relationships with firms that may later be competitors, and positioning PMA as a partner of choice through transparency and shared success. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how reputation, adaptability, and complementary expertise create winning teams in an increasingly complex industry.

A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation with Chris Carroll

In this episode of Project Insights, host Zoe Moschella sits down with Executive Director Chris Carroll as he reflects on his remarkable 33-year career at PMA and his upcoming retirement. Chris shares stories from his early work on Boston’s Big Dig and the Ted Williams Tunnel, as well as his more recent assignments leading transformative school and municipal projects. Through these stories, he highlights lessons learned in project controls, the evolution of PMA’s owner’s project management practice, and the importance of communication, teamwork, and adaptability in the construction industry. Listeners will gain insights into the past, present, and future of project management while celebrating the enduring impact of Chris’s contributions to PMA and the Northeast region.