The Art of Mentorship

Illustration of Marvin and Kaye in action. (AI generated)

Marvin T. Coker and Kaye A. Smith understand that technical skills alone don't make a great construction cost estimator—it's the ability to read between the lines, understand the story that construction drawings tell, and translate that understanding into accurate cost estimates.

Marvin: Guiding from the Ground Up

Marvin emphasizes the critical skill of reading construction drawings—something he notes isn't adequately taught in schools. "The construction drawings tell a project's story," he said, so he guides junior estimators through construction steps from the ground up, emphasizing the crucial order of operations.

This attention to detail isn't just about accuracy—it's about building the foundation for identifying cost-cutting opportunities and delivering exceptional value to clients.

"If you miss just one thing, you could throw off an estimate by thousands of dollars," Marvin said. 

Kaye: Inspiring by Example

Kaye’s perspective to mentorship is fueled by her own journey from Office Manager to Vice President, which serves as a powerful example of what's possible with curiosity, dedication, and the right guidance.

Her message to younger staff is both encouraging and eye-opening: "You don't know how fortunate you are to work for Palacio. The opportunities you get here are amazing." 

Kaye embodies the idea that career growth isn't just about climbing a ladder—it's about continuously expanding your capabilities and finding new ways to serve clients. This enthusiasm for guiding projects with the latest industry intelligence and laser focus on client service reflects the approach that defines Palacio's culture.

Kaye's passion is evident as she expressed, "I love my job. I always loved it. It's not boring. With every year... there's something different." 

Shaping the Future

As the construction industry continues to evolve—dealing with post-COVID pricing resets, tariff impacts, and changing delivery methods like the rise of CMAR—the guidance of experienced professionals like Marvin and Kaye becomes even more valuable. They're not just managing costs; they're teaching the next generation that professional judgment, client focus, and collaborative spirit define true expertise in construction cost estimating.