2026 KC Construction Estimating Academy

Welcome to the 2026 KC Construction Estimating Academy! Join us at the Ball Event Center on February 5, 2026 at 7:00 AM (Central Time) for a day filled with learning and networking opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in the industry, this event is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their skills and knowledge in construction estimating. Don't miss out on this chance to connect with experts and peers in the field. See you there!

Join Us for the 21st Annual KC Construction Estimating Academy!

Hosted by ASPE Kansas City Chapter 32
Thursday, February 5, 2026 | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

ASPE Chapter 32 is thrilled to announce the 21st Annual KC Construction Estimating Academy, a premier event designed to bring together Construction Estimators, Project Managers, and Construction Industry Professionals for a day of learning, networking, and professional growth.

This prestigious event offers an immersive exploration of cutting-edge tools, techniques, and strategies to help attendees:

• Enhance profitability.

• Streamline estimating processes.

• Win more projects.

• Achieve operational excellence.

What to Expect:

• Expert-Led Educational Sessions
  Learn from top industry experts on topics ranging from the latest construction estimating technologies to legal insights and essential soft skills for estimators.

• Interactive Networking Opportunities
  Connect with peers throughout the day during breakfast, lunch, and a lively happy hour with an open bar. Participate in raffle draws and expand your professional network in a relaxed setting.

• Professional Development Credit
  Attendees can earn 5 PDUs in one day, advancing their professional qualifications while gaining invaluable knowledge.

Who Should Attend?

This event is perfect for General Contractors, Subcontractors, Construction Estimators, Project Managers, and Suppliers looking to build expertise, network with peers, and gain insights into the latest industry trends.

Why Attend?

This one-day event provides:

• Exclusive access to innovative strategies for boosting profitability and efficiency.

• Opportunities to engage with like-minded industry leaders.

• A chance to enhance your skills and take your estimating expertise to the next level.

Location:

Ball Event Center, 21350 W 153rd St Olathe, KS 66061

Don’t miss this all-day educational and networking event. Take your knowledge and connections to new heights at the 21st Annual KC Construction Estimating Academy!

Mark your calendar and register today!

Event Sponsors

Gold Sponsors:

Bobyard, Michael Ding

Togal.AI

UChapter2, Troy DeGroot

Lunch Sponsor:

TBD

Happy Hour Sponsor:

TBD

Printing Sponsor:

Drexel Technologies, Inc., Damien Illum

2026 KC Estimating Academy is Hosted by American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE) Heartland Chapter #32

Schedule for the 2026 KC Estimating Academy All Day on Thursday February 5, 2026

7:OOAM-8:00AM Registration & Continental Breakfast

Kick off the day with a warm welcome at the 2026 KC Construction Estimating Academy! Begin your morning with:

• Continental Breakfast: Enjoy fresh pastries, coffee, and juice to start the day right.

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow construction professionals, estimators, and project managers.

• Vendor Booths: Explore cutting-edge tools, technologies, and services from industry-leading vendors.

This hour sets the stage for a productive and engaging day of learning, collaboration, and growth. Make the most of this time to build connections and gain insights from industry peers and exhibitors!

Welcome Address and Introductions

8:00 AM – 8:10 AM

Presented by Eric Soriano, ASPE Chapter 32 Immediate Past President

Kick off the 2025 KC Construction Estimating Academy with a warm welcome from Eric Soriano, President of ASPE Chapter 32. Eric will introduce the day's agenda, highlight the value of this annual event, and set the stage for a day packed with insightful presentations, expert speakers, and invaluable networking opportunities.

With a passion for advancing the construction estimating profession, Eric will share how this Academy empowers estimators, project managers, and industry professionals to drive profitability, efficiency, and growth. Prepare to be inspired and energized as we begin this incredible day of learning and collaboration!

Keynote Address: Rebecca Kassa (PhD) Senior Researcher • Simplar Foundation

8:10 AM – 9:10 AM

AI-Powered Estimating: Faster, Smarter, More Accurate

Join us as Rebecca Kassa kicks off the 2026 KC Construction Estimating Academy with an inspiring keynote address. Rebecca Kassa, PhD, a researcher in the U.S. construction industry, will explore how artificial intelligence is transforming construction estimating. This session highlights the latest AI tools that are helping estimators double their output, reduce hours, and improve cost accuracy.

Attendees will see:

1.Real examples of AI-driven takeoffs and automated measurements

2. Data-powered cost predictions and trend analysis

3. Automated workflows that streamline estimating tasks

4.Practical tools and strategies to reduce errors and improve efficiency

5.Techniques you can take back to your office to boost productivity and profitability

Join us and take home proven AI techniques to maximize accuracy and profitability.

Morning Break #1 - 9:10 AM-9:20AM, Coffee, Vendors, Networking

Dive into the latest trends and challenges in construction estimating with this engaging panel discussion featuring senior estimators from leading firms. In this fast-paced session, our panelists will share insights into:

• Emerging Trends: Learn about the tools, techniques, and technologies reshaping the estimating landscape.

• Key Challenges: Understand how estimators are tackling rising material costs, labor shortages, and compressed timelines.

• Best Practices: Discover strategies for improving accuracy, managing risk, and driving project profitability.

Attendees will gain a snapshot of what’s driving the construction industry today and actionable ideas to take back to their teams. Whether you’re a subcontractor, general contractor, or project manager, this discussion will provide valuable perspectives on staying competitive in a rapidly evolving market. Don’t miss this chance to hear from the pros!

9:20AM-10:30AM Break Out Estimating Educational Sessions:

1. RIB, You See it. Together we'll see it through. Your vision shapes the world. Our technolgy brings it to life.

2. "Estimating Healthcare Operations, Understanding Hospital Workflows and What’s Not on the Drawings" Kevin Wagner, Project Executive, Hausmann Construction

Join Kevin Wagner for an in-depth discussion on important considerations to cover the total scope of budgeting and estimating work in the Healthcare environment. Many tasks required to work in a hospital do not make it on the contract documents and must be included to ensure adequate budgets for working in the challenging world of patient care. Kevin will cover these topics from both an owner and contractor perspective.

Kevin Wagner has been in the construction and real estate development industry for 29 years, starting as a Union Laborer in 1995. Kevin has served in Leadership positions as a General Contractor, Owner Representative and has overseen design and development operations. His career has been mostly focused on Healthcare and Affordable Housing projects. He currently leads Hausmann Construction’s operations in Kansas City.

3. "Basic Estimating for Beginning Estimators", Dan Frondorf, LCPE, CDT, DG Frondorf and Associates LLC Construction Estimating Consultants This session will cover fundamental estimating practices essential for construction estimators at all levels. Topics include:

• Document Management Best Practices: Efficiently organize and navigate project documentation.

• Utilizing CSI MasterFormat Specs: Leverage standardized specifications for accurate estimates.

• Basic Takeoff Techniques: Learn the foundational methods for quantity takeoffs.

• Understanding the Four Basic Types of Costs: Explore direct, indirect, fixed, and variable costs.

• Establishing Production Rates and Crew Compositions: Develop accurate productivity metrics and resource plans.

• Connecting Takeoff Quantities to Durations: Integrate quantities into project timelines for better planning.

• Basics of Proposal Writing: Craft clear and compelling proposals for clients.

Attendees will gain practical tools and strategies to improve the accuracy, efficiency, and effectiveness of their estimating practices, making this session a must for those looking to build a strong foundation in construction estimating.

4. "Uncovering the Magic of Estimating in Bluebeam Revu" by Expert Troy DeGroot Leading Bluebeam Certified Instructor

In this course I’ll take my experience building custom Bluebeam tools and workflows to show everyone what’s possible. Beginner users will learn tips & tricks using existing measurement tools, while being inspired by more advanced opportunities. We will show how custom toolsets are built in comparison to On Screen Takeoff (OST), how to build assemblies to maximize data with minimal markups. I’ll finish by answering specific “how would you” questions regarding custom tools and software integration.

Morning Break #2 - 10:30AM-10:45AM Coffee, Vendors, Networking

10:45AM-Noon Break Out Estimating Educational Sessions:

1. "Bobyard, Using AI to Scale Estimatig" Michael Ding, Founder & CEO of Bobyard. Michael Ding, a Stanford-trained computer science and AI researcher, founded Bobyard to tackle critical challenges in the landscape construction industry. During his time in school, Michael identified a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and one of the most essential yet overlooked sectors in construction. Driven by his vision, he decided to drop out of Stanford to found Bobyard, bringing together a world-class team of AI engineers and industry veterans. Together, they’re building solutions to help contractors work smarter, faster, and more efficiently.

2. MeltPlan AI Takeoff, Tanmaya Kala, PE

3. “Construction Estimating and Project Management in the World of AI”, by Heather F. Shore, Baker Sterchi Cowden & Rice LLC

4."Bluebeam – The Other 85%" by Expert Troy DeGroot Leading Bluebeam Certified Instructor

What is The Other 85%? One of the first things I hear from all the Bluebeam users I encounter every day is “I probably only use 15% of what Bluebeam can actually do.” Most are self-taught and simply don’t know what they don’t know. In this presentation, I will showcase several of the use cases I’ve come across and trained companies to get the most out of their software investment. Attendees will be inspired to do more with the tools they have, integrate with other applications, and maybe even eliminate redundant software from their tech stack.

BBQ Buffet Lunch

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Catered by Fiorella's Jack Stack BBQ

Take a break and enjoy a delicious BBQ buffet lunch, catered by Kansas City’s renowned Fiorella's Jack Stack BBQ. Savor mouthwatering smoked meats, classic sides, and dessert while networking with fellow construction professionals.

This is the perfect opportunity to relax, recharge, and connect with peers in the industry before diving back into the afternoon sessions. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy some of KC’s best barbecue while expanding your professional network!

1:00PM - 2:15PM Break Out Estimating Educational Sessions on:

1. "Estimating Stormwater Detention Systems and Underground Stormwater Detention", Dan Frondorf, LCPE, CDT, DG Frondorf and Associates LLC Construction Estimating Consultants This session is designed to help construction estimators understand and accurately estimate the costs of stormwater detention systems beyond traditional ponds. The presentation will cover key design components, including excavation, system installation, backfill, and incidentals, with an emphasis on strategies to estimate these elements efficiently and effectively.

We will also discuss the importance of early vendor pricing solicitation and how to account for the scheduling impacts of these systems, which commonly use pipe-based or tank-based designs for stormwater collection and release. Attendees will gain practical tools and insights to confidently estimate these systems and integrate them seamlessly into project budgets and timelines.

2. TBD

3. "Sales & Business Development for Estimators", Eric Soriano, Commercial Sales Rep., Hermes Landscaping, Inc. Don’t miss this groundbreaking session at the 2025 KC Construction Estimating Academy! Eric Soriano, Senior Commercial Sales Rep at Hermes Landscaping and an expert in sales and business development for estimators, will deliver actionable strategies to transform how you approach your role.

Eric champions the idea of the Estimator as a confident subject matter expert on the product they are selling, leveraging their in-depth product knowledge to gain trust, influence decisions, and close profitable deals. Learn how to position yourself as the go-to authority while generating new customers, uncovering sales leads, and winning work in an expanding construction market.

From mastering networking at key industry events and delivering persuasive presentations to earning certifications that set you apart and building unshakable customer confidence, Eric’s insights will elevate your business development game. This is a can’t-miss session for estimators looking to expand their expertise, drive growth, and secure lasting success for their firms!

4. "Get ready to discover how AI is transforming image takeoff into something far beyond just dealing with points on a line!" by Kevin Edgington Senior Consultant, Bangert Computer Systems, Inc. In this session, we'll dive into how AI is reshaping the landscape, delivering faster, more accurate estimating results while saving valuable time. We’ll explore two cutting-edge AI takeoff tools—Snap AI and Togal.AI. Snap AI takes the guesswork out of estimating, predicting your next moves for points, logical lines, and polylines with remarkable precision. Togal.AI, on the other hand, brings architectural plans to life by analyzing drawings and instantly calculating room areas—multiple rooms, interior walls, or exterior footprints—with just a few clicks. Say goodbye to tedious manual measurements and hello to efficiency like never before!

Afternoon Break - 2:15PM-2:45PM

2:45PM-4:00 PM Break Out Estimating Educational Sessions on:

1. Negotiating Skills for Estimators & Project Managers, Dan Stalp, President Sandler Training Overland Park Kansas City

Often, we believe negotiating is only for the owners or business development roles within the construction industry. What if we expanded our thinking into change orders, landing/expanding a project, or presenting to a prospective client.

During this interactive session, you will discover:

• How personality and style influence negotiating.

• How asking better questions leads to better negotiating.

• Other best practices when negotiating.

While this session has a business angle to it, this information is transferable to your personal life. You won’t want to miss this session!

2. Excel Skills for Estimators

Presented by Kelly Jarman, Senior Estimator, JE Dunn Construction

Unlock the full potential of Excel in construction estimating with this must-attend session led by Kelly Jarman, a seasoned Senior Estimator from JE Dunn Construction. Kelly will share advanced tips and techniques that every estimator can use to improve efficiency, accuracy, and productivity. This session is ideal for estimators at all levels looking to sharpen their Excel skills and leverage this powerful tool to enhance their workflows. Attendees will leave with actionable insights they can implement immediately to maximize their estimating capabilities.

3. Togal.AI

4. Things an Estimator needs to know for using Drones for Making & Saving Money and Enhancing Safety on Construction Sites, Andrew Patch President Heartland Drone Company/PropTech HD

Presentation Focus:
Discover how drones are revolutionizing construction estimating and how you can use them as a force multiplier on your projects. This session explores practical ways estimators can leverage drone technology to enhance safety, boost efficiency, and save or even make money on construction sites.

Key takeaways include:

• Improving Site Analysis: Use drones for detailed site surveys, terrain mapping, and accurate volume calculations.

• Enhancing Safety: Reduce risks by using drones to inspect hazardous areas without putting workers in danger.

• Cutting Costs: Save time and resources by quickly gathering data that traditionally requires manual effort.

• Optimizing Estimates: Leverage drone-captured data to produce more accurate and comprehensive cost projections.

• Boosting Efficiency: Streamline project planning and decision-making with real-time aerial insights.

This session is designed to provide construction estimators with actionable strategies and tools to incorporate drone technology into their workflows. You’ll leave equipped with knowledge to immediately enhance your estimates, improve site safety, and deliver greater value to your company.

Don’t miss this chance to stay ahead of the curve and learn how drones can be a game-changer for your estimating process!

5. Construction Law Concepts for Estimators to Make Sure You Get Paid, Colin Quinn Construction Litigation Attorney Stinson, LLP

Colin’s presentation will cover key contractual and legal concepts that estimators need to be aware of to ensure their claims get paid. We will cover important lien deadlines, bond deadlines, and contract negotiation and compliance strategies to protect your business if the money runs short.

4:00PM-5:00PM Networking Happy Hour at with Beer, Wine, Appetizers and Give Aways Open to All Attendees, Sponsors, and Presenters

(Classes and Presenters are Preliminary and Subject to Change)

Top 10 Reasons to Attend the 2025 KC Construction Estimating Academy

10. Sharpen Your Skills
Master new strategies and techniques for using Excel, Bluebeam, eTakeoff with AI Technology, PreconSuite™ and other Estimating Softwares to elevate your game.

9. Learn from the Best
Meet and learn from some of the leading construction estimators in Kansas City and across the USA.

8. Learn in One Day
Gain more knowledge about tools, techniques, and technologies in one day than you would in a year at the office, keeping you competitive in a fast-changing market.

7. Network Locally
Connect with Kansas City’s top General Contractors, Subcontractors, Estimators, Project Managers, and Vendors.

6. Work Smarter
Discover ways to Estimate Construction faster and more efficiently to improve productivity.

5. Legal Insights
Get your Construction Law questions answered by an experienced construction attorney.

4. Tackle Pricing Instability
Gain strategies for managing construction material pricing and availability challenges.

3. Learn from Experts
Hear insights on the state of the art and future of construction estimating from key stakeholders.

2. Meet the Best
Engage with leading-edge vendors of construction estimating tools and software.

1. Stay Ahead
Discover the latest Construction Estimating Tools & Technologies shaping the industry.

This event is packed with valuable insights and opportunities—don’t miss it! Register today!

Dress Code: Business Casual (blue jeans are acceptable)

(Refunds are available up until 7 days before the event because we have Signed Contracts with head counts with 2 Caterers, Ball Event Center, Table Rental Vendor and Bartending Services Company. Within 7 days of event you are welcome to send someone else in your place).