Lynette Gonzalez

My career in construction spans over 20 years, beginning as an administrative assistant in the early 2000s. One company invested in my development by sending me to New York for a construction management and project management certificate program, where I learned to read drawings and eventually moved into project management. While I thought I loved the operations side of construction, I discovered my true passion was in estimating. For the past 7 to 8 years, I've specialized in this field, first as an estimating assistant and now as an estimator at KMI, where I work remotely doing construction cost estimates for consulting. Unlike working for a general contractor, I serve as an owner's representative, providing feasibility studies and ensuring owners have accurate budget information before proceeding with their projects. My work takes me across the country, from California to Wisconsin, and I've developed expertise in understanding how costs vary by region and what building requirements differ from Florida to the northern states. Every day involves spreadsheets and drawing reviews, and while the work can be tedious with some projects keeping me working until 11 PM for a week straight, I love bringing each package together and arriving at that final number. I'm currently working toward my senior level estimator position and pursuing my ACCEA certification. What I love most about KMI is the outstanding work culture and remote flexibility, which allows me to balance my demanding career with raising my teenage daughter.