June 30, 2022
Ever wondered what it would be like to work as an Estimator in the electrical industry? We recently caught up with Cautney, who works as an Electrical Estimator for our Auckland team. Find out more about Cautney's role and how he got to where he is today below 👇
What is your role at McKay?
I work as an Estimator and Project Manager for our Auckland based team.
When did you start at McKay?
I began working at McKay in October 2018.
Describe your role
I have a dual role as a Estimator and Project Manager, which means my role is quite varied. My role is an extremely busy one, which means my days go by very fast. Overall, I spend a lot of my time working with numerous people, whether that be on the phone or emailing our team, suppliers, subcontractors, and clients.
Tell us about your career journey so far?
After leaving school my career started in Hotel Management, which allowed me to travel and work. Once coming back from overseas I decided I wanted a change and retrained to become an Electrician. The great thing about working in the electrical industry has been the broad knowledge it has given me in a range of sectors; commercial power and lighting, commercial electrical for mechanical, industrial power stations, mines, oil and gas, water, and wastewater. I have also spent some time as a lift commissioning engineer. Throughout my career I have wanted to challenge myself and strive to continuously learn. My role as an Estimator and Project Manager has allowed me to do this, through the leadership skills developed within the role.
What do you enjoy about your role at McKay?
My role at McKay allows me to pass on the learnings I have picked up throughout my career and have a positive impact on the future of Auckland's infrastructure. I am also lucky to have a boss that I can talk to about literally anything and a team that laughs and jokes around, but also show ups and bring their A-game.
What has been your favourite project at McKay?
My favourite project so far has been the Avondale Town Centre Stage 1 lighting upgrade, completed May 2021. It was a challenging design working around the underground services and the public, however, it was my favourite project due to the margins made.
3 words to describe working at McKay?
Stable, interesting & rewarding
How would people at work describe you?
I think people would probably say I'm a practical thinker, who is like a piece of a puzzle that holds the clues on how it goes together.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Anything involving spending time with my son and watching sports with friends and family.
What advice would you give to someone looking to become an Estimator?
To be an estimator you need to be self-motivated and have the ability to continuously prioritise jobs. Some key skills needed for the role is to be great with numbers, like to make money and have time to sit down to take on board what works and what doesn’t work out in the field.
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