This project involved the strategic expansion and upgrade of the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Gitxaala. The primary objective was to enhance the plant’s operational capabilities, requiring comprehensive planning for structural modifications and associated system integrations.

My Role and Responsibilities: Financial & Budgetary Management

As a key member of the engineering team, I was entrusted with the critical task of preparing the initial structural upgrade plans and developing a Class D cost estimate for the proposed expansion of the wastewater treatment plant. My focus was to establish a foundational budget that was both realistic and aligned with the project’s preliminary scope.

To achieve this, my actions included:

  • Spearheading cross-disciplinary collaboration: I initiated and facilitated discussions with experts from process mechanical, electrical, and building mechanical disciplines to thoroughly assess the multifaceted implications of the WWTP expansion. This ensured a holistic understanding of potential cost drivers.
  • Conducting meticulous due diligence: I performed a comprehensive review of existing facility plans and conducted an in-depth analysis of relevant building codes and regulatory requirements. This proactive approach was crucial for identifying potential challenges and cost impacts early in the project lifecycle.
  • Developing a comprehensive cost estimate: Leveraging the information gathered, I systematically compiled a detailed cost spreadsheet. This involved synthesizing input from all disciplines to create an integrated financial overview. My process focused on identifying and quantifying potential significant cost items with precision.
  • Ensuring client alignment and transparency: I proactively organized and led a teleconference with the client to meticulously review and clarify the assumptions underpinning the cost estimate. This fostered open communication and ensured all stakeholders were aligned.
  • Validating and benchmarking costs: To further enhance the reliability of the estimate, I summarized the overall projected cost and performed a comparative analysis against the cost-per-area metrics provided by the Altus Canadian Cost Guide, ensuring our figures were benchmarked against industry standards.
  • Delivering finalized cost documentation: Upon refinement and internal validation, I formally issued the comprehensive Class D cost estimate to the client for their review and consideration.

Deliverables and Outcomes

My efforts culminated in the following key achievements:

  • Client Approval of Cost Estimate: Following their internal review, the client formally agreed with the proposed Class D cost estimate. This acceptance underscored their satisfaction with the accuracy, thoroughness, and transparency of the financial assessment provided.
  • Foundation for Future Financial Planning: The successful delivery and acceptance of this initial cost estimate established a reliable financial baseline. This paved the way for my continued involvement in providing cost estimates with progressively higher degrees of accuracy as the project advances through subsequent design stages. My work provided the client with the confidence to proceed with the project based on a well-substantiated initial budget.

This experience significantly honed my skills in financial estimation, interdisciplinary coordination, and client communication, particularly in the context of complex infrastructure upgrade projects.