Training new electrical estimators: 8 essential principles

It's National Apprenticeship Week, a time to celebrate structured training pathways that bring new talent into skilled professions.

But here's the challenge: while electricians have clear apprenticeship routes, estimators don't. There's no formal apprenticeship programme for the profession in the UK, which creates a significant skills gap in an industry that desperately needs accurate, capable estimators.

So how do you train new electrical estimators when traditional apprenticeships don't exist? Most firms rely on on-the-job training, which can be inconsistent and risky when senior estimators are trying to mentor whilst delivering their own workload.

The challenge is real. Good estimators are in short supply, and the industry has seen high-profile failures linked to inaccurate bidding. We need estimators who can win work with realistic margins, not just the lowest price.

Here are eight principles for building capable estimating teams:

1. Build a strong foundation in theory

Counting quantities is one thing. Understanding context is another.

A trainee needs to know why they're doing what they're doing. For example, installing electrical in concrete block walls requires coordination with masons, specialised conduit, and significantly more labour than pre-drywall installation. Without this understanding, estimates become guesswork based on square footage rather than actual scope.

Take a look at our recent conversation with Jonah at CED Forth Worth, where he explains his process for training new estimators.

2. Stay engaged when using software

Automated takeoff tools like Countfire streamline measurement, but they don't replace thinking.

Trainees need to understand what the software counts and where human judgement is required. Annotations on drawings, site-specific challenges, material specifications; these all require interpretation.

Learning manual counting initially helps trainees stay in tune with what automation handles and where they need to apply expertise.

3. Teach a clear, repeatable process

Accuracy isn't innate – it's learned through consistent process.

Experienced estimators often work intuitively, which makes their methods difficult for trainees to follow. Breaking estimating into clear steps gives new hires a framework they can execute reliably whilst building experience.

4. Look for aptitude and attitude

The best estimator candidates don't always come from the tools.

Analytical backgrounds, including project coordination, data analysis, and technical sales can provide excellent foundations. Look for people who can identify patterns, spot differences, and think systematically.

The critical factors: genuine interest in the role and analytical thinking ability.

5. Understand common pitfalls

Electricians transitioning to estimating often underestimate labour. Installation might be 70% of the job, but travel time, material handling, and coordination add up.

Conversely, people without field experience struggle to visualise physical installation challenges; support requirements, access constraints, sequencing issues.

Balance field knowledge with analytical rigour.

6. Support what trainees are learning

If you're investing in training, managers need to understand what's being taught and stay open to new methods.

Debating theory because "that's not how we've always done it" undermines learning. Create an environment where improvement is welcomed regardless of experience level.

7. Learn from mistakes and move forward

Every experienced estimator has made costly errors. Mistakes from trainees don't mean they lack capability, they mean they need better checking processes.

Don't expect perfection from new estimators. Build review stages into the workflow and treat errors as learning opportunities, not failures.

8. Recognise fit early

Some people will grasp estimating quickly. Others won't, despite effort from both sides.

Good managers can identify whether someone needs more time on specific skills or whether the role fundamentally doesn't suit them. Trial periods help both parties assess fit before committing long-term.

The bottom line

Effective estimator training requires more than shadowing a senior team member. It needs structured process, theoretical grounding, and investment in helping trainees understand the "why" behind the work.

Look for analytical thinkers with the right attitude. Give them clear frameworks. Allow them to make mistakes in a controlled environment.

The industry needs capable estimators. Training them properly is how you build that capability.

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