RSVP:https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/CV3VA6PME5V7Y  

Presenters: Steve Knight-Willcock,  PMP is currently a Senior Director for Construction Data Intelligence, Project Services with AtkinsRéalis

Abstract: Economic Market Intelligence: Understanding Construction Cost Drivers in Southern California

Southern California continues to be one of the most complex construction markets in the United States, driven by competing capital programs, constrained labor availability, and ongoing material price volatility. This presentation will summarize key findings from a recent Southern California construction market activity report and translate those findings into practical insights for owners, estimators, and cost engineers.

The session will examine current and forecast labor costs and availability across major trades, the impact of large-scale city, airport, transportation, industrial, infrastructure, and life sciences projects on market saturation, and recent trends in contractor pricing behavior. Material cost escalation, bid price indices, and supply chain pressures will be discussed in the context of how they influence both baseline estimates and contingency development. The presentation will also highlight regional differences within Southern California and identify leading indicators that signal shifts in market conditions.

Attendees will gain an understanding of how structured market intelligence can be incorporated into early estimating, escalation forecasting, and risk management, enabling more informed investment and execution decisions in a highly competitive construction environment.