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In this episode, Guy sits down with Georgia Jackson, Estimator at Cast Interiors, to explore what really happens behind the scenes of construction projects and what it means to work “in the trenches” of the industry.
Georgia shares her journey from growing up on construction sites in Sydney working alongside her dad, to carving out her own path in the industry and unexpectedly finding her place in estimating. What started as a role she once saw as purely numbers-driven quickly became something far more dynamic, creative, and collaborative.
The conversation dives into the reality of estimating, breaking down the misconception that it is just spreadsheets and calculations. Georgia explains how the role requires constant communication, relationship-building, and the ability to mentally construct a project before it is ever built on site. From working with supply chains to aligning with design and programme teams, estimating sits at the centre of decision-making.
A key theme throughout is communication. Georgia highlights how projects succeed or fail based on transparency, whether that is within teams, with suppliers, or from clients who are not always upfront about budgets and priorities. She also challenges the idea that asking questions is a weakness, arguing instead that it is one of the most important strengths in construction.
They also explore:
The reality of mistakes in construction and why no tender is ever perfect
Why estimating is more creative than people think
How collaboration across teams shapes better project outcomes
The gap between design ambition and cost reality
What clients can do to stay on budget and avoid rework
The evolving role of sustainability, reuse, and circular thinking in fit-outs
How AI could support estimating without replacing human judgement
The differences between construction culture in Australia and the UK
Georgia also reflects on the importance of learning through experience, building confidence in a traditionally male-dominated industry, and creating a culture where people feel comfortable asking for help and sharing knowledge.
This is an episode about the human side of construction, where better communication, curiosity, and collaboration lead to better buildings.