Senior Estimator Rudy Barba recently joined Sundt in our El Paso office, bringing 27 years of experience in commercial estimating. He provides preconstruction support and builds relationships with clients, their design teams and subcontractors.
Rudy grew up following his dad, a superintendent, around jobsites, and began his career in trade roles including laborer, carpenter, ironworker and rod buster. He earned his bachelor’s in civil engineering from the University of Texas at El Paso.
He is a Certified Professional Estimator and president of El Paso Chapter 40, American Society of Professional Estimators.
What have you been doing in your first few weeks with Sundt?
My first few weeks have been spent in ongoing learning and training of Sundt procedures and systems. I have taken part in two hard bid proposals. In El Paso, I have been heavily involved helping finalize subcontract awards. For future opportunities, we are meeting with the City of El Paso on a soon-to-be-signed contract. There is also a private owner/developer we are meeting with on a future mixed-use project.
We have a lot of work going in El Paso. How busy has this been keeping you?
I am very busy and look to be that way for the next few years helping procure and maintain cost control on projects. It is very exciting and being so busy helps keep me out of trouble.
How much does your knowledge of the local market help you do your job?
Knowing the El Paso market is crucial to being able to generate accurate budgets and estimates. I believe it has and will continue to add to our preconstruction team’s ability to procure more work in this region. It is also very good that the local owners, subcontractors and suppliers know they have a good, trustworthy, in-town team that is readily available to speak on a face-to-face daily basis.
What was the most important thing you learned from your dad?
The most important lessons I learned from my dad are God-first, not only to always ask for his help but never forget to thank him for everything. Trials and success, all are a blessing. You love doing for others at work, in the family, for the church, for friends and the community. In everything he did, he gave a small blessing with the sign of the cross saying, “En el nombre de Dios,” which translates to “In the name of God.” He taught always to learn, to always be better than yourself the day before and to pass/teach your knowledge to others.
What are your favorite things to do away from work?
Be with family or friends making new memories and reminiscing. I enjoy being a band booster and roadie for my youngest son Gabriel’s Jefferson Silva High School Marching Band. I also enjoying working out at the gym and someday will make time for my favorite pastimes: playing golf and fishing.