Can you share your background and how you got involved in project controls?

I’m originally from Athens, Greece, and I studied chemical process engineering. During my master’s thesis in 2010, I developed an interest in biorefineries, which produce chemicals from biomass—essentially sustainable production. This project led me to investigate cost estimation models for these early-stage projects, and that’s how I first became interested in the cost estimation aspect of project controls.

During my PhD, I explored how models could help with early-stage cost estimations. However, I was curious how these models compared with actual data from construction projects. That’s when I joined AACE and found an entire community working on these challenges. It’s where my passion for project controls truly started to grow.

What drew you to work on large-scale projects outside of academia?

After defending my Ph.D., I joined Technip Energies and later ERAS Engineering (EQUANS) in France. It was exciting to apply my academic background to real-world scenarios, working on EPCM projects for chemical and petrochemical construction plants. Seeing how cost estimation models met—or didn’t meet—actual construction costs was enlightening! That role gave me a foundational perspective on cost estimation when applied to projects in diverse industries.

How does your current role in the pharmaceutical industry compare?

In my current position, I work on cost estimation and benchmarking from an owner’s perspective. I’m with a large pharmaceutical company, Boehringer Ingelheim, in Germany, setting global guidelines for cost estimation within our project management office. My role is different in that I’m not only responsible for cost estimates but also for creating an entire framework around the practice. We take the engineering efforts from project management and translate them into the cost side of things, which is essential for investment decisions.

Cost estimation bridges engineering and finance, translating complex designs into clear monetary values. It’s a hectic but rewarding field, you have to quickly understand project complexities and translate them into costs in a way that makes sense financially.

What have you enjoyed most about working in project controls and cost estimation?

The role of cost estimator itself is incredibly dynamic. It’s part engineering, part finance, and requires project management skills. You’re bridging the gap between project design and investment decision-making, translating designs and resources into monetary terms. You’re working with a mix of data, insights, and subject matter expertise, so it’s like managing a small project within a larger one.

And, of course, there are always challenges. You have to adapt quickly to economic changes, like inflation or supply chain disruptions. But fundamentally, I love that cost estimation gives me insight into both the technical and human aspects of project controls.

Have you encountered gender bias in this field, and how have you dealt with it?

Yes, that’s been a part of my experience. While there was a balanced gender ratio during my studies, the professional world of engineering is still quite male-dominated. For example, in stressful situations, people often say, “The guy will handle it,” even if women are involved. There’s a language bias and an underlying belief that construction or cost work is “men’s work.”

I’ve found support from many mentors, including male allies, and I’ve always valued the community aspect of AACE. Now, I’m involved in fostering that support for other women in the field. I chair the DACH Section (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) within AACE’s Region 9, and I recently initiated a subcommittee specifically for women in project controls. I want women to feel they have a place to connect, share experiences, and overcome the challenges they face in our industry.

What advice would you give to women entering the field?

My biggest piece of advice is to reach out and build a network. It’s easy to feel isolated, especially when facing challenges or bias, but finding a community—whether it’s through AACE or other networks—can make all the difference. Don’t close yourself off; support is out there, and it helps so much to have people who understand what you’re going through.

How has community played a role in your career?

Community has been crucial. Early in my career, I found great support in AACE. It’s the only global community focused on cost estimation. When starting, I often reached out to people in the community for advice, and I found their knowledge and experience incredibly inspiring.

Now, it’s come full circle, and I’m in a position to contribute back. With the DACH section, connecting with other professionals locally has been fantastic. By starting the Region 9 subcommittee for women in project controls, I hope to create more support and opportunities for women across Europe.

How do you see the future of project controls evolving?

Project controls is a growing field that will only expand. With industries becoming more complex, data-driven cost estimation is essential. What I find exciting is that this field attracts people from diverse backgrounds, and that’s an asset because it means bringing different perspectives and innovative approaches to problem-solving.

There’s still room for improvement in diversity and inclusion. However, as we continue to support one another and overcome biases, I believe the future of project controls will be even more dynamic and welcoming.