Richard J. Long, PE, P.Eng., is the founder of Long International, a Colorado-based construction claims and project management consulting firm supporting owners, engineering and construction firms, and contractors on complex projects worldwide. With a career spanning more than five decades, Richard is known for his work in dispute resolution and expert support, along with deep experience in project management, cost and schedule control, and claims prevention across energy, industrial, and infrastructure sectors.

Where are you from, and where do you attend school?

I’m originally from Pittsburgh, PA but moved to Colorado in 1973. I am a die-hard Steelers and Broncos fan. I earned my B.S. in chemical engineering from the University of Pittsburgh and my M.S. in chemical and petroleum refining engineering from the Colorado School of Mines. I am a licensed Professional Engineer in Colorado, as well as Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?

A fun fact most people do not know is that I witnessed Franco Harris’ Immaculate Reception in December 1972, and Bill Mazeroski’s bottom of the 9^th inning home run to enable the Pittsburgh Pirates to beat the Yankees in the 1960 World Series. I recently built a model train railroad with six O-scale and two G-scale trains, and it has been a great counterbalance to the intensity of large projects and tight deadlines.

Where are you from, and where do you attend school?

I grew up in India and now call Boston home. Moving from India to the United States was a big transition, but it has shaped both my personal and professional life in meaningful ways. I completed my master’s degree in construction management at Northeastern University in Boston. Northeastern University’s emphasis on real-world, industry-connected learning was a perfect bridge from the classroom into the consulting work I do today.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?

A fun fact about me is that I’m a black belt in Karate and currently a green belt in Taekwondo. Most people are surprised to learn how big a role martial arts have played in my life. Years of training have taught me discipline, patience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure, all of which translate directly into how I handle complex, high-stakes projects. The repetition and focus required in martial arts are very similar to the detailed, methodical work of analyzing schedules, defects, and project records.

Where are you from, and where do you attend school?

I am originally from India and am currently pursuing my master’s degree in building construction and facilities management at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, Georgia. I focus on project controls, cost management, and emerging technologies in construction. Being in Atlanta has given me exposure to a diverse professional community and a range of real-world projects connected to the built environment.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?

A fun fact about me is that I am very passionate about cooking, especially Indian food, and I love experimenting with healthier versions of traditional recipes. Meal prepping for the week is almost a ritual for me; it helps me stay grounded while balancing classes, research, and professional commitments. I also enjoy sharing food with friends and colleagues, and it often becomes a way to connect people from different backgrounds over a simple home-cooked meal.

Where are you from, and where did you go to school?

I was born on Geoje Island in the southern part of South Korea and spent my childhood in Busan, the famous port city. I moved to Seoul during middle school and have lived there ever since. I graduated from Hanyang University with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, renowned for its engineering expertise in Korea. Subsequently, I earned a master’s degree in structural reliability and a Ph.D. in reliability-based LCC optimization from the same university.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?

Many people don’t know this, but I am actually very curious about space. I like places where I can see the stars clearly at night. When I look up at the night sky and share a cup of tea or a glass of soju, talking about the miracles we encounter on this small planet in the universe, I quickly become close with people.

The magnificent Andromeda Galaxy is 200,000 light-years in diameter, and even if you travel at the speed of light, it would take 2.5 million light-years to reach it, where you might encounter just one of its countless stars and feel a sense of emptiness. Our galaxy and the Andromeda Galaxy will collide in the distant future. However, there is no need to worry. The distance between stars is so great that it is more accurate to describe this as a merger rather than a collision, as it is a collision between two very low-density spaces over a long period of time. It is likely that the life forms living inside the stars are not even aware of the collision.

You, the reader of this text, have already encountered me with odds lower than winning the lottery. Would you not like to form a connection with me?

Where are you from, and where did you go to school?

I’m originally from Kumasi, Ghana. I live in Calgary, Alberta, where I’m pursuing a Master of Engineering degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Calgary, specializing in project management. I am currently serving as the student director for the AACE Chinook-Calgary Section.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?

Few people know that I love to travel and explore new places. It allows me to relax, learn about different cultures, and stay inspired outside of academics.

Where do you work or what are you studying in school?

I’m currently focused on my graduate studies in Civil Engineering, specializing in project management. My coursework includes project planning, cost control, risk analysis, and construction law, all of which prepare me for a career in infrastructure and project delivery.

What do you love most about your job or current school studies?

What I love most is learning how to manage the various moving parts of complex projects, especially how time, cost, and quality are balanced to meet a project’s goals. I also enjoy the team-based learning approach, which mirrors the real-world project environment.

Do you have a project story to share?

Yes! In Ghana, I worked as a resident Quantity Surveyor for one of the biggest student hostel accommodations at KNUST (GUSSS Hostel Complex), which currently houses over 5,000 students. It was an incredibly challenging project as I had only joined the company right after obtaining my bachelor’s degree, and transferring the theory I had learned from class to the field seemed far-fetched. However, with support from the team and leaders on site, I adjusted quickly, and my passion to remain in the industry grew. When I joined the University of Calgary, I was involved in creating a complete project execution plan for a simulated infrastructure project. I was responsible for developing a schedule, cost estimate, and risk analysis, which helped me apply what I’ve learned practically and build confidence in my project management skills.

What are your future goals and aspirations for your career? Did someone inspire you to be on this career path?

I aim to become a project controls professional and work on large-scale civil infrastructure projects in Canada or internationally. I’ve been inspired by mentors, both professors and professionals, who have shown me the critical role that engineers and project managers play in shaping communities and delivering meaningful projects.

Why did you join AACE?

I joined AACE to connect with professionals and students who are passionate about cost engineering and project controls. I also wanted to access learning resources and tools that go beyond the classroom and give me an edge in my career.

What do you like most about being an AACE member?

My favorite part is the exposure to real-world case studies, industry tools, and networking opportunities. It’s encouraging to be part of a global community where people are eager to share knowledge and support one another’s growth.

What advice would you give someone wanting to enter the field?

Be curious and open to learning. Focus not just on technical skills but also on communication and teamwork. Project controls is a dynamic and rewarding field that requires precision and collaboration, so build a strong foundation and stay adaptable.

Where are you from, and where did you go to school?

I am originally from Nigeria. In 2004, I received my BSC in estate management from The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and a Master of Science (management) in 2023 from Minot State University, North Dakota.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?

I love driving and playing soccer.

Where do you work?

I currently work at Vanderlande Industries.

What do you love most about your job or current school studies?

I love to quantify forensic delay analysis for dispute resolution.

Do you have a project story to share?

While serving as a planning manager at KBR Qatar Trading and Contracting WLL (October 2021 – June 2022), I led the planning of Phase 1 of the Al Erkya Project, a QAR 482 million mega-tower development. We faced a significant challenge early in the project: repeated mismatches between scheduled milestones and on-site activities. Despite having sufficient resources, poor coordination and siloed planning systems led to missed deadlines, flawed productivity tracking, and growing stakeholder concerns. Recognizing the risks to project delivery and reputation, I spearheaded the development of a comprehensive, data-driven planning model. My approach fused Primavera P6, BIM, and supply chain systems into a centralized framework, enhanced by AI-assisted forecasting and scenario planning. This integration allowed for real-time visibility across design, execution, and procurement. With this unified model, we rapidly corrected schedule misalignments, improved productivity metrics, and restored stakeholder confidence. Site teams received more apparent timelines, smarter resource allocations, and more transparent and accurate executive reporting. By transforming fragmented planning into a dynamic, AI-augmented system, we turned early disruption into a controlled, forward-looking process, setting a new standard for project execution in the company.

What are your future goals and aspirations for your career? Did someone inspire you to be on this career path?

I plan to become a project management consultant. I have pursued this path through a meticulous career journey that began when I decided to study estate management.

Why did you join AACE?

The goal is to showcase my expertise and use my knowledge to build others in the field of project management and control.

What do you like most about being an AACE member?

Being an AACE member means being part of this recognized profession and meeting the top shots in the industry.

What advice would you give someone wanting to enter the field?

To join AACE and belong to one of the world’s most highly respected professional project controls and cost engineering organizations.

Where are you from, and where did you study?

I was born in Central Asia, in Karaganda (Republic of Kazakhstan) in 1990. I studied at Abylkas Saginov Karaganda Technical University, earning a bachelor’s degree in economics (2006–2011).

Fun fact about yourself:

I am an economist by education, but I’ve always worked in technical fields. I dream of building a system where engineers and financial experts can see a project the same way—this would help avoid conflicts and lead to more effective decisions. I often joke that I want to end the eternal debate between engineers and economists and start building great things together.

Where do you work now, and what do you do?

I have over 10 years of experience in the energy and construction sectors. I’ve worked as a cost estimator, senior estimator, project manager, and technical lead. I have deep expertise in cost estimating, planning, and managing infrastructure projects, strong leadership skills and a continuous drive to improve processes.

I’m actively involved in volunteer work, continuing my education, and developing new professional skills. I’m also working on my invention—a digital platform with AI elements to integrate technical and financial planning in projects.

In addition, I study how older workers adapt to technology and automation and develop practical tools to support their learning and retention in the workforce. I’m also interested in sustainable construction materials and work on embedding them into cost estimation systems and evaluation frameworks.

 What do you love most about your work?

I love precision—even though it’s often in short supply! I enjoy working with people, sharing knowledge, and learning from others. To me, cost estimating is a kind of technical creativity, where I can shape a project from its beginning. I love the full lifecycle in project management—from planning to the final result.

Do you have a project story to share?

Reflections: Estimator or Engineer?

Remember the old tale about the hare’s skin and seven tiny caps? A man came to a tailor and asked him to make a cap from a hare’s skin. The tailor said, “Sure!” Then the man came back and asked for two. Then three. Eventually, seven caps — all made from the same single skin. In the end, the caps were so small they only fit dolls. But the tailor still said, “I can do it” — that was his answer to the strange request, even though inside he probably wondered if the man really understood where this was going…

Estimators often feel the same way. We’re told, “We need more, faster, better — but with the same or even less budget.” Sound familiar? I see this “hare’s skin” in almost every project — limited budget, high expectations, stretched resources.

And that raises the question: who is the estimator today — just a number cruncher, or an engineer who challenges decisions and guides the project’s course? When does an estimator stop being the “project accountant” and become a true engineer?

Today’s estimator is a strategic professional who verifies data, asks tough questions, defines scope boundaries, and influences decisions. That’s engineering.

What are your future goals and aspirations for your career? Did someone inspire you to be on this career path?

My main career goals are continuous professional development and applying my knowledge and experience to create effective and innovative projects. In the future, I plan to develop various digital solutions with elements of artificial intelligence to optimize technical and financial processes.

I am inspired by people who are not afraid to challenge conventional approaches and introduce innovations, as well as those who see their work not just as task completion but as an opportunity to make the industry better and more accessible for everyone. I have been motivated by experienced professionals from the energy and construction sectors I have worked with, as well as stories of successful women engineers and entrepreneurs who have proven that combining technical expertise with strategic thinking is possible.

Biggest challenge and most memorable project:

In 2014, I started working as a cost estimator at a major thermal power plant. I was just 24, joining a department of experienced employees who were used to doing everything manually. A year later, a new director set a bold goal: full digitalization of all processes, from planning to procurement.

I was appointed to lead the training and adaptation team. It was a real challenge—I was a young specialist tasked with teaching senior colleagues to work in a new digital environment. At first, there was resistance, frustration, and even talk of retirement to avoid the changes.

That’s when I started to wonder: why do older workers often struggle with adopting new technologies, and what can be done to help them adapt? This marked the beginning of my journey into designing adaptive learning strategies for mature professionals in the age of automation.

Goals and professional mission:

My main goal is to validate my qualifications and obtain a professional US license to fully realize my potential. I also aim to confirm my international experience in cost engineering, planning, and project management, including certifications through AACE.

I see myself as a bridge between engineering and economics—especially on strategic projects where accuracy and technical literacy must go hand in hand.

I’m driven to make a real contribution: building meaningful infrastructure, helping people grow, and making the industry more inclusive for professionals from diverse backgrounds.

Why did you join AACE?

Now living in the US, I want to build professional connections, exchange knowledge, and learn from the best. AACE provides access to current standards, peer insights, and development tools. I also value the certification opportunities—in cost estimation, risk management, planning, and controls—which help structure and validate my experience.

What do you enjoy most about being part of AACE?

I appreciate the professional community where quality and standards are genuinely valued. Being part of AACE helps me stay updated on industry trends, exchange ideas, and sharpen my skills.

I also enjoy mentoring newcomers and supporting those entering the profession—just as I was supported when I started my journey.

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in the UAE and moved to Sydney, Australia, in 2018. I’m a civil engineer with a master’s degree in construction project management and a PMP certification.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that few people know?

Few people know I have a soft spot for architecture and interior design. During the COVID lockdown in 2021, I decided to have a bit of fun and took a full course on Udemy to learn Revit. I even downloaded it onto my computer and started designing my dream home, producing 2D and 3D layouts—it was like bringing my imagination to life on screen! Also, a fun fact: I played American football in the UAE league in 2016 as an offensive lineman!

Where do you work?

I currently work at TSA RILEY as part of the project controls team. I feel incredibly lucky to be surrounded by such supportive, driven, and genuinely kind colleagues. It’s not just the exciting projects that make it a great workplace—it’s the people and the culture. 

What do you love most about your job?

I enjoy developing project controls from the ground up—whether it’s building baseline schedules, preparing cost reports, or creating Power BI dashboards to track performance. There is something rewarding about seeing these systems come together, function seamlessly, and add real value to a project.

Do you have a project story to share? / What’s been your favorite or most memorable moment of your career?

One of the most memorable projects I’ve worked on was with Transport for NSW on the Ferry Wharves Upgrade Program. I served as a program controls manager and was involved for almost two years. Seeing those projects come to life and witnessing the client’s satisfaction was incredibly rewarding.

What are your future goals and aspirations for your career? Did someone inspire you to be on this career path?

I’m excited to explore the next level of project controls, especially 4D planning. I’m particularly interested in contributing to projects in the energy and water sectors. I’ve always been inspired by the impact of well-managed infrastructure on communities.

Why did you join AACE?

I joined AACE because I’m currently pursuing the Certified Cost Professional (CCP) credential and wanted to deepen my understanding of the principles and best practices of Total Cost Management (TCM).

What do you like most about being an AACE member? Or, what’s your favorite part of being an AACE member?

I enjoy the seminars, courses, and technical resources that AACE offers. The events are educational and a great way to stay connected with the professional community.

 What advice would you give someone wanting to enter the field?

Entering this field takes a lot of commitment. It’s about putting in the time and being smart with how things are approached and developed. It’s not always easy, but the satisfaction and rewards make it all worthwhile if there’s a real passion for the work.

Where are you from, and where did you go to school?

I was born and raised in Belgrade, Serbia. After graduating from high school, I attended Belgrade University, where I received my master’s degree in construction management and organizational sciences.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?

A fun fact about me is that I enjoy hiking, cycling, going to the gym, and playing beach volleyball.

Where do you work?

I have over fifteen years of professional experience in project and construction management, specializing in project and contract management as well as forensic delay analysis of complex projects throughout Southeast Europe. I began my career as a contractor and later transitioned to roles as a consultant and client in the construction of residential buildings, hospitality facilities, malls, retail spaces, highways, and bridges. My expertise encompasses construction and site development activities, ranging from project management and planning to implementation and control, as well as understanding construction project requirements, cost estimating, contracts, claims, and financial procedures to maintain project cost control.

What do you love most about your job?

During the initiation process, I find it rewarding to see how effectively the project management group’s efforts can transform into successful outcomes, despite the challenges expected during the project cycle. I enjoy solving all the problems that arise throughout the various phases of a project.

What are your future goals and aspirations for your career? Did someone inspire you to be on this career path?

Looking ahead, I aim to advance in the field of project and contract management, focusing on larger, more complex projects that will push me to grow both technically and strategically. I aspire to consistently demonstrate exceptional leadership skills in planning, implementation, control, and knowledge of construction and contractual requirements to deliver successful projects on time and within budget.

What is the biggest career challenge you’ve had to overcome? What’s been your favorite or most memorable moment of your career?

I strive to take on more leadership roles in project and contract management, to eventually become a senior manager or technical director.

Why did you join AACE?

I decided to join AACE based on recommendations regarding best practices, particularly those related to contractual obligations. Additionally, I wanted to become part of a large community of professionals from various practice areas.

What do you like most about being an AACE member? Or What’s your favorite part of being an AACE member?

I joined the organization a few months ago to enhance my overall knowledge by obtaining scheduling and forensic certificates from AACE, and I look forward to being more involved in the community.

What advice would you give someone wanting to enter the field?

My advice to anyone entering this field is to develop skills across all phases- from initiating and planning to monitoring, controlling, executing, and closing-utilizing all contract management tools and techniques. Based on my experience, people in this field are friendly and willing to share their knowledge and expertise.

Where are you from, and where do you go to school?

My name is Justus Ilogbelu. I am from Nigeria. I obtained a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Lagos, both in Nigeria.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?

I find great fun in travelling, locally and internationally. It’s simply a great delight for me.

Where do you work, or what are you studying in school?

I work with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd, the state’s oil company. I joined the company in 2007. Since then, I have been involved in different projects (pipelines and tank rehabilitations) across Nigeria to deliver value to the company. In my career, I have moved from engineering to commercial and lately to supply chain, all aimed at deepening knowledge and being grounded across the value chains in which the company plays.

What do you love most about your job or current school studies?

I work functionally as the Lead Bulk Materials/Petroleum Products Contract Category Manager in the company’s SCM division. I am excited about the job because it allows me to get a feel for SCM functions, especially product categorization using the SAP platform and tools.

Do you have a project story to share?

Between 2012 and 2015, in Nigeria, I was involved in a project, the “cleaning and rehabilitation of NNPC crude oil tanks” in the Escravos Terminal using the non-man entry process.” I was the lead/site engineer. The key highlight of the project for me was the change in project scope and strategy of a significant phase of the contract from “desludging to recover usable oil” to tank cleaning when the original strategy couldn’t deliver on the baseline scope, almost resulting in the termination of the contract.

What are your future goals and aspirations for your career? Did someone inspire you to be on this career path?

I want to streamline my career to align with project management and costing. My mentor was instrumental in influencing my attention to cost engineering and the pursuit of AACE certification.

What is the biggest career challenge you’ve had to overcome? What’s been your favorite or most memorable moment of your career?

My biggest career challenge is transitioning from an engineering background to a commercial one and then to a supply chain one. It’s never easy to move out of one’s comfort zone.

Why did you join AACE?

I joined AACE to streamline my career path to project management and costing. This is the trajectory I would love my career to take moving forward.

What do you like most about being an AACE member?

Being a member of AACE is very exciting. It’s a community of like-minded professionals. The materials, especially the RP’s, are very useful and educational. I cherish the support I get from members when I am unsure and seek help.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to enter the field?

I would gladly recommend AACE membership to anyone seeking to enter or grow in the cost engineering field.