Open to opportunities

Denise Runyan

@deniserunyan

Construction estimator and project manager who delivers accurate cost analysis and on-time, budget-safe project execution.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I’m looking for a role where I can lead estimating and project coordination, drive accurate budgets, and keep schedules on track. I thrive in fast-paced environments that value clear communication, problem-solving, and meticulous documentation.

I’m a Construction Estimator / Project Manager with “eight years in the construction industry,” known for detailed cost analysis and disciplined project management. I collaborate closely with shareholders, architects, general contractors, site supervisors, and installation crews to keep projects aligned with specifications, schedule, and budget.

In my current role at Janus International, I’ve been “top performing estimator” in the Western Branch, releasing “$22M” in 2024 and 2025 combined. I handle digital takeoff and estimating by reviewing and interpreting drawings/specifications, reconciling plan discrepancies, building labor and material cost analyses in Excel, and managing submittals, shop drawing accuracy, and change orders.

I also bring strong training and communication from my background as an English teacher—an advantage in client-facing coordination and clear documentation. I’m detail oriented and highly accomplished at managing multiple projects in fast-paced environments, using tools like PlanSwift, Sage, Procore, Building Connected, and MS Teams/Zoom to drive solutions and smooth closeouts.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Construction Estimator & PM

Janus International

Dec 2022 - Apr 2026 (3 years 4 months)

Top-performing estimator in the Western Division, releasing $22M in 2024–2025 combined. Led digital takeoffs and detailed material/labor cost analysis, managed submittals and shop drawings, tracked budgets through project stages, and submitted change orders and closeout punch-list releases.

Construction Estimation Project Management Digital Takeoff (PlanSwift)Cost Analysis (Excel)Change Order Management Budgeting

Landscape Construction Estimator

Gothic Landscape

May 2021 - Dec 2022 (1 year 7 months)

Produced accurate quantity takeoffs and bid-ready estimates by reviewing drawings, bid schedules, and specifications while resolving plan discrepancies. Built project budgets in Sage and supported RFIs, value-engineering options, subcontractor/vendor quoting, and RFI/change-order documentation.

Landscape Estimation Digital Takeoff (OST)Quantity Takeoff RFI Management Value Engineering Change Orders

7th/8th Grade English Teacher

Dysart Unified School District

Aug 2020 - May 2021 (9 months)

Planned and delivered daily instruction using multimedia presentations and digital curriculum tools while tracking student performance across online platforms. Adjusted instruction using data, coordinated standards for weekly lessons, maintained parent communication, and collaborated with educators to meet daily and weekly goals.

Lesson planning Digital Curriculum Platforms Data Driven Instruction Standards Alignment Team Collaboration Classroom Management

Substitute Teacher

Dysart Unified School District & Tolleson Union High School

Dec 2017 - Aug 2019 (1 year 8 months)

Maintained classroom expectations and student productivity during teacher absences while supporting continuity of instruction. Focused on student behavior management, readiness to follow provided lesson plans, and maintaining a productive learning environment.

Classroom Management Lesson planning Curriculum Support Time Management Communication With School Staff Instructional Readiness Student Engagement

Landscape Construction Estimator

Beach-LaPointe Enterprises

Apr 2013 - Aug 2014 (1 year 4 months)

Interpreted drawings and specifications to produce detailed quantity takeoffs and itemized estimates. Calculated material quantities (e.g., square feet and cubic yards), requested supplier pricing, and documented plan discrepancies and RFIs for bid accuracy.

Construction Estimation Quantity Takeoff Material Quantities Supplier Pricing Requests RFI

Math and English Tutor

Homeschooling Community

Sep 2004 - Aug 2014 (9 years 11 months)

Tutored middle school through high school students in algebra, geometry, literature, and writing. Supported student progress by tailoring instruction across math and language arts with a focus on clear communication and skill development.

Literature Instruction Writing Instruction Student Support Customized Lesson Delivery Communication Skills Curriculum Planning

Landscape Construction Estimator

Beach-LaPointe Enterprises

Sep 1989 - Jun 1991 (1 year 9 months)

Produced detailed quantity takeoffs and estimates by interpreting drawings and specifications and resolving plan discrepancies. Computed material quantities using mathematical formulas, recorded RFIs, and prepared organized pricing summaries.

Construction Estimation Quantity Takeoff Material Quantities

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

University of California, Riverside

Secondary Teaching Certificate, Secondary Education

Completed a Secondary Teaching Certificate program at the University of California, Riverside.

University of California, Riverside

Bachelor of Arts, English and Education

Grade: Magna Cum Laude

Earned a Bachelor of Arts with a major in English and Education from the University of California, Riverside.

Mesa Community College

Associate of Applied Science, Construction Management

Activities and societies: Completed CON 252, 273, 243, 251, 100, 181, 244: building construction methods/materials/equipment; electrical construction fundamentals; heavy equipment/methods/materials; microcomputers for constructors; intro to construction; cost estimating; blueprint reading/working drawing analysis.

Completed courses toward an Associate Degree in Applied Science in Construction Management at Mesa Community College.