MAY 28, 2024 - Palacio Collaborative announces the retirement of Susan M. Smith, Senior Vice President, after almost 9 years of distinguished service to the firm. She will remain in the role until June 28, 2024.
Susan has had an extraordinary 38-year career in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (A/E/C) industry. She earned her Bachelors and Masters in Architecture from the Georgia Institute of Technology where she continued to give back as a guest speaker for the professional practice class for multiple years.
After graduation, Susan went on to work as an architect for 3 years before beginning her cost estimating career in 1990. As a registered architect, she provided a unique understanding of the design goals very early in the process and guided clients through cost savings suggestions that did not compromise their scope or design.
Susan joined Palacio Collaborative in 2015. During her tenure, she was instrumental in expanding the firm’s reach by facilitating key relationships directly with Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology. Some notable projects were the Emory University Health Science Research Building II, Emory University at Oxford Campus Life Center, Georgia Tech Engineered Biotech Building II, and Georgia Tech - Tech Square Phase 3.
“Susan actually trained me some 29 years ago and has been throughout her career an incredible influence, soundboard, and example of how to be an expert Cost Manager” says Michael D. Palacio, president of Palacio Collaborative. “She will truly be missed at Palacio and within the industry.
Excited for her retirement, Susan shares, “I will be enjoying more time with my family, playing golf, and catching up on my reading list.”
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About Palacio Collaborative
Palacio Collaborative is a minority-owned full-service construction cost estimating firm headquartered in Atlanta, GA with offices in NC, SC, TX, and LA. Strategically located, we provide quality estimating nationwide in a variety of markets. Our primary services include conceptual cost modeling, budget verification, cost management, and value management. Through innovative tools and proactive collaboration, our value-added services assist to develop accurate project budgets, manage cost, preserve the integrity of the design, and deliver a project with the highest quality and value.