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Advicas is a dynamic team of individuals from diverse backgrounds, each contributing their unique perspectives and expertise. Together, we offer a service that champions a thoughtful, balanced approach to shaping the future.

Principal

Charlie Kesteloo

cell: 778.533.9956
email: ckesteloo@advicas.com

PQS  – Senior Electrical Quantity Surveyor

Charlie brings extensive experience in the construction industry, having worked in both general construction and cost estimating roles. As a Professional Quantity Surveyor at Advicas Group Consultants Inc., Charlie specializes in providing expert construction cost consulting, with a particular focus on the electrical components of various projects.

Throughout his career, Charlie has amassed a wealth of experience as a Professional Quantity Surveyor and construction cost consultant. He has contributed to a wide range of projects, including elementary and secondary schools, colleges and universities, correctional facilities, hospitals and healthcare facilities, marine and transportation hubs, sports and recreation centers, performing arts venues, and heritage restoration projects. This diverse portfolio reflects Charlie’s ability to adapt to the unique challenges and requirements of each project.

Charlie’s meticulous approach, combined with his deep knowledge of construction processes, has earned him a strong reputation for delivering accurate electrical estimates at every stage of a project. His commitment to precision and his thorough understanding of the complexities involved in electrical systems ensure that clients receive reliable and insightful cost analyses, contributing to the overall success of their projects.

cell: 778.533.9956
email: ckesteloo@advicas.com

Principal

Margarita Payne

cell: 250.885.6402
email: mpayne@advicas.com

BBA – Senior Mechanical Quantity Surveyor

At Advicas Group Consultants Inc., Margarita serves as the resident specialist in mechanical systems, bringing a wealth of expertise and a passion for innovation to every project she undertakes.

Margarita honed her project management skills in the demanding shipbuilding industry of Eastern Canada, where she coordinated major industrial projects with precision and efficiency. Seeking new challenges and opportunities for growth, she brought her expertise to the West Coast, where she continues to apply her skills in managing complex mechanical systems.

Margarita has extensive experience with a wide range of mechanical systems, both conventional and sustainable systems.  They include plumbing, heating and cooling systems for residential, commercial, institutional and industrial facilities for new and retrofit projects throughout Canada. Her approach is rooted in a deep commitment to continuous learning.

Margarita views mechanical systems as the “heart and soul of a building,” recognizing their critical role in determining the comfort and functionality of any structure. Her meticulous attention to detail and her ability to integrate advanced mechanical solutions ensure that each project she works on meets the highest standards of performance and occupant comfort.

cell: 250.885.6402
email: mpayne@advicas.com

Principal

Francis Yong

cell: 778.533.9928
email: fyong@advicas.com

BSc., PQS – Senior Architectural/Structural Quantity Surveyor

Francis is a highly experienced Professional Quantity Surveyor and Cost Engineer with extensive expertise in the construction industry across British Columbia and Canada. He specializes in structural and architectural disciplines, known for maintaining rigorous financial control and delivering precise cost planning throughout the project lifecycle.

With a diverse portfolio that includes residential, commercial, and institutional projects such as custom homes, hotels, and hospitals, Francis ensures that each project is based on accurate financial estimates from design to construction. He is also skilled in life cycle cost analysis, helping clients understand the long-term financial implications of their projects.

His detail-oriented approach includes thorough market research and building relationships with general contractors and subtrades, enabling him to develop accurate estimates that reflect current conditions. Francis’s commitment to excellence and deep understanding of project elements make him a valuable asset, ensuring clients’ financial interests are well-managed throughout the project.

cell: 778.533.9928
email: fyong@advicas.com

Senior Quantity Surveyor

Thong To

BSc Civil Engineering

Thong is a Senior Quantity Surveyor with 10 years of specialized experience in managing structural and architectural project components. His comprehensive knowledge of the construction market, combined with his meticulous and detail-oriented approach, enables him to deliver precise and reliable cost management services. Thong’s expertise extends across all stages of the construction lifecycle, from initial planning through to execution, allowing him to provide strategic insights that align with both technical requirements and client expectations. His ability to anticipate and address project challenges ensures that cost-effective and efficient solutions are consistently achieved.

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Intermediate Quantity Surveyor

Winston Tsang

BSc Quantity Surveying

Winston brings extensive experience as a quantity surveyor, having worked on a wide range of construction projects in both Hong Kong and Canada. His expertise spans various facets of cost management, including contract administration, budget control, tendering, and procurement. He has applied these skills across diverse project types, such as building works, civil infrastructure, and maintenance and repair works, allowing him to develop a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in large-scale construction.

At Advicas, Winston plays a pivotal role in supporting senior quantity surveyors, assisting in all phases of the estimating process. His focus lies in the architectural and structural disciplines, where he ensures accurate cost estimates and effective project budgeting, contributing to the successful delivery of client objectives.

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Associate Quantity Surveyor

Jael Duguran

BSc Civil Engineering
CEC Construction Estimator Certified

Jael’s extensive background as a quantity surveyor and project coordinator has equipped her with a deep understanding of project planning, cost analysis, and scheduling. Her expertise encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including project estimation, cost tracking, and the analysis of proposal specifications during both pre-construction and post-construction phases. This experience has given her a well-rounded skill set, allowing her to effectively manage the financial and logistical aspects of projects.

At Advicas, Jael plays a key role in supporting senior quantity surveyors throughout the estimating process. Her focus on the architectural and structural disciplines ensures accuracy and precision in cost forecasting and budget management. Jael’s ability to coordinate multiple project elements while maintaining a keen eye on cost control makes her an invaluable asset to the team, contributing to the successful completion of complex projects.

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Associate Quantity Surveyor

Emily Payne

CEC Construction Estimator Certified

Emily is a graduate of BCIT’s Architectural and Building Technology diploma program, where she earned her degree with distinction. Currently, she is advancing her education by pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management at BCIT, with the goal of achieving accreditation as a Professional Quantity Surveyor (PQS). Her decision to join Advicas was driven by her desire to gain hands-on experience and meet the practical requirements for her PQS certification.

Emily’s academic success and commitment to continuous learning have equipped her with a solid foundation of technical knowledge, making her well-prepared to excel in the construction industry. She brings a strong sense of enthusiasm, a fresh perspective, and a forward-thinking approach to the office, enhancing collaboration and contributing to a dynamic, innovative work environment.

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Office Manager

Laurel Storey

Laurel brings a wealth of administrative experience and a solid background in the construction consulting environment, equipping her with a deep understanding of the critical role continuous communication plays in achieving project success. Her expertise enables her to foster strong connections with team members and clients in alignment with both cost management and sustainability goals.

Laurel’s exemplary organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to facilitate clear and effective communication contribute significantly to project coordination and team collaboration. Her proactive approach supports efficient fulfilment of project objectives, as well as operational and management goals within the organization.

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Administrative Assistant

Lisa Hales

Lisa is an administrative assistant at Advicas, supporting both marketing initiatives and daily office operations. With experience as a real estate paralegal, office supervisor and a licensed realtor, she brings strong organizational skills and a commitment to efficiency. Lisa’s attention to detail and proactive approach help keep the Advicas team connected and operations running smoothly, contributing to the firm’s mission of exceptional client service.

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