Let’s face it, estimating is one of the most important jobs in construction. But it’s also one of the most time-consuming, error-prone, and hard to staff.
That’s exactly the problem Patrick E. Murphy, Founder & CEO at Togal.AI, set out to solve.
After growing up in one of Florida’s largest construction companies, Patrick took a detour into politics. He became the youngest member of Congress at the time, determined to make a difference. But after facing the frustrations of partisan gridlock, he returned to his roots and spotted a massive inefficiency in construction: the outdated process of doing takeoffs.
The Takeoff Bottleneck
Back in the family business, Patrick noticed something strange: estimating was the biggest overhead line item. Despite years of growth, the team was still using a mouse to trace plans, just as he had decades ago with a scale ruler and highlighter.
So he started asking: “If a human can look at a plan and know what’s what, why can’t a computer?”
The Birth of Togal.AI
Patrick assembled a team of engineers and architects to train a proprietary AI engine. After labeling tens of thousands of plans, they reached 97%+ accuracy before releasing Togal to the public. The result? Takeoffs that used to take hours now take seconds.
But it’s more than speed. Togal helps catch critical missed items, supports junior estimators, and increases bid volume dramatically.
One painting company used Togal to 10x their bids without hiring a new estimator. Another caught a $250,000 scope miss, just by using Togal’s Total Chat AI to ask a simple question about ceilings.
The Human Side of AI
Patrick is clear: Togal doesn’t replace estimators; it amplifies them. It frees up senior staff to focus on value engineering and bid strategy, while helping junior staff avoid mistakes and ramp up faster.
In fact, many universities are now teaching estimating with Togal because it’s more aligned with how younger professionals want to work. It’s collaborative. It’s web-based. It works on any device. And yes, it even talks back.
Where It’s Going
Patrick’s 5-year vision is bold, but not far-fetched. He predicts that in the near future, you’ll be able to prompt a system with: “Build me a 4-bedroom Mediterranean-style home at 101 Main Street with a $600K budget” and receive complete structural, MEP, and architectural plans, instantly.
From there, AI will price it, deconflict trades, schedule deliveries, and optimize for sustainability. All at a level no human team could match.
But what does that mean for jobs? According to Patrick, blue collar trades are more secure than ever. In fact, as AI eats into white-collar roles, the value of skilled labor, especially with systems like Togal to support it, will only go up.
Why It Matters
With housing shortages, material inflation, and a labor crisis looming, tools like Togal offer more than just convenience. They offer a real solution to the efficiency gap that’s holding the industry back.
If you’re tired of losing bids, burning out estimators, or relying on decades-old processes, it’s time to consider what AI can do for your business.
Want to try it? Visit Togal.AI and use code Titans for 20% off!
Connect With Patrick:
Website: https://www.togal.ai/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-e-murphy-79318832b/
Support Titans of the Trades
If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.
