Nick Rigali began his career with PCL as a civil engineering student at UCLA, where he interned on a campus construction project. Drawn to the hands-on, problem-solving nature of the field, he has built a successful career as a superintendent. Over more than two decades with PCL, Nick has led projects across higher education, entertainment and commercial sectors throughout Southern California. He credits PCL’s strong culture and supportive environment as key to his professional growth and long-term fulfillment.

My journey with PCL started while I was studying civil engineering at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). At the time, PCL was building a dorm on campus, and I was fortunate to land an internship with them right where I was going to school. I worked full-time during the summer, and then during my senior year, I adjusted my class schedule so I could work mornings at PCL and attend classes in the afternoon. 

Because of that extended internship, I had a head start compared to other interns who typically interned for just a few months. I was able to hit the ground running when I transitioned into a full-time role at PCL. I began as a field engineer and have been steadily progressing up the superintendent ladder ever since.

Early on, I had to decide whether I wanted to pursue the field route as a superintendent or the office route as a project manager. At the time, it was uncommon for engineers to choose the superintendent path. There were just a few of us who made that leap, and we were essentially paving the way for engineers to move into field leadership roles.

What made the transition smoother was the mentorship I received. Most of the superintendents at the time had come up through the field and were incredibly strong in field operations but less familiar with tasks more associated with project management. As someone with an engineering background, project management skills were a strength of mine. So, I was lucky to have mentors who helped me with areas of weakness to balance out my toolbelt. 

The way my brain works, I’ve always been drawn to logic and structure. I’ve had that kind of engineering mindset for as long as I can remember. In high school, math and science were my strengths, so choosing engineering felt like a clear and easy decision.

Once I got to college, I started to see the different paths available within engineering. My professors and mentors explained that I could either go into design, working as a civil or structural engineer to design buildings, or I could go into construction and help bring those designs to life. I was also introduced to the idea of working in the field versus working in the office. Even before joining PCL, I knew I was more drawn to the field side. The idea of physically seeing something get built really appealed to me. That hands-on aspect of construction felt more tangible and exciting.

One of my favorite projects was Pauley Pavilion at UCLA because it’s my alma mater. I had already been with PCL for a few years working on various projects when we won the Pauley Pavilion job. I immediately knew I wanted to be part of it. It was such a meaningful opportunity to return to campus and contribute to a place that had shaped so much of my life. I even kept two of the original seats and a piece of the old court – little mementos I carry with me from job to job. 

Another standout project was a seismic retrofit of an existing medical academic building, also on the UCLA campus. It wasn’t flashy or high-profile, but it was incredibly impactful for my growth. That job marked my transition from engineer to superintendent, and I learned a lot. The team dynamic was strong, and I gained insights I didn’t even know I was missing.

One of the biggest lessons from that project was the importance of client relationships and business development. At the time, I saw myself as a task-oriented engineer, so I didn’t think winning work was part of my role. But my mentors on that project helped me understand that everyone plays a part in building trust with clients. That mindset shift has stuck with me ever since.

I really enjoy how challenging and technical they are. They’re not flashy – there aren’t any dramatic before-and-after photos or iconic structures to show off – but they are interesting because of the unforeseen challenges they entail. You’re always kept on your toes when working on a seismic project. These jobs are often the most intensive from a time and coordination standpoint, and every step presents a new structural puzzle to solve. For example, the plan may be to install a wall somewhere, only to discover it conflicts with existing ductwork. That’s when our team jumps in and works directly with the structural engineer to shift the plan to keep the job on course, which is a process I enjoy because it’s where my background in structural engineering comes into play. I can speak the language of the structural engineers, navigate those challenges, and help push the project forward efficiently. 

Seismic retrofits may not be glamorous, but they’re deeply satisfying. They test your problem-solving skills, demand close collaboration, and give you a chance to make a real impact, quietly but meaningfully.

For me, it really comes down to the people. I genuinely enjoy the team I work with, and that makes a huge difference day to day. I spend almost as much time with my team as I do with my family, so having a team I connect with is fantastic. The employee ownership model is also a big plus because it creates a sense of shared purpose and pride in the work we do.

Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work on a wide range of projects, from sports venues and laboratories to seismic retrofits, schools and even entertainment parks. That variety has helped me become a well-rounded superintendent, and PCL has been instrumental in giving me those opportunities. It’s been a great place to grow, both personally and professionally.