Demand for critical water infrastructure has surged across the United States.  Municipalities that were once cautious about water reuse are now leading the charge, with more than 600 municipal water reuse projects underway. According to Bluefield Research by 2035, investment in this sector is expected to reach $47.1 billion by 2035, with potable reuse making up nearly $20 billion of that growth.

PCL Construction is committed to building the workforce that will fulfill these ambitious civil infrastructure plans. Nothing illustrates this better than the countless employees who have advanced from craft roles into leadership positions, proving that with the right support, ambition can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

When Matt Rodriguez celebrated his 25th year with PCL in September 2025, it was the latest milestone in a career defined by a passion for construction and commitment to continuous growth. Rodriguez began his career in civil construction as a pipelayer laborer and worked his way through the trades, from concrete finisher to carpenter, before advancing to superintendent. Today, he leads the South Adams Klein Facility Enhancement project, which will be the largest ion-exchange PFAS treatment facility in Colorado upon completion. 

“I was absolutely blown away by what goes into water infrastructure, there were so many moving parts. Early on, I decided that I wanted to grow into those roles I saw around me. Over the years, I told myself I wanted to be in my supervisor's position. So, I learned every trade PCL had to offer and made it a priority to understand every piece of the build. This drive to master each aspect of construction not only expanded my technical skills but also helped me appreciate the teamwork and leadership required to deliver successful projects.”

Starting as a laborer at PCL, Rodriguez was trusted with increasing responsibility and supported through mentorship, on-the-job training, and leadership development. Vital support included enrolling in PCL’s Accelerated Superintendent Program, which he has been part of for five years.

PCL’s Accelerated Superintendent Program develops the talent of rising leaders by ensuring exposure to all areas in a construction project lifecycle. The program builds both technical and leadership skills, targets a development plan to help participants reach their full potential, and equips them with the skills needed to succeed as future superintendents.

“It has taught me so much and prepared me to take on larger projects. Most importantly, it has taught me how to communicate more effectively with my team.”

Rodriguez’s leadership reflects the payoff of PCL’s philosophy: Investing in employees creates leaders who deliver on critical infrastructure.

“PCL has allowed me to build a legacy, because long after we’re gone, the places we have worked and facilities we have built will still be there.”

Kevin Schow serves as senior superintendent at the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant, a critical and complex project that safeguards water resources for thousands of San Diego residents. Schow began his career as a carpenter and general laborer more than 30 years ago. Schow explained that his commitment to continuous growth and leadership enabled him to advance into a superintendent role relatively quickly after entering the trades.

Twelve years ago, Schow joined PCL because he saw the company’s commitment to the growth and advancement of its employees. He very quickly received support and mentorship from leaders such as Richard Hewitt, PCL’s vice president of civil infrastructure, who recognized Schow's potential early on.

“When you’re talking about moving from craft to salary, there is more than just one path forward — it’s not limited to superintendent,” Schow says. “For instance, we are seeing more opportunities for craft workers to transition into safety roles, quality roles, and even engineering and project management roles. If you have a passion for something, we can give you tools and guidance to reach those goals. PCL really encourages opening paths for craft‑to‑salary transitions.”

Leading a team on a high-profile, environmentally significant project demands precision, collaboration, and strong leadership — the very skills Schow honed through PCL’s culture of mentorship and continuous learning.

“PCL’s willingness to invest in the people is what keeps me here,” Schow adds. “They invest in me; I, in turn, invest in those who work with me, and the intention is for that to keep spreading like a ripple effect, right down to the person who steps onto the job site for the first time.” He added, “At the end of the day, the culture of PCL is one where we all want to see each other win, and the continued growth of our people is a win for the company and everyone in it from top to bottom.”

Schow’s and Rodriguez’s career journeys show how PCL’s commitment to growth and investment in its people creates leaders who thrive on the industry’s most challenging projects.

Behind every success story is a strong support system. PCL offers structured programs designed to accelerate the growth of promising employees. Together, programs like  Accelerated General Foreman Program, Accelerated Superintendent Program and Accelerated Estimating and Construction Risk Management Development Program, create pathways for emerging leaders to advance confidently into critical leadership roles.

PCL’s human resources professional development craft advisor, Judith Candiani, explains the importance of craft development in the civil sector. “There is a huge need for craft workers in our industry,” she says. “They are the foundation of our success, so it is critical to develop their skills.”

Beyond training, PCL regularly reviews and improves benefits to support craft employees. Upon taking a salaried role, employees begin to experience the full benefits of PCL’s 100% employee ownership program. PCL values long-term employment and works hard to make it a place where people can build lasting careers.

“We are incredibly proud of these initiatives. In 2025 alone, 12 civil craft employees transitioned into full-time salaried roles,” Candiani adds. “I know that many individuals who have grown with us really feel like PCL is their home.” 

Hands-on learning builds technical expertise and prepares employees for advancement. PCL cultivates talent by providing tools, guidance and clear career pathways. Team leaders take the time to mentor employees, nurturing their interest in long-term careers and helping them reach their goals.

As civil work expands and demand for skilled craft talent increases, PCL continues to invest in people who want to grow and lead. By supporting every craft employee, PCL strengthens the future of civil construction.

Ready to take the next step? Your future starts here.