Ally Forster has cultivated a dynamic career at PCL, quickly rising from a field engineer to leading PCL’s Special Project’s Division in Los Angeles, California in just five years. She’s currently focused on the strategic expansion of the business in the Southern California market, targeting projects ranging from $10,000 to $15 million.
For Forster, her role goes beyond the job title, - “I see myself as a leader of change in our industry, inspiring and challenging others to reach their full potential,” says Forster. “It’s empowering and energizing to see the impact I can leave on others by leaning into opportunities outside of my day-to-day responsibilities.”
Forster’s passion for the construction industry stems from her innate curiosity and desire to understand the “how” and “why” behind everything. Encouraged by role models in her life — her father and two older sisters, all of whom pursued careers in construction — Forster chose to study construction management at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly SLO).
“My father and two older sisters have inspired me throughout my early life, and now throughout my construction career,” says Forster. “Each of them has pursued a career in construction and have championed me along my journey, which is part of what makes my career path special and unique.”
Leveraging this support and her education, Forster has established herself as a solution-oriented professional and built a successful career at PCL.
Throughout her time at PCL, Forster has contributed to some of PCL’s most high-profile projects in California, including MLB stadium upgrades, UCLA student housing builds, and renovations at Crypto.com Arena. Along the way, she has discovered a passion for mentorship and honed her confidence and team-building abilities.
“PCL empowers me to be the best version of myself,” she says. “The organization enables individuals to make a unique impact on the company and participate in projects and experiences that are bigger than themselves.”
Forster believes that PCL excels as a partner and advocate for its clients, driven by a commitment to understand and exceed client expectations. The company’s approach as a “local builder” is enhanced by international resources and extensive experience, propelling projects forward with a client-centric focus.
Outside of PCL, Forster is actively involved in the Associated Concrete Institute (ACI), where she focuses on expanding PCL’s network and market reach through self-perform concrete work. She is also a member of the Construction Management Advisory Council (CMAC) at her alma mater (Cal Poly SLO), where she contributes to scholarship and recruitment initiatives and offers feedback on current and future programs and curricula in the Construction Management Department.
In 2022, Ally was honored as a finalist in the NextGen Woman of the Year category at the Los Angeles Business Journal Women’s Leadership Awards.