Mike Headrick’s career began with a passion for engineering, sparked by his fascination with water and its dynamics. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and a Master of Science in Agricultural Engineering from the University of Minnesota, he realized his true passion lay in management and construction.

Today, Headrick oversees PCL’s operations in Southern California, encompassing offices in Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego. In this role, Headrick focuses on fostering strong relationships with clients and consultants while ensuring a positive market presence. He is dedicated to having the right leaders in place to uphold PCL’s high standards of excellence. Throughout his career at PCL, Headrick himself has held various leadership positions, which have fueled his ongoing professional growth.

Headrick noted that periodic changes in position and increasing levels of responsibility have kept him engaged and motivated to stay in his role. He thrives on both learning and sharing his knowledge with others, and believes that if life is about those experiences, he has found that purpose at PCL.

To Headrick, the real success of his career lies in creating lasting bonds with clients and subcontractors, as well as colleagues. These relationships, some of which have endured from early in his career, are a testament to his commitment to people. While many may focus on the large, high-profile projects that define a career in the construction industry, Headrick views his most significant accomplishment as the teams he’s built over the years.

Reflecting on his 25-plus years at PCL, Headrick is most proud of the growth he’s witnessed in the people he’s worked with. During his tenure at PCL, Headrick has had the opportunity to witness numerous projects come to life and, more meaningfully, to see the growth of both careers and families. Reflecting on his passion for people, he recognizes the direct and indirect impact he’s had on that growth, which he describes as a profound source of joy.

Outside of PCL, Headrick sits on the board of the Flintridge Center, a California organization dedicated to supporting at-risk and previously incarcerated youth and adults. The center provides various forms of assistance, from academic support to life skills training and mental health services. It also runs an apprenticeship program that prepares formerly incarcerated individuals for careers in the construction industry, reflecting Headrick’s dedication to giving back and fostering growth in others.