Edmonton, Alberta-based PCL Construction announced it is opening a new commercial building office in Phoenix, Arizona, as part of a strategic push to strengthen its foothold in one of the country’s most active construction regions. According to an April 30 news release, the company said the move will help it tap into Phoenix’s significant opportunities for growth in aviation, hospitality, commercial, and retail development.

PCL, which has its U.S. headquarters in Denver, selected Phoenix after conducting market analysis that identified the city as a critical growth hub. To lead this expansion, the firm appointed David Campbell, a 20-year veteran at PCL, as the district manager for the new office. Campbell previously oversaw PCL’s special projects team in Denver.

Leadership With a Strong Track Record

Campbell brings extensive experience managing major projects across the country. His portfolio includes overseeing the development of high-profile megaprojects such as the American Dream Mall in New Jersey, one of the largest retail and entertainment complexes in North America, as well as major renovations at Florida’s luxury destinations like the Naples Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort and Streamsong Golf Resort.

“Our goal is to build iconic structures that not only enhance the cityscape but also create lasting career opportunities for local talent,” Campbell said in the release.

Building on Regional Strength

The launch of the Phoenix commercial office builds on PCL’s longstanding presence in the Southwest, where it has operated water and civil construction projects for over 30 years. Currently, the new commercial team is working out of PCL’s Civil division office in Tempe, Arizona, until the dedicated Phoenix office is fully up and running, according to the release.

While the firm’s expansion focuses on commercial and retail sectors, this contrasts with the Phoenix area’s recent surge of technology-heavy projects, such as semiconductor plants, data centers, and advanced manufacturing facilities — industries that have driven billions of dollars in new construction around the city.

Competitive Market Dynamics

Other construction firms are also betting on Phoenix’s booming tech market. Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois-based Graycor recently appointed new leadership for its Southwest division to target advanced manufacturing, semiconductor, and retail projects. Meanwhile, New York City-based construction consultancy Cumming Group merged with Phoenix-based semiconductor advisory firm World Wide Professional Services, creating what Cumming claims is now the largest independent construction consultancy dedicated to the U.S. semiconductor sector. Cumming projects that the U.S. semiconductor onshoring push will account for nearly $250 billion in total capital investment by 2025.

Preparing for the Onshoring Boom

To position itself for this anticipated surge, PCL has launched its own Manufacturing Center of Excellence. This specialized group will focus on supporting the growing demand for onshored manufacturing, including projects in the life sciences, food and beverage, battery and electronics, semiconductor, and advanced manufacturing sectors.

Although its Phoenix office is currently aimed at boosting commercial and retail work, PCL’s broader strategy suggests the firm is preparing to compete across multiple fast-growing segments in the region. With Campbell at the helm, the company aims to leave its mark on both the city’s skyline and its workforce.

Originally reported by Matthew Thibault in Construction Dive.