Chris Gower has been named president and CEO of PCL Construction.

Edmonton-based PCL ranks among Canada and North America’s largest commercial builders, completing US$7 billion of work per year.

Gower has become the ninth person to lead PCL in its 118-year history. He brings nearly 30 years of experience within the company to his new position.

Having served most recently as PCL’s deputy CEO and chief operating officer before that, he has overseen PCL’s operations in Canada, the U.S. and Australia. He has been a central figure within the office of the CEO and the board of directors, driving major projects across North America and spearheading PCL’s expansion into the solar energy sector, the company said.

Gower was named one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 leaders. He replaces Dave Filipchuk, who has assumed the role of PCL’s board chair.

“Leading a company with such a rich and successful legacy is a privilege, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to Dave Filipchuk for his leadership over the past eight years,” said Gower in a news release. “I also extend my deepest gratitude for his mentorship throughout our transition time together.”

Filipchuk has served with PCL for the past four decades. He received the Canadian Construction Association’s Pinnacle Leader Award in 2024 and the University of Alberta Canadian Business Leader Award in 2023. He has also been inducted as a fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering.

“Effective succession planning is about positioning the right leaders at the right time,” said Filipchuk. “We prioritize succession at every level of our company, ensuring time for a smooth transition to maintain business continuity. Chris is an exceptional leader with a proven history of success, and our board looks forward to his continued commitment to excellence as he leads our growing and thriving organization.”

PCL is a group of independent construction companies that operates throughout the Canada, the U.S., the Caribbean and Australia. The company is 100% employee-owned and serves clients in the buildings, civil infrastructure, heavy industrial and solar markets. 

Pictured: Chris Gower, president and CEO of PCL Construction

Photo: Courtesy of PCL Construction