From cattle ranches to construction sites, Jack Sample’s path to president, eastern U.S. at PCL is a testament to following one's passion and excelling in unexpected fields. In his role, Sample oversees all building operations east of the Rockies, including offices in Colorado, Minneapolis, and Florida, along with their surrounding satellite operations. His journey into the construction industry began at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. 

“I grew up on a cattle ranch – my dad was a rancher, and so were most of the adults in my life – but I knew early on that wasn’t the path for me,” says Sample. “I was decent at math, so I decided to study engineering in college to see what kind of career it could lead me to.”

Sample discovered his passion for construction while interning at PCL during his time at UCLA. “I’ve been with PCL basically ever since – 30 years full time, plus an extra year with the internship,” says Sample. Since joining full-time in 1994, he has held roles ranging from field engineer to construction manager, to his current leadership role. Much of Sample’s career with PCL was spent California, where he helped the regional office grow into the company’s largest U.S. office.

Throughout his career, Sample has been involved in several iconic projects that transformed his career. The STAPLES Center, now known as Crypto.com Arena, holds a special place in his heart. “Prior to the completion of that project, downtown L.A. was a ghost town at nights and on the weekends,” says Sample. “Bringing a world-class arena to the center of the city totally transformed downtown to become a vibrant destination. It's still very meaningful to me to have played a part of such an impactful project.” 

A lifelong Los Angeles Dodgers fan, Sample also takes pride in the improvement projects PCL has done on Dodger Stadium. “Our team has developed a great relationship with that client, which is something I’m especially proud of,” says Sample. That success paved the way for another major milestone for PCL: securing the Banc of California Stadium for the Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC). “Those projects are really a testament to not just the structures we build but also the strong relationships we cultivate with our clients and the communities we serve,” says Sample.

When asked why he has dedicated his career to PCL, Sample emphasizes the company's culture and the people who make it exceptional. “The people I’ve had a chance to work with over the years have had such an impact on me,” says Sample. “In my current role, I have the chance to pay it forward, helping others grow in their careers and creating opportunities for them to enjoy a fantastic career like I’ve had. That’s what drives me.”

Mentoring and supporting others in their professional growth is one of Sample’s greatest sources of fulfillment. Year after year, this commitment to development stands out as a defining aspect of his time at PCL. He also credits the company’s culture of dedicated builders for its success. “Our employees put their heart and soul into every project, delivering exceptional results every time,” Sample says.

Outside of PCL, Sample serves on the board of the American Cancer Society, a cause close to his heart as his wife is a cancer survivor. This role allows him to give back and support cancer research and advocacy.

Reflecting on his career, Sample hopes to leave a legacy of developing future leaders. “PCL has fostered a culture of mentorship that has been instrumental in shaping my career and helping me reach where I am today,” says Sample. “I’m committed to continuing this tradition by helping to guide and prepare the next generation of construction leaders.”