TORONTO – Mike Widdifield, operations manager at PCL Construction’s Toronto office, has been named the recipient of the Canadian Association of Women in Construction’s (CAWIC) 2026 Male Allyship Award, recognizing his efforts to advance opportunities for women across the construction industry.
Widdifield has spent more than 20 years with PCL and has used his position throughout his career to support women, increase their visibility and advocate for greater access to leadership opportunities, according to a company release.
“Mike leads with intention and understands that creating equitable opportunities requires action,” said Myke Badry, vice-president and district manager of PCL’s Toronto office. Badry added that Widdifield regularly advocates for women even when they are not present in the room, while making sure talented employees receive the visibility and support necessary to progress in their careers.
The recognition, Badry said, reflects the impact Widdifield continues to have both within PCL and across the broader construction sector.
In his role as PCL Toronto’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion sponsor, Widdifield has supported initiatives designed to increase representation and encourage career development. Those efforts include providing women with access to high-profile assignments, leadership development programs and professional networking opportunities.
The district’s sponsorship program has involved 44 per cent of female operations employees, roughly twice its participation target. Women have also accounted for 46 per cent of new operations hires in Toronto so far this year.
Widdifield said he was honoured by the recognition and credited the mentors, colleagues and team members who have contributed to his professional development.
“I’m honoured to receive this award and thankful to the many mentors, colleagues and team members who have shaped my career,” Widdifield said.
He also emphasized the connection between successful projects and the strength of the teams behind them, arguing that leaders have a responsibility to create workplaces where employees can perform at their best, develop their abilities and contribute to the future direction of the industry.
The CAWIC Male Allyship Award recognizes a male leader who actively promotes equity, amplifies women’s voices and creates meaningful opportunities for women to succeed within their organizations and throughout the construction sector.
