Builders at Heart: Angel Fortner

This article is part of our series Builders at Heart, where we highlight the passions and backgrounds of the Clark team  – the things that shape us – that allow us to tackle challenges head-on, solve complex problems, and build what matters.

Meet Angel Fortner, a site coordinator with Clark Water currently working on the Methanol Feed Facilities at the Millard H. Robbins Jr. Regional Reclamation Plant project in Centreville, Virginia. Learn how she is developing in her role and her desire to be a role model to other women in the industry. 

Tell us a little bit about your background.

I spend as much of my spare time as possible enjoying the outdoors, and I love hiking. I also enjoy woodworking and wood burning!

Tell us about your career with Clark so far.

I started working in the construction industry 11 years ago and have been with Clark for 7 of those years. First, I was laborer with Clark Civil on the Dulles Metrorail Silver Line, Phase 2 project, then I worked as a field engineer managing precast panel work. I then moved to Clark Water, managing the layout and piles on the Little Patuxent Water Reclamation Plant projects. I spent some time on a few other Clark Water projects after that, including the NMCPCP Solids Processing Rehabilitation project and the Savannah Convention Center. 

Who has had the most influence on your life and why?

Two senior superintendents I have worked with  – Joe Kinser and Brian Wright  – have really pushed me along the way and taught me a lot in the industry. They have inspired me to always reach for more. 

What made you want to pursue a career in construction?

Before I worked in the industry, I ran a VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) post and met a superintendent there. He told me about the day-to-day and encouraged me to get into field engineering. 

Tell us about your experience growing within Clark and into your new role. What are you excited about or looking forward to?

After two years as a laborer with Clark, I was promoted to a foreman. In that role, I helped other laborers and craftspeople. I really like assisting team members, especially the women I get to work with. I love being able to show them how I grew in the industry and then encourage them to do the same. 

What do you like the most about your current role?

In my new role as a site coordinator, I have more responsibility and am empowered to make decisions on the jobsite more independently. That has been an enjoyable challenge. I now get to manage the work and trade contractors and instead of putting the work into place myself. I also have the opportunity to grow relationships with owners which has been a great learning experience and has allowed me to push myself each day!

What is your proudest accomplishment? Either personally or professionally?

Personally, I have been very proud to be a mentor to my siblings and set an example for them. Professionally, I am proud of the work that I do each day.

What is your favorite thing about working at Clark?

I feel a great sense of care for people from the company. It is a great place to work; all of my managers are compassionate and take great interest in me personally and professionally and care about my next steps!