Mike Clifford
Vice President, General Manager
Each of us can make a difference when we listen, understand, and take action.
Lean in, Together
Driven, caring, and fun—these are the defining characteristics of our team of Mortenson Portlanders. We are a close-knit group that supports one another and takes the time to celebrate our successes. There is a unique grit and determination that distinguishes us from others. When we are united in our purpose, we have the greatest potential to effect positive change as individuals, as teams, and as a community.
Lead with Trust
It’s important to lead with kindness and honesty. Simply taking the time to understand the perspective of others can make all the difference in someone’s day or experience. We create stronger connections when we slow down, listen and ask questions. Early in my career, the tangible nature of what we build. What I realize now is that it’s more than bricks and mortar. It’s the teams that rally together through thick and thin to create wonderful spaces for the benefit of our customers and our communities.
Break through Barriers
We need to be stewards of developing the next generation of leaders. We’re on a journey to become a more inclusive and diverse organization, but with the right mindset we can change “business as usual” and open doors that bring in new energy and challenge us with different viewpoints. I’m truly grateful for the teams I work alongside every day and I’m excited to continue our positive trajectory. It will inspire us to innovate in new ways and continue our industry leadership regionally and nationally.
PERSONAL PASSIONS
Today’s leaders need to be agile in this rapidly changing world and finding everyone’s leadership potential is a strong motivator for me. Flexibility and adaptability are essential traits that help us prepare to lead when facing challenging situations.
INTERESTS
- Snow skiing
- Soccer
- Spending time with family
HOME STATE
Washington
INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Cultural + Performing Arts
- Federal Government
- Healthcare
- Higher Education
- Hospitality
- Office Spaces
- Science + Technology
- Sports + Entertainment
INDUSTRY TENURE
23 years
Project Awards
Clark College Advanced Manufacturing Center
DBIA Northwest Award - Merit
Bonneville Power Administration’s Technical Services Building
DBIA National Award - Merit
Hyatt Regency at the Oregon Convention Center
DBIA National Award - Excellence | National Award - Merit
Tualatin Interceptor and Siphon Renovation
2020 APWA Oregon Chapter Project of the Year
University of Washington Interdisciplinary Research Building
Technology in Architectural Practice (TAP) Award
Distinguished Project Award
DBIA Honor Award
Boards & Memberships
Construction Career Pathways Project
Construction Industry Representative and Member
SafeBuild Alliance
Former President
Design-Build Institute of America – Oregon Chapter
Former Board Member & Membership Committee Chair
Architectural Foundation of Oregon
Member
Greater Portland Inc (GPI)
Board of Directors & BD Advisor Committee Chair
Volunteerism
Red Feather Development Group
A program that provides services to families in need of critical home health and safety repairs
United Way of the Columbia-Willamette
Meeting the needs of vulnerable families
Portland Backpack
Providing food resources for kids who experience food insecurities
Education
University of Washington – Seattle
BS, Construction Management
BA, Architectural Studies