Rejoined Ames: January 2025 (previously worked here 2015-2020)
Position: Pursuits & Preconstruction Manager, Southwest
Lorna Tokarski spent 10 years on the design side of the construction industry before joining Ames in 2015. After working elsewhere for a few years, she recently returned to Ames as a pursuits and preconstruction manager.
“I’d kept in touch with some Ames folks, and when the opportunity to come back opened up, it seemed like the right time to make the switch,” she says.
Lorna’s favorite part of her job is pursuing (and winning!) new work. This involves visiting clients, getting to know their programs, tracking various jobs, and then incorporating all of that information into a proposal.
“Having the chance to work with a team of individuals with the common goal of looking at a job from every angle and finding innovative ways to build it is very rewarding.”
She also enjoys seeing the final results of the jobs her team worked to win.
“I have so much respect and appreciation for the people I work with and their willingness to partner with me in the pursuit of new work for Ames.”
When she’s not working, Lorna’s 10-year-old daughter and 7-year-old son keep her busy. She also enjoys hiking, reading, and yoga.
RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
When I was in high school, I spent six weeks in Peru as an exchange student. I’d really love to go back as an adult because I think I would appreciate it so much more. There were so many different landscapes and things to experience. It’s definitely high on my list of places to go.
What is your favorite book?
“Gone with the Wind.” I get lost in the story every time I read it!
Who do you cheer for?
I’m a proud member of Bills Mafia—been a fan of the Buffalo Bills for as long as I can remember. Go Bills!
What is a family tradition you look forward to each year?
Every December my family gets together for our annual Christmas Cookie Baking Day. It’s one of my favorite days during the holiday season to spend time with my family. The kids all have a blast, and somehow we end up expanding the number and types of cookies we make each year.