2022 Women in Construction: Jill O’Connell, LEED AP Associate/Plumbing Project Engineer A|H|A

What was your greatest professional achievement or most notable project in the last 12 months? I was assigned to be the lead plumbing engineer for the Engine 17 Fire Station project in Dorchester, MA. This gave me the chance to be part of a design team for a type of project that I had not previously worked on in my professional career. This opportunity provided me with new knowledge and experience that I can now share with fellow colleagues and team members. Also, I am extremely proud that I was promoted to associate this past year and am excited to take on more responsibility.

Starting out in the construction business, who or what empowered you? My journey in the construction business started in college when I was enrolled in the architectural engineering program at Wentworth. My parents have supported me from the beginning by encouraging me to always work hard to achieve my goals. Frank Teebagy was my first mentor right out of college. I attended his course at Northeastern, where he introduced and taught me the foundations of plumbing engineering.

Within your firm, who has helped you succeed within the industry? How have they helped you? At AHA, my boss and mentor Joseph Philbrick, is a great leader who challenges and pushes me to get out of my comfort zone. He inspires me to be a better engineer within the industry and gives me all the guidance I need to succeed.

What tips or advice would you offer to other women who are considering entering the construction industry? The advice I would have given myself starting out my career is to build confidence. Don’t let age or inexperience stop you. Work hard and take advantage of any classes, join organizations related to your field of interest, network and ask questions.