Ashley O’Connor
Managing Director
MGAC
Alexandria, Virginia

What is your favorite place to travel?

My favorite place to travel is anywhere I have never been. I am always interested in finding new places and seeing how other parts of the world live.

How has the evolution of project management changed during your career?

The biggest change in construction and project management has been the advancement of technology—not just the internet, but the specific programs used in design and construction. It’s amazing what we can do now versus 20 years ago, specifically being able to conduct 4D and 5D scheduling. The ability to combine drawings, schedule and run numbers is something they could not have even imagined when I started out.

Which event are you most looking forward to in 2023?

The completion of the Johns Hopkins University, 555 Pennsylvania Avenue Renovation (former site of the Newseum), in Washington, D.C., this August. We put a lot of hard work into it, and I am looking forward to the final project!

If you could choose any superpower, what would you choose?

Wonder Woman’s Lasso of Truth. This specific characteristic is a testament to my leadership style and what I value.

Who are your personal heroes?

If I had to pick one person I admire now, I think that Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, has been one of those individuals who has really held his own. I am inspired by him because he came into his presidency not expecting the tragic events of the Russia–Ukraine War, and he has continued to hold his own with grandeur.

What is your go-to breakfast item?

A chocolate croissant and coffee.

If you had three wishes, what would you wish for?

1. Travel lots of places with free time.
2. Good health for myself and everyone around me.
3. To always remember happiness is not overrated.