2025 Women in Construction: Molly O’Connor, NEI General Contracting

What trends or innovations do you believe will shape the future of your field, and how are you positioning yourself (or your firm) to be at the forefront? As we’re seeing across many industries, I believe AI will play an increasingly significant role in the construction sector, both in the office and in the field. There are numerous new products and features being developed, and I’m actively exploring each one to determine which will best enhance NEI’s subcontracting process. My goal is to integrate these innovations in a way that keeps us on the cutting edge, while ensuring that we remain user-friendly and simple for the subcontractors we work with.

Who or what has inspired you most in your career, and what advice would you share with the next generation of women entering the A/E/C industry? My mom has been a huge inspiration in my career. Having worked in the construction industry for nearly 20 years, I admire her strength, power, and determination as a professional. To the next generation of women entering the A/E/C industry, my advice is simple: Be yourself. Too often, women feel the pressure to prove themselves in a male-dominated industry, but the truth is, you are enough just as you are.

What’s your favorite way to recharge or get inspired outside of work? Enjoying outdoor time with my family and getting to see the world through my son’s eyes.