Who, living or dead, would you like to eat dinner with the most? And why? 

I would most like to have dinner with my Grandfather James Shea. In his early 20’s he emigrated from the Black Valley in County Kerry Ireland where there was little opportunity for a prosperous life. I was blessed to know him as a child, but never spoke to him about the courage it must have taken to leave his homeland behind and start a new life in America. I would love to know what he was thinking at the time of his journey and after he established his life, home and family in Boston.  

What is your favorite project you worked on and why? 

My favorite project was Beverly High School Project. This large and logistically challenging project was my first after transitioning from the field, so I had a lot to learn. I had the opportunity work with a great team, and we collectively built a beautiful facility.  

Who or what inspires you? 

My wife Merri inspires me. We have four sons together and she is the rock that keeps us all so happy and healthy. Despite any obstacles she has faced, Merri has always risen to the occasion and put her family and friends first. She is full of life and living proof that “attitude is everything.” 

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done?

The craziest thing I have ever done unintentionally occurred when I was hitchhiking around Ireland after graduating from college. I was a clueless tourist in Dublin looking for a museum. I did not have a good map, but I came upon a stately looking stone building that looked like a museum, so I walked on in. Well unknown to me, this was the Irish House of Parliament and I had apparently slipped through the front gate right after a vehicle exited. Let’s say the guards inside were less than pleased to see me and after a brief interrogation, I was escorted out. I’d suspect they were a little more embarrassed than I was.