High-Profile: September 2026 | Page 25

Celebrating the Past. Building Our Future. | 1976-2026 | www. moccontracting. com
September 2026 High-Profile Focus: Schools and Institutions 25
The
new performance stage and cafetorium create flexible spaces for learning and gathering.
Originally constructed in 1934, the school received extensive renovations and a new two-story addition, along with a multilevel connection integrating the new and existing construction. The work also included accessibility and building-system upgrades, selective demolition, stormwater improvements, retaining walls, landscaping, and new play surfaces.
The completed school provides a modern, welcoming environment for Newton students, educators, and families. Delivering the project required careful planning, detailed coordination, and close collaboration among MOCC, the City of Newton, Newton Public Schools, the Newton Public Buildings Department, Raymond Design Associates, NV5, consultants, subcontractors, and other project stakeholders.
“ Horace Mann is exactly the kind of project we are proud to have represent our 50th year,” said Krystal Burrows, executive vice president of MOCC.“ It reflects what experienced people, longterm relationships, and a shared commitment to the community can accomplish.”
The project was led by Project Executive Michael O’ Connor Jr., Project Manager Mick Murphy, and Site Supervisor Ed O’ Connor, with companywide executive oversight from Burrows. Together, the team managed phased construction, existing conditions, schedule coordination, field operations, and day-to-day project demands through completion.
That team reflects a culture of continuity found throughout MOCC. Founder and CEO Michael O’ Connor Sr. remains actively involved in daily operations 50 years after founding the company. Ed O’ Connor has been
with MOCC since 1983, Michael O’ Connor Jr. since 1998, and Burrows for 20 years. Their long-term commitment reflects a company where knowledge is retained, experience is shared, and employees build lasting careers.
For owners, architects, and project partners, that continuity means experienced leaders remain accessible and knowledge developed during estimating and preconstruction carries into the field.
Over five decades, MOCC has grown from its residential construction roots into a fullservice
general contractor serving educational, municipal, institutional, residential, and historic projects throughout Massachusetts. While the company has evolved, its foundation remains unchanged: experienced people, quality workmanship, accountability, collaboration, and strong working relationships.
Horace Mann Elementary School is a fitting project with which to celebrate MOCC’ s 50th anniversary: a school built for the next generation by a company strengthened by decades of experience and the people who carry that experience forward.

50 Years. Built By People

Michael O’ Connor Sr. Chief Executive Officer & Founder With MOCC Since 1976
Ed O’ Connor Senior Sute Superintendent With MOCC Since 1984
Michael O’ Connor Jr. President With MOCC Since 1998
Krystal Burrows Executive Vice President With MOCC Since 2006
Celebrating the Past. Building Our Future. | 1976-2026 | www. moccontracting. com
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