Philip-O'Neal of Terrence O'Neal discusses first job experience

Name: Heather Philip-O'Neal Title: Design Principal Company Name: Terrence O'Neal Architect LLC Years in Commercial Real Estate:Licensed Architect since 1996 In the last 12 months, which project, transacton, honor or accomplishment are you most proud of and why? The Harry B. Rutkins Award, which I received together with Terrence E. O'Neal, FAIA, managing principal of Terrence O'Neal Architect LLC (TONA) from the AIA NY chapter. It commended our service "to the chapter, to the Institute, and to the profession" and noted our commitment to introducing young people to architecture and to increasing awareness of the role of minority architects for students and the general public. I am proud of this award because it acknowledges recognition from my peers. Who are three women- living or dead - that you would like to have drinks with and why? 1. Zaha Hadid: London-based Architect, because she does it her way 2. Michelle Obama: First Lady of the United States of America, because she has it all 3. Kamla Persad-Bissessar: Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, because she represents the ultimate possibility of leadership. What was your first job and what did you learn from it? My first job was in the Engineering Division of a major construction company. During my first week they won a $100 Million bid to build a tunnel. It was a very exciting experience because I learned about bridge and tunnel design, quantity take offs, and most important, the office practices and design protocols that still resonate in my own practice today.