John O’Hare’s educational journey has come full circle, bringing together his diverse
experiences and appreciation for learning, teaching, and connecting with others. Having
lived and studied in several states, he brings a unique outlook to SUNY Erie Community
College, fostering an enthusiasm for engaging with students and creating learning
experiences.
Today, O’Hare brings dedication, compassion, and thoughtfulness to his role as an adjunct professor in the Engineering Technology programs, teaching in Civil Construction Management, Building Maintenance, and Mechanical Engineering. He takes pride in caring for his students, connecting them with rewarding internships, and helping them find successful career paths with respected employers in the civil engineering field.
After beginning his college journey in the General Studies program at the State University of New York at Fredonia, John transferred to Skyline College in San Bruno, California, where he earned an Associate in Applied Science degree in Liberal Arts. While working in Skyline’s Facilities Department, he arrived early to open the buildings, an experience that gave him opportunities to meet people on campus, all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA.
He later transferred to attend North Carolina State University in Raleigh, earning a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering degree with a minor in Construction Management. Following graduation, he moved to Charleston, South Carolina, to work for Huber Construction, a company that expanded and was co-owned by his father, who was based in Buffalo. O’Hare worked under a professional engineer who led the business. Within three years, his boss retired, and he took over operations, managing the business for the next 12 years.
O’Hare guided the business through many challenges, including the impactful Hurricane Hugo in September 1989. The company’s two largest clients were the United States Army and the Robert Bosch Corporation.
In 1995, he returned to Western New York to help lead major construction projects, including the Crossroads Arena, now KeyBank Center, home of the Buffalo Sabres. Over the next two decades, he contributed to a variety of significant projects throughout the region, including the former Ralph Wilson Stadium, Buffalo Public Schools’ facilities, and the Seneca Niagara Casino. Continuing his career with Huber Construction, O’Hare served as project manager overseeing interior construction projects. He later advanced to vice president, taking on greater leadership responsibilities during his 30-year career with the company.
“Throughout my career, the biggest lesson I’ve learned is how important it is to work with people. Construction is a team effort, and being able to communicate, build relationships, and work well with different personalities is just as important as knowing the technical side of the business,” said O’Hare.
After retiring from the construction industry in 2016, O’Hare returned to education
as an adjunct instructor and internship coordinator at SUNY Erie, bringing his extensive
industry experience into the classroom. Now in his tenth year, he continues to bridge
the gap between education and industry through a successful internship program, career
events, and the annual Speaker Series. His greatest reward is helping students launch
valuable careers while connecting local businesses with the next generation of professionals.
His connection to the internship program goes back to 2007, when he participated as an employer. His extensive experience in civil engineering, construction management, and business leadership continues to influence his work preparing students for careers in the field.
“Having spent 30 years as an employer, I know how important it is to connect students with quality employers and help them discover a career path that’s right for them. It’s incredibly rewarding to see students find great opportunities with outstanding local businesses, and I’m happy to help bring the two together,” he said.
Now in its third year, the Engineering and Technology Speaker Series brings employers to SUNY Erie’s North Campus to connect with students and alumni, share career opportunities and provide insights into today’s evolving workplace. This fall’s event is on Thursday, November 12, from 12 to 1 p.m. in Bretschger Hall, room 401, at the SUNY Erie North Campus. Open to all SUNY Erie students and alumni, the event will feature speakers from top employers such as Moog, Stark Tech, and others.
Also scheduled for that day is the Engineering and Technology Career Day, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Bretschger Hall. With approximately 30 employers participating, the event offers students another opportunity to explore career options, connect with industry professionals, and learn about potential internships and employment opportunities. All SUNY Erie students and alumni are welcome to attend.
Beyond the classroom, O’Hare is a singer and guitarist who regularly shares his musical talents at Penny Lane and the Clarence Senior Center. He is deeply involved in his community, serving as a volunteer docent with Explore Buffalo, where he leads tours highlighting the region’s history. He also writes a monthly history column in the Clarence Bee and serves as a trustee of the Clarence Historical Museum. An experienced public speaker, he has been an active member of Toastmasters in Clarence for 10 years, serving as past president and area director, continually building connections and sharing his knowledge with others.
O’Hare was named the 2023 Volunteer of the Year by the Clarence Chamber of Commerce. In 2024, he received the State University of New York Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Adjunct Teaching in recognition of his exemplary contributions to instructional quality at SUNY Erie.
Through his teaching, mentorship, and industry partnerships, O’Hare continues to empower students to pursue rewarding careers and build a strong foundation for lifelong success.
What skills do students need to succeed in tomorrow’s workforce?
Be willing to keep learning. Every industry is different, and the workplace is constantly changing, so students need to be adaptable and open to learning new things. Strong communication and language skills, along with comfort using technology, are also important. These skills give students a strong foundation for success in whatever career path they choose.
What’s one innovation, teaching strategy, or program that makes SUNY Erie stand out?
I’ve always believed that paid internships with local companies can be a great experience for both students and employers. Students get the opportunity to gain experience, build on their skills, and see what they’re learning in the classroom applied on the job. At SUNY Erie, we have that opportunity through our Construction Management program, and I think it’s a great example of how we can connect students with the local workforce.
What’s changing in your industry? How are you helping your students stay ahead of those changes?
AI is changing everything, and the workplace is evolving quickly. I want my students to understand not only how technology is changing industry, but also how they can adapt and continue learning as those changes happen. I’ll be leading a Speaker Series in November focused on changes in the workplace, bringing those conversations directly to our students and helping them think about what the future of work will look like.
How does SUNY Erie uniquely support equity and access for students?
SUNY Erie is a place in Western New York where students from different backgrounds can come as they are and feel comfortable being themselves. I think that sense of acceptance and belonging is important. When students feel supported and know they can be themselves, they’re in a better position to learn, grow, and succeed.
What inspires you to work at SUNY Erie?
The students. It’s incredibly rewarding to meet a student, get to know them in the classroom, and watch them grow throughout their time at SUNY Erie. Even better is being able to follow their careers after graduation and see where their education and hard work take them. Being part of that journey is what inspires me.
Why choose SUNY Erie?
We’re local, affordable, and good at what we do! SUNY Erie should be on every student’s list of choices in Western New York. Our programs prepare students for jobs.
Were you ever a student-athlete?
Yes! While attending North Carolina State University, I participated in intramural sports and was part of the Club Hockey team. I played hockey for three years, and it was a great experience that gave me the opportunity to be part of a team and stay active while in college.
How did you become interested in your field?
My family was in the construction business, so I grew up around it. I tried just about every other option first, but I realized that being a starving artist probably wasn’t the best career path for me! After graduation, I moved to Charleston, South Carolina, where the family business expanded, and that’s where my career in construction really began.