Sept. 6, 2012. Michael J. O’Connor, director of Appalachian State University’s Physical Plant, was honored recently by the Association of Physical Plant Administrators (APPA).
O’Connor was one of six individuals receiving the President’s Award, given to APPA members who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in facilities management and who have made outstanding contributions to the association.
O’Connor was recognized for his leadership role in APPA’s Senior Facilities Officers Group. The group meets yearly during a summit held in conjunction with the AAPA annual conference that provides leaders in the higher education facility field the opportunity to share information and develop critical strategies that will serve their institutions.
Appalachian’s Physical Plant encompasses the areas of design and construction, operations and maintenance, utilities, motor pool, landscaping, housekeeping, recycling and New River Light and Power.
O’Connor has been director of Appalachian’s Physical Plant since 2006. He retired from the U.S. Navy Civil Engineer Corps after 24 years of service.