As we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the ACE Mentor Program of Greater Philadelphia, we are proud to recognize one of the individuals whose vision and leadership helped make it all possible.
This year’s 25th Anniversary Founder Award is presented to Anthony F. Naccarato, PE, SE, F. ASCE—a true champion of mentorship, education, and the future of the architecture, construction, and engineering industries.
Anthony currently serves as Chairman & CEO of O’Donnell & Naccarato, one of the Mid-Atlantic region’s most respected structural engineering firms. Since joining the firm in 1988 after graduating from Villanova University, he has played an instrumental role in its growth and success, rising through the ranks to Project Executive, Partner, Vice President, President, and now CEO. His leadership has helped shape a firm known for excellence across a diverse portfolio spanning healthcare, higher education, hospitality, residential, and large-scale commercial developments.
Throughout his career, Anthony has contributed to some of the region’s most notable projects, including the Capital Health System Medical Campus in New Jersey, the University of Pennsylvania’s Sansom Commons and Inn at Penn, and the continued expansion of the King of Prussia Mall. His technical expertise and commitment to quality have left a lasting mark on the built environment across the region.
But Anthony’s impact extends far beyond the structures he has helped bring to life.
In 2001, alongside a group of dedicated industry professionals, Anthony co-founded the Greater Philadelphia affiliate of the ACE Mentor Program—planting the seed for what would become a transformative force for thousands of students over the past 25 years. Serving as Board Chair from 2003 to 2013, he helped guide the program’s growth, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds had access to mentorship, real-world experience, and pathways into meaningful careers.
His commitment to education and community engagement continues today through his involvement with organizations such as the Carpenter’s Company of the City & County of Philadelphia, Jefferson University’s College of Architecture and the Built Environment, and several nonprofit and educational boards. At every level, Anthony has remained dedicated to opening doors for the next generation.
The ACE Mentor Program of Greater Philadelphia exists today because of leaders like Anthony—individuals who saw an opportunity to make a difference and took action.
As we reflect on 25 years of impact, we are honored to celebrate Anthony Naccarato for his leadership, his vision, and his unwavering commitment to mentorship.
Congratulations, Anthony—and thank you for helping build the foundation for the future.
