NJBIZ Q&A with Michael F. McKenna

What do you consider to be your greatest contribution to the success of your company/clients?

Contractors, owners, subcontracts, and other construction industry members face complicated, often confusing legal issues. Being a resource for them is what drives me each and every day.

Who has been your most influential role model?

My father taught me the importance of hard work. He never graduated high school and came to the United States in 1949. He started out as a handyman in a bakery. He became a carpenter, worked himself up to project superintendent, and later formed his own construction company. I saw him go through a lot of what life can throw at you.

What types of charities, community involvement, or pro bono work are you involved in?

Community involvement is integral to my personal and professional lives. I serve on the Audit Committee for the Boys and Girls Club of Paterson and served as Special Counsel for the Boys and Girls Club of South Queens. As managing partner of the Newark office, I spearhead the office’s charitable contributions and involvement with local organizations.

What is something about yourself that would surprise others?

I am the oldest of nine kids. Both my parents emigrated from Ireland and neither graduated high school. I was the first to graduate high school, graduate college, study post-graduate. I did not have any mentors and mostly had to find my own way, which made success even that much better.