August 2025 – O’Connell Electric Company recently welcomed Tom Murphy and Sgt. Rick Yarosh of Sweethearts & Heroes to deliver their transformative message of HOPE (Hold On, Possibilities Exist) to approximately 250 hundred employees across multiple locations over four days. The presentations aimed to address the rising mental health challenges in the construction industry and empower employees with tools to foster empathy, compassion, and teamwork.
Sweethearts & Heroes, co-founded by Tom Murphy, is a nationally recognized organization dedicated to combating hopelessness, bullying, and suicide through dynamic presentations and leadership programs. Sgt. Rick Yarosh, a Purple Heart recipient and motivational speaker, shared his powerful story of resilience and overcoming adversity after being severely injured while serving in Iraq.
The sessions included impactful keynote addresses, interactive discussions, and the introduction of “The Magic of Circle,” a signature Sweethearts & Heroes program designed to create safe spaces for open communication and connection.
Steven Parkes, Manager of Field Operations at O’Connell Electric, reflected on the event’s impact:
“Tom and Rick brought a message that was not only inspiring but actionable. Their ability to connect with our team on such a personal level was remarkable. This experience has sparked meaningful conversations among our employees and reinforced the importance of looking out for one another in our industry.”
The construction industry faces one of the highest suicide rates among American industries, with work-related stressors such as long hours, job demands, and lack of support contributing to mental health challenges. By hosting Sweethearts & Heroes, O’Connell Electric Company continues to prioritize the well-being of its employees and foster a culture of care and resilience.
For more information about Sweethearts & Heroes, visit Sweethearts & Heroes Website.
