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Updated: October 6, 2025 / 2025 40 Under 40 honorees

40 Under 40: Connor Archer advocates for others with autism

Photo / Soubanh Phanthay Connor Archer, 27: Founder, chair and CEO, The Courageous Steps Project Inc.
Connor Archer, 27 Founder, chair and CEO, The Courageous Steps Project Inc. Read all about the 40 Under 40 honorees
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Greatest achievement: In 2016, I was nominated as one of 10 national honorees as part of the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, the nation’s largest youth volunteerism program at the time. When the following was said in Washington, D.C., “From Old Town High School, in Old Town, Maine,” I was shocked and overwhelmed in the moment. To walk up there and accept this honor with my mom crying happy tears — well, it meant the world to me. I was thankful to represent the state of Maine. I met youth from around the country who had equally inspiring projects. That shaped what I am doing today to make a difference for others. My mom and I returned the next year to attend the ceremonies — and meet Michael Phelps.

Passion project: The work I do every day, through running and leading the Courageous Steps Project. As someone who lives with autism, and was diagnosed at a young age, it’s my way of being able to give back through our various programs. I never imagined I would be doing this 10 years later, but I am thankful and beyond fortunate to be able to have an impact on the lives of children and young adults.

Lightbulb moment: When I was in a college business class, my instructor said you have to run your personal life like a business. That motto has guided me through my growth as a leader and when making big decisions that impact all aspects of my life.

Influential book: “The Ride of a Lifetime,” by Bob Iger

Favorite TV show: “The Big Bang Theory”

Personal hero: My mom, whose sacrifices helped me learn and grow

Favorite quote: “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.” — Walt Disney

Maine’s biggest challenge: I believe we are at a critical point where we need to think creatively about retention and recruitment of current and future educators and other human services providers. However, I am confident that AI and technology will help educators and human services professionals spend more of their time on personal interactions, and not on tedious administrative tasks that can be done through automation. Public-private partnerships backed by balanced and fair resources will be essential in building our schools, community centers and homes so the American dream is attainable by our future children. We must work together to solve this issue.

Dream dinner guests: Bob Iger, Steve Jobs, my mom

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