Robert Sanders
What current projects are you working on?
GLWA Fire Remediation, GLWA Rouge River Outfall Disinfection Oversight, GLWA 120-kV Water Treatment Plant; GLWA Biosolids Dryer Facility, GLWA Grit Chamber Forensic Analysis, to name a few.
What is your career highlight at PMA so far?
I’ve been fortunate to have worked on numerous challenging and rewarding mega projects, such as Visteon Village and the JW Marriott in Grand Rapids (MI), as well as serving on five generations of DWSD/GLWA continuing owner’s representative capital improvement program contracts.
What is something new or innovative happening in your industry?
I’ve noticed a change in the past five years that has deepened my appreciation for working for a firm that places a high value on serving as a trusted advisor. I see a trend in moving away from basic communication to a more remote, electronic process: more and more companies are turning to “virtual” sources instead of humans. As a relationship-driven/based firm, PMA has always valued speaking in person, face-to-face, or voice-to-voice to clients as this is a pillar of the genetic code and foundation upon which PMA was built.
What university or college did you graduate from?
I attended University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI.
What is your favorite local establishment?
The Stone House in Lexington (MI), which has been a part of my wife’s family for generations. The Stone House was built in 1930 and is an amazing piece of Michigan’s architectural history and heritage. The “Maltese castle,” as it’s been called, was created using stones and sand from the shores of Lake Huron. In addition to providing annual guided tours to raise funds for the local Meals on Wheels, we’ve also hosted drop-in guests that include a congresswoman and motorcycle clubs.
Fun facts?
My roommate while attending U-M was Rick Snyder, current governor of Michigan.