Robert is a Certified Energy Manager with a background in manufacturing and construction. He has worked with the agricultural sector and rural small businesses throughout Oregon. Robert has also supported energy conservation programs and offered his expertise to various utilities, as well as to behind-the-meter applications.

He has also worked together with organizations such as USDA Rural Development, Sustainable Northwest, LCRI, Wallowa Resources, Oregon Department of Energy, Oregon Department of Agriculture, Energy Trust of Oregon, Washington State Department of Commerce, NRCS, and many other local agencies & non-profit organizations on energy & water and innovation projects.

Robert grew up in rural Wasco County, where he still resides. Robert served as Mayor of the City of Dufur for one term, beginning in 2015. He was also a member of the Dufur School Board, was the Commissioner for the Port of The Dalles, and served as a budget committee member for the North Central Education Service District (ESD) and the Wasco County Soil Water Conservation District.