40 Under Forty Awards 2024
Robert Sykes | 33
Managing Engineer, Pare Corp.
What is the biggest challenge currently facing your industry and how are you responding to it? I think staffing is affecting everyone. In my role, I actively work to attract and retain new staff by creating opportunities and empowering young engineers.
What is the best advice you have ever received? Keep your head down, work hard and everything will work out.
Where do you see yourself in five years? Mentoring the next generation of leaders and working on interesting new projects.
What was your first job? I worked summers at a plant nursery.
What advice would you give your 22-year-old self? Never stop learning.
What moment changed your life more than any other? Meeting my amazing wife, Lacy. She’s blessed me with a loving marriage and two beautiful children.
What is your greatest attribute that you bring to your job? Strong problem-solving skills and a willingness to learn.
What is your favorite Rhode Island food or drink? Love a good Whaler’s Rise.
What was your last streaming or cable binge watch? The latest season of “Survivor.”
What is your preferred source for national news? WPRO Radio AM 630/FM 99.7.
What led you to pursuing a career in your current industry? My father can build anything. He’s always been incredible at critical thinking, which encouraged me at a young age to be interested in engineering.