Rob Robichaud

Human resources director Rob Robichaud is responsible for Western Window Systems’ greatest asset: its people. Since starting with the company in November 2014, he’s focused his efforts on finding talent, establishing systems to measure workforce effectiveness, and serving as the company’s most passionate advocate.

“When we were a much smaller company, I used to know everyone’s name,” says president and CEO Scott Gates. “Now, with nearly 300 employees, I don’t. But Rob does. He makes it a point to get to know everyone.”

With a passion for company culture and a desire to see people succeed, Robichaud regularly goes above and beyond typical HR duties. From measuring things like average tenure, injuries, and participation rates of the company’s 401(k) and health insurance plans, he’s able to understand processes and analyze the effectiveness of training and onboarding practices. Through initiatives such as best practices for hiring, a skills matrix, and monthly training on company culture, Robichaud provides resources, support, and clear feedback on how individuals can thrive and help grow the company.

“Rob uses our unique culture to foster productivity,” says Gates. “He’s constantly moving and adjusting to make our business better.

Congratulations to Rob Robichaud, Western Window Systems’ manager of the quarter.

Learn more about Rob Robichaud by reading his Q&A below:

Where are you from?
Detroit.

What song best sums you up?
“I Hold On” by Dierks Bentley.

What is your favorite sport to watch/play?
Football/hockey.

What are your hobbies?
Being a dad, fishing, woodwork, yard work, gardening, building things, and repairing wood furniture.

Who do you look up to/admire?
Ronald Reagan.

Where do you most want to travel?
Machu Picchu.

If money was no object, what would you do?
Take a nap for starters, then build stuff with my hands for the rest of my days. Probably get into the mini-house and cabin business. Might find me living in one some day.

What is your favorite family recipe?
My dad’s gazpacho.

What is your favorite movie?
High Fidelity.

What is your biggest success up until now?
Fatherhood and surviving life in Detroit – twice!

What’s your favorite part of working at Western Window Systems?
The culture and the awesome people who own and protect our culture.

What is one fact about you that almost no one else knows?
I did not graduate high school, but overcame that by completing three college degrees and becoming a college president at one point in my career.