A Helping Hand: Q&A with Project Manager Brooks Robinson

Can you tell us what your normal workday or “day in the life” is like?

My “day in the life” will vary depending on what stage of the project our team is working through. It’s dynamic and involves juggling various responsibilities to ensure that a project runs smoothly. If we’re working through a proposal, it might include putting together the initial baseline schedule or working with our Pre-Construction department on budget development. As we move into execution, my focus shifts to my team and customer. We are in daily communication as we work through finalizing design documents and trade partner procurement to ensure the project gets started on the right foot. The day could include a bid review meeting with the team or taking part in a weekly design coordination meeting with our customer.

As the project takes on a life of its own, I remain in constant communication with those involved with a heavy focus on maintaining our schedule and being flexible to the problems that might arise. This is best done by spending time with the team both in the office and on the project site. Cost and change order management always remain vital throughout the project’s entirety and play a consistent role in my workday as well.

My main priority for each day here at Gray is ensuring that we, as a team, are exceeding customer expectations. This comes in many ways, but if the project reaches completion with a satisfied customer and our team has grown through these day-to-day experiences, it’s always a success.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

The opportunity to learn about and design around the complexities of the various industrial processes that are unique to each customer we partner with is what I enjoy most about my work. Manufacturing is an essential part of our economy and country, and knowing that I play role in the growth of this industry keeps me motivated on a daily basis.

What do you like most about the South Atlantic Office and Charlotte?

The South Atlantic Office is a tight-knit group of team members. I’ve been a part of this office for almost 6 years now and there has always been family feel to working with this team. The Gray culture is very competitive, driven, and motivated to achieve success­—all while building strong external and internal relationships. With such a multifaceted and collaborative group, we find that success is easily attainable no matter task or challenge ahead.

What has been the most memorable experience with Gray since you started?

It’s difficult to pick a specific experience or moment here. I would say the relationships I’ve made over the time spent here at Gray are the most memorable for me. This extends to people within Gray as well as trade partners and customers that I’ve gotten the chance to work with over the past five years. These projects have a unique way of bringing people together, and I’ve been lucky enough to develop long lasting relationships through these experiences.

If someone was visiting the Charlotte area, what would you recommend to them as a “must-do?”

If you enjoy outdoor recreation, a trip to the U.S. White Water Center is a must!

In one word or phrase, how would you describe Gray?

Hands down, the best place to work.