bio

“My job is an endless season of 'How It's Made.' You like what you are good at...and you're good at what you like. I am good at helping clients improve productivity with new technology.”

Sales consultant

Bob is an expert in the application of technology to improve productivity. He works for his Clients and is paid by his Partners. EDUCATION University of Michigan — Engineering and Bachelors of Business Administration Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University — Masters of Business Administration EXPERIENCE 40+ years of industrial manufacturing automation experience Broad range of industries: Corrugated Packaging; Converting; Plastics; Building Products; and Consumer Products Business Owner — Direct experience in all aspects of Management CREATIVITY Extensive experience in Product Development and Marketing Strategic perspective of problems and opportunities...seeking the 'Win-Win' ENERGY Bob operates at a 'high-clock frequency.' Focused on results not process. Wants to 'get it done.'

Career

Early work
I have spent my lifetime surrounded by electrical automation technology. In 1910, my Grandfather started Chicago Electric, a power equipment distribution company and electric motor repair facility. I would ride my minibike through the warehouse and 'drive' the 20-ton bridge crane long before I could drive a car. It was a cool old building along the South Branch of the Chicago River...and the Family Farm. After the University of Michigan and a short career with Reliance Electric selling coordinated drive systems, I returned to the 'farm' to work with my Dad and Uncle. I was the baby of the third generation and heir apparent at age 24. I was young, but the Company was old…it took time and change to set a new direction that culminated in my founding of the new Chicago Electric Sales Inc. in 1994. Along the way I earned an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University—but stayed on the Farm.
Breakthrough
Chicago Electric moved to a modern building and focused on new technology including integrated robotic and vision solutions. Our broad and successful range of products for the Corrugated Carton Industry attracted the attention of the global industry leader—BHS Corrugated. I sold Chicago Electric to BHS in 2016, continuing as President of the Company until 2021 when a new management Team was established. In June of 2023, seven years to the day of the sale to BHS, my employment ended with the Company. The next day, I founded my new Company—Kaska Robotics. I am back on a new Family Farm, working with a select group of Technology Partners to serve our Clients as we have for 113 years. See you in the Marketplace,
Bob