In this Newsletter addition we feature Associate Rob Siemensma and learn a little more about his life’s journey. Rob has been an Associate since 2022 and is a Project Manager. Thank you for your contribution, Rob.
1. We value your contribution to CT Management Group; what drew you to becoming a consultant?
Since becoming a civil engineer focusing heavily on project management, I have always aspired to be a problem solver with a reputation for getting things done. Consulting provides opportunities for exposure and to get involved with a wide variety of different work, organisations and people. Consulting also provides an opportunity to find a better balance between work and life interests.
2. What is your specialist area, and why are you interested in that field?
I have local government experience as well as having been involved in property development over my 30-year career. I enjoy a variety in the work I take on and have recently moved into assist in some flood recovery and the landfill space again.
3. What has been your career highlight to date?
I was involved in the delivery of the second stage of the Her Majesty’s Theatre renovation. We had an amazing team being the project owner, the architect and the builder, there was a PM there somewhere too. It was a great outcome for a very complex project. I was also fortunate enough to hold a senior role with a larger civil contractor in Ballarat. A position that taught me much and where we looked outside the box to deliver property development quicker than most by blasting sewer lines.
4. What was the last thing you read – was it a report, novel or newspaper?
A report regretfully. However, I was recently inspired when last week I was fortunate enough to have an encounter with a couple of gentlemen that further enlightened me on the sport of barefoot skiing. Both were very proficient and 65 years of age. One started skiing when he was 50. The next thing I will be reading will be some theory in this field.
5. How do you relax- is it music, meditation, or something else?
I do enjoy a good movie on the couch to relax. But also sitting on the bank watching my son row or my daughters playing their beloved hockey or soccer with a nice coffee is very calming for me.
6. When you are away from work, what do you like doing?
l have a small farm near Ballarat where my family and I grow our own lamb, olives, honey, eggs and a lot of blackberries. I find a lot of peace and calm spending time with my family through these endeavours. I have also recently taken it on myself to teach my children to sail.
7. Are you a sportsperson or a spectator, and what’s sport?
I love my footy and thoroughly enjoy the tipping comp each year. We are passionate doggies fans and I have recruited all but my darling wife, there is still time! I also have a passion for waterskiing a great sport that involves the whole family.
8. Is there something you’d like to tell us about yourself that you think would surprise us?
I was so inspired by the older gents I met last week that I took an opportunity, when presented, to give bare-footing another go. The last time I tried was 1996. I was able to travel 200 meters on just the soles of my feet at 40 mile/hr. I am still sore, but it was well worth it.
9. In a world with so many leaders and achievers – is there one person that gives you inspiration, why?
At the risk of focusing too much on my experience last week, I was inspired by Greenie and Bernard. Both 65 and still skiing, one having not started until he was 50 (my current age). Until I met these lads last week, I was thinking perhaps my skiing days were coming to an end, but this is when Greenie was just beginning!