Robert Gillingham

Hometown: San Diego, California

Why did you choose Daniels

I chose the Daniels College of Business because of its strong focus on collaboration and real-world learning. What really drew me in was its commitment to shaping leaders who not only excel in their careers but also make a meaningful difference in their industries and communities. The emphasis on leadership development, combined with a dynamic alumni network and connections to the business world, offers incredible opportunities for mentorship, growth and lifelong learning. The welcoming community and the genuine support from the faculty made it clear this was the right place for me to grow both personally and professionally.

Previous Education

AS in Heavy Equipment Dealer Service Technology

Pre-Grad School Experience

I started my career working with CAT dealerships, mainly in field service roles, where I gained hands-on experience with equipment maintenance and earth-moving operations. Those early days taught me the value of hard work and problem-solving in real-world situations. Building on that experience, I took a leap and started my own business, helping heavy equipment and crane service customers improve their fleet management and boost equipment utilization. The biggest turning point for me, though, was discovering my passion for training and development. I realized how much I enjoy helping people and teams grow, so I shifted my focus to designing and delivering training programs that draw from my industry experience. Now, I get to combine my love for the industry with my drive to empower others to succeed.

Post Grad School Goal

After completing my MBA, I’m excited to continue expanding our training and development programs that empower individuals and teams to achieve their highest levels of success. A key part of this mission is recognizing the power of people by helping them see their true potential and equipping them with the necessary tools to grow and thrive. Ultimately, I want to help my organization succeed in a way that creates a real, lasting impact for both the business and the people who make it all happen.

Hobbies

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing golf and pursuing my passion for hunting.