This produce veteran has climbed the ranks of Wenatchee, Washington's Columbia Marketing International, Inc. (CMI) - one of the state's largest growers and marketers of apples, pears, stonefruit and more. Take a few minutes and check out some of the questions that peaked our interest, and Bob's as well...
Q: If you could imagine yourself in a different industry, what would it be?
A: I’ve always loved the outdoors and probably would be an outdoor adventure guide in Colorado. Our family used to frequent the San Juan Mountains in Colorado when we lived in Phoenix; I would love to share the experience with others.
Q: What is your favorite apple? 
A: I’m a sales guy – the one that we need to move the most, of course. But in all seriousness it’s tough for me to pick just one. If I absolutely had to, it would probably be the Ambrosia.
Q: If you had to choose one movie from your collection, what would be that film?
A: I’m old school when it comes to movies and I enjoy the classics. These movies were all about the acting, the music, the drama that puts you on the edge of your seat, the cinematography, and the plot. Also, not a big fan of re-makes. Why mess with a classic?
Q: What do you need to have with you at all times?
A: Sunglasses, gum (I chew gum all the time, which started as a kid playing baseball), a cell phone (to stay in communication with my peeps and snap a photo to capture the moment), and a watch (to keep me on track). And many times an apple as well – you had to expect this!
Q: If you were living 100 years ago, what would you be doing?
A: Probably freezing my butt off without central heating and trying to figure out a way to change that. I enjoy looking for solutions when something doesn’t make sense to me or when I think there should be a better, more efficient way to do something. I’d probably be an inventor and pioneer, seeking out new ways to do things and new lands to explore.
Q: What talent would you most like to have?
A: If the sky was the limit, I’d say an Olympian athlete. Meeting and competing with athletes around the world and a few gold medals on my mantle wouldn’t be too shabby.
Q: What is most important to you?
A: Hands down, my family. I have a wonderful family and the most supportive, understanding, loving, and giving wife in the world, Sabrina. We have also been blessed with the wonderful experience of being parents as we adopted our daughter Haley 9 ½ years ago.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
A: Sabrina and I love the outdoors - mountains like Alaska and beaches like The Virgin Islands - and also love learning about the history of both our country and abroad, say Rome, Italy, or Spain.
