With over 49 years of professional experience, Bob Cummings, P.E., is a distinguished civil and environmental engineer whose career spans leadership roles in government, private sector consulting, and academia. Bob has played a pivotal role in shaping infrastructure, environmental policies, and large-scale engineering projects across the United States. His expertise encompasses civil engineering, water resource management, hazardous waste remediation, construction oversight, and strategic planning.
Bob recently retired as the Branch Chief of Facilities Engineering, Maintenance & Operations (FEMO) at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC), where he lead a team of over 75 professionals, managing an annual budget exceeding $30 million. His leadership ensures NASA’s facilities operate at peak efficiency, supporting critical research and development initiatives. Prior to this, Bob served as Site Director for Engineering and Technical Support Services at NASA AFRC under AECOM, assembling and managing a team that executed over $20 million in facilities projects annually.
His career trajectory includes leadership roles such as Vice President at SAIC, where he oversaw multi-million-dollar remediation and infrastructure projects, and Principal at East Coast Engineering, Inc., where he developed innovative solutions for waste management, water treatment, and land development. His ability to integrate cutting-edge engineering techniques with strategic planning has earned him a reputation as an industry thought leader.
Bob holds a Master of Science in Civil Engineering (Water Resources) from Northeastern University and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. His technical proficiency is complemented by a strong commitment to mentorship and workforce development. Over the years, he has led teams ranging from small specialized groups to 150-member engineering divisions, fostering collaboration and innovation.
In addition to his engineering expertise, Bob has served as an expert witness in various judicial proceedings, leveraging his deep understanding of environmental and civil engineering laws. He has been recognized as an authority on zoning, floodplain management, cost estimating, and land use planning. His insights have helped shape regulatory frameworks and improve environmental compliance measures.
A patented innovator, Bob holds U.S. Patent 7,815,729 B2, which details a groundbreaking method for recycling construction and demolition fines into lightweight concrete. His invention underscores his dedication to sustainability and
resource efficiency in engineering. Additionally, he has worked extensively on landfill management and hazardous waste site remediation, ensuring safe and environmentally responsible development practices.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Bob is deeply committed to public service and civic leadership. During his time in Massachusetts, he actively participated in town governance, serving on multiple committees, including the Planning Board, Finance Committee, and Master Plan Committee. His contributions to community planning and infrastructure development have had a lasting impact on municipal growth and sustainability.
Bob’s leadership philosophy is centered on strategic problem-solving, ethical decision-making, and fostering innovation. Whether guiding NASA’s infrastructure programs, mentoring young engineers, or consulting on high-profile environmental projects, he consistently demonstrates a forward-thinking approach. His ability to build consensus and drive collaboration has been a hallmark of his career.
As he continues his journey, Bob remains passionate about leveraging his experience to mentor the next generation of engineers and contribute to sustainable engineering solutions. His expertise in navigating complex regulatory landscapes, optimizing project execution, and driving innovation positions him as a leader whose influence extends far beyond his immediate professional roles.
Character:
Bob Cummings is a leader who embodies integrity, resilience, and a relentless commitment to excellence in engineering and environmental sustainability. His ability to navigate challenges with ethical responsibility has earned him the trust of colleagues, government officials, and industry leaders.
Knowledge:
With nearly five decades of expertise, Bob’s deep technical proficiency spans civil engineering, environmental compliance, hazardous waste management, and infrastructure development. His patented innovations and expert witness contributions showcase his mastery of complex engineering challenges.
Strategic:
Bob has a proven track record of leading multi-million-dollar projects with efficiency and foresight, aligning engineering solutions with long-term sustainability goals. His ability to anticipate industry trends and implement forward-thinking strategies has positioned him as a key influencer in his field.
Communication:
A skilled communicator, Bob excels at translating technical concepts into actionable insights for diverse stakeholders, from government agencies to private sector clients. His ability to build consensus and lead cross-functional teams has been instrumental in driving successful project outcomes.