We wanted to know more about Ross Vroman, executive vice president and general manager of Skanska Phoenix, which is a project development and construction company that builds hospitals, stadiums, airports, corporate headquarters, bridges, etc.
First, some key facts:
Skanska started over 125 years ago in Sweden
The company is based in almost all 50 states including Puerto Rico
It has offices in 31 metro areas
Vroman answers our questions:
Q: Tell us about your life growing up.
A: I had a great childhood with parents who were in education. We did commercial fishing in the San Juan Islands in Washington. I grew up in Snohomish, Wash.
Q: How did you start your construction career?
A: I started by doing sheet metal and HVAC work for houses when I was 14.
Q: Tell us some highlights in your previous positions in the industry.
A: All of my highlights are with Skanska – I’ve been with them since college. I started there in 1985 in Portland as a project engineer and then moved to project manager and then became an officer and then from senior vice president to my current title of executive vice president and general manager. I’ve been in Phoenix since 2013. I’ve really enjoyed the diversity of projects and people over the past 32 years.
Q: Briefly describe your typical work day?
A: I come to the office or a job site in the morning and then attend financial and staffing meetings during the rest of the day.
Q: What are your most memorable projects?
A: Seven Canyons in Sedona had unique wood frame construction and is a marquee destination golf clubhouse.
Q: What are you most proud of with your career?
A: I’m proud of assembling and being a part of some really dynamic teams over the years and in many states in the West.
Q: Who were the individuals that most influenced you?
A: My former boss Franck Vandeventer, who’s now retired, taught me the business. It’s not just about building, it’s about running a business and making money. He had a great business acumen. I also admire Dave Schmidt, the chief operating officer of Skanska. We have a great partnership – he’s very thoughtful and insightful. He manages Oregon, Washington, Arizona, and Texas.
Q: What's your most recent project?
A: Arizona Center and the completion of phase one of Dexcom
Q: What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
A: Traveling, skiing, golfing and family time.
Q: Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know.
A: I love fishing in Mexico and Alaska.