Meet Robert Schlamann, a Plumbing Service Manager at Biggerstaff Plumbing & Heating (biggerstaffs.com).
Tell us a little about your business. – Ketih and June Biggerstaff started their family-owned business out of a small garage at their home in Havelock in 1957. They have 3 sons, Doug, Dennis and Don, who eventually took over the family business. Over the years the business has grown to 50+ employees. They provide both residential and commercial services for plumbing, heating and air.
How did you get started in the business? – In 1988, my brother-in-law Jimmie Way of Way & Sons Boiler called and asked me if I was interested in learning a new trade. He knew of a company that was looking to hire young, ambitious people wanting to learn about the plumbing industry. My young family was growing, and the opportunity was a way for me to provide stability for my family.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – There have been so many important achievements that I have had throughout my 37-year career that it is hard to pinpoint my most important achievement. I would have to say coaching, teaching and mentoring people would be at the top. I take great pride in seeing people that I have trained over the years get excited about their work and their accomplishments.
Tell us a little about your family. – My wife Tammy and I have 3 amazing children along with their amazing spouses and 6 beautiful grandchildren! They are starting to keep us busy with school and sporting activities!
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Making the career move to the plumbing industry helped me be on the path to success both personally and professionally. I have always viewed my work as a career and not just a job.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – One of my favorite quotes is “Attitude is everything. Pick a good one”.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – A descriptive word that I would like to be remembered by is being amiable.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? – I work out 5 days a week and I am motivated by hard rock music so my theme song would be Welcome to the Circus, by Five Finger Death Punch.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – A few years ago, a family friend’s daughter was diagnosed with Leukemia, and they sponsor a blood drive each year in her name. I believe that it is important for people to do their part and donate if able. We also collect aluminum can tabs that are donated to the Ronald McDonald House. The tab donations help to pay for the electrical bill each month!
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – If I could have dinner with one famous person, it would be Dale Earnhardt. As one of NASCAR’s greatest drivers, Earnhardt would have incredible stories about his career, rivalries and iconic moments on the track. Having dinner with “The Intimidator” who drove the number 3 would be an unforgettable experience.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – To reach me, you can call at 402-466-8118 or email me at info@biggertstaff.com or robert@biggerstaffs.com.