An Unexpected Mentor Who Changed Everything
Robert’s love for audio started long before his professional career. It all began with a hands-on mentor—his older cousin. "He made custom panels, custom boxes, and showed me how he did it," Robert recalls.
"That made me realize—I can do this too." In an era before YouTube tutorials and online courses, having a mentor who could transfer knowledge in person was invaluable. But more than technical skills, Robert’s cousin instilled in him a mindset of creative problem-solving—one that has shaped his entire career.
The Unconventional Road to Audio
Robert's career journey was anything but linear. He started with vocational training in residential wiring, where he even contributed to one of Michigan's first smart homes.
"I thought that was my path," he admits, "but then we had to wire a house in freezing temperatures, and I said, 'No way, I'm not doing this forever.'"
That realization led him to earn an associate degree in electrical engineering. He thought he was done with school—until a colleague challenged him:
"Why stop here? If audio is your passion, why aren't you pursuing it?" Taking this challenge to heart, Robert earned his bachelor's degree in electrical engineering technology while continuing to install car audio systems. This combination of formal education and practical experience laid the foundation for his career.
Finding His People: What Makes HARMAN Special
At HARMAN, Robert found a workplace that matched his enthusiasm for audio. The company’s culture of continuous learning, innovation, and flexibility sets it apart. Through HARMAN University, employees have access to a wealth of resources to expand their expertise, keeping them on the cutting edge of audio technology. And when it comes to flexibility, it’s not just a corporate buzzword—it’s something Robert truly values.
But the biggest difference? At HARMAN, he’s surrounded by people who share his passion. “At other companies, I was the audio geek,” Robert laughs.“Here, I’m surrounded by people who get just as excited about a perfectly tuned system as I do.”
Beyond his role in automotive amplifiers, Robert has found a strong sense of belonging through HARMAN’s employee resource groups (ERGs). As a member of the HARMAN Black Professionals Network, he’s gained a support system that goes beyond the
workplace.“We talk about real-life things that affect you as a person—which means they affect your work life too,” he shares. “We talk about how often you speak with your manager or mental health. It makes me feel more like HARMAN.”
Pushing Past Limits: Advice for Aspiring Professionals
Looking back on his journey, Robert identifies a recurring theme: progress happens when we push past our comfort zones. Each pivotal moment in his career came when someone challenged him—or when he finally challenged himself—to reach higher. His advice to others? "If you have a passion, pursue it. The path won't always be straight, and you might have to take detours, but you'll find a way. Keep going."Robert’s journey proves that passion, mentorship, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone can lead to a fulfilling career.
Are you ready to build yours? Explore career opportunities at HARMAN and join a team where dedication to your craft isn’t just recognized—it’s celebrated.
