What does it take to go from running a Student Works summer management job at university to leading high-performing teams across industries?

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris Thomson sits down with proud Student Works Management Program alumnus Bob Repovs, whose leadership journey began as a student entrepreneur and evolved into decades of executive experience. Bob shares how the lessons learned in the program, from managing people and projects to making tough calls, became the foundation for his leadership philosophy.

He discusses why putting people first is essential for long-term success, how to step back from day-to-day firefighting to focus on strategy, and the importance of surrounding yourself with leaders who push you to be better. From retaining top talent to making the tough calls when a fit isn’t right, Bob’s insights offer practical inspiration for anyone striving to lead with vision and purpose.

Whether you’re just starting your career or leading a large organization, this conversation will show you how the mindset and skills developed in the Student Works Management Program can serve you for life.

Enjoy!

Key takeaways:

• How the Student Works Management Program shaped Bob’s leadership style
• Why self-awareness is a critical leadership skill
• How to transition from hands-on management to strategic leadership
• Why surrounding yourself with talented leaders strengthens your team
• The importance of having the right people in the right seats
• How to retain top performers, while letting go of poor fits
• Ways to rise above daily firefighting and focus on long-term goals
• Why you’re never truly alone in your leadership challenges
• And much more...

Bob Repovs is the President and CEO of Samco Machinery, a global leader in roll forming and metal processing equipment with operations in over 35 countries. A proud alumnus of the Student Works Management Program, Bob has over 20 years of international experience, including 14 years as CEO. He is committed to driving innovation, delivering engineer-to-order solutions, and leading through Samco’s P3 principles—People, Products, Passion. A member of TEC since 2002 and OG100 since 2016, Bob continues to foster valuable relationships, champion personal growth, and pursue Samco’s “Best in Class” vision.

Resources:

Student Works

Connect with Bob on LinkedIn

Disclaimer:

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