“If I learn one thing a day, that’s a good day,” said Robert Williams, Chief Engineer at Rutgers University’s IP&O Facilities Utilities. Williams, who first arrived at Rutgers as a student in 1985, graduated in 1993 with a bachelor’s degree in business economics and a minor in Computer Technology. Notably, he also holds a bachelor’s degree in electronic engineering.
In 1990, Williams found himself with some remaining credits to complete for his degree. Realizing he could take a full-time position on the grounds crew while finishing his studies, he seized the opportunity. After graduating, he decided to continue working for Rutgers graduate housing group, where he spent a decade dedicated to graduate housing department. It was in 2000 that Williams began his journey at the power plant as a Controls Technician. Along the way, he absorbed the inner workings of the plant and emerged as a “forever student”, steadily climbing the ranks until he became the Chief Engineer in charge of the Busch power plant.
Over the years, Williams has taken several control classes and has become fluent in Allen Bradley controls. He recently returned from San Diego, where he completed a turbine performance class, a testament to his ongoing commitment to learning and professional development. He continues to actively seek out certifications and learning opportunities.
Williams has now been entrusted with the oversight of all the Rutgers power plants across all campuses.
The Busch plant, where he currently serves, is a cogeneration plant that generates both heat and electricity from a single power source. It is notably larger in power distribution compared to the RBHS cogeneration plant and provides power to both the Livingston and Busch campuses. Williams shared, “During the school year, we receive supplemental power from Public Service, but during summer and winter breaks, with the help of the solar field and our plant, we come close to meeting the full energy needs of the campuses.”
In his new role, Williams anticipates spending more time visiting the other Rutgers power plants. He explained, “The idea is to standardize operations as much as possible, seek increased efficiencies, and ensure that all plants operate safely and securely.”
Williams and his team take immense pride in the plant’s condition, maintaining impeccably clean floors, walls, and machinery. He believes in creating a better working environment for all, stating, “This is our house; this is where we work. I want it to be a better environment for all of us.”
Reflecting on his journey, Williams shared a nostalgic memory from his student days, “As a student, I recalled seeing the Busch power plant, not knowing, of course, that I would eventually run it. When I went to school, I always wondered about that building and what it does. Now I know, and I want everyone to know what we do here!”
Featured in the IP&O Newsletter, October 2023.
