“I am so proud to be a part of the progress in the Basin that will benefit our community for years to come.”
As the Senior Management Assistant for the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, Robbie Graves is involved in some of the most important projects and initiatives happening in the Lake Tahoe basin. By providing administrative support to multiple divisions and serving as the clerk to the TRPA Hearings Officer, as well as working as a volunteer for SOS Outreach, Robbie takes pride in being part of the process and transformation of the basin that will benefit the community for years to come.
Congratulations to this week’s 40 under 40 honoree, Robbie Graves!
Can you tell us a little about your responsibilities and accomplishments in your current position?
I’ve got my hand in it all. I provide administrative support to the Current Planning Division and Long Range and Transportation Planning Division. I’m in charge of helping these divisions run efficiently while providing customer service support through phone and email communications. I also serve as the clerk to the TRPA Hearings Officer, who reviews and approves projects to ensure that no environmental damage occurs. The TRPA has had an exciting year after passing the new Shoreline Plan, Development Rights Initiative, and most recently, the U.S. 50 South Shore Community Revitalization Project. I am so proud to be a part of the progress in the Basin that will benefit our community for years to come.
What has been your favorite professional moment in the last year?
It’s hard to choose just one. Ever since joining the TRPA last year, I’ve just really enjoyed the entire time. I work with a great team and it’s an exciting place to work.
Do you have a professional/life mantra that you live by?
Love where you live. Do this first, and everything else will fall into place.
Who is your role model?
I don’t really have a role model, but I try to live my life by a certain code of ethics and morals. I always try to do no harm and find myself gravitating towards people who have similar mindsets and values.
Why choose Tahoe to make your home and career?
Because Tahoe is magical. I’ve never been anywhere in my life before that has such a hold on me. No matter where my travels might take me, it’s never a drag coming back home. That’s how you know you’re in the right place.
Are you active in any volunteer roles or community groups?
I have volunteered as a mentor with SOS Outreach for the past six years and it’s been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done. SOS Outreach is a youth development program which helps instill valuable leadership skills with a set of core values and community service projects throughout the winter season. The best part is we get to do this up on the mountain while teaching them how to ski or snowboard! To learn more about this incredible organization, check out www.sosoutreach.org.
What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Outside of work, you’ll find me fly fishing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and recently I’ve rekindled my love for golf. Besides the typical Tahoe activities, I enjoy going to see live music and kickin’ it at the beach with my wife and dog.
Where are your favorite South Shore stomping grounds
Desolation Wilderness, Upper Truckee River, Fallen Leaf Lake, breakfast at the Getaway Café, and grabbing a beer at the Divided Sky.