Forty Under 40: Rob Kimbel

Rob Kimbel, 34, grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, working for his father’s plumbing company. In 1993 his father moved the family business to Northwest Arkansas.

During college Kimbel dabbled in other industries but eventually returned to what he knew best. In 2001, Kimbel was appointed CEO of the company and its 26 employees.

During his seven years as CEO, the company has grown to employ 100 people and grossed revenue of about $24 million.

In 2006, Kimbel oversaw the addition of mechanical sub-contracting to his business and has established a team of leaders to help the company continue to grow.

The company is now registered in seven states and did irrigation work on both Yankee Stadium and Shea Stadium in New York a few years ago.
Kimbel said he always saw potential in the company but had no idea how rapidly the business would grow.

He credits the area’s entrepreneurial spirit with giving him the guts to take over and expand the company.

Kimbel’s company also sponsors an orphanage in Guatemala. Kimble and his employees make three to four trips per year to the Central America county and volunteer their time and expertise.

When he’s not working, Kimbel said he enjoys spending time with his four sons on the baseball field.