Robert Armbrister, B.B.A.’06, MBA’13

Illustrious Entrepreneur

President and CEO, SPARK Business Works

Robert Armbrister’s career highlights have certainly grown since his early days mowing lawns and shoveling snow for his neighborhood, but his work ethic and commitment to making the lives of others easier have been constants. As the president and CEO of SPARK Business Works, his company has landed on the Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Companies and Michigan 50 Companies to Watch lists for the business’s ability to help leaders build and adopt technology. 

With a mission to help businesses increase in efficiency, productivity and accountability, Armbrister has taken on the challenge of making critical technology accessible. His ultimate goal is to enable his team to truly partner with their clients, empowering them to grow their businesses.

After receiving his MBA in 2013, Armbrister began his position as the executive director of administration for Western where he advanced the Office of Development and Alumni Relations and served on the WMU Foundation and Alumni Association boards. Managing budgets, overseeing technical operations and more, he was determined to give back to his alma mater. Now, as a frequent guest speaker at events for Starting Gate, WMU’s student business accelerator, Armbrister is able to move students the same way he empowers his clients’ businesses.

Favorite Quote: 

“The view only changes for the lead dog.” – Norman O. Brown