A leader is someone who commands a group or organization. A good leader is someone who is in command and communicates integrity and solid decision-making ability. A great leader is someone who has earned the respected of those they work with and the community they serve. The 2024 class of Most Respected Leaders consists of these great leaders. These men and women are executives and decision makers who are providing guidance to the next generation of business leaders.

Chosen by a panel of judges who review their history, community work, leadership and plans for the future, the 2024 Most Respected Leaders have all created a legacy in our great state. Each of this year’s honorees have shared insights on the following pages. Congratulations to all the Most Respected Leaders. Nevada Business Magazine and PNC Bank are proud to recognize your accomplishments and contributions to Nevada.

Robert Finnegan, PE
Primary Industry: Engineering

Principal Location: Southern Nevada

Nevada Citizenship: July 1971

Robert Finnegan, PE has over 45 years’ experience providing engineering services for hotel/casino resorts. Many of his designs have become the standard in the hospitality industry. He, along with Boyd Erickson, CPD, founded FEA Consulting Engineers in 1990. Robert is a graduate of the mechanical engineering program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and is registered as a professional engineer in fifteen states. He is certified by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). Robert is a past president and member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers, Inc. (ASHRAE), where he was recognized as Nevada Engineer of the Year and received the ASHRAE Presidential Award of Excellence.

What do you love about Nevada?
What I love most about Nevada is the opportunity it offers. I’m grateful my family moved here in 1971, and I had the chance to be part of this state’s incredible growth and development. On top of that, we’re just a short drive from some of the best outdoor adventures in the country.

Why have you been successful?
My success boils down to perseverance. I’ve weathered economic downturns and world events, always pushing forward. I’ve also been fortunate to partner with Boyd Erickson, who shares my vision and drive.

How have you earned the respect of your team?
I earn my team’s respect by being transparent and showing that I genuinely care about their well-being and success. I often tell my wife that the people in our firm share many of the same goals and values I’ve always had, and it’s my job to create an environment where they can thrive and showcase their talents.

What are the most important traits of a leader?
For me, the most important trait of a leader is humanity. A leader must be tough but fair, while also choosing kindness in every interaction. It’s about striking that balance between strength and empathy.

How important is community involvement for a business leader?
Community involvement is essential for any business leader. It’s not just about charity; it’s about actively giving back through mentoring, like our internship programs with UNLV Engineering students and outreach to middle and high schools. I always remind our team that working with interns is a privilege—it’s a two-way exchange, and teaching others helps us grow as well.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I ever received was to seek business guidance only from successful business owners. They’ve weathered both good and bad times, and their insights come from experience and perseverance.

What is the most difficult thing you’ve encountered as a leader?
The 2008 recession was by far the toughest challenge I’ve faced. The construction industry didn’t just slow down—it came to a halt. While even major retailers like Walmart saw a 20 percent drop, we experienced a near 75 percent decline in business. Navigating that storm tested us, but in the end, it made us stronger and more resilient.

What would you like your legacy to be?
I hope to be remembered as a fair, innovative leader who created opportunities in the engineering profession—someone who championed energy efficiency and sustainable building practices, always with an eye toward protecting our environment.

This article was originally published on Nevada Business Magazine. To read the full story, visit nevadabusiness.com.