Bob Olsen

Construction Industry Leadership 

Bob Olsen helped found two successful construction companies in the Sacramento region: J.R. Roberts Corp and S.D. Deacon. The firms later merged to form Deacon, a $500 million construction company known for projects such as Sutter Health Park. Olsen, along with other industry pioneers, played a key role in growing Sacramento State University’s Construction Management (CM) department.

Commitment to Education and Recognition 

Bob co-founded and served as president of the Sacramento Construction Management Education Foundation (SCMEF), and was honored with the Honorary Alumnus Award from the Sacramento State Alumni Association.

Advancing PRIDE Industries’ Mission 

Olsen joined the board of PRIDE Industries in 1992 and has served as board chair since 2008. Drawn to PRIDE Industries’ mission to create employment for people with disabilities, Olsen has been instrumental in its growth into the nation’s leading employer of people with disabilities. “It just is the greatest thing that I think I’ve ever done,” he said.

Leadership and Academic Background 

In 2025, Olsen was appointed interim CEO by PRIDE Industries’ board. He holds degrees in Construction Engineering Management and Business Administration from Oregon State University.