Introducing CPS-ECP Board of Directors Member: Rob Anderson, AP
Nov 7, 2019
Robert Anderson, AP
Rob started boating in the 1970’s, operating an open runabout with a 9.9 HP motor to visit his family cottage, accessible by water only. He also learned how to sail as a youth at the RCYC sailing school, and by sailing on Lake Ontario aboard a 28-foot sailboat owned by his father and two others.
When he moved his new family to Pickering in 1985, Rob became aware of rescue boat PARU, operated by volunteers of the Pickering Auxiliary Rescue Association (PARA). In 1986 he joined PARA, and by 2002 he was designated one of its deputy leaders, and a “coxswain” for one of the crews. Since 2006, he has been an instructor in marine search and rescue for the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary. From 2008 to 2011, Rob lead PARA as its CEO. He remains a member of PARA’s Board of Directors, an instructor and evaluator, and a coxswain, to this day.
Rob became a CPS-ECP member in 2005. He volunteered to teach CPS-ECP courses and attend Squadron Bridge meetings starting in 2013. By 2017, Rob was the Frenchman’s Bay Squadron Commander, and by 2018 he was the York East District Commander.
Rob has recently retired from a 34-year career as a nuclear engineer, specializing in computer applications programming of Ontario Power Generation’s training simulators. His computer skills have been useful in progressing the new IT system towards completion.
Although most of Rob’s boating experience has been in support of volunteer search and rescue, Rob just bought a 30-ft cabin cruiser, and is planning to enjoy cruising with his family on Lake Ontario in the coming years.