Window-ology

Alan Robinette: An Interpersonal Opportunity

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

PLEASANTON — Years ago, Alan Robinette was looking for a career change—preferably one that involved more interpersonal interaction. As it turned out, the window covering industry gave him a perfect opportunity to do just that. “Prior to my current career, I was a service division manager for Huffy, where most of my interactions were with corporate buyers in an office setting,” he recounts. “As time went on, I became interested in finding a career that would allow me to interact with people on a more personal level. I figured a good avenue for this would be to get involved in some aspect of home interiors, which is why I ultimately chose to get into the window covering industry.”

Today, as president of Window-ology, Alan continues to enjoy the rewarding work entailed by his second career. “I still really like interacting and forming relationships with customers, as well as beautifying their home interiors. Besides enabling me to work with people on a personal level, my job allows me to have a direct impact on their lives by enhancing the beauty and functionality of their homes.”

A resident of Pleasanton (where he lives with his wife, Chris), Alan likes to spend his free time on active pastimes like working on his house. “I own a historic home that I’ve enjoyed restoring and maintaining, and I continue to do little projects here and there,” he affirms. “It’s neat to know I’m putting work into something that will transcend my lifetime.” Alan says he also likes to travel regularly. “Often, I’ll combine vacations with my business-related travels, whether by arriving at the location early or staying a week after. My favorite city to visit is definitely Paris—I’d love to just stay and hang out there for a month.” Additionally, Alan enjoys spending time with his and Chris’ two grown daughters, Ashley and Lauren, and granddaughter, Naomi.

In regard to his professional career, Alan has taken to heart the phrase, “If you want something done right, do it yourself.” “One thing that sets Window-ology apart is we don’t just install window coverings; we make our own,” he explains. “We have a facility where we manufacture our own shell shades, roller shades and other products. We take a lot of pride in making our own high-quality window coverings, and it also enables us to give our customers more options in terms of customization.”

When asked what his life might look like if he were to retire tomorrow, Alan says he’d probably take that month-long Paris trip he’s been daydreaming of. “I would definitely continue to travel. Of course, in between, I’d need to find something to keep me busy, so I’d probably do some more home projects. One thing I’d like to do is build a two-story playhouse for my granddaughter.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: Coffee or tea?
A: Actually, I prefer espresso.

Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant?
A: I have two, both of which are in Pleasanton: Forno Vecchio and Eddie Papa’s American Hangout.

Q: What were you most known for in high school?
A: I had a pickup truck, and I’d give a ride to anybody who wanted to jump in the back.

Q: If you could time travel, would you go to the past or the future?
A: Probably the past, just to learn more about my family history and get to know some of my ancestors.

Q: What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?
A: For my 40th birthday, my family threw me a surprise party and invited pretty much everyone who’s been a part of my life from high school onward. That was really special.