Rob Paulsen
Owner, carpenter, building science nerd
Rob’s career in the trades began after an attempt at a mathematics degree led to the realization that a more hands-on approach to education was necessary to satisfy a restless spirit. His desire to travel for his passions of climbing, kayaking and skiing was also hampered by a distinct lack of capital.
He first started working for a mid-sized commercial firm in upstate New York, developing a strong work ethic in the fast-paced world of concrete and steel construction. After four years, he moved west to Colorado and began another four-year stint this time in the high-performance building world, part of a small team creating net-zero homes high in the Rocky Mountains. The pursuit of adventure led to Alaska and Montana, where he spent a few years honing his skills in trim carpentry, tile and framing before relocating back to the Columbia Gorge, a place he had called home for a brief period between living in New York and Colorado. Headwaters was incorporated in the spring of 2023, and has grown from humble roots installing mailbox posts, kitchen backsplashes and fences to full custom home construction and remodeling.
Rob still finds time to go on expeditions around the globe, from whitewater kayaking in the deepest canyons of South America to skiing big lines off the glaciers of Alaska, the European Alps and beyond, utilizing the world-class rivers and mountains of his backyard to stay in shape between lining up projects for his team and wearing the toolbelt himself. He also furthers his knowledge in the trades by attending globally-recognized building conferences, workshops, and taking continuing education courses in architecture, building science and design, because being a good craftsman requires a lifelong apprenticeship.
