Alumnus Robert Phillips has two U of A degrees — and has made good use of them both

University of Alberta alumnus Robert Phillips, KC, F.ICD, has worn many hats throughout his long career. He graduated from the U of A’s Faculty of Engineering and Faculty of Law, and between obtaining his two degrees, he also attended the Alberta School of Business.

He’s worked in various fields and for many prominent companies in the corporate world and is currently the president of private investment firm R.L. Phillips Investments Inc.

Phillips graduated from the U of A Faculty of Engineering in 1971 at the age of 20. Because Alberta’s economy was strong at the time, he was able to pursue a business degree while supporting himself working part time as an engineer. 

It was during his time in business school that he was exposed to the idea of becoming a lawyer. One of his professors at the Alberta School of Business — who was, himself, a lawyer — suggested he pursue a degree in law. Phillips began studying law in 1973 and graduated in 1976 as the gold medalist in his class. 

Phillips recalls this time fondly. Aside from the education he received, Phillips also remembers his time at the U of A for all the friends and connections he made on campus.

“The best part of law school for me will always be the people I met. I am very proud to be a member of the Class of 1976 with many of my classmates having enjoyed outstanding careers,” he says. 

After graduating, he spent the next 17 years focused almost exclusively on corporate law. In recognition of his work, he was designated Queen's Counsel in 1991.

Later, he joined the corporate sector. He has served as the president and CEO of Dreco Energy Services Ltd. and British Columbia Railway Corporation and in a number of  other high-profile  executive positions. In addition, He has also served as the Chair of the Board of Canadian Western Bank, Precision Drilling Corporation and Maxar Technologies Inc., as lead director of West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd. and as a director of CN Rail and a number of other prominent Canadian and US companies. In recognition of his service as an independent director, he was made a Fellow of the Institute of Corporate Directors in 2017.

According to Phillips, his time spent studying to be a lawyer was a boon throughout his career. 

“Law school teaches you to think analytically and critically and the practice of  law requires the application of those skills to real-world circumstances.” he says. “The development of those skills creates substantial optionality to branch out and do lots of things unrelated to the practice of law if that spirit happens to move you.”

Canadian Western Bank honoured his service by starting the Robert L. Phillips KC Award in Law. The award is given to Black or Indigenous students enrolled in the Faculty of Law and is based on both academic standing and financial need. A similar award has also been established at the Faculty of Engineering.

“To have an educational award named on your behalf is a fantastic honour,” he says, “but the real icing on the cake is to receive a letter from an award recipient describing what receiving the award has meant to them.”

Phillips has also worked hard to support the university community, having been a sessional lecturer in both the Faculty of Law and the School of Business. Further, he’s made monetary contributions to all three faculties to support students who need it. After a lengthy and successful career, Phillips has some words of advice for law students.

“Work hard (there is no shortcut) and relish your time in law school,” he says. “It will prove to be one of the best times of your life as well as establish both the foundation and the opportunity for whatever you choose to do in the future.”