Parkhill Welcomes Senior Practice Leader Roben Armstrong as Practice Grows in Houston Market
Parkhill officially welcomes Roben Armstrong as a Senior Practice Leader in Parkhill’s Aviation Sector. Roben combines strategic insight, thoughtful collaboration, and a broad background in aviation and infrastructure to drive technical delivery, business growth, and client success.
She has over 20 years of experience in both the public and private sectors, advising transportation agencies, airport sponsors, and infrastructure clients nationwide. We are grateful for her presence and excited for new opportunities as the firm expands its presence in the Houston market.
What inspired you to pursue a career in the aviation industry?
Aviation was actually my first professional interest. I went to school for it, but my career led me into the broader world of transportation planning. I worked for a transit agency very early in my career, and it proved to be very useful because it gave me a completely different perspective on transportation. Even though I had that opportunity, I always found myself drawn back to aviation.
I’ve seen how airports connect infrastructure, access, and economic development, such as those larger pieces outside of the passenger experience, which is the main factor and safety. I like to see how all the other pieces play into aviation.
What keeps me truly drawn to aviation is its impact on people. Whether it’s someone trying to get home, reach a new destination, or return from one — whether it’s a business moving goods, or a city looking to grow and seeing its airport as a vital regional asset — aviation connects it all. To me, it touches so many aspects of life and progress. I really enjoy strategy and service, and for me, aviation is where those two worlds meet.
How would you describe your leadership style?
My leadership style is grounded in quiet confidence and strategic clarity. I lead with intention, usually by listening first, asking thoughtful questions, and then creating space for real collaboration. I like to see people succeed. I like to see people reach whatever professional goals they may have. That’s a win for me if the people that I lead reach their goals.
What about your career brings you the most joy or fulfillment?
Honestly, it’s seeing the impact of the work beyond just the technical side. I love strategy, but what really fulfills me is knowing that the projects I help move forward actually serve people. I’m a planner by trade, so seeing the projects that I had a hand in planning 15 years ago, 20 years ago, and to see that project become operational and come to fruition. Just to be able to see the service that it will provide for the people that will use it is what truly brings me fulfillment.
Who in your life has been a mentor to you and why?
Early in my career, I did not have a consistent mentor. But along the way, I had people who offered key insights and opened a door for me at just the right moment. Because of that, that shaped how I thought about leadership and how I thought about support. It also helped shape my leadership style.
Later on in my career, I reached a point where I realized how important intentional and consistent guidance could be, and so I reached out to a former colleague. What she offered me was someone who listened, someone who advocated, and someone who was very intentional. It really meant a lot to me.
What piqued your interest in joining Parkhill?
I was drawn to Parkhill because of the opportunity to shape something to build. The idea that they wanted to develop the Houston market was very attractive to me. It’s a new level of leadership, and there is a clear openness to new leadership, new ideas, and a real commitment to growing the aviation practice across Texas and within this region. That kind of trust in the trajectory of what we can do for the aviation sector really matters to me. I also appreciate that Parkhill leads with purpose. It’s not just about the work we do, but how we show up for our clients and how we show up for each other.
What about Parkhill’s mission of Building Community resonates with you the most?
It’s a leadership mindset. I see community as more than a deliverable. It’s a responsibility. Whether we’re planning infrastructure, developing strategy, or leading a runway rehab, it’s about creating systems that enhance lives and support long-term growth.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work, I love all things home design. It is something that sparks my creative muscle, and it helps me unwind. I’m big on music as well and can get lost in the right playlist for hours. I like things that feel intentional, but they’re not overly structured. Anything that gives me a little rhythm and a little peace is what I enjoy. I’m also very grounded in my faith, and that helps me keep perspective. Any activities with my church, I enjoy very much.