Robert Golas's career marked by efforts to foster better government
Gettyimages.com/ Carolyn Ann Ryan
By
Nick Wakeman
The long-time business development executive and Army officer remembered for putting a focus on how industry and government can work together.
A long-time federal executive known for his work to improve the relationship between industry and government has died at the age of 81.
Rober John Golas, 81, was also an Army veteran, rising to the rank of lieutenant colonel before making the switch to the private sector. He died Sept. 4, 2023.
In industry, he worked primarily in business development for Oracle, Savi Technology, and SiloSmashers. But he is best remembered for the work he did with ACT-IAC, where he chaired several committees. The ACT-IAC mission is to open a dialogue between industry and government.
He also was recognized by his peers winning three Federal 100 awards, given by our sibling organization, NextGov-FCW. At least one of the Fed100 awards was for work he did with ACT-IAC.
Whether inside government or on the industry side, Golas’ focus was always on serving his country, said Bob Woods, former commissioner of the Federal Technology Service at GSA and founder of Topside Consulting.
Two formed a bond over the years. “He always found a way to be good company and enjoy a laugh about the good times as well as the challenging times,” Woods said.
Golas was often at the center of successful connections across federal IT, often because he was always looking for them, said Dan Chenok, executive director of the IBM Center for the Business of Government.
“I had the opportunity to work with Bob on several panels and roundtables via ACT-IAC, and his high spirits and good humor always complemented his industry knowledge to make those discussions better,” Chenok said. “He was a great person and will be both remembered and missed by many.”
Golas was born in Dayville, Connecticut and graduated from Killingly High School and then the University of Connecticut. He also received a master’s degree from Butler University.
In the Army, he received a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star, among other awards.
He is survived by his wife Priscilla Golas, their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He ais also survived by a brother, Richard Golas.
A funeral service was conducted on Sept. 6 at the Robinson Funeral Home in Easley, South Carolina.
The family requested that memorial contributions be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.