In Memoriam — Robert E. LaRose (1944-2010)
Bob LaRose was the co-founder and CEO of Agilex Technologies. He passed away unexpectedly on January 11, 2010. While he cannot be replaced, he left his enduring imprint on Agilex in terms of the company’s strategy, entrepreneurial focus and commitment to government service.
“As a visionary leader, Bob was an once-in-a-lifetime inspiration to all of us,” recalled Agilex co-founder Jay Nussbaum. “He will be remembered for his tenacity, compassion and for the opportunities he helped shape for all of us. He will be missed tremendously and never forgotten.”
LaRose was an exemplary business leader, creating and leading three companies recognized for their commitment to excellence while serving the nation’s priorities. He was a strong advocate of the transformative power of innovation and technology. He believed passionately in his employees and associates, empowering them to consistently achieve significant accomplishments. He was also deeply committed to his community, which he served in a number of ways.
He co-founded Agilex Technologies with Nussbaum in 2007. Previously, he had founded and led two successful IT services firms supporting the federal government. Advanced Technology, Inc. (ATI) grew to over 2,000 employees before being acquired by Emhart Corporation, a division of Black & Decker, in 1988. Subsequently, he founded Integic Corporation, which grew to over 600 employees and was honored with the Greater Washington Government Contractor (GovCon) Award as the Mid-sized Contractor of the Year in 2004. Integic was acquired by Northrop Grumman Corporation in 2005.
LaRose was also active in the community. He founded and led the Fairfax County Public Schools Education Foundation, where he was recognized by President Reagan for his efforts, which included helping to establish the Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. He also founded the Integic Charitable Foundation, which supported causes benefiting women and children. In addition, he served on the Board of Trustees for a number of community organizations, including Elon University, James Madison University and the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women.
“Bob had a significant impact on a number of communities,” added John Gall, Executive Vice President, Agilex Technologies. “In addition to his many charitable activities, he was an important mentor to many of the region’s technology, business and government leaders. He helped to change the Washington region for the better.”
