#324: From Free Help to General Partner: How a Young Grad Earned His Seat at the Table with Rob Pekarek, USNA ‘21

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Rob Pekarek is an Operations Research Analyst at Air Combat Command and a General Partner in multifamily real estate. On active duty, he serves on the staff of the four-star General commanding ACC, where he leads teams that solve operational challenges across the Air Force using tools like Python, Excel, and PowerPoint automation. His work has improved aircraft scheduling, streamlined data systems, and delivered practical solutions to commanders on base.

Rob previously completed a fully funded research fellowship at Purdue University, where he modeled climate adaptation strategies and infrastructure investment. His work informed a $5 billion coastal protection plan for Louisiana and supported the Naval Academy’s Sea Level Rise action plan.

Now active in real estate investing, Rob helped acquire a 24-unit apartment complex in 2024 and led investor outreach, raising over $500,000. He continues to manage investor communications and is passionate about building long-term value through data, real estate, and veteran collaboration.

In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Rob about:

• Real Estate at Full Speed: While on active duty, Rob became a general partner in two multifamily deals totaling over 50 units.

• Helping First Pays Off: He earned his first GP role by offering free support and adding value to the team.

• Lead Gen That Works: Rob uses content and clear qualifiers to attract the right investors.

• His Three Pillars: He focuses on fitness, wealth building, and creating purpose through community.

• Mindset for Growth: Rob believes in taking action, learning through failure, and building real relationships.

Timestamps:

• 01:02 Guest Background and Early Career

• 03:05 Real Estate Ventures and Side Hustles

• 10:25 Lead Generation Strategies

• 20:45 Three Pillars of a Successful Life

Connect with Rob:

• LinkedIn

• LinkTree | Rob Pekarek

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A special thank you to Rob for joining me this week. Until next time!

-Scott Mackes, USNA ’01