Robert Gray
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA, CHIEF BUILDING OFFICIAL

Robert Gray is a seasoned code official and construction professional with more than two decades of hands-on and managerial experience in the building industry. As a certified building official with multiple specialized certifications, our recipient has built a career marked by technical expertise, public service, and professional leadership.

As chief building official for the town of Los Gatos, California, Gray oversees the full scope of the Building Division and Code Compliance Program. Since 2018, he has led modernization efforts in the town’s permitting process, including the implementation of online permit applications, electronic plan review, and virtual inspections — ensuring uninterrupted services during the COVID-19 pandemic. His work has directly enhanced customer service, interdepartmental coordination, and safety compliance within the community.

Before stepping into his current leadership role, Gray served as senior building inspector for Los Gatos and previously as building inspector specialist with the City of Palo Alto, where he led daily inspection assignments and supported major utility and inspection system initiatives. He played a pivotal role in technology integration efforts, including the development of an Inspection Scheduling App and leadership on the Accela Civic Platform.

A key part of Gray’s professional identity is his commitment to industry collaboration and code development. He is a long-standing member of IAPMO, currently serving as the president of the Central California Chapter — his second go around in the chapter’s leadership.

Our recipient’s leadership reflects a commitment to clear communication, regulatory integrity, and community-oriented service, and make him richly deserving of this honor.

“This is really a surprise,” he said. “I really, really thank everyone for this honor. It’s a complete surprise for me today. I want to thank everyone who’s mentored me through this organization; it has been a fantastic ride. I look forward to continuing that. Thank you very much for my son. He’s been a great help to me throughout this process, as well. So again, thank you very much, it’s very well appreciated.”