Judge Rob Robertson 2023 David M. Cochrane Award: Tuscaloosa County Probate Judge Rob Robertson has bagged the 2023 David M. Cochrane Award, recognizing his leadership, innovation, and commitment to intergovernmental cooperation. The prestigious award was presented during the West Alabama Regional Commission’s meeting at the Tuscaloosa River Market on November 16.
Taking office in 2019 as the 16th probate judge of Tuscaloosa County, Robertson succeeded Hardy McCollum, who had served in the role since 1976 before retiring.
As the probate judge, Robertson oversees various legal services, including adoptions, conservator and guardianships, involuntary commitments, marriage licenses, recording deeds, and wills. Additionally, he serves as the chairman of the Tuscaloosa County Commission by virtue of his office.
A Marine Corps veteran, Robertson made Tuscaloosa his home in 1986 after relocating from Orlando. He holds two degrees from the University of Alabama’s business school.
Robertson’s diverse career includes experiences in both the public and private sectors, spanning roles in law enforcement, business management, disaster recovery, information systems, and logistics.
The Cochrane award, named after the West Alabama Regional Commission’s inaugural chairman, has been an annual tradition since 1975, recognizing the contributions of local governmental officials in West Alabama.
Eligibility for the award in fiscal year 2023 included mayors, city council members, county commission chairmen, and county commissioners in Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Pickens, and Tuscaloosa counties.
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