2025 Akin Award Recipients
Coates Field Service Inc. proudly recognizes Nanci Roberts and Robin Wall as the recipients of this year’s esteemed Akin Award of Excellence. As employees who consistently go above and beyond, Nanci and Robin have demonstrated unwavering dedication and outstanding performance in their roles at Coates Field Service Inc.
NANCI ROBERTS
When Nanci Roberts says she was “totally caught by surprise” to receive the 2024 Akin Award, those who work alongside her might gently disagree. For someone who believes that good work speaks for itself, the recognition feels less like a surprise and more like a reflection of the quiet excellence she brings to Coates every day.
Nanci grew up in Arizona and California before attending the University of Arizona, where she studied Political Science and cheered for the Wildcats. She later transferred to a private college to complete her degree – a decision that reflects a theme that has followed her throughout her career: adaptability, determination, and a willingness to pursue growth.
Before joining Coates, Nanci built a strong foundation in right of way, working with a different company on projects across multiple states. From light rail and transmission to transportation and pipeline projects, she gained diverse experience that prepared her for the complex and ever-evolving work she now supports. Today, Nanci serves as the Director of Client Services for Coates, working in tandem with our sales team and clients to identify needs and bridging any gaps deemed necessary to continue moving our business forward. Her role is multifaceted and demanding – something she genuinely enjoys. “My role is very diverse and allows me to learn something new every day while appreciating the complexity of right of way,” she shares. That love of learning and respect for the industry is evident in everything she does. But what truly sets Nanci apart is her appreciation for the people around her.
When asked what she enjoys most about her job, she points immediately to her team. “My favorite thing about working for Coates is being surrounded by amazing people that I continue to learn from and grow in an industry that I love.”
Her favorite Coates memory speaks to that same sense of legacy and connection. She recalls an interview with Joe and John Coates about the early days of the company compared to today. “It was amazing to see the growth of one company through the eyes of the original leaders,” she says. For Nanci, Coates is more than projects and parcels — it’s a story of vision, growth, and the people who carry that story forward.
Receiving the 2025 Akin Award was deeply meaningful to her, not because she sought recognition, but because it affirmed something she has always believed.
“I have always believed that when you do your best at something you love, you don’t have to demand to be seen or brag about yourself to get recognition,” she said. “I truly believe that your good work will stand out on its own when you work with the right people.”
That philosophy embodies the very spirit of the Akin Award.
Outside of work, Nanci brings the same energy and enthusiasm to her personal life. Whether she’s reading, hunting, hiking, woodworking, enjoying water sports, or spending time with her kids, she embraces the outdoors and values the time she spends with family.
Nanci’s dedication, humility, and commitment to excellence make her a valued leader and teammate at Coates Field Service. We are proud to celebrate her accomplishments and grateful for the steady impact she makes every day.
Congratulations, Nanci, on being named our 2025 Akin Award recipient – your work truly speaks for itself.
ROBIN WALL
When Robin Wall learned she had been selected as a 2025 Akin Award recipient, her reaction was immediate and heartfelt: “Total shock!” she said. “I’m not sure I’ve ever been quite that surprised by something in my life.” But for those who have had the privilege of working alongside Robin throughout her career at Coates, the recognition feels like a fitting tribute to a professional journey marked by leadership, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to people.
Robin’s path into the energy industry feels almost written in her roots. She grew up in Cushing, Oklahoma – often referred to as the “Pipeline Capital of the World” – becoming the third generation in her family to work in the energy sector. While her early interests included singing in the church choir, participating in show choir, and competing in speech and drama, her professional path would ultimately lead her into oil and gas.
After high school, Robin moved to Oklahoma City and began her career with an independent oil and gas exploration company, working in engineering and production before expanding into geology, land and legal. Determined to continue growing, she completed industry-related coursework at OSU-OKC, studied at UCO, and attended the paralegal training program at OCU – all while working full time.
Before joining Coates, Robin was working as a paralegal when a client asked her a simple but life-changing question: Why wasn’t she working in the oil and gas industry given her background?
After that conversation, she called longtime Coates employee Ed Morton. Within weeks, she was headed to Pennsylvania to begin a new chapter as a landman.
“That phone call led to a major career change, and I’ve never looked back,” she shares.
Over the years, Robin has served Coates in several capacities – Document Specialist, Document Supervisor, Right of Way Agent, and now Project Manager. Though her responsibilities have evolved, her purpose has remained constant: to positively impact the lives of others, both personally and professionally.
As a right of way agent, Robin believes deeply in respecting landowners and the legacy of their property. She values learning their life stories and family histories, especially when land has been passed down for generations. Her ability to build trust – even turning initial opposition into lasting friendship – is one of the hallmarks of her career.
One of her most meaningful Coates memories came during the Mountain Valley Pipeline Project in Virginia. A dairy farm owned by an elderly couple was facing foreclosure due to financial hardship. Through successful negotiations for an easement, Robin helped secure an outcome that allowed them to save their farm.
“Their sincere gratitude is something that touched my heart and I will never forget,” she recalls. For Robin, moments like that represent the true impact of the work.
She has also witnessed tremendous change within the company, particularly in technology. From the early days of handwritten reports entered into databases to the development and implementation of LandRun™, Robin has embraced advancements that have made projects more efficient and collaborative.
Still, what she treasures most is that Coates remains a family-owned company with a rich history and long-standing employees – something she believes is increasingly rare.
Mentorship has also played an important role in her journey. She credits Steve Harris, her first Project Manager, as someone who helped shape her into the right of way professional she is today.
For Robin, receiving the Akin Award carries profound meaning.
“The Akin Award and what it stands for has been in my heart since the first moment I heard about it,” she said. “It rewards and validates my work ethic and my team philosophy.” Being recognized by both leadership and peers makes the honor especially significant.
“This award is the crowning achievement of my career with Coates Field Service.”
Outside of work, Robin cherishes time with her husband, Tim – whether attending sporting events for their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, traveling, or simply spending time together at home. Their time together is especially meaningful as Tim works away in Syracuse, New York, also a right of way agent for Coates.
Robin’s leadership, integrity, and genuine care for people embody the very spirit of the Akin Award. We are proud to celebrate her extraordinary career and the lasting impact she continues to make at Coates.
Congratulations, Robin, on this well-deserved recognition!