Robert Bergeron  worked in the oil fields as a floor hand during summer vacations from high school. He began working for Heldenbrand Incorporated, a tool service company, in 1956, eventually rising to president. Now he is president and part owner of Surbo-Tubular, which continues the tool joint rebuilding and repair work started by Heldenbrand in the 1950's. After serving on the Terrebone Parish Council, he was elected Parish President in 1998.