James E. Koch, Ph.D., P.E.

James E. Koch, Ph.D., P.E., is Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Michael Baker International. In this role, Dr. Koch focuses on driving operational excellence, implementing processes and systems to optimize efficiency and maximize the firm’s potential as it continues to grow. Additionally, he oversees the Presidents of each of Michael Baker’s five verticals: Consulting and Technology Solutions, Design-Build, Federal Programs and Services, Infrastructure and Sustainable and Resilient Solutions (SRS).

Dr. Koch has more than 45 years of military and engineering firm experience with a rich background in federal and international programs. He joined Michael Baker in 2017 as Mid-Atlantic Regional Director. Prior to his current role he served as President – Federal Programs and Services. In this role, he was responsible for maximizing the company’s portfolio and capabilities in Federal markets. 

Dr. Koch spent the first half of his career with the United States Army, progressing through various positions in all aspects of engineering operations before serving as a Battalion and Joint Task Force Commander in Central America. His final assignment was as the Director, U.S. Army Engineer School’s Department of Tactics, Leadership & Engineering. Dr. Koch retired from the Army as a Lieutenant Colonel before starting his career in the private sector. Prior to joining Michael Baker International, he served in senior leadership positions where he managed and led projects, programs and operations across the United States and in numerous other countries.

Dr. Koch is a Fellow in the following organizations:  Society of American Military Engineers (SAME), and the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Dr. Koch was a former Fellow of the Royal Institution Charter of Surveyors.  He is a member of the Academy of Engineering Management at the Missouri University of Science and Technology and was recently selected as a member of the National Academy of Construction.  Throughout his career, Dr. Koch has received numerous awards, including the United States Department of Defense Legion of Merit with one Oak Leaf Cluster and the Army Engineer Association Bronze and Silver Order of the de Fleury Medals.

Dr. Koch holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce from Washington and Lee University. He earned a Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering and the Degree of Engineer in Construction Engineering and Management from Stanford University. He also has a Ph.D. in Engineering Management from the Missouri University of Science and Technology.