Michael Baker International Introduces vAIRify
PITTSBURGH (August 10, 2023) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, planning and consulting services, today introduced vAIRify, a new cloud-native, software-as-a-service (SaaS) offering designed to facilitate safe and effective program management for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) pilots and program managers. vAIRify is part of Michael Baker’s SkySuite, a platform of applications designed to support end-to-end flight planning and program management for the aviation industry.
“We developed vAIRify to optimize flight planning and reduce the pain points associated with flight documentation – ultimately allowing users to get in the air faster,“ said Kranti Bandi, CSM, SOA, PMP, National Applications Development Director at Michael Baker International. “vAIRify offers the tools our clients need to develop robust and streamlined UAS programs.”
vAIRify enables clients across local government agencies, state governments, departments of transportation and the private sector to:
- Oversee programs with a user-friendly interface that integrates geographic information systems (GIS) modules and custom dashboards to help users track progress and manage projects effectively.
- Mitigate risk by ensuring the safe approval and execution of flight plans in alignment with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. Users can view key details like certifications and flight hazards for informed decision making.
- Standardize documentation and stay organized through the creation of uniform flight submissions, documentation and approvals. Users can access this information for future use from vAIRify’s dashboard.
- Create a system of record and enable the use of authoritative data to track progress over time. vAIRify captures and stores all historical flight information.
To learn more about vAIRify, visit: https://digitalsolutions.mbakerintl.com/vairify/
About Michael Baker International
Michael Baker International is a leading provider of engineering and consulting services spanning five distinct Verticals: Infrastructure, Design-Build Services, Federal Programs and Services, Consulting and Technology Solutions (CTS) and Sustainable and Resilient Solutions (SRS). The firm’s Practices encompass all facets of infrastructure, including design and civil engineering for diverse bridge, highway, water, rail and transit and aviation projects, as well as planning, architecture, environmental and construction and program management. For more than 80 years, the company has been a trusted partner to clients, providing comprehensive services and solutions, delivering expertise and quality, and embracing emerging technologies and the latest innovations – like intelligent transportation, engineered models and public safety software as a service (SaaS).
The firm’s 3,900 employees across nearly 100 locations are committed to Making a Difference for clients and communities through a culture of innovation, collaboration and technological advancement while Reimagining Michael Baker to become a full-service engineering and consulting firm over the next five years.
To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.
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Contact: Julia Covelli
Email: [email protected]
Michael Baker International Names Sara Harris Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer
PITTSBURGH (July 12, 2023) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, planning and consulting services, announced today that Sara Harris has joined the firm as Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). In this role, Ms. Harris joins Michael Baker’s Operating Committee and will lead the firm’s Human Resources (HR) organization in executing initiatives to optimize talent management, recruitment, learning and development, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I), benefits, compensation and health and safety.
“With our commitment to make Michael Baker the best in the industry, we have set the course for a strategic – and transformational – pursuit of a Culture of Excellence. A key component of this is ensuring an employee experience that places high value on creating a sense of community, supporting education and training, and hiring the best talent,” said Brian A. Lutes, Chief Executive Officer at Michael Baker International. “I am confident that under Sara’s leadership, our Culture of Excellence will continue to thrive and ensure that our colleagues play a meaningful role in building and maintaining our nation’s infrastructure.”
With nearly 25 years of experience driving HR strategies, Ms. Harris has a proven track record as a partner and problem-solver who proactively builds effective and inclusive high-performance cultures. Most recently, Ms. Harris served as Chief People Officer for Pregis Corporation, a global manufacturer and supplier of packaging equipment and supplies. She has also held leadership HR positions with Vertiv, General Cable Corporation and Johnson Controls. Earlier in her career, Ms. Harris was a Labor and Employment Attorney.
Ms. Harris earned both her Juris Doctor degree and her Master of Science in Human Resources degree from Marquette University. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Human Resources and Management from the University of Wisconsin.
About Michael Baker International
Michael Baker International is a leading provider of engineering and consulting services spanning five distinct Verticals: Infrastructure, Design-Build Services, Federal Programs and Services, Consulting and Technology Solutions (CTS) and Sustainable and Resilient Solutions (SRS). The firm’s Practices encompass all facets of infrastructure, including design and civil engineering for diverse bridge, highway, water, rail and transit and aviation projects, as well as planning, architecture, environmental and construction and program management. For more than 80 years, the company has been a trusted partner to clients, providing comprehensive services and solutions, delivering expertise and quality, and embracing emerging technologies and the latest innovations – like intelligent transportation, engineered models and public safety software as a service (SaaS).
The firm’s 3,900 employees across nearly 100 locations are committed to Making a Difference for clients and communities through a culture of innovation, collaboration and technological advancement while Reimagining Michael Baker to become a full-service engineering and consulting firm over the next five years.
To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.
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Contact: Julia Covelli
Email: [email protected]
Michael Baker International Welcomes Denise Laferte as Vice President and National Practice Lead – Water
PITTSBURGH (June 29, 2023) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, planning and consulting services, announced today that Denise Laferte has joined the firm as Vice President and National Practice Lead – Water. In this role, Ms. Laferte will drive growth across Michael Baker’s Water Practice portfolio, while elevating the firm’s brand and serving as a trusted advisor both internally and to clients nationwide.
“The efficient storage and conveyance of clean, secure water and the transport and disposal of residual wastes are vital to the well-being of our nation’s communities, and Michael Baker is at the forefront of providing innovative and sustainable solutions to our clients for the entire spectrum of the water cycle,” said Kent Zinn, P.E., S.E., President, Infrastructure at Michael Baker. “I welcome Denise and look forward to her leadership as we continue to advance Michael Baker’s position at the forefront of water resource initiatives.”
Ms. Laferte brings more than 25 years of industry experience to her new role and has a proven track record of building and growing a successful Water Practice at the national level and collaborating with multiple business lines to increase pursuit synergies and capture new work. She most recently served as Federal Business Development Market Sector Leader for the North American Water division of AECOM. Earlier in her career, she was an Environmental Scientist with Metcalf & Eddy, Inc., a Water/Wastewater firm, working Superfund and Brownfields sites throughout the Northeast.
Ms. Laferte has earned three degrees from the University of New Hampshire: a Master of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts.
About Michael Baker International
Michael Baker International is a leading provider of engineering and consulting services spanning five distinct Verticals: Infrastructure, Design-Build Services, Federal Programs and Services, Consulting and Technology Solutions (CTS) and Sustainable and Resilient Solutions (SRS). The firm’s Practices encompass all facets of infrastructure, including design and civil engineering for diverse bridge, highway, water, rail and transit and aviation projects, as well as planning, architecture, environmental and construction and program management. For more than 80 years, the company has been a trusted partner to clients, providing comprehensive services and solutions, delivering expertise and quality, and embracing emerging technologies and the latest innovations – like intelligent transportation, engineered models and public safety software as a service (SaaS).
The firm’s more than 3,500 employees across nearly 100 locations are committed to Making a Difference for clients and communities through a culture of innovation, collaboration and technological advancement while Reimagining Michael Baker to become a full-service engineering and consulting firm over the next five years.
To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.
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Contact: Julia Covelli
Email: [email protected]
Michael Baker International Promotes Jeff Roberts, P.E., R.S.P.1, to Office Executive – Tallahassee
PITTSBURGH (June 15, 2023) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, planning and consulting services, today announced that Jeff Roberts, P.E., R.S.P.1, has been promoted to Office Executive for the firm’s Tallahassee, Florida, office. In this role, Mr. Roberts will oversee the growth of Michael Baker’s portfolio of business in the Tallahassee area and provide operational management, staff management and production/project oversight for the office.
“Jeff’s promotion to Office Executive – Tallahassee recognizes his success in strengthening Michael Baker’s client relationships, expanding our business and leading the growth and development of our Wolf Pack colleagues in North Florida,“ said Tommy Montgomery, P.E., Southern Regional Director at Michael Baker International. “He is well-regarded in the industry for his trusted relationships with his clients and has notably grown our firm’s relationship with the Florida Department of Transportation District Three (FDOT D3), which represents 16 counties and 11,500 square miles in Florida’s Panhandle. I look forward to Jeff’s continued success as he takes on this new role.”
Mr. Roberts has more than two decades of industry experience, including the last five with Michael Baker International. Most recently, Mr. Roberts served as Michael Baker’s Office Manager and Operations Manager of North Florida. He specializes in project management and transportation design. He is also experienced in pedestrian and intersection safety evaluations, modern roundabout analysis and design, asset management for structures, and public involvement coordination and facilitation for high-profile community enhancement projects. Mr. Roberts is a certified Road Safety Professional (R.S.P.1) and is passionate about helping communities improve safety for all users of the transportation network.
Mr. Roberts has been recognized by the American Public Works Association (APWA) as an Emerging Leader in the field of Public Works. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from The Florida State University.
About Michael Baker International
Michael Baker International is a leading provider of engineering and consulting services spanning five distinct Verticals: Infrastructure, Design-Build Services, Federal Programs and Services, Consulting and Technology Solutions (CTS) and Sustainable and Resilient Solutions (SRS). The firm’s Practices encompass all facets of infrastructure, including design and civil engineering for diverse bridge, highway, water, rail and transit and aviation projects, as well as planning, architecture, environmental and construction and program management. For more than 80 years, the company has been a trusted partner to clients, providing comprehensive services and solutions, delivering expertise and quality, and embracing emerging technologies and the latest innovations – like intelligent transportation, engineered models and public safety software as a service (SaaS).
The firm’s more than 3,500 employees across nearly 100 locations are committed to Making a Difference for clients and communities through a culture of innovation, collaboration and technological advancement while Reimagining Michael Baker to become a full-service engineering and consulting firm over the next five years.
To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.
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Contact: Julia Covelli
Email: [email protected]
Michael Baker International Names Tony Cabrera, P.E., Office Executive – Phoenix
PITTSBURGH (June 8, 2023) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, planning and consulting services, today announced that Tony Cabrera, P.E., has been promoted to Office Executive for the firm’s Phoenix, Arizona, office. In this role, Mr. Cabrera will lead a multi-disciplinary team in executing client projects and continuing to expand the business with new clients, markets and capabilities.
“Michael Baker’s Phoenix office offers a full spectrum of services and is one of four Federal Centers of Excellence for the Western Region,” said Trudi Lim, P.E., LEED AP, Western Regional Director at Michael Baker International. “I look forward to the Phoenix team Making a Difference under Tony’s leadership as they solve complex infrastructure challenges for our clients throughout Arizona and continue our company’s legacy of delivering expertise, experience, innovation and integrity.”
Mr. Cabrera brings nearly four decades of experience to his new role with Michael Baker and has a proven track record leading multidisciplinary teams to deliver excellence across a wide spectrum of clients. He has led a diverse range of infrastructure projects throughout Arizona and elsewhere, which has allowed him to work on virtually every aspect of civil engineering. His experience on multiple Design-Build transportation projects allows a perspective and value-added component to integrate end-user needs, such as construction and maintenance innovations, into the design for more desirable and complete projects.
Prior to joining Michael Baker in January 2022 as Transportation Group Manager, Mr. Cabrera was a Senior Project/Program Manager at WSP. Before that, he was a Sector Leader at Stantec and a Project Manager with Jacobs. He also served as a Project Designer for both Entranco and the Arizona Department of Transportation. Mr. Cabrera is a member of the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC), American Society of Highway Engineers (ASHE) and Society of American Military Engineers (SAME).
About Michael Baker International
Michael Baker International is a leading provider of engineering and consulting services spanning five distinct Verticals: Infrastructure, Design-Build Services, Federal Programs and Services, Consulting and Technology Solutions (CTS) and Sustainable and Resilient Solutions (SRS). The firm’s Practices encompass all facets of infrastructure, including design and civil engineering for diverse bridge, highway, water, rail and transit and aviation projects, as well as planning, architecture, environmental and construction and program management. For more than 80 years, the company has been a trusted partner to clients, providing comprehensive services and solutions, delivering expertise and quality, and embracing emerging technologies and the latest innovations – like intelligent transportation, engineered models and public safety software as a service (SaaS).
The firm’s more than 3,500 employees across nearly 100 locations are committed to Making a Difference for clients and communities through a culture of innovation, collaboration and technological advancement while Reimagining Michael Baker to become a full-service engineering and consulting firm over the next five years.
To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.
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Contact: Julia Covelli
Email: [email protected]
Michael Baker International Strengthens Design-Build Services Vertical with Key New Hires
PITTSBURGH (June 6, 2023) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, planning and consulting services, today announced that Shawn Plichta, P.E., and James Murphy, DBIA, joined the firm’s Design-Build (D-B) team as Regional Practice Leads. In their new positions, Mr. Plichta and Mr. Murphy will promote Michael Baker’s D-B capabilities in multiple markets across the U.S. and support the firm’s Operations by building winning teams for project pursuits, negotiating terms with contractor partners and positioning Michael Baker for project wins.
“Design-Build is the fastest growing method used to deliver construction projects in the U.S. and with its continued popularity, Michael Baker remains committed to delivering innovative and collaborative alternative delivery projects and identifying solutions that most efficiently and effectively address our clients’ needs,” said Eric Ostfeld, P.E., President, Design-Build Services at Michael Baker International. “I am pleased to welcome Shawn and James to our team of D-B experts. They will be instrumental in growing our portfolio of D-B projects and strengthening our resources in this sector.”
Mr. Plichta brings 24 years of experience in D-B/alternative delivery project management, business development and negotiation of teaming and design service agreements to his new role. Prior to Michael Baker, Mr. Plichta was a Program Director – Mobility Solutions with Parsons Corporation, and an Operations Manager with Graham, providing general contracting, D-B, construction management and public-private partnership (P3) services to the buildings, industrial and infrastructure sectors. Earlier in his career, he was also a Bridge Engineer and Inspector with the Washington State Department of Transportation. Mr. Plichta earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Washington State University.
Mr. Murphy brings to his role more than 15 years of experience in heavy civil infrastructure construction, including large-scale utilities, roadways, concrete paving, retaining walls and bridges. Most recently, Mr. Murphy was a Design Manager with Flatiron, where he was responsible for coordination and design management of all lead engineering firms in the Southwest. Previously, he was a Project Manager with New-Com, the consolidated parent company of TAB Contractors, MMC, Acme Electric and Biodiesel of Las Vegas. Earlier in his career, he was Design Manager and Project Manager with Kiewit Infrastructure West Co. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology.
About Michael Baker International
Michael Baker International is a leading provider of engineering and consulting services spanning five distinct Verticals: Infrastructure, Design-Build Services, Federal Programs and Services, Consulting and Technology Solutions (CTS) and Sustainable and Resilient Solutions (SRS). The firm’s Practices encompass all facets of infrastructure, including design and civil engineering for diverse bridge, highway, water, rail and transit and aviation projects, as well as planning, architecture, environmental and construction and program management. For more than 80 years, the company has been a trusted partner to clients, providing comprehensive services and solutions, delivering expertise and quality, and embracing emerging technologies and the latest innovations – like intelligent transportation, engineered models and public safety software as a service (SaaS).
The firm’s more than 3,500 employees across nearly 100 locations are committed to Making a Difference for clients and communities through a culture of innovation, collaboration and technological advancement while Reimagining Michael Baker to become a full-service engineering and consulting firm over the next five years.
To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.
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Contact: Julia Covelli
Email: [email protected]
Michael Baker International Introduces Sustainable and Resilient Solutions (SRS) Business Vertical
PITTSBURGH (May 4, 2023) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, planning and consulting services, today announced the introduction of its Sustainable and Resilient Solutions (SRS) business vertical. This new platform encompasses the firm’s Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP), Structural Engineering, Telecommunications, Cybersecurity and Fire Protection services. The firm will provide its expertise in these specialty areas to its existing clients, focusing on the Federal market, while expanding into state, municipal and commercial markets, as well as sectors including healthcare, higher education and Advanced Technology, among others. To lead this initiative, Michael Baker has named Dennis Berlien, P.E., President of Sustainable and Resilient Solutions.
“As we Reimagine Michael Baker, we are taking another step in the growth and evolution of our company with the introduction of our Sustainable and Resilient Solutions vertical,” said James E. Koch, Ph.D., P.E., Chief Operating Officer at Michael Baker International. “Projects involving smart buildings that are sustainable and resilient are complex and require the expertise that a full-service engineering and consulting firm can provide. Our new SRS vertical will enhance our work for clients by streamlining decision-making among these specialty areas and position us for continued growth. I am confident that under Dennis’ leadership, our team will establish Michael Baker as a leader in this important sector.”
As President of Sustainable and Resilient Solutions, Mr. Berlien is focused on delivering sustainable and resilient MEP, structural and fire protection solutions to address the complex infrastructure challenges of Michael Baker’s clients. He brings a client-first approach to design, delivery and operations, while partnering on the execution of some of the most sustainable buildings in the world. Mr. Berlien also serves as Chief Executive Officer for Akela Engineering, a Michael Baker company and full-service MEP firm providing engineering and consulting services with a focus on clients in Southern California.
Mr. Berlien brings more the 25 years of experience to his role at Michael Baker. He most recently served as President for Glumac, a Tetra Tech Company, after holding a variety of executive roles since joining in 2011. Throughout his career, Mr. Berlien also held leadership positions at Vanderweil Engineers, Wright Engineers, AMEC, Adobe Consulting Engineers and Bechtel.
Mr. Berlien holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from North Carolina State University. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Orangewood Foundation, one of the leading providers of services to foster and community youth in Orange County. He was a Director for the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), an organization committed to a sustainable, prosperous future through its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) criteria as well as a DBIA certified professional. Mr. Berlien is also co-author of the book, “Connections: Everyone Happens for a Reason.”
About Michael Baker International
Michael Baker International is a leading provider of engineering and consulting services spanning five distinct Verticals: Infrastructure, Design-Build Services, Federal Programs and Services, Consulting and Technology Solutions (CTS) and Sustainable and Resilient Solutions (SRS). The firm’s Practices encompass all facets of infrastructure, including design and civil engineering for diverse bridge, highway, water, rail and transit and aviation projects, as well as planning, architecture, environmental and construction and program management. For more than 80 years, the company has been a trusted partner to clients, providing comprehensive services and solutions, delivering expertise and quality, and embracing emerging technologies and the latest innovations – like intelligent transportation, engineered models and public safety software as a service (SaaS).
The firm’s more than 3,500 employees across nearly 100 locations are committed to Making a Difference for clients and communities through a culture of innovation, collaboration and technological advancement while Reimagining Michael Baker to become a full-service engineering and consulting firm over the next five years.
To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.
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Contact: Julia Covelli
Email: [email protected]
Michael Baker International Names Brian May President, Federal Programs and Services
PITTSBURGH (April 28, 2023) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, planning and consulting services, today announced that the firm has promoted Brian May to President, Federal Programs and Services. In this role, Mr. May joins Michael Baker’s Executive Committee and will lead the firm’s efforts to accelerate growth in Federal markets by expanding its client roster and relationships with defense and civilian agencies. He will continue the firm’s focus on capturing more of the Federal market and delivering quality projects by bringing the best people and resources to the work, while also promoting collaboration and leveraging the firm’s expertise to win new work. Additional promotions include George Guszcza, D.Eng, CPEM, C.C.M., to Chief Transformation Officer, Lori Stump-Ganter, to Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Director, Federal Operations, and Dean Hartman, to National Market Lead – Air Force and U.S. Space Force.
“Michael Baker has a legacy of service to the U.S. federal government dating back to 1940 and the firm has consistently delivered innovative solutions to complex infrastructure challenges,” said James E. Koch, Ph.D., P.E., Chief Operating Officer at Michael Baker International. “Under Brian’s leadership, I am confident our Federal Programs and Services vertical will continue to support the infrastructure that is critical to meeting the goals of our Federal clients and achieving mission readiness for our military partners.”
Mr. May, Dr. Guszcza, Ms. Stump-Ganter and Mr. Hartman all bring extensive experience to their new roles.
Brian May, President, Federal Programs and Services, joined Michael Baker in 2019 as National Market Lead – U.S. Air Force and Space Force, where he used the firm’s relationship-focused account management approach to expand its work and position Michael Baker for greater growth opportunities with the Air Force and Space Force.
Prior to his tenure with Michael Baker, he served in the Air Force over a 25-year career as a civil engineer. He retired in 2017 at the rank of Colonel. With the Air Force, Mr. May helped lead engineering and planning projects that resulted in the implementation of new facilities including medical, housing, administration, training, aviation buildings and infrastructure. Mr. May holds a Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College, a Master of Arts degree in Military Operational Art and Science from Air University, a Master of Business Administration degree from Saint Martin’s University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame.
George Guszcza, D.Eng, CPEM, C.C.M., has more than 25 years of military, Federal and private sector experience, and in his new role as Chief Transformation Officer, he will establish the company’s Transformation Office to bring a heightened pace and rhythm to the planning and execution of the company’s highest priority imperatives. The Transformation Office will assist in advancing the company at greater speed and strengthen its culture of accountability around delivery.
Most recently, Dr. Guszcza served as National Director – Federal Programs and Services, where he focused on Federal Operations, cultivating collaboration across the company. Previously at Michael Baker, he led the firm’s D.C. Metro Area, comprised of Delaware, Maryland, Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C., and FEMA nation-wide as Senior Vice President and Office Executive and as Vice President of Cost Management.
Before joining Michael Baker, Dr. Guszcza was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Adams and Associates, Inc. He holds a Doctor of Engineering degree in Engineering Management & Systems Engineering from George Washington University, a Major Programme Management (MSc) degree from the Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford, and a Bachelor of Science in Sociology/Computer Information Systems Engineering from the United States Military Academy, West Point.
Lori Stump-Ganter, CFO and Director, Federal Operations, has a proven track record in all aspects of business management, including business planning, budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis, strategic planning, project control, contract administration and continuous improvement. In her new role, Ms. Stump-Ganter will partner closely with the Federal vertical’s leadership and the firm’s Federal Centers of Excellence (FCOEs), improving all aspects of sales pipeline visibility and supporting Federal Project Managers on project performance. She will also contribute to improved pursuit strategies and better leverage the use of processes and technology. Since 2022, she has served as CFO for the Federal team, and prior to that as Director of Business Analytics.
Prior to Michael Baker, Ms. Stump-Ganter was Vice President, Business Process Management at PNC Bank. Earlier in her career, she was a Project Engineer and Assistant Project Manager at several firms. Ms. Stump-Ganter holds a Master of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Pittsburgh’s Katz Graduate School of Business and a Bachelor of Science degree in Management Engineering from Grove City College.
Dean Hartman, National Market Lead – Air Force and Space Force, will drive Michael Baker’s growth efforts with the Air Force and Space Force, working with client service teams, local offices and practice leads to effectively address the spectrum of opportunities, from tactical plans through strategic positioning. Mr. Hartman brings a proven record of success with strategic planning, organizational management, budget development, program management and program execution. He is a recognized leader in asset management, built infrastructure investment program build, facility engineering, installation operations, readiness and emergency management and environmental quality.
Mr. Hartman joined Michael Baker in 2021 as Program Manager – Federal, playing an important role serving the firm’s Air Force clients. Prior to Michael Baker, he spent 30 years in the Air Force, including as Director, Planning & Integration Directorate at the Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC). Mr. Hartman holds a Master of Science degree in Military Operational Art and Science from Air University, a Master of Science degree in Engineering and Environmental Management from the Air Force Institute of Technology, and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering from the University of Florida.
About Michael Baker International
Michael Baker International is a leading provider of engineering and consulting services spanning four distinct Verticals: Infrastructure, Design-Build Services, Federal Programs and Services and Consulting and Technology Solutions (CTS). The firm’s Practices encompass all facets of infrastructure, including design and civil engineering for diverse bridge, highway, water, rail and transit and aviation projects, as well as planning, architecture, environmental and construction and program management. For more than 80 years, the company has been a trusted partner to clients, providing comprehensive services and solutions, delivering expertise and quality, and embracing emerging technologies and the latest innovations – like intelligent transportation, engineered models and public safety software as a service (SaaS).
The firm’s more than 3,500 employees across nearly 100 locations are committed to Making a Difference for clients and communities through a culture of innovation, collaboration and technological advancement while Reimagining Michael Baker to become a full-service engineering and consulting firm over the next five years.
To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.
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Contact: Julia Covelli
Email: [email protected]
Michael Baker International Promotes James E. Koch, Ph.D., P.E., to Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
PITTSBURGH (April 24, 2023) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, planning and consulting services, today announced that the firm has promoted James E. Koch, Ph.D., P.E., to Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. In this role, Dr. Koch will continue to serve on Michael Baker’s Executive Committee and will focus on driving operational excellence, implementing processes and systems to optimize efficiency and maximize the firm’s potential as it continues to grow. Additionally, he will report to Michael Baker’s Chief Executive Officer, Brian A. Lutes, and oversee the Presidents of each of the firm’s four verticals: Consulting and Technology Solutions, Design-Build, Federal Programs and Services, and Infrastructure.
“Reimagining Michael Baker is key to our firm’s future, and we are continuously evolving, growing and improving to deliver outstanding service to our clients and provide our people with fulfilling careers,” said Brian A. Lutes, Chief Executive Officer at Michael Baker International. “Jim has established himself as a trusted partner to Federal and civilian clients alike, while simultaneously leading and developing his team to continuously innovate as they solve complex infrastructure challenges. I look forward to continuing to work with Jim as we further distinguish our firm as one of the best in the industry.”
Dr. Koch has more than 40 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 and most recently 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 Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) and is also a member of the Army Engineer Association (AEA), the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) and the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). In 2020, Dr. Koch was selected as an ASCE Fellow, a prestigious honor held by only 3% of ASCE members. 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, where he was recently inducted into the Academy of Engineering Management, made up of the top 1% of engineering management graduates.
About Michael Baker International
Michael Baker International is a leading provider of engineering and consulting services spanning four distinct Verticals: Infrastructure, Design-Build Services, Federal Programs and Services and Consulting and Technology Solutions (CTS). The firm’s Practices encompass all facets of infrastructure, including design and civil engineering for diverse bridge, highway, water, rail and transit and aviation projects, as well as planning, architecture, environmental and construction and program management. For more than 80 years, the company has been a trusted partner to clients, providing comprehensive services and solutions, delivering expertise and quality, and embracing emerging technologies and the latest innovations – like intelligent transportation, engineered models and public safety software as a service (SaaS).
The firm’s more than 3,500 employees across nearly 100 locations are committed to Making a Difference for clients and communities through a culture of innovation, collaboration and technological advancement while Reimagining Michael Baker to become a full-service engineering and consulting firm over the next five years.
To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.
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Contact: Julia Covelli
Email: [email protected]
Michael Baker International Named Lead Designer for Minnesota Department of Transportation’s I-494: Airport to Hwy 169 First Construction Design-Build Project
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (March 30, 2023) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, planning and consulting services, today announced that the team led by C.S. McCrossan Construction, Inc., which includes Michael Baker International as the Lead Designer, has been selected by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) for the $377 million I-494: Airport to Hwy 169 First Construction Design-Build Project in Hennepin County, Minnesota. The team will design and construct a tolled E-Z Pass HOV lane in both directions between East Bush Lake Road and I-35W, a reconstructed interchange at I-494 and I-35W, including a turbine ramp for the northbound I-35W to westbound I-494 movement, and a reconfiguration of the access at Nicollet, Portland and 12th Avenues. The project scope also includes the construction of 12 new bridges, including a new pedestrian bridge, more than 30 retaining walls, noise walls and new drainage infrastructure.
“With this new project, our team is building on successful partnerships with both MnDOT and C.S. McCrossan Construction, Inc.,” said Kevin Anderson, Office Executive – Minneapolis at Michael Baker International. “Michael Baker is committed to pursuing innovative and collaborative alternative delivery projects and identifying solutions that efficiently address client needs. Our team is bringing many new innovations to the project, including the use of the latest 3D design and modeling technology, which will allow us to better visualize the finished project, enhance coordination between the contractor and local agencies and increase the value of the digital design content for the next generation.”
The project is part of a long-term vision by MnDOT that includes improvements to address current and future transportation issues on I-494. It aims to provide a transit advantage to increase the number of people who can be efficiently moved through the area; improve the reliability of the average rush-hour trip; improve safety; restore pavement to preserve infrastructure and provide a smoother ride; improve drainage systems to reduce localized flooding and reduce run-off into the Minnesota River while preserving existing bridges.
https://mbakerintl.com/.
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Contact: Julia Covelli
Email: [email protected]