PITTSBURGH, Nov. 10, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, consulting, planning, technical and professional services, today announces that Smart Business magazine recognizes the company's CEO, Kurt Bergman as a "Smart 50" Award honoree. Mr. Bergman, whose leadership drives Michael Baker's focus to reflect the principle of "Global Expertise, Local Intimacy" as a means to prime the company for continued success, celebrated with other Smart 50 Award honorees during a reception November 10 in Pittsburgh.
"We continue to build our business - globally and locally - and strengthen our full continuum of innovative solutions to ensure we make a difference for our clients and the communities we serve," said Mr. Bergman. "I'm honored that Smart Business recognized the work of our team at Michael Baker with the 'Smart 50' Award, especially during our 75th anniversary year."
Mr. Bergman was named CEO in 2013 and reorganized the company's operations based on geographies to better address the idea that "all business is local." Michael Baker's business success is based on the expertise, local knowledge, relationships and community involvement of its employees in their local markets. At the same time, local employees are supported by the broad and diverse capabilities and experience that can be delivered by the larger company. In this way, the company's clients get the best of both worlds - accessible, capable people in their back yard backed by a global, agile organization.
Technology leadership
Mr. Bergman has been instrumental in the company's shift to raise the bar in terms of the technology solutions it deploys on behalf of its clients. In 2015 alone, Michael Baker became one of the first in its industry to receive certification from the Federal Aviation Administration to operate several types of fixed-wing and vertical take-off and landing Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) aircraft. By deploying UAS technology, Michael Baker can now capture robust, real-time aerial photographs and video as well as conduct aerial mapping for clients that need site surveys or inspections.
Additionally, the company set a new standard for roadway data collection and analysis with the acquisition of Pavemetrics™ Laser Crack Measurement System, a technology solution that automatically detects cracks, rutting and other roadway characteristics by capturing 2D and 3D images of a highway with high-speed cameras, custom optics and laser line projectors. This information is especially valuable as state departments of transportation across the nation seek to prioritize roadway improvements.
Making a difference
With a nod to the company's 75th anniversary in 2015, Mr. Bergman led the company's 75 x 5k Service Campaign. The campaign name represents Michael Baker's more than 6,000 employees committing to a combined 7,500 hours of community service such as volunteering at schools, non-profits or humanitarian causes for the remainder of the year. Driven by Mr. Bergman's encouragement and challenge, employees have already exceeded the campaign goal, donating more than 9,500 community service hours and more than $425,000 in companywide contributions. The success of the campaign underscores the company's ongoing commitment to non-profit organizations in all the communities it serves.
"At Michael Baker, 'We Make a Difference' with the solutions we offer clients and within the communities in which we operate and do business," added Mr. Bergman. "Giving back to our neighbors is important to our organization and I encourage every employee to go the extra mile to lend a hand."
About Michael Baker International
Michael Baker International is a leading global provider of engineering and consulting services, which include planning, architectural, environmental, construction, program management, and full life-cycle support services as well as information technology and communications services and solutions. The company provides its comprehensive range of services and solutions in support of U.S. federal, state, and municipal governments, foreign allied governments, and a wide range of commercial clients. Michael Baker International has more than 6,000 employees in more than 90 locations across the U.S. and internationally. To learn more visit www.mbakerintl.com.