Renowned Michael Baker International Archaeologists Help Unearth American History on National Geographic Channel's "Diggers"

PITTSBURGH, July 28, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, consulting, planning, technical and professional services, is showcasing the expertise of its cultural resources team this summer on a National Geographic Channel series dedicated to unearthing hidden treasures. Bryan Cunning and Marc Henshaw, both archaeologists with Michael Baker International, will appear on "Diggers," which began airing its fourth season this summer.

Cunning and Henshaw joined the cast on a cross-country quest to unearth mysteries and artifacts surrounding famous historical figures and iconic locations. This includes James Madison's estate and birthplace, a World War II prisoner of war camp in Mississippi and the trails of Lewis and Clark's legendary expedition.

"Given Michael Baker International's legacy as a company that has helped to build and maintain this nation's infrastructure, it is only fitting that we are part of finding and preserving pieces of American history," said Kurt Bergman, CEO of Michael Baker International. "We're proud of our full continuum of innovative solutions, which is reflected by the expertise of archaeologists such as Bryan and Marc. We're not surprised that their skills can be applied to such a worthwhile pursuit and something that is certainly fun to watch."

Serving as exclusive production and supervising archaeologists for the series, Cunning and Henshaw conducted historical research for each featured locale. They served as consultants on ethical metal detection and archaeological processes, and they performed onsite excavation and evaluation of the artifacts as they were recovered. They then conducted further analysis and reporting at the company's offices in greater Pittsburgh.

Michael Baker International's cultural resources team guides clients through the unique challenges of historic and renovation projects, ensuring project requirements are compliant with the National Historic Preservation Act and providing oversight of National Environmental Policy Act regulatory processes. Team members work closely with the company's clients to conduct on-site excavation, mapping, cleaning, curation, historical and archival research, artifact analysis and public outreach. The team has worked with federal entities that include the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Department of Transportation along with many state departments of transportation.

"Michael Baker International's archaeologists were a great addition to the team since they have a great track record in the business," said John Jones, executive producer at Half Yard Productions, the production company for the series. "We were proud to include their archaeologists in the production, because it ensured that the many discoveries unearthed by the program were appropriately catalogued, protected and preserved."

"Diggers" premiered its latest season on July 20 and airs Mondays at 10 & 10:30 p.m. ET through September 7. For more information, visit www.natgeotv.com/Diggers.

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 5,000 employees in more than 90 locations across the U.S. and internationally. To learn more visit www.mbakerintl.com.

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