Michael Baker Embarks On New Aviation Era with Balram Bheodari

Tuesday, August 20, 2024

Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, planning, and consulting services, has announced the appointment of Balram “B” Bheodari as the National Practice Lead for Aviation Services. In this pivotal role, Mr. Bheodari will spearhead the firm’s efforts to drive growth within its aviation portfolio. He will oversee business development and client engagement strategies, aiming to secure new airport projects, expand the company’s aviation service offerings, and deliver outstanding results for clients.

“Today, we celebrate National Aviation Day and welcome Balram. With a storied career, which includes his most recent role as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at the world’s busiest airport – Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Balram’s expertise aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing top-tier engineering and consulting services,” said Kent Zinn, P.E., President, Infrastructure, at Michael Baker International. “Balram’s demonstrated leadership ability will foster collaboration across the organization to elevate Michael Baker’s brand in the industry, and he will serve as a trusted advisor to our internal staff and our aviation clients nationwide. This appointment marks an exciting chapter in our company’s journey, promising a future of expansion and excellence.”

Mr. Bheodari brings an outstanding track record of operational excellence, commercial growth, capital expansion, stakeholder collaboration, and exceptional customer experience to his new role. With 22 years dedicated to ATL, where he most recently served as CEO, Mr. Bheodari led a team of 1,400 members and managed the airport’s $12 billion capital improvement program. His leadership at ATL earned the airport recognition as North America’s best for customer service, a testament to his unwavering commitment to service excellence—qualities he will bring to his role at Michael Baker International to ensure clients receive top-tier service. Additionally, he served as Chief Operating Officer for the Houston Airport System, overseeing 1,330 team members and operations across three airports. Mr. Bheodari’s career also includes 22 years in the U.S. Army’s Aviation Branch as an instrument-rated aviator, serving on four continents.

Mr. Bheodari holds a Master of Science in Project Management and a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management from Troy State University in Troy, Alabama. He is a Board Member of the International Association of Airport Executives (IAAE), an Airport Accredited Executive (AAE), and holds the prestigious International Airport Professional (IAP) Accreditation with Airport Council International (ACI). Upon his retirement from ATL, he was honored with the Distinguished Service Award from the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE).

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