Shareholder Spotlight | Meet Graeme Baker

Meet Graeme BAKER M.E.Sc., P.Eng
Structural Engineer manager, ENG IV

Associate II

With a Master of Engineering Science Degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering specializing in Wind Engineering from The University of Western Ontario, Graeme leads with both technical finesse and project management skills. As the Structural Engineering Manager for the Commercial/Large Building division, he's the engineer of record for several of our mid and high-rise multi-residential buildings across southern Ontario and the G.T.A. Moreover, Graeme expertly oversees SBM’s Structural Engineering projects consisting of concrete box culverts, retaining walls, sheet pile walls, temporary excavation shoring, and bridge evaluations for the MTO, municipalities, and private developers.

In this spotlight feature, we delve into Graeme's journey, his evolution at SBM, and what ignites his passion for structural engineering and design.

Q&A WITH GRAEME

01. Tell us a bit about you

My interest in engineering and building design began as a child, growing up in Guelph, Ontario. My father worked at a consulting wind engineering firm, and I was fascinated with the model studies conducted on tall buildings in their wind tunnels and water flumes whenever I visited. This interest, combined with my aptitude for maths and sciences, led me to a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Civil Engineering at McMaster University in Hamilton, and a Master of Engineering Science degree at the University of Western Ontario in London. I joined the company (SBA at the time) in July 2010, eager to design structures and structural components for Aaron and Mike, and just as eager to develop spreadsheets and tools to expand the company's design capabilities and streamline our design processes. Joining the company when it was only a dozen or so people gave me the opportunity to be involved in the design of a variety of structural projects, ranging from buried infrastructure to residential homes to agricultural facilities to multi-unit residential buildings, built from a wide array of structural systems and materials. As SBA grew and became SBM, I worked with others at the company to develop SBM's SX-N-WD software, for the design and optimization of midrise wood-framed buildings. Later, with the passing of Mike Baldinelli (SBM's principal, and my mentor), my focus shifted to the design of taller buildings consisting mainly of cast-in-place concrete and precast concrete. My current role is shifting away from day-to-day project management to focus on technical oversight of the structural division, to provide engineering review of projects, and to continue to develop and maintain the division's technical standards. Outside of work, I have been married for 18 years, and have two wonderful daughters, ages 14 and 11. We have a houseful of pets, and love to spend our time in nature, preferring a trip to a quiet cottage in the summer over a visit to a big city. I love to spend my evenings by my wood-burning fireplace, researching my family's ancestry, or watching a historical documentary. I consider myself a stained glass artisan and enjoy woodworking as well. I like to work around the house and to build and fix things, often having numerous projects on the go at once. My goal is to one day retire to a secluded ocean-front property on Canada's east coast.

02. What DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?

The people I get to collaborate and problem solve with every day. I love being able to work with colleagues and clients to find cost-effective, efficient solutions to design and construction issues.

03. What do you think is the most important skill that a successful professional needs to have?

The ability to adapt to changes. Whether it be adapting to a client's individual needs and requests, or adapting to changes in the building codes or municipal regulations, there are always changes that professionals will face. Being able to adapt to these changes throughout the project and throughout your career will allow you to serve the community with regards to safety, and serve the client with regards to cost-effectiveness.

Graeme's journey from a young boy intrigued by wind engineering to a respected leader in structural engineering exemplifies the power of passion and commitment. His focus on collaboration and adaptability makes him a valuable asset to SBM. His story is a source of inspiration and a testament to the company's commitment to excellence and innovation in the field of structural engineering.

Stay tuned for more stories and insights from our talented team in future spotlights!