BJ quite literally “grew up” in the mechanical contracting business. BJ’s father started the company in 1963. In 1984, BJ took over day-to-day operations from his father, and today is the Chairman and CEO of Baker Group. BJ has led the company through expansion and change, growing the business by hiring the best and brightest people available. BJ’s team has broadened the company capabilities, offering more services to the customers. He tells customers to – Expect the Best^®.

Gary is a University of Northern Iowa graduate, starting with Baker Group right out of college in 1985. Gary believes very strongly that our success only comes when all of the stakeholders on the project are also successful. This philosophy drives our support of the entire construction team with cost-effective design, thorough pre-construction planning, and intense jobsite schedule coordination. Gary also plays an important role in business development and is an active leader in the community.

With more than 35 years of experience, Doug Kumm has established himself as a trusted and reliable leader on the Baker Group team. As President, Doug oversees the day-to-day operations of the organization to include all business units and administrative functions. Additionally, he works closely with the CEO and Board to establish the strategic direction for Baker Group. Doug has a strong track record of delivering on-budget and on-schedule projects. His vast experience—in the industry and at Baker Group—makes him the ideal person to lead day-to-day operations in Building Better Communities while ensuring our clients can continue to Expect the Best.

Rob has spent his entire career with Baker Group, leading as Project Manager and Operations Manager on a variety of major projects.  As Vice President, he is further developing our support to field resources and consistency across business units. Rob carries plumbing licenses in seven states, including Iowa Master Plumber and Master Hydronic licenses. He also is a licensed plumbing inspector and a graduate of Des Moines Area Community College and the Plumbers & Steamfitters Apprentice Program.

In 2018, Mark joined Baker Group to enhance the financial team’s capacity to support the company’s growing business lines with finance, accounting, risk management and operational expertise. Mark graduated from University of Northern Iowa in 1993, became a CPA and worked in public accounting for four years. In 1998, he went to work for one of his clients, Loffredo Fresh Produce, where he contributed to the company’s success year after year.

Cindi began in her role at Baker Group in early 2020, bringing to our table proven leadership in strategic workforce planning and a strong track record in developing capabilities among all employee categories. For 25 years, she enabled growth at major Midwest and national companies.  As a native Iowan with degrees from several Iowa universities, she appreciates the culture of achievement that characterizes Baker Group, and works to develop the human potential with which it will embrace a future of growth.

Daryld started with Baker Group in 1996 as Service Manager. Daryld's Customer focus brought success and double-digit growth to our Service business. In 2001, Daryld became the Control Technology Manager, bringing a focus on process improvement that delivered significant growth in temperature controls, security and fire alarm systems. In 2004, Daryld became Vice President of Business Development for the entire Baker Group organization, and in 2024 he became one of our Senior Advisors.

Joel began his career as a project manager at Baker Group in 2001. He has a bachelor’s degree from Dordt College and an advanced degree from Iowa State University.  He came to Baker Group with eight years of experience as a structural engineer and project manager in the industrial sector.  Over the years Joel has led many of Baker Group’s largest and most challenging projects.  As VP of the Mechanical Business Unit, Joel leads pre-construction activities and continues to develop teams that bring best-in-class service to internal and external customers alike.

A construction industry veteran, Mike oversees Baker Group’s Electrical and Industrial Business Units. Over the past 20 years, he has designed and managed a wide range of jobs, including some of our largest and most complicated projects. Mike is well-respected for his team-focused management style and ability to deliver innovative solutions and clear direction to construction challenges. He is known for working collaboratively with all members of the construction team to deliver improved processes, ensure successful projects and manage with integrity and trust.

Brandon leads and organizes Baker Group’s efforts to provide our clients with systems, costs and solutions that bring value to project teams. He creates and cements strong relationships between clients and Baker Group, and exemplifies our philosophy that clients find the highest value for their own goals by working with Baker Group. Brandon is a 2004 graduate of Iowa State University with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering.

Joel has been an integral part of Baker Group for over 18 years, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the team. He holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Iowa State University, and since joining Baker Group, has played a pivotal role in many significant projects such as the Krause Gateway Center and the Principal Financial Group Corp 1 Remodel. Joel's dedication to energy modeling, life-cycle cost analysis, and construction reviews exemplifies his commitment to delivering high-quality solutions. Joel is a LEED AP and a member of the American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). His leadership in engineering continues to drive Baker Group's success in providing innovative and efficient mechanical solutions.

Alex joined Baker Group in 2019 as a Project Manager in our Mechanical Business Unit. A 2013 graduate of the Mechanical Engineering program at Iowa State University, from his start at Baker Group Alex has displayed a grasp of the design-build and design-assist process that enabled the management of several multimillion-dollar projects. In 2022, Alex was named Vice President of the Mechanical Business Unit. His client-centric approach and attention to detail are critical in the position, where he leads all aspects of the unit, from design-build through budgeting and construction.

Tom brings over 30 years of sheet metal experience to the team. As Vice President, Tom is responsible for the overall operation and coordination of the Sheet Metal Business Unit at Baker Group. Today, Baker Group’s Sheet Metal Business Unit has grown into one of the largest in the Midwest. Baker Group sheet metal products are found in the most demanding environments — from hospital operating rooms to heavy industry. If it can be made of metal, Tom's team can deliver.

With over 19 years of electrical experience, Caleb brings a strong track record of project experience and client satisfaction. Caleb’s experience started in the field, and in 2008 he completed his Electrical Apprenticeship Program. A member of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and a Business Record Forty Under 40 Class of 2020 member, Caleb will support our Electrical Business Unit into the future.

Jordan leads Baker Group's Industrial  Business Unit, the group, which focuses on growth in the industrial sector and its niche markets.  He graduated from Simpson College and completed the Local #33 Plumbers & Steamfitters Apprenticeship Training Program in 2005. Jordan also holds a State of Iowa Master Plumbing License, State of Iowa Master Hydronic License and State of Iowa Journeyman HVAC License.  He has worked with us for many years, working on a variety of our more difficult and outside-the-box projects. These run across a broad spectrum from waste water treatment facilities to renewable fuel plants, with many in agriculture-related industries. 

Jarod brings over 11 years of experience in HVAC and Automation system design, installation and operation to his leadership role in the Automation Business Unit. Jarod is a licensed Professional Engineer with extensive knowledge in Mechanical HVAC design and sustainable system strategies. He understands how to make buildings comfortable, productive and energy efficient. Jarod’s strong understanding of complex HVAC systems design, automation, power monitoring systems, and facility dashboards is a tremendous asset to our clients.

Jon’s drive to maximize clients’ safety and security, employee productivity and ROI has benefited clients in a multitude of business sectors – from private enterprise and healthcare to public agencies. Responsible for the overall operation, coordination, and growth of the Technology Business Unit, Jon Leads with a mindset of Ownership, and has a long track record of creating highly collaborative teams that help clients make strong financial decisions. Jon is a University of Minnesota Graduate and brings over 25 years of business and leadership experience to the Technology business unit. 

Dale started his career with Baker Group in 2003 as a mechanical design engineer. With a BS in Construction Engineering with a mechanical emphasis and certification from the State of Iowa as a Professional Engineer, Dale has demonstrated strong values and leadership skills. Dale’s engineering background and design experience is very useful in trouble shooting mechanical systems and designing the right solution. As Service manager, Dale is responsible for long-term customer support and satisfaction.

Jeff Jordan is Vice President of Baker Group’s Cedar Rapids Branch. In his role, Jeff oversees financial performance, client experience, and team management. Jeff also represents the Cedar Rapids Branch on Baker Group’s leadership team. He has been with Baker Group since 2007, most recently serving as a Senior Project Manager and Team Leader in the Sheet Metal Business Unit. Jeff’s extensive experience and proven track record of success have significantly contributed to many projects in Eastern Iowa.

Jason has been with Baker Group his entire career, starting in the sheet metal apprenticeship program. He spent 16 years in the field before transitioning into the office as Manufacturing Team Leader and Operations Manager for the Sheet Metal Business Unit. In that role, Jason managed Baker Group’s prefabrication team. As Vice President of Field Operations, he coordinates activities of multiple projects across all business units. He also leads field employees and provides needed resources through training and mentoring. His experience across multiple positions with Baker Group allows Jason to be an effective leader.

Blake has applied his leadership and IT skills at Baker Group and with many of its clients for his entire 20-year career, ranging from networks and data processing to business continuity, data confidentiality, integrity and availability. He is a technology problem solver, creating solutions across many disciplines including network infrastructures (i.e. TCP/IP communications, subnets, routing and design); enterprise-level operating systems; active desktop and server hardware; and data storage, among others. Blake earned an M.C.S.E. certification in 1998 as well as a more recent Cisco Certified Network Associate and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP.)

Tracy guides the company’s Safety Program – an area in which Baker Group is heralded for diligence and standards. It’s his passion and his team’s mission that everyone on our projects can go home safely. Throughout his 20 years with Baker Group, Tracy has emphasized communication, education and follow-through. Among accomplishments, Tracy has been an OSHA 500, CPR/1^st Aid, State Fire and Aerial Platform instructor, as well as an accredited safety instructor for the mechanical and plumbing license. He holds positions on many professional safety task forces and committees and has earned the Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) certification. 

Kayla is the Marketing Director at Baker Group, leading the execution of comprehensive marketing strategies that strengthen brand visibility and drive business growth. With a degree in Communication Studies and Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Iowa, Kayla is focused on harnessing her expertise to foster robust customer relationships and enhance brand loyalty. Kayla is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Organizational Management with a focus on Leadership and Public Relations.

Sandi has been with Baker Group seven years, spending six supporting and collaborating with the CEO and President. In her current position, Sandi partners with the Senior Leadership Team to provide input and focus on strategic initiatives and processes to help move the organization forward. She also oversees the Project Coordinator department. Prior to her time at Baker Group, Sandi spent 25 years in relationship management and banking.