James Koch is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Michael Baker International. With more than 40 years of experience, Dr. Koch's background spans both military and engineering firm realms, with a strong emphasis on Federal and international programs. Dr. Koch's illustrious career began with the United States Army, where he held various roles in engineering operations, ultimately serving as a Battalion and Joint Task Force Commander in Central America. His final Army assignment was as the Director of the U.S. Army Engineer School's Department of Tactics, Leadership & Engineering. Following his distinguished military service, he transitioned to the private sector, taking on senior leadership roles managing projects, programs, and operations across the United States and various countries.
Throughout his career, Dr. Koch has earned numerous accolades, including the United States Department of Defense Legion of Merit with one Oak Leaf Cluster, as well as the Army Engineer Association Bronze and Silver Order of the de Fleury Medals.
Dr. Koch holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce from Washington and Lee University, a Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering and the Degree of Engineer in Construction Engineering and Management from Stanford University. Additionally, he earned a Ph.D. in Engineering Management from the Missouri University of Science and Technology, where he was recently inducted into the Academy of Engineering Management, an elite group representing the top 1% of engineering management graduates.
