3/21/2019 12:00:00 AM
Philadelphia (March 21, 2019) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, planning and consulting services, announced today that Francesco (Frank) M. Russo, Ph.D., P.E.., Vice President and Technical Director, Bridge Engineering for Michael Baker, was recognized by the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) with its Special Achievement Award. He will receive the award April 3 during NASCC: The Steel Conference, in St. Louis.
The Special Achievement Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated notable achievements in structural steel design, construction, research or education. It honors those who have made a positive and substantial impact on the structural steel design and construction industry.
Dr. Russo is recognized for his contributions to the advancement of knowledge in inspection and emergency rehabilitation of complex steel structures. He is considered one of the top engineers in structural steel bridge design and the behavior of complex bridges. Known for his collaborative way of bringing engineers together to tackle complicated engineering problems, Dr. Russo has worked on several high-profile and high-pressure failure investigations. In addition to his stature as a practicing engineer, he has distinguished himself as an educator through numerous steel bridge articles he has authored and the short courses and college-level courses he has taught.
“Frank’s exceptional work has directly contributed to our standard of excellence and to Michael Baker International’s standing as one of the top providers of bridge services in the U.S.,” said Scott Roux, P.E., S.E. (HI), Senior Vice President and National Bridge Practice Lead for Michael Baker. “He is one of the foremost individuals our firm turns to for senior technical oversight on our most complex bridge projects and is very deserving of AISC’s Special Achievement recognition.”
A project in which Mr. Russo played a lead role, the Delaware River Bridge Emergency Response, was recognized by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Pennsylvania (ACEC/PA) with its 2019 Grand Conceptor Award for Michael Baker’s emergency field and office support, including engineering analysis, design and plan review to support truss repair, on-site operations and non-destructive testing (NDT). The bridge project was the largest-ever in the United States to use NDT and materials testing to assess a damaged steel bridge.
In his eight years with Michael Baker, Dr. Russo has helped to execute many of the firm’s most challenging bridge projects for key clients. He is renowned for his involvement with national technical committees and professional development, serving as a mentor to many of the firm’s early career professionals.
In addition, he has been instrumental in the success of Michael Baker’s development and delivery of its Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Bridge Training Courses. Since 2006, he has taught over 120 classes to department of transportation staff around the country and his award-winning work is known throughout the industry.
About Michael Baker International
Michael Baker International is a leading provider of engineering and consulting services, including design, planning, architectural, environmental, construction and program management. The company provides its comprehensive range of services and solutions to support U.S. federal, state, and municipal governments, foreign allied governments, and a wide range of commercial clients. Michael Baker’s more than 3,000 employees across nearly 100 locations are committed to a culture of innovation, collaboration and technological advancement to help solve challenges for clients and communities throughout the country. To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.
Contact: Brian Peiritsch
Email: brian.peiritsch@mbakerintl.com
