Team Member Spotlight: Preston Baker

Say Hello to Preston! MP2 Partner and All-Around Sports Aficionado

 

Preston Baker knew from the start that MP-Squared was the place for him. His first day at MP2? A golf outing—the perfect welcome for a sports enthusiast such as himself!

Since joining MP2 as a Structural Engineer that day in July of 2018, Preston has grown into a leadership position as a Partner in the firm. He plays a key role in delivering innovative structural engineering solutions and managing projects, while building strong relationships with our clients.

Tell us about your experience at MP2?

 

Since my first day golfing with colleagues, up until today, it’s been a rewarding place to work.

Day-to-day, I focus on structural engineering design and project management, which entails working closely with architects, owners and contractors and handling pretty much anything related to building structural engineering. I really enjoy the variety. Working on different types of structures keeps things interesting and makes every project unique.

How did you become interested in structural engineering?

 

I’ve always liked figuring out how things work. Growing up, I was constantly building things with toys and figuring out how to assemble them effectively. I went to college for structural engineering right out of high school, and I still love it! It’s rewarding to see projects come together and know you played a part in making them safe and successful.

What’s been your favorite project at MP2?

 

One project that stands out is a structural building evaluation I did for an old casket factory that was being converted into apartments. The building had been vacant for many years and needed substantial structural review.

I’ll never forget how dark, quiet and spooky some of the areas I inspected were. But it was incredibly rewarding to help bring new life to the historic structure.

 

What’s your go-to productivity hack?

 

Every morning, I enjoy making a cortado, or latte, to get my thoughts in order before jumping into my work!

What do you like doing outside of work?

 

I grew up playing just about every sport imaginable, and I still enjoy staying active. I play in a weekly hockey league and occasionally compete in pond hockey tournaments.

I also enjoy downhill skiing, especially in the mountains out west. I’ve been going on ski trips with a group of friends for more than 10 years now, and it’s a tradition I always look forward to.

When not doing something sports related, I enjoy woodworking, whether it be building kitchen cabinets and furniture or framing a house!

I also love traveling and hiking around the world with my wife. (We always manage to visit some famous structures while we’re at it!)

Do you have any pets?

 

We have an Australian cattle dog/beagle mix named Charlie who’s full of grumpy personality—though you’d never guess it from how cute he is!

What’s a fun fact most people don’t know about you?

 

I can ride a unicycle!

Tell us one thing that’s on your bucket list.

 

I’m a huge baseball fan, with the Milwaukee Brewers being my overall favorite sports team. It’s my dream to visit every Major League Baseball stadium for a game. My wife and I have been to about 10 so far.

Thanks, Preston!

 

You can learn more about Preston’s professional background and meet the rest of our team here.