teamsupport

FIRM PROFILE | Support TEAM

The firm's passion for implementing cutting-edge foodservice environments through creative innovation is balanced by the fine-tuned precision of a Technical team lead by Senior Technical Engineer Stuart Drake, LEED AP. Stu is an accomplished Mechanical Engineer holding an A.A.S. in Mechanical Design Technology and a B.S. in Engineering from Michigan Technological University, with nearly 15 years of experience in highly relevant industries. He has a solid background in development of design drawings for commercial sites from preliminary concept to final construction documents, as well as hands-on foodservice experience, in both front and back-of-house operations. Stuart has overall responsibility for developing design documents, including detailing existing conditions in connection with renovation projects. In addition to project implementation and management, Stuart's technical background in AutoCAD® 2007/8, 3D and Survey Design helps to enhance coordination of architectural plans and facilitate smooth integration among trades, as The Baker Group continues to take on more and more higher education work nationwide.

An enthusiastic newcomer to the field, Stephanie Clark, LEED AP lends a fresh perspective to Baker as Design Administrator. A recent honors graduate of Michigan State University with a B.A. in Interior Design, Stephanie gained considerable experience in the field via student memberships in ASID and IIDA and through completion of MSU's Facilities Design Internship program, where she became proficient in the latest industry-standard technology such as AutoCAD® 2008, Revit® Architecture and 3ds Max®. Stephanie contributed talent and attention to detail to renovation projects involving help desk, computer lab, office space and many other environments on MSU's campus. When she is not generating schematic designs and CAD drawings, Stephanie collaborates with architects, clients and project team members nationwide to support their foodservice planning and design objectives. She is instrumental in coordinating deliverables and works closely with Quality Assurance / Quality Control to optimize production of drawings and documents. She is currently working on her LEED-AP certification and will be taking the NCIDQ examination next summer. An outdoor enthusiast, she enjoys traveling to new places, playing soccer, biking and roller-blading.

Nick Miller officially joined The Baker Group team as Technical Associate after completing a summer internship with the firm during 2007 while studying Architectural Drafting Technology at Grand Rapids Community College. Nick earned a scholarship and graduated with high honors from Jenison High School that include “Applied Technology Top Student”. In addition to volunteering for Habitat for Humanity and other local events, he has worked since 2005; most recently managing facilities for Sunset Association. Nick’s enthusiasm and experience with both 2-D and 3-D AutoCAD® 2008 led him to complete independent projects for the Auditorium, Media Center and Police Department of Jenison, Michigan. At The Baker Group, his consideration and attention to detail in working with Quality Assurance/Quality Control to optimize production of drawings and documents is a welcome contribution!

As the latest addition to The Baker Group, Adam Gorlewski strengthens the customer service commitment from the position of Planning Associate. Adam's professional background is aimed at maximizing client needs for a satisfactory environment, His most recent responsibility at Turnkey Network Solutions involved facilitating regulatory approvals, and rounds out a close ten year association with construction and building trades that has inspired keen appreciation for the sound planning and service that are guiding principles on The Baker Group team. With Builder Certification from Careerline Tech Center, an Associate Degree in Architecture Drafting Technology from Grand Rapids Community College as well as solid experience with AutoCAD® and Architectural Desktop®, Adam's great mix of knowledge and "hands-on" talent will add to the success of each project engagement on behalf of our clients and collaborators.

Julie Dunning, The Baker Group’s Client Liaison, brings over 25 years of foodservice expertise to the team with emphasis in operations management, information technology and marketing in the commercial restaurant segment. Julie earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Western Michigan University where she majored in Environmental Studies. In 1989 she earned a Certificate in Project Management from the Project Management Institute. In addition to spending over six years as General Manager and Limited Partner for a 14-unit fine dining and full bar concept chain operation based in Southern California, Julie managed the IT division of the largest full-service family restaurant chain in the U.S. for several years before expanding her expertise to include technology implementation and integration, becoming a specialist in inventory, labor, CRM and Web services enterprise management systems. She remains actively affiliated with the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), Michigan Waterfront Alliance and the Michigan Lake & Stream Association. Julie is responsible for business development at The Baker Group, as well as managing relationships with clients and collaborators.