AUSTIN, TX — Michael Baker International announces that Akila Thamizharasan, PE, PTOE, PMP, has joined the company as Office Executive for Central Texas, which is comprised of the firm's Austin/Round Rock and San Antonio offices.

In this role, Thamizharasan will lead the firm's strategic growth and client engagement across Central Texas by strengthening existing relationships and cultivating new opportunities to expand Michael Baker's footprint in the broader Texas market. She will enhance operational effectiveness and project delivery by driving business development, elevating execution and quality standards, and promoting service excellence across disciplines. Thamizharasan will advance a collaborative and growth-oriented culture by partnering with Texas leaders to foster continuous learning, synergies, and innovation.

"Akila brings nearly 25 years of transportation experience and a deep understanding of program management at every level of government to her role as Office Executive," said Tommy Montgomery, PE, Southern Regional Director at Michael Baker International. "Her collaborative approach across the public and private sectors, combined with her expertise in planning, design, systems safety, and emerging technologies, makes her a tremendous asset to our clients. Just as important, Akila is a respected mentor and team builder who knows how to develop talent and deliver results. I look forward to partnering with her as we continue to grow our presence across Central Texas and deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients."

Thamizharasan joins Michael Baker as a transportation professional who has successfully led strategic initiatives involving emerging technologies and managed programs across both public and private sectors. She most recently served as Associate Vice President for AECOM and was previously Director of Advance Project Development in the Texas Department of Transportation Austin District. Earlier in her career, Thamizharasan was Senior Project Manager for CDM Smith and Senior Transportation Project Engineer for Tetra Tech.

Thamizharasan earned a Master of Science in transportation engineering from Clemson University and a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from the University of Madras (India).