William F. Baker

William F. Baker is a structural engineering consulting partner at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM), where he has led the structural engineering practice for over two decades. He is also an Adjunct Professor at Northwestern University and an Honorary Professor at the University of Cambridge, reflecting his dual commitment to industry innovation and academia.

• Key Affiliations: SOM Partner, Northwestern University Adjunct Professor, University of Cambridge Honorary Professor

Baker is renowned for pioneering design approaches that enhance structural efficiency, exemplified by his leadership in the structural engineering of iconic towers such as the Burj Khalifa (2,700 feet tall). His expertise spans the intersection of engineering, architecture, and urban development.

Research and Professional Contributions: His work focuses on advanced structural systems, tall buildings, and integrative computational design methods. He actively collaborates with institutions of higher learning and professional organizations globally.

Professional Honors:

• Gold Medal, Institution of Structural Engineers
• ASCE Outstanding Projects and Leaders Lifetime Award for Design
• Gustav Magnel Gold Medal, University of Ghent
• Fazlur Rahman Khan Medal, Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat
• Fritz Leonhardt Preis, Germany
• Honorary Doctorates: University of Stuttgart, Heriot-Watt University, Illinois Institute of Technology, University of Missouri

Leadership and Impact: Baker’s career at SOM includes leading structural designs for 26 towers exceeding 300 meters, reshaping skylines and engineering standards. He remains a pivotal figure in advancing global structural engineering practices through research and education partnerships.