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GRP | WEGMAN Announces Addition of Tim Bakker as Chief Operating Officer

February 16, 2023

Bethalto, IL - GRP | WEGMAN is pleased to announce the appointment of Tim Bakker to its leadership team as the Chief Operating Officer (COO). Bakker has assumed the role of COO in support of GRP | WEGMAN's mission to supporting our customers ever increasing sustainability and facility needs through innovative guaranteed outcome contracting solutions. We’re excited to welcome Tim to our team and look forward to his leadership in continuing to expand our position as a leading Energy Services Company.

"We are thrilled to have Tim Bakker join us at GRP | WEGMAN." said Thomas Declue III, President and CEO. "His extensive knowledge and expertise in the Sustainability and Energy Efficiency industry are assets that are sure to be valuable in furthering the success of GRP | WEGMAN."

In this role, Mr. Bakker will lead and execute the operations of GRP | WEGMAN, driving strategic growth opportunities by supporting existing efforts and developing new business lines and expanded territory; and leading the team with a client-centric focus.

"I am excited to join GRP | WEGMAN and help drive its growth and success. I look forward to leading a dynamic team that is deeply dedicated to excellence and that is making a positive impact on our customers, employees, and the industry," said Bakker.

Tim brings more than 30 years of experience in the energy industry, having led sustainable energy and energy performance contracting initiatives. With his deep knowledge of the industry, Bakker is set to help guide GRP | WEGMAN in delivering innovative solutions, integrated services and dedicated commitment to its customers.

For example, an outdated library can be transformed into a collaborative learning commons with flexible seating, technology-rich workstations, and interactive displays.
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A vacant classroom can become a makerspace where students can explore hands-on learning and develop critical skills in science, technology, engineering, and math.

But the vision doesn't have to stop at the classroom door. Schools that have sat vacant for three to five years represent some of the most compelling adaptive reuse opportunities in any community. A shuttered school can be reimagined as:

Affordable senior housing or elder wellness space – bringing dignity and community connection to an aging population that helped build the neighborhoods these buildings once served. Engage stakeholders early in the process to gather input and build support for the project. Students, faculty, and staff can provide valuable insights into the types of spaces and amenities that will best support their needs.
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A veteran support center, offering stable, supportive environments for those transitioning back to civilian life. Prioritize flexibility and multi-functionality in the design process. Creating spaces that can adapt to changing needs and serve multiple purposes will maximize the value of the investment. This may include incorporating movable walls, modular furniture, and technology-rich infrastructure.
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An early childhood, daycare, or parent support center to expand local services for pre-school aged children.
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A community center or "third place" – a gathering space for neighbors who need programming, connection, and services outside of home and work.

And as cities track demographic shifts and prepare for the next wave of population growth, these buildings stand ready to be restored to their original purpose, welcoming students again when the community needs them most. A vacant school is never just an empty building. It's stored potential, waiting for the right plan and to serve the community and bring it back to life.

When planning an adaptive reuse project, educational institutions should consider these key strategies:

Engage stakeholders early in the process to gather input and build support for the project. Students, faculty, and staff can provide valuable insights into the types of spaces and amenities that will best support their needs.
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Prioritize flexibility and multi-functionality in the design process. Creating spaces that can adapt to changing needs and serve multiple purposes will maximize the value of the investment. This may include incorporating movable walls, modular furniture, and technology-rich infrastructure.
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Consider the long-term impact of the project, not just for the educational institution, but for the community as a whole. By repurposing these spaces, schools and universities can ensure that they have the necessary facilities to meet the evolving needs of their students and the wider community.
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By embracing adaptive reuse and implementing these strategies, educational institutions can transform underutilized spaces into vibrant, engaging learning environments that inspire students and support academic excellence. As schools and universities consider the future of their facilities, adaptive reuse should be a key strategy in their planning process.

GRP|WEGMAN's infrastructure specialists are here to help you redevelop your spaces for your community's current and future needs.

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GRP | WEGMAN Announces Addition of Tim Bakker as Chief Operating Officer

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