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Building a Career That Lasts: What 113 Years of Engineering Taught Me About People, Leadership, and Opportunity

Kenneth William Smith, PE, PLS, FACEC, is the Chief Executive Officer of T. Baker Smith and a distinguished leader in Louisiana’s engineering community. With over 45 years of experience in civil, environmental, and geomatics engineering, he brings deep technical expertise and strategic vision to the third-generation firm founded by his grandfather. Registered in 18 states, Kenny is recognized as a Fellow of the American Council of Engineering Companies for his longstanding contributions to industry advocacy and the development of future engineering leaders.

Kenny is known for his purpose-driven, people-first leadership philosophy. He believes organizational success begins with individual growth and is passionate about creating opportunities for others to lead, learn, and expand their potential. A natural visionary, he excels at aligning teams around a clear direction, championing progress over perfection, and fostering a culture where people feel both supported and challenged.

His leadership continues to influence not only T. Baker Smith, but the broader engineering community across the Gulf Coast.

Grounded by a strong sense of family, legacy, and service, Kenny finds his greatest joy in spending time with his wife of more than 45 years, their four daughters, and seven grandchildren. An avid outdoorsman, he looks forward to fishing and hunting with his sons-in-law and hopes they come to appreciate the remarkable community he calls home as deeply as he does.

Kenny defines success by the opportunities he creates for others—professionally and personally—leaving a lasting impact on the people and places he serves.