Welcoming Rick Belden as Practice Area Leader for Transportation and Infrastructure
April, 2024
Otak proudly announces the appointment of Rick Belden as the newest addition to its executive leadership team. Rick will serve as the Practice Area Leader for Transportation and Infrastructure. With a rich background in engineering and a fervent commitment to community-centric projects, Rick brings invaluable expertise to Otak’s diverse portfolio.
A native of the Pacific Northwest, Rick’s journey as an engineer began in Oklahoma, where he was captivated by the intricacies of transportation engineering, particularly the art of highway design. Graduating from the University of Oklahoma, Rick’s career spans over 24 years, during which he has managed projects exceeding $1 billion in value. His tenure at Kiewit saw him spearheading pursuits and business development initiatives, along with nurturing in-house engineering capabilities.
“I am honored and excited to take on this new responsibility. I am eager to contribute to the continued growth and success of our team, leveraging my experience and passion for delivering exceptional results to our clients.”
Rick Belden, Practice Area Leader – Otak, Inc.
Rick’s decision to join Otak stems from his desire to make a significant impact and take on a larger role within an interdisciplinary firm. Drawn to Otak’s vision of a more sustainable world, Rick sees an opportunity to leverage his experience to help the firm expand into new markets, particularly in the realm of urban and rural highway design. His arrival significantly enhances Otak’s portfolio and aligns seamlessly with the firm’s goals for growth and innovation.
“As we look into the future and our growth, Rick possesses both the experience and the heart necessary to effectively lead our Transportation and Infrastructure team, ensuring we continue to provide our clients with extraordinary solutions to their complex challenges,” said Raul E. Aviles Jr., PE, CEO of Otak. “We eagerly anticipate the positive impact Rick will undoubtedly have on both our team members and our clients.”
Scott Dreher PE, COO of Otak, added, “Rick’s proven track record and dedication make him the ideal candidate to spearhead our Transportation and Infrastructure team towards even greater success.”
Rick expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “I am honored and excited to take on this new responsibility. I am eager to contribute to the continued growth and success of our team, leveraging my experience and passion for delivering exceptional results to our clients.”
With a focus on infrastructure and market expansion, Rick aims to secure significant highway projects that will pave the way for national growth. He is committed to mentoring and empowering existing talent while strategically bringing in new hires to build a team unrivaled in the industry. Rick envisions Otak evolving into a more comprehensive engineering firm, branching out from its current portfolio starting with additional rural highway projects and expanding from there.
As Rick embarks on this new chapter with Otak, he is energized to establish vital connections, embrace Otak’s supportive culture, and lay the groundwork for transformative projects. Otak eagerly anticipates the impact he will bring to the organization and the communities it serves.