CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR NEW PRINCIPALS AND DIRECTOR
We are excited to share an incredible milestone for RTM and our people. In recognition of their outstanding leadership, dedication, and impact on our teams and clients, we’re proud to announce the promotion of six colleagues to Principal and one to Director in 2025.
These promotions represent more than individual achievements, they reflect the collaborative spirit that defines RTM. Each of these leaders exemplifies what makes our firm exceptional: a shared passion for excellence, a commitment to serving clients with distinction, and a drive to shape RTM’s future together.
Please join us in congratulating them on this well-deserved accomplishment. We look forward to their continued leadership and the positive influence they will bring to our teams, clients, and community.
Chris Bolin | Principal – Mechanical Engineer
Chris joined RTM in 2023 and has been instrumental in expanding the firm’s global footprint. His leadership has enhanced collaboration across time zones and disciplines, supporting the development of unified processes and best practices. Chris authored RTM’s Global Playbook, a comprehensive framework for aligning standards and streamlining operations across the organization. He also played a key role in developing and rolling out a new platform for our internal educational program, RTM University (RTMU), which enhances knowledge sharing and technical growth across the organization. With a background in mechanical engineering, Chris has more than a decade of experience designing complex systems for high-profile retail and mixed-use projects. He’s passionate about creating innovative solutions that merge technical excellence with practical design. As he steps into his new role as Principal, Chris remains focused on expanding RTM’s global capacity, fostering sustainable growth, and supporting collaboration across every RTM office. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, camping, and spending time with his young family.
Aaron Burch, LEED AP | Principal – Electrical Engineer
Aaron joined RTM in 2005 and has played a key role in shaping the firm’s growth and culture over the years. His career in engineering began early, working alongside his uncle in high school, where he learned AutoCAD, electrical design, and the fundamentals of running a small engineering business. That hands-on experience laid the foundation for a career defined by curiosity, problem-solving, and adaptability. Today, Aaron helps guide RTM’s global operations, provides engineering support for the IT department, and is leading the expansion of RTMU, the firm’s internal platform for training and intellectual property. His career is marked by several notable achievements, including establishing RTM’s first satellite office, developing the firm’s studio concept, and building diverse, high-performing teams that enhance operational efficiency. Looking ahead, Aaron’s goals will focus on continued expansion of our global capabilities and advancing RTMU as a central resource for learning and collaboration. Outside of RTM, he serves as an elder of Jehovah’s Witnesses, contributing his time to volunteer construction projects and offering encouragement and support to members of his local community.
Farris Haddad, PE | Principal – Civil Engineer
Farris has 28 years of civil engineering experience and is recognized as a trusted leader within the RTM team. He joined RTM in 2024 through the acquisition of K&A Engineering and has since taken on broader leadership responsibilities. He has focused on people and team development across RTM’s growing civil teams and guiding strategic planning as a Studio Leader within the Civil Master Planning division. He recently assumed oversight of RTM’s California Survey Studio, further strengthening collaboration and consistency across disciplines. Farris is focused on cultivating a cohesive, high-performing team through an approach he calls “serious play,” balancing excellence with enjoyment in the work. His vision centers on developing people, fostering innovation, and building teams that thrive on shared success. Nearly 30 years into his career, he remains energized by both the technical challenges of civil engineering and the opportunity to mentor and lead others. Farris is licensed in California and is pursuing additional state licensures to support RTM’s growth initiatives. Outside of work, he and his family are active executive members of a local country club, enjoying community involvement and connection beyond the workplace.
Keith Hammerschmidt, PE | Principal – Mechanical Engineer
Keith joined RTM in 2018 through the acquisition of Malone, Finkle, Eckhardt, & Collins (MFEC) and has since been an integral part of the firm. He has played a key role in expanding the education market in Kansas City and strengthening collaboration across RTM offices nationwide. Recognized for his leadership and mentorship, Keith has guided the growth and development of emerging engineers, led a studio team, and has and played a significant role in advancing RTM’s expertise and best practices in institutional projects. Licensed in Kansas, Missouri, and California, he is dedicated to technical excellence and creating meaningful community impact through his work. Keith discovered his passion for architectural engineering early on, where his love for math, science, and the built environment came together. He is especially inspired by education projects that bring learning spaces to life, from imaginative classroom designs to the joy and pride seen at ribbon-cutting ceremonies. As he steps into his new role as Principal, Keith looks forward to strengthening studios, driving productivity, and fostering professional growth.
Erin Pasold, PE | Principal – Mechanical Engineer
Erin joined RTM in 2024 following the acquisition of BG Buildingworks and brings 21 years of expertise, leadership, and dedication to delivering high-quality engineering solutions. Her career achievements include passing the PE exam on her first attempt, progressing through increasingly senior leadership roles, and now being named Principal. She is licensed in Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana, and is in the process of obtaining her California license. Erin was drawn to architectural engineering through her early interests in math, science, and building design. She particularly enjoys projects that foster collaboration with national architecture firms and those located in renowned resort destinations. Above all, she values working with clients who view engineers as trusted partners in the design process. Outside of work, Erin volunteers with Volunteers of America Northern Colorado and participates in local adult recreational sports leagues. Looking ahead, her professional goals focus on mentoring team members and supporting their growth to further strengthen her team.
Ben Sermersheim | Director of M&A, Strategic Initiatives
Ben joined RTM in 2022 and has quickly become a valued leader within the firm. Known for his adaptability and strategic insight, he has played a key role in several initiatives, including enhancing and expanding RTM’s project management systems; implementing advanced data management and analysis platforms, and driving improvements in operational efficiency – all of which have strengthened RTM’s operations and organizational effectiveness. In just three years, Ben has successfully led the integration of seven new teams, totaling 180 people, into RTM through mergers and acquisitions, demonstrating both his collaborative approach and ability to navigate complex challenges. In his role as Director of M&A, Strategic Initiatives, Ben will continue to expand RTM’s M&A partnerships and advance the firmwide adoption of data-driven tools to further strengthen data literacy and project management capabilities. Ben is inspired by the opportunity to work alongside talented, dedicated professionals and is energized by the challenge and reward of guiding complex projects and integrations.
Lindsey Simpson, PE | Principal – Civil Engineer
Lindsey has 14 years of civil engineering experience and has played an essential role in project management and leadership at RTM. She joined the firm in 2024 through the acquisition of K&A Engineering and has since become an integral part of the firm’s civil operations and growth. In addition to her project management expertise, Lindsey has been instrumental in driving business development initiatives, strengthening client relationships, and providing strategic leadership insight within RTM’s civil engineering groups. Most recently, she has stepped into a studio lead role, continuing to guide, mentor, and support her team. A licensed Professional Engineer in California and Idaho, Lindsey is known for her technical skill and collaborative mindset. She takes great pride in seeing communities come to life, from initial site planning to walking the completed streets of developments she once designed on paper. She thrives on the ever-evolving nature of industry, embracing each new challenge as an opportunity to learn, grow, and innovate. As she steps into this new leadership role, Lindsey is focused on leading and managing teams across RTM’s global offices, fostering strong relationships, and continued growth throughout the organization.