Ankeny, Iowa - Sept. 10, 2025 – Baker Group, a full-service specialty contractor headquartered in Ankeny, today announced a series of leadership changes, including the appointment of Joel Veenstra as its new president. The move marks a transition as Doug Kumm, president since December 2021, retires after 36 years with the company.
Veenstra’s appointment, along with the promotions of tom Wengert to executive vice president and Russ Connett to vice president of sheet metal, reflects Baker Group’s commitment to succession planning and internal talent progress. These changes position the 62-year-old company – founded in 1963 and now employee-owned - for continued growth in the mechanical, plumbing, piping, electrical, custom metals, and building automation sectors.
Veenstra has been with Baker Group for over 24 years, most recently serving as executive vice president – new construction since December 2021. Kumm’s ”expertise, dedication and steady leadership have left a lasting mark on both the organization and the broader industry,” the company stated in a news release.
In addition to Veenstra’s promotion, Tom Wengert will continue to support the company’s sheet metal and mechanical teams as executive vice president. Wengert has been with Baker Group for 26 years, leading the sheet metal division since 2007. Russ Connett,a 30-year veteran of Baker Group,has been named vice president of sheet metal,transitioning from roles as a team lead and senior project manager.
“These promotions reflect both the depth of talent within our organization and our commitment to thoughtful succession planning,” said Gary Bridgewater, CEO of Baker Group. “We are grateful for Doug’s remarkable leadership and look forward to the continued growth and success of baker Group under Joel, Tom, and Russ.”
The leadership changes are effective Oct. 1.
