Driving the Future: Fueled by Excellence, Inspired by Innovation
Baker Engineering is a Michigan engineering and precision manufacturing firm founded in 1965, specializing in custom engineered solutions for aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing clients. With more than 60 years of expertise in combustion engine design, propulsion systems development, and in-house prototype manufacturing, Baker has completed more than 50 U.S. government contracts for clients including the U.S. Department of Defense, Air Force Research Laboratory, Army, Navy, and DARPA. Headquartered in Nunica, Michigan, Baker maintains a Power and Propulsion Center of Excellence and a Manufacturing Center of Excellence in Muskegon, offering 5-axis CNC machining, full-cycle prototype development, vehicle subsystem integration, and automotive performance engineering.
AS9100D · ISO 9001:2015 · ITAR Registered · AIAM Certified · CMMC 2.0 Level 2 Compliant · NIST 800-171 Compliant
Luke WackerlePresident
Mark DornerChief Engineer
Noah HopsonProduct Engineering Lead
Levi RoodvoetsEngineering Manager
Shawn KnopManufacturing Manager
Jack AdkinsBusiness Development Manager
Heidi OrtizQuality Manager
TJ GrimesPerformance Manager
Baker Engineering performs research and development for industries requiring precision and innovation, including aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing. The team manages the full development cycle from initial concept through detailed product design, analysis, prototype manufacturing, assembly, and testing, with roots in combustion engine and propulsion systems development.
Baker Engineering produces precision parts and assemblies from prototype to production, specializing in small-to-mid-size complex components for aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing. Capabilities include 5-axis CNC milling, dual-spindle turning centers with live tooling, and multi-axis machining across aluminum, titanium, steels, Inconel, magnesium, and zinc. Digital manufacturing platforms include PTC Creo, Powermill, and Mastercam.
Heat treatment, coating, and grinding through trusted partners.
Baker Engineering has powered racing engines for more than 50 years, offering custom engine builds, late model tuning, and performance parts for street, drag race, off-shore marine, and circle track applications. Dyno testing includes engine dynamometer testing up to 1,500 hp and all-wheel drive chassis dyno testing up to 2,500 hp. Tuning platforms include HP Tuners and Tunercat for GM, Ford, and Dodge vehicles.
Defense · Aerospace · Automotive · Manufacturing · Federal · Research Facilities
Defense · Client: U.S. Air Force
Baker Engineering developed a compact common rail fuel injection system and demonstrated it on several engines ranging from 28 cc to 400 cc per combustion chamber.
Defense · Client: U.S. Air Force / U.S. Army / U.S. Navy
To support the addition of an oil-lubricated turbocharger and fuel pump drive on the Baker Heavy Fuel Rotary Engine, Baker Engineering developed a compact, lightweight dry sump oil system.
Defense · Client: U.S. Army
Baker Engineering developed a single cylinder opposed piston engine into a complete APU package with integrated support systems installed in the front sponson of the Stryker vehicle.