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Mechanical Engineering Alumni Promoted to Colonel of the U.S. Air Force

September 07, 2022

Michael B. Baker was promoted to Colonel of the United States Air Force on June 11, 2022.

Baker is the Deputy Commander of the 412th Operations Group, which conducts developmental tests and evaluations of nearly every aircraft and weapon in the U.S. Air Force inventory.

Baker received his bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the U.K. College of Engineering in 2000 and 2002. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Georgetown College, a master’s of flight test engineering from the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School and a master's in National Resource Strategy from the Eisenhower School of National Security and Resources Strategy.

Baker entered the U.S. Air Force in 2003 through Officer Training School. He has more than 2,300 flight hours in more than 30 aircraft types. He has flown missions in operations such as Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom and Horn Of Africa.

Baker has received the Meritorious Service Medal with one oak leaf cluster, the Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters, the Aerial Achievement Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal and the Air Force Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster.