AJ Behm Joins R&M’s Surface Transportation Group

AJ Behm recently joined R&M Consultants as a Staff Engineer in the firm’s Surface Transportation Group. Behm will assist with planning and design of civil engineering projects with an emphasis in roadways, pedestrian facilities, and utility relocations.

“It’s great when you find a local engineering graduate who grew up in Alaska like AJ,” says R&M’s Group Manager of Surface Transportation, Tim Grier. “Not only is he the grandson of one of R&M’s founding principals, Jim Rooney, he has tons of common sense, experience on team sports, and a love for Alaska backcountry recreation. AJ has the experience, background, and personality that fits our firm’s culture and will help him be successful.”

Behm brings a background in construction to his work at R&M. During college breaks, he interned for Knik Construction and the Alaska Department of Natural Resources (DNR). At Knik, Behm provided office engineering and managed storm water pollution prevention plans for heavy construction projects. While working with DNR, he inspected various state park construction sites and assisted with project engineering. This experience has given Behm familiarity with reading and interpreting construction documents and plans. He understands the construction process, giving him insight into how engineering designs are applied and brought to fruition.

Since joining R&M, Behm has provided engineering support for the Nanwalek/Port Graham Airport Relocation, Skagway State Street Rehabilitation, and Airport Way West Improvements in Fairbanks. His work has included creating alignment alternatives, quantities estimates, and plan sheets.

“R&M is a firm that has its roots in Alaska. We work on Alaskan projects that truly help this state, which is very important to me,” says Behm. “There’s a very close-knit group of fantastic individuals here that have welcomed me to the team. Everyone has really worked with me to develop my skills and push me to keep building on those skills.”

Behm has bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from UAF. He believes in giving back to the community and regularly volunteers with Bean’s Café and The Children’s Lunch Box. He is also a biannual blood donor with the Blood Bank of Alaska. Outside of work, Behm is an avid outdoors enthusiast and enjoys any activity where he gets to spend time outside. When not enjoying the Alaska outdoors, he travels the world and learns about other cultures.