News

McKinney, Rivera Join Barge Design Solutions

23 / May / 2023

 

Barge Design Solutions (Barge) welcomes Mark McKinney, PE, and Kristen Rivera, PG, who have joined the firm as Water Practice Leader and Director of Environmental & Natural Resources, respectively.  

Mark McKinney, PE - Water Practice Leader

With two decades of experience in consulting and public utilities, Mark will oversee all aspects of Barge’s water and wastewater services, focusing on strategy and growth of the practice.

Based in Knoxville, TN, Mark is actively involved in Clean Water Professionals of Kentucky & Tennessee as its current Tennessee Vice President and participates in the Tennessee Society of Professional Engineers, Tennessee Association of Utility Districts, and Kentucky/Tennessee Section of the American Water Works.

Mark is a graduate of the University of Tennessee with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a master’s degree in environmental engineering. He also holds a professional engineer license in Tennessee and a Master of Business Administration from Western Governors University.

Mark enjoys serving as a board member for Solea Water and Knox ProCorps, two nonprofit organizations focused on improving the health and welfare of communities in East Tennessee and abroad.

“Over the past decade at a water utility district, I have witnessed Barge become one of the best consultants in the water sector. Their team’s combination of knowledge, integrity, and superior client service aligns with the level of excellence I desire for the industry. I am both thrilled and humbled to be joining Barge to lead the Water Solutions Center team.” – Mark McKinney, Water Practice Leader

Kristen Rivera, PG - Director of Environmental & Natural Resources

Kristen joins Barge with over 20 years of experience managing environmental issues for regulatory agencies, manufacturers, and consultants. Based in Peachtree Corners, GA, she will lead the environmental and natural resources team, which collaborates on various project types, including mission-critical facilities, communication infrastructure, commercial and residential development, recreational facilities, and transportation/roadway.

Kristen’s previous roles include positions with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, consulting firms, and a large manufacturer of consumer and commercial products.

The South Florida native graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with a bachelor’s degree in earth and atmospheric sciences, and a master’s degree in geology from Georgia State University. Kristen is a licensed professional geologist in Georgia and Florida.

"I am so happy to step into my new role at Barge. This is an exciting time to join the team, and I am honored to develop and grow the Environmental and Natural Resources Solution Center." - Kristen Rivera, Director – Environmental & Natural Resources Solution Center