Erik C. Backus

Erik C. Backus has a diverse work experience spanning over several years. Erik C. started their career as a Carpenter/Team Leader at 2B Contracting, Inc. in 1989. Erik C. then worked as an Operations Intern at Alberici Constructors in 2002 and as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Missouri-Rolla from 2001 to 2004.

From there, Erik took on various roles in project management and engineering. Erik C. worked as a Project Manager at Centennial Contractors from 2005 to 2006, handling contracts for the Fairfax County Government. Erik C. then became a Project Manager at George Mason University from 2006 to 2010, overseeing multiple capital improvement projects.

In 2011, Erik joined the George Mason University Engineering team as an Engineering Planner, where they developed planning and design policies and provided guidance on building and infrastructure projects.

In 2014, Erik joined Clarkson University as a Prof. of Practice and Howard E. Lechler Endowed Director, Construction Engineering Management, where they were responsible for overseeing the Construction Engineering program and managing the undergraduate CEM certificate program and graduate emphasis area. Erik C. also served as the Executive Officer for the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department from 2017 to 2021.

Finally, in their military career, Erik served in various roles in the US Army Reserve, starting as a Company Executive Officer in 1997 and progressing to Battalion Commander. Erik C. also served as the Chief of the Engineering Division, DPW at Fort Myer and held positions such as Design Engineer, Project Officer, and FEMA Liaison Officer.

Erik C. Backus has a diverse education history. Erik C. obtained a Doctor of Philosophy - PhD degree in Engineering Science from Clarkson University, graduating in 2023. Prior to that, they earned a Master of Science (MS) degree in Civil Engineering from the Missouri University of Science and Technology in 2004. Their undergraduate education includes a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Civil Engineering from Clarkson University, completed in 1997.

In addition to their degrees, Erik has obtained various certifications throughout their career. Some notable certifications include Resilience from the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED for Cities and Communities Certification Process Pro and LEED for Cities and Communities Rating System Pro from the U.S. Green Building Council, and Envision Sustainability Professional (ENV SP) from the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure. Erik C. is also certified as a Facility Management Professional (FMP) by IFMA and holds a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, Building Design and Construction (LEED AP BD+C) certification from Green Business Certification, Inc. Erik is a Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) in the State of Missouri and has served as a faculty member for various organizations, including the U.S. Green Building Council and Canvas Credentials (Badgr).