Michael Baker International recently made two additions to its human resources team: Penny Mercadante, who will serve as executive vice president and chief human resources officer, and Darcie Zeliesko, who will serve as vice president of talent management.

"Michael Baker continues to invest in HR and is committed to not only hiring, developing and retaining the best talent in the industry, but also to managing our talent as a critical resource that provides the best solutions and service to our clients," Michael Baker CEO Kurt Bergman said. “Both Penny and Darcie will bring value to these efforts and others through their career-long expertise developing and implementing innovative and agile talent approaches.”

Mercadante brings more than two decades of experience in human relations, including employee engagement, talent acquisition and strategic and budget planning and analysis at firms like LeadFirst, ServiceLink and Pitt Ohio Express. Zeliesko boasts experience from running an international leadership program and has held tenures at HIghmark Health, American Eagle Outfitters and Heinz World Headquarters.

"Michael Baker's commitment to its team members is evident and I am inspired by the value the firm places on its human capital," Mercadante said. "The company's desire to invest in their people is exactly why I hoped to be a part of this organization. I look forward to integrating and partnering with the business functions to develop an aligned and solutions-oriented approach that supports the organization and engages employees to maximize their potential."