Eric Baltzell, CEO of Garmann Miller, was inducted into the Parkway Local Schools Academic Alumni Hall of Fame Wednesday, May 17, during the district’s senior awards ceremony at the Parkway Auditorium. Baltzell, a Rockford native and 1990 graduate of Parkway High School, was selected by the committee for his accomplishments that have made substantial contributions to his profession and community.

“Parkway impacted me in so many ways,” Baltzell said. “The education I received helped give me a wide range of experiences from academics and sports to music and the arts.”

Baltzell was named CEO of Garmann Miller in 2017 after serving as the electrical engineering department lead since he came to the firm in 2001. His vision and leadership have advanced the firm to expand to three locations and a team of over 60 professionals. GM has earned Best Firms to Work For in 2019-2022 by industry reach leader Zweig Group. In 2020, Zweig also named GM its No. 1 full-service firm in the U.S., and awarded GM Marketing Excellence for the first time. Under his guidance, Garmann Miller has risen to a Building Design + Construction magazine and Engineering News-Record national top 100 firm. He is an active volunteer, serving on the Celina City Council as well as the board of directors for Our Home Family Resources serving Mercer County and Celina First Church of God Church Council.

A graduate of the University of Toledo, Baltzell earned the Professional Engineer certification after completing his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. He credits the teachers and coaches of Parkway that inspired him to pursue a purpose-driven career.

“I had some great teachers who challenged me and encouraged my interest in math and science,” he said. “Most importantly I had some great mentors that taught me leadership. Coach Mike Schumm was a great influence on me. He showed how to lead by providing clear direction, setting boundaries and expectations, and offering encouragement and compassion to those you lead.”

Baltzell encouraged the 2023 graduates to find their “why” as they enter the next chapter of their lives. He stated your “why” is the fundamental core of what inspires you and drives you to use your unique gifts to find fulfillment and purpose.

“For me, my ‘why’ is to have a positive impact on as many people and communities as I can in my lifetime,” he said. “I owe many thanks to the Parkway community for having a positive impact on me and for inspiring me to embrace my ‘why’.”