Mark Baker

Prior, during and after obtaining a BSEE from the University of Arizona, Mark worked in the semiconductor industry on several early innovations. He left the semiconductor industry to become one of the founding principals of Modular Mining Systems to help develop and provide disruptive technologies to the mining industry. After the acquisition of Modular by Komatsu, Mr. Baker was responsible for the development and commercialization of its autonomous haulage system. Following his decades-long career with Modular and Komatsu, Mark began CheckMark Consulting Inc. to provide strategic advice to both mining operators and OEMs on realizing the inherent value from both developing and deployed innovative technologies. He has applied his expertise and experience to such companies as PD/Freeport, KGHM, Anglo American, Caterpillar and Hexagon. Mr. Baker has served on the Lowell Institute for Mineral Resources Board of Directors. He is currently serving on the College of Engineering Dean’s Advisory Board, the Industry Leadership Board for MGE and the new School of Mining and Mineral Resources board of directors.

Mark is also a Commercialization Partner with Tech Launch Arizona and is involved with one UACI and three TLA startups. Beyond campus, he serves as a board member and advisor to various non-profit organizations, including the Mining Foundation of the Southwest and the Arizona Conference of the Society of Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration, and is involved with two other commercial startups.