BBM Structural Engineers has been named the 2026 Consultant of the Year by AIA Orlando, a recognition celebrating the firm’s technical expertise, industry leadership, and longstanding commitment to Central Florida’s architectural and construction community.

The award was presented on Friday, November 6, during the AIA Orlando Design & Honor Awards at the Winter Park Events Center. For BBM, the honor represents more than an individual achievement. It recognizes over four decades of engineering work, professional relationships, and a team that has helped shape projects throughout the region.

A Legacy Built on Engineering and Collaboration

Established in 1984 by John Braga, BBM’s history spans more than four decades of structural engineering in Central Florida. The firm entered an important period of growth with the addition of Gary Burton, Will Braswell, and Joel Middlebrooks, whose leadership and technical expertise helped expand its capabilities and establish the foundation for the firm it is today.

That growth continued with Bora Erbilen, BBM’s current President, who has dedicated more than 30 years to the firm. The contributions of these leaders have been instrumental in strengthening BBM’s reputation, expanding its reach, and building lasting relationships within the architectural and construction communities.

Today, BBM has grown into a team of 42 professionals operating from its Orlando and Boca Raton offices, with engineering registrations in 45 states and territories. Its portfolio includes aviation projects throughout the United States, educational facilities, commercial developments, healthcare buildings, hospitality, institutional and cultural projects, multifamily and mixed-use facilities, public safety and emergency operations centers (EOC), government and correctional facilities, and complex structural projects, including more than 600 tilt-up projects.

Across these diverse project types, BBM’s engineers regularly develop specialized structural solutions that address complex engineering challenges while respecting architectural character, design intent, and project requirements.

Throughout its evolution, BBM has maintained a consistent approach: understanding the architect’s vision, developing practical structural solutions, and working closely with project teams to bring those designs to life.

A Longstanding Commitment to the Architectural Community

BBM’s relationship with AIA extends well beyond this recognition.

Through its involvement with AIA Orlando and AIA Florida, the firm has supported opportunities for professional development, industry collaboration, and the advancement of architecture throughout the state.

BBM’s participation in organizations and initiatives such as the Orlando Foundation for Architecture (OFA), Orlando Center for Architecture and Design (OCAD), and the Florida Architects Political Action Committee (FAPAC) further reflects its investment in the profession.

These relationships are an important part of BBM’s history. As structural engineers, the team recognizes the value of working alongside architects from the earliest stages of design, helping transform architectural concepts into structures that meet performance requirements while respecting design intent.

Engineering Leadership That Extends Beyond Projects

The AIA Orlando Consultant of the Year Award recognizes firms that encourage outstanding craftsmanship and workmanship on local projects while demonstrating leadership and meaningful community involvement.

BBM’s contributions reflect these principles through its project work, participation in professional organizations, and support for community initiatives.

The firm has also invested in developing its own professionals. With team members whose careers span decades, BBM has cultivated an environment where experience is shared, emerging talent is mentored, and leadership continues to develop from within.

Beyond engineering, BBM’s support of organizations and charitable initiatives, including the American Heart Association and AdventHealth Foundation, reflects its commitment to the communities where its employees live and work.

Recognition Shared Across the BBM Team

Being named Consultant of the Year is a meaningful milestone in BBM’s history, particularly because the recognition comes from the architectural community with which the firm has worked so closely for more than 40 years.

It acknowledges the contributions of the firm’s founder, its past and current leadership, and the generations of engineers, designers, and professionals who have helped establish BBM’s reputation.

BBM extends its sincere appreciation to AIA Orlando for this honor, to its architectural and construction partners for their continued trust, and to every member of the BBM team whose work has contributed to this achievement.

As BBM looks ahead, the firm remains committed to the principles that have guided its work since 1984: engineering expertise, professional collaboration, and service to the communities it helps build.

Learn more about the AIA Orlando Design & Honor Awards.