Curt Beckemeyer has been appointed as the next president and CEO of Applied Research Associates (ARA), with his term beginning on October 1. Beckemeyer, who currently serves as ARA’s senior vice president and deputy CEO of Technical Operations, will succeed Rob Sues following a five-year succession planning process by the company’s board of directors.
Beckemeyer joined ARA in 1999 and brings over 35 years of experience in engineering and leadership. In his current role, he manages technical operations across national security, infrastructure, environment, energy, and health sciences sectors. As CEO, Beckemeyer will lead the executive team and oversee decisions related to investments and organizational structure.
Beckemeyer holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering from the University of Illinois. He is a registered Professional Engineer in several states and participates actively in professional organizations such as the National Defense Industrial Association Board of Directors and technical committees for both the Transportation Research Board of the National Academies and the American Society of Civil Engineers.
Rob Sues commented on the transition: “I’m confident Curt will help ARA effectively pursue its long-term goals and continue to solve problems of national importance. I look forward to seeing ARA prosper under his leadership.”
William “Brother” Ratliff has also been named executive vice president (EVP) and chief operating officer (COO), effective October 1, upon Beckemeyer's recommendation. Ratliff will manage technical operations at ARA while supporting strategic decision-making. He joined ARA in 2008 after serving 20 years in the U.S. Army where he held various command positions including roles focused on operations research and systems analysis.
Ratliff holds a bachelor’s degree from the U.S. Military Academy and a master’s degree in industrial engineering from Texas A&M University. His work at ARA has included program management for defense-related projects such as those with DARPA.
“Brother is a visionary leader,” Beckemeyer said. “Throughout his career at ARA, he has demonstrated success through a clearly articulated vision, the disciplined execution of key strategies, strong determination, and hard work.”
The appointments are expected to support ARA's goal to provide innovative solutions for critical challenges facing government and industry.
