Dan L. Batrack’s career is a story of patience, learning, and growth. He joined Tetra Tech back in 1980, starting out as a project scientist and hydrographer. His early years were spent on real technical work, from arctic research to coastal and oceanographic modeling. Over time, he stepped into operations and leadership roles, moving upward until he became president and chief executive officer.
Growing a Global Company
Under Batrack’s leadership, Tetra Tech has transformed from a mid-sized engineering firm into a global consulting powerhouse. Today, the company handles projects in water, environment, renewable energy, and infrastructure across dozens of countries. During his time as CEO, both revenue and staff numbers have tripled. This growth has not been sudden or risky, but measured and deliberate. It reflects a focus on building long-term capacity rather than chasing short-term wins.
Bold Moves on the World Stage
One of the most defining moments under his watch was the acquisition of RPS Group, a leading UK environmental consultancy. Completed in early 2023 after a competitive bidding process, this deal brought thousands of skilled employees and a stronger footprint in Europe and Asia-Pacific.
Mixing Science With Business
Batrack has always pushed the company to balance technical skill with business growth. Alongside acquisitions, he has invested in data systems and digital platforms that turn complex environmental information into practical solutions for clients. He often says that engineering firms must not only know how to build, but also how to handle the flood of data that modern projects produce.
Respect for the Craft
Colleagues often point out that Batrack’s credibility comes from having done the work himself. He is not a leader who only knows balance sheets. His technical past allows him to understand the challenges his teams face in the field. Engineers and scientists inside the company see that he values their skills because he once stood where they are now. That respect builds trust across the organization.
Building for the Long Term
Beyond day-to-day operations, Batrack has focused on building a strong backlog of projects. Under his leadership, Tetra Tech has secured significant government and commercial contracts, especially in climate resilience and renewable energy. The company’s backlog has hit record highs, giving it a steady base for future work. This careful planning reflects his belief that stability is as important as rapid growth.
Education and Early Lessons
Batrack studied business administration at the University of Washington, earning his bachelor’s degree before joining Tetra Tech. That foundation in business, paired with his technical fieldwork, shaped the way he approaches leadership. He believes in clear strategies, measurable results, and strong technical standards, a mix of business logic and engineering discipline.
A Quiet Life Away From Work
While his professional achievements are widely known, Batrack keeps his personal life private. He lives in the Pasadena area, close to Tetra Tech’s headquarters, and rarely appears in the media outside company announcements. This low-profile lifestyle suggests a preference for privacy, with the focus kept firmly on the company’s achievements rather than his own.
Leading With Balance
Inside Tetra Tech, Batrack is known for his steady voice and practical style. He sets clear goals and expects high technical standards. At the same time, he encourages investment in modern tools and methods so the company can handle the complexity of large-scale projects. This balance, respect for tradition while embracing innovation, is a key part of his leadership.
Meeting Challenges Head-On
Like any global firm working on sensitive environmental issues, Tetra Tech has faced legal and operational challenges. Under Batrack’s leadership, the company has navigated these carefully while keeping its focus on long-term goals. These episodes highlight the realities of leading a large technical services firm, where risks are part of the business. Yet through them all, he has kept the company moving forward.
A Career That Connects Past and Future
Looking at Batrack’s career, a clear pattern emerges: learn the work, respect the craft, grow with purpose, and invest in the future. He comes from the tradition of engineers who rose through the ranks, and he has carried those values into modern leadership. Today, Tetra Tech reflects that balance, a company grounded in technical excellence but always ready to adapt to new global challenges.
Dan Batrack is a leader who lets results do the talking. His mix of experience, quiet confidence, and forward-looking strategy has built Tetra Tech into a global name in engineering and consulting. For both clients and employees, that kind of leadership provides something rare: trust built on lived experience and consistent results.
