Our Story
Founded in 1983, Baynum Painting Inc., has been known as the premier global painter of amusement parks and water rides. Since its inception, the company has expanded its offerings into the commercial and industrial space, creating BPI Painting Company in 2011 and most recently expanded into construction services.
As we have continued to evolve over the past 40 years, we have merged both sides of our business, Baynum Painting Inc., and BPI Painting Company, under one master brand — Baynum Solutions. The purpose of this consolidation is to better reflect our expanded service offerings and drive clarity around what we stand for.
Our branded house architecture consists of two lines of business, Baynum Amusement Solutions supporting our global clients in the theme parks and attractions, and Baynum Commercial + Industrial Solutions supporting our local constituents in the Greater Cincinnati Area.
We thrive on challenges, and “can‘t” is a four-letter word we simply don’t use. We take on the massive, the intricate, and just plain hard jobs where others shy away. We passionately deliver solutions, go anywhere we’re needed, and bring our A-game every time…to ensure our customers deliver WOW experiences to their guests and employees.
But it’s more than that. It’s about the Baynum Way — delivering superior quality workmanship with a warm handshake and a friendly smile that lets people know they came to the right place. We treat people well, respect their time, and deliver beyond their expectations. Because treating everyone like family is more than a buzzword.
It’s just good business. It’s gotten us where we are today and will take us to new heights tomorrow.
“I have worked with Baynum Solution since 2015 to present. Baynum has completed many different projects at our facility ranging from large painting projects to remodeling of our control room. All of the work was completed safely, timely and professionally with quality second to none. I look forward to working with Baynum on further projects.”
— Terence Mann | Maintenance Supervisor , Marathon Petroleum Read more testimonials
Our Team
We show up and enthusiastically deliver our best every day; leveraging our knowledge and expertise to consistently exceed expectations. We are always there whenever or wherever you are in the world.
Chris Baynum
Founder LinkedIn ProfileChris founded Baynum Painting in 1983, and soon after was awarded his first roller coaster painting contract, coating The Beast at Kings Island. Successful completion of this project propelled Chris into the amusement and theme park industry, where he discovered our niche as a premier service provider for parks around the world. Since, he has expanded the Baynum brand to include a growing commercial and industrial clientele. Chris is known to treat everyone like they are a part of the Baynum family. He is dedicated to building long-lasting personal relationships with employees, customers, and partners – we wouldn’t be here today without them.
Walt Bowser
President & CEO LinkedIn ProfileWalt’s relationship with Baynum began as a high-profile client, during his 20-year tenure with Six Flags Entertainment Corp. As a longtime preferred vendor, Baynum successfully completed dozens of major coaster renovation projects under Walt’s expert direction and oversight. His proficiency in theme park operation and construction made him an ideal candidate for Baynum’s amusement team which he joined and has led since 2016. Serving as Amusement Solutions President, Walt’s fearless embrace of new challenges coupled with his dedication to building lasting industry relationships are key to our brands diversification and success today.
John Andrews
Senior Vice President LinkedIn ProfileSince 1992, John has been integral in development and leading sales and operations in our commercial and industrial markets. Currently serving as President of Baynum C+I Solutions, his more than 30 years of dedication and experience have cultivated a vast and spanning client base across virtually every business sector, both locally and nationwide. John’s uncompromising focus for listening to client’s needs and making the impossible happen have become the standard our tenured clients have relied on for decades – it’s become the Baynum Way.
Kevin Gessner
Senior Vice President, Administration LinkedIn ProfileWith over 25 years of leadership experience, Kevin has been instrumental in driving financial strategy, operational excellence, and organizational growth. Before joining Baynum Solutions as Senior Vice President, Administration, he led complex, multi-disciplinary programs at one of the nation’s top pediatric healthcare organizations. Now overseeing Baynum’s finance, human resources, marketing, and operations divisions, Kevin’s expertise and strategic leadership strengthen the company’s foundation—ensuring continued innovation, efficiency, and the high standards that Baynum’s partners and clients expect.
Jason Prather
Director, Sales – Amusement Solutions LinkedIn ProfileJason provides sales support, project management and administrative oversight to Baynum Amusement Solutions. With a tenured background in coating applications, specifically waterslide refurbishment and fiberglass repairs, Jason’s experience ensures the success of amusement ride and waterslide restoration projects. A member of the Baynum team since 2019, Jason has helped maintain Baynum’s reputation of uncompromising focus on delivering superior quality workmanship that our clients rely on.
Andy Maurek
Director, Sales – Amusement Solutions LinkedIn ProfileWith over four decades in the waterpark industry, Andy Maurek brings unparalleled expertise and innovation to Baynum Amusement Solutions. Known for his deep industry knowledge and dedication, Andy is a natural fit for our team. As Director of Amusement Solutions, he’ll drive growth, fortify relationships, and expand our industry reach. Andy’s commitment to industry advancement is evident through his involvement in esteemed organizations like WWA and IAAPA. We’re excited to include Andy in our lineup and anticipate the positive impact he’ll bring to our team and the industry.
Shannon Benjamin
Director, Sales – C&I Solutions LinkedIn ProfileWith a strong background in sales leadership and a passion for building lasting relationships, Shannon joined Baynum to help expand the reach of our Commercial & Industrial division. Known for his collaborative mindset and steady approach, Shannon works closely with clients to understand their challenges and identify practical solutions that protect and enhance their assets. His experience across coatings, restoration, and industrial environments allows him to connect quickly with customers and guide projects from concept through completion.
Sean Piercefield
Manager, Sales – C&I SolutionsWith an impressive track record of over a decade running his own successful construction company, Sean adds a dynamic new dimension to our team. Renowned for his craftsmanship, deep industry knowledge, and unwavering integrity, Sean is a natural fit for Baynum’s commitment to excellence. His reputation as a reliable problem-solver and a dedicated team player aligns perfectly with our values. In his role, Sean will be responsible for fortifying existing relationships and expanding our commercial and industrial division. His vast experience will guide the growth of our infrastructure to meet the demands of this rapidly evolving sector.
Jake Round
Manager, Sales – Life Floor LinkedIn ProfileWith a natural ability to connect with people and a passion for helping customers bring their spaces to life, Jake plays a key role in the growth of Baynum’s Life Floor division. Since joining the team, he has focused on supporting clients across the amusement and aquatic industries—guiding projects from early conversations through design, quoting, and installation coordination. Whether helping a park reimagine a splash pad or coordinating the details behind the scenes, Jake brings enthusiasm and attention to detail that reflects the Baynum commitment to delivering exceptional experiences.
Lauren May
Sales Support LinkedIn ProfileWith a strong focus on customer support and sales coordination, Lauren plays an important role in Baynum’s Commercial & Industrial division. As Inside Sales Representative, she works closely with customers and the sales team to manage proposals, track opportunities, and help move projects forward efficiently. Lauren’s organized approach and responsiveness make her a dependable resource for both clients and colleagues. Whether assisting with project details or supporting the sales pipeline behind the scenes, she consistently reflects the Baynum commitment to delivering thoughtful solutions and dependable service.
Melissa Bamford
Director, Marketing LinkedIn ProfileAfter an esteemed 10+ year history in the amusement industry, Melissa joined Baynum in 2018. A background in sales and operational leadership for proven industry suppliers, Melissa began as sales director for the amusement division. Longtime relationships with our existing customer base made for quick immersion into Baynum’s sales process and management of projects. Serving today as Director of Marketing, her confidence in who we are drives consistent and high-profile recognition of the Baynum Solutions brand and what we stand for.
Katie Guzman
Manager, Administration LinkedIn ProfileJoining the team in March 2016, Katie’s affable persona and cheerful smile offer a warm welcome for those connecting with and visiting our office – the true essence of the Baynum Way. Overseeing all office operations as our Administrative Manager, Katie and the front office team are the liaison between customers, vendors, partners, and our team. Her careful, thorough, and precise methods of work instill confidence that our administrative functions deliver efficient and accurate results, that we and our stakeholders rely on.
Doug Chaffin
Director, Risk Management, Compliance & SafetyDoug joined Baynum in 2010 and quickly garnered a reputation for his organizational skills and logical approach to solving problems big and small. His attention to detail and safety-first perspective allowed for the growth of our confined-space program which has become a key service for many clients today. Doug progressed into a project coordinator role in 2016, guiding crews, developing health and safety programs, and organizing day-to-day operations. His years of service were an ideal foundation for promotion to his current role as Director of Operations.
Esther Carr
Controller, Finance LinkedIn ProfileEsther has an esteemed resume working in financial and accounting leadership roles for prominent Cincinnati firms. Her knowledge of accounting best practices coupled with critical thinking and problem-solving skills made Esther an invaluable addition to Baynum Solutions in 2022 as our Finance Controller. Handling our most critical and sensitive information, her passion for creating and refining processes to efficiently manage data and drive strategic goals will support and enhance Baynum’s diversified business needs for continued success.
Darin Niesz
Manager, Field OperationsDarin’s interest in renovation and restoration began at the early age of 14, working in both painting and carpentry roles through his adolescent years. After spending time at various coating outfits, he became a spotlight member of the Baynum team in 2008 as a field painter. His expert craftmanship and passion for superior-quality work quickly landed him a role as foreman. Excelling in communication, organization and troubleshooting, Darin was promoted to Sr. Project Coordinator and is responsible for managing project teams and resources, ensuring success for our most valuable clients.
Testimonials
“Over the past 30 years, in my role as the Purchasing Agent/Facilities Manager with the City of Newport, as well as, in my current role, as the Chairperson of the Campbell County Courthouse Commission, I have had the opportunity to work with Baynum Solutions of Newport, KY. Our most recent collaboration, which was completed at the historic Campbell County Courthouse, involved the complete restoration of the clock and bell tower that sits atop the courthouse, a project that was long overdue adn much needed. The existing clock, prior to the restoration, were nonfunctional adn the tower was unsafe to enter due to the deteriorated flooring. I worked direction with Mr. John Andrews, Senior Vice President of Baynum Solutions, on this project, and the professionalism and attention to detail, provided by both John, and his team, far exceeded my expectations. I found that, as I had experienced previously during our many projects together over the years, Baynum Solutions’ main focus remains quality work and complete customer satisfaction.”
— Frank Peluso, Sr. | Chairperson , Campbell County Courthouse
“Working with Baynum Amusement Solutions is easy from A to Z. The communication, planning, action, and follow-up to their work to refurbish our Aquatic Play Unit exceeded our expectations. Thanks to you, the on-site team, and everyone behind the scenes of this project. We are stoked about the results.”
— Dana Staniunas | Director of Recreation , Massanutten Resort
“Baynum represents and handles each of our projects like their own, but they represent the Splashtacular’s brand to the highest standard possible. Walt, Kevin, and Katie are a true testament to a professional company specializing in the waterpark industry and handling tasks like a pro. Baynum is a huge part of Splashtacular’s continued growth!”
— Brian Faulkner | Vice President of Operations , Splashtacular
“I have worked with John Andrews and his team at Baynum for over 20 years and can say without a doubt that they give me top quality painters and products that make it easy to decide who to use on my jobs. John is always ready for a challenge and brings the paint reps. Out if he has even the slightest doubt of what product to use. It’s always a pleasure to partner with Baynum on any jobs they do for me.”
— Mark Runyan | Senior Division Manager , Building Management Partners
“Over the past few years we have partnered with Baynum Solutions on everything from rides to slides and Baynum has been up to the challenge. Baynum has been great at helping us through from picking out colors to using the right products for each job the will help with the longevity of the work being done. It has been not only a rewarding task but one that has allowed us to learn and grow with both Baynum and our parks.”
— Jerry Brick | Director of Construction and Maintenance , Palace Entertainment
“I have worked with Baynum Solution since 2015 to present. Baynum has completed many different projects at our facility ranging from large painting projects to remodeling of our control room. All of the work was completed safely, timely and professionally with quality second to none. I look forward to working with Baynum on further projects.”
— Terence Mann | Maintenance Supervisor , Marathon Petroleum
“Busch Gardens Tampa Bay partnered with Baynum Solutions to repaint two of our most popular attractions here in the park (Cheetah Hunt and Montu). The Baynum team did a fantastic job completing the projects on-time and delivering the final product with the quality expected. The Cheetah Hunt project specifically provided an additional challenge in that the team had to coordinate work schedules and access to various sections of the track through our Serengeti Plain. The Serengeti Plain is home to large portion of the park’s zoological collection. This encompassed working closely with the park’s Zoological team to ensure worker and animal safety while maneuvering high reaches and equipment through various animal areas. Communication with Baynum Solutions throughout the entire process made the overall project a success. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay looks forward to working with Baynum Solutions on future projects.”
— Erick Elliott | Vice President, Engineering & General Services , Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
“I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for the work you completed on Wild Thing. It was a pleasure working with Adam and his team. The entire time they were here I didn’t get a single complaint about anything. They were all very professional, friendly and very hard working.”
— Scott Wagner | Painting Foreman , Valleyfair
Our Memberships
Our organization understands the need for customers to properly vet any contractor being considered to undertake a difficult project. You can have confidence in our ability to meet and exceed the stringent compliance standards and laws with accredited contractor qualification programs.
