ABOUT US
BWS Acoustics was founded in 1974 by John R. Ballentine, following his work with General Dynamics, Lockheed, and Acoustics & Vibration Associates—Atlanta’s first acoustics consulting firm, established in 1969. Over the decades, the firm has grown and adapted, but its core purpose has stayed the same.
From the start, BWS was built to provide practical acoustic and vibration consulting and engineering solutions. Today, we serve clients across the country, including industry, government, institutions, architects, designers, laboratories, and research facilities.
For more than five decades, our focus has been simple: deliver inventive, cost-effective solutions that work in the real world. We offer a full range of services, including acoustic and vibration design, measurement, and testing, grounded in both technical knowledge and hands-on engineering experience.
Our work spans a wide range of sectors—industrial and manufacturing, healthcare, infrastructure, transportation, residential, mixed-use developments, and education. We also bring specialized expertise in areas like ultra-low-frequency vibration, regulatory compliance, HVAC noise and vibration control, and construction monitoring.
Acoustics and vibration are often seen as purely technical fields. At BWS, we see it differently. Turning complex data into clear, practical insight isn’t just science—it’s something closer to craft.
OUR TEAM
Scott W Smith
Principal & Lead AcousticianScott leads all corporate operations at BWS and brings decades of experience in acoustics. He focuses on delivering practical, effective solutions that align with each project’s design intent.
Scott earned a multidisciplinary certificate in Acoustical Engineering from Georgia Tech and holds an M.S. in Physics, along with a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering. With a background spanning acoustics, physics, architecture, and mechanical and electrical engineering, he works effectively across disciplines. He communicates clearly with clients, engineers, architects, and legal counsel, helping move projects forward with confidence and clarity.
Scott is a voting member of ASTM Technical Committee E33 and actively participates in ASHRAE Technical Committee 2.6. He has also published with the Acoustical Society of America and Noise Control Engineering Journal, contributing to the advancement of industry standards and best practices.
Aaron Austin
Acoustic Technician & Field ConsultantAaron brings strong experience in acoustic modeling and analysis, using software such as E.A.S.E., SoundPLAN, and INSUL to evaluate interior spaces, map environmental noise, and predict building performance.
He supports projects through field measurements, data acquisition, computer-aided drafting, and the preparation of technical reports. His work also includes HVAC and mechanical equipment evaluations, room acoustics, and identifying potential issues often overlooked during early design phases.
In addition, Aaron has extensive experience with advanced instrumentation and plays a key role in maintaining BWS’s network and data systems, helping ensure reliable performance across projects.
Lex Jordan
Office & Marketing DirectorLex serves as BWS’s office and marketing director, supporting a wide range of functions including project coordination, copywriting, and accounting. She plays a central role in the day-to-day operations of the firm.
Lex attended the University of Georgia and Kennesaw State University, where she earned a degree in English. She also serves as the primary point of contact for project administration and human resources.