Aaron Grant Buerge (born on April 22, 1974 in Butler, Missouri) is an American businessman and television personality, best known for the role in The Bachelor. Born in Butler, Missouri, Aaron is the oldest of three boys. He attended Joplin High School, where he played soccer, ran track and was an All American swimmer. He graduated from the University of Missouri–Rolla in 1997 with a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering. Aaron went on to earn an MBA in International Finance from Clemson University, during which time he studied at the Italy campus. In 1998 he taught senior-level college classes in International Business at Missouri Southern State University in Joplin.

Currently employed as Senior Vice President of his family`s bank in Springfield, Missouri, Aaron is a third-generation banker. He opened Trolley`s Downtown Bar & Grille, a casual fine dining establishment and sports bar, in 2003 in Springfield, and expanded to Overland Park, Kansas. An avid sportsman, Aaron obtained his pilot`s license at age 21, and also enjoys boating, water skiing, as well as playing the piano. As The Bachelor in the anticipated second season, Aaron proposed to his then fiancée Helene. He then unceremoniously broke up with her a few months later. The runner up was Brooke Smith.