Pape-Dawson, an engineering firm established in Austin in 2005, has marked two decades of operations in the city. The company’s growth began to accelerate after Mark Ramseur, P.E., joined as Managing Principal in 2012 during a period of economic recovery. At that time, the office was small and mainly focused on single-family residential projects.
Ramseur credits the firm’s expansion to strategic hiring and a balanced approach between public and private sector work. “One of the primary reasons for our growth is the intentional hiring of key individuals who have strengthened our team,” says Ramseur. “We’ve reached a strong balance between public and private sector work, and our focus moving forward is to continue diversifying and expanding our capabilities.”
The Austin office now employs more than 165 people. Its portfolio includes master-planned communities such as Wolf Ranch and Kissing Tree, commercial developments like Domain South End, and infrastructure projects including I-35 utility relocations, Project Connect, and work on the Austin Convention Center.
Community engagement is also part of Pape-Dawson’s activities. The firm provides pro bono services for local nonprofits such as Camp Esperanza, Habitat for Humanity of Williamson County, Explore Austin, and Brookwood in Georgetown. Through its charitable foundation, employees participate in volunteer efforts and philanthropy; recently this included a $50,000 donation to organizations like the Center for Child Protection, Foster Angels of Central Texas, and the Texas Advocacy Project.
Industry involvement remains important for Pape-Dawson. The company participates actively with groups including the Austin Chamber of Commerce—where Mark Ramseur will serve as Chair of the Board in 2025—the Real Estate Council of Austin (RECA), Opportunity Austin, Austin Contractors & Engineers Association (ACEA), Home Builders Association of Greater Austin, and American Society of Highway Engineers Central Texas.
Looking ahead, water infrastructure will be a major area for Pape-Dawson’s work. The firm has led large-scale water delivery projects across Texas such as the Vista Ridge Regional Water Supply Project—a 142-mile pipeline—and Phase 1B of Alliance Regional Water Authority’s program. “Water has become a defining area of expertise for our firm,” says Ramseur.
Incoming Managing Principal Kevin Young, P.E., stated: “Our goal is to support Central Texas by contributing to thoughtful development and critical infrastructure projects that make a positive impact on the communities we serve.”
Ramseur added: “As Austin continues to grow, so do the challenges of mobility, water, and sustainable infrastructure. Our team is committed to helping address these challenges with solutions that support the community’s needs not just today, but for generations to come.”
The company emphasizes building partnerships with local leaders and organizations serving Central Texas.
