Established in 2005, Pape-Dawson’s Austin presence has evolved significantly over the past two decades. In 2012, Managing Principal Mark Ramseur, P.E., joined the team during a period of post-recession recovery, when the office was still a small team primarily focused on single-family residential projects.

Since then, a mix of strategic leadership, a people-first culture, and a balance of both private and public sector work has fueled steady, intentional growth. “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.”

Today, the Austin office has grown to more than 165 employees—many who call the City home—and they take pride in seeing their work come to life, shaping the spaces where they live, shop, and connect with their community. The team’s robust portfolio spans every corner of Central Texas. Projects range from master-planned communities like Wolf Ranch and Kissing Tree, to major commercial developments like Domain South End, to transformative infrastructure projects such as I-35 utility relocations, Project Connect, and the Austin Convention Center.

Commitment to Community and Industry

Pape-Dawson understands that designing a stronger community extends beyond roads and waterlines. Supporting the people and organizations who make Austin resilient, inclusive, and future-ready is equally important. The firm is proud to partner with the City of Austin and local nonprofits to support critical community needs, like providing pro bono services for organizations such as Camp Esperanza, Habitat for Humanity of Williamson County, Explore Austin, and Brookwood in Georgetown. Through the Pape-Dawson Charitable Foundation, employees give back through volunteerism and philanthropy, including a recent $50,000 contribution benefiting local nonprofits such as the Center for Child Protection, Foster Angels of Central Texas, and the Texas Advocacy Project.

Industry involvement is also central to the firm’s mission. The Austin office plays an active role in organizations like the Austin Chamber of Commerce, the Real Estate Council of Austin (RECA), Opportunity Austin, Austin Contractors & Engineers Association (ACEA), Home Builders Association of Greater Austin, and the American Society of Highway Engineers Central Texas, with firm leaders serving in key leadership roles. Notably, Mark Ramseur is serving as the 2025 Chair of the Austin Chamber of Commerce Board, continuing his commitment to advancing thoughtful policy and economic growth throughout the region.

Looking Toward the Future

Looking ahead, Pape-Dawson sees water infrastructure as a critical focus area. The firm’s experience in Texas is unmatched, having led some of the largest water delivery projects in the state’s history, like the 142-mile Vista Ridge Regional Water Supply Project and Phase 1B of Alliance Regional Water Authority’s new program. “Water has become a defining area of expertise for our firm,” says Ramseur.

The Austin office’s next chapter will be guided by incoming Managing Principal Kevin Young, P.E., a long-time Texan and seasoned civil engineer. “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,” says Young.

“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,” says Ramseur.

Pape-Dawson’s story in Austin is about more than engineering, surveying, and planning. It’s about building meaningful partnerships with local leaders and organizations that serve the people of Central Texas.