Pape-Dawson has marked two decades of operations in Austin, expanding from a small team focused on single-family residential projects to an office of more than 165 employees. The firm’s growth since its establishment in 2005 is attributed to strategic hiring and a focus on both 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,” said Mark Ramseur, Managing Principal. “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 company’s project portfolio now includes master-planned communities such as Wolf Ranch and Kissing Tree, commercial developments like Domain South End, and infrastructure initiatives including I-35 utility relocations, Project Connect, and the Austin Convention Center.
Pape-Dawson also engages with community organizations through pro bono services for groups like Camp Esperanza, Habitat for Humanity of Williamson County, Explore Austin, and Brookwood in Georgetown. The Pape-Dawson Charitable Foundation supports local nonprofits with volunteerism and philanthropy; recent contributions include $50,000 to organizations such as the Center for Child Protection, Foster Angels of Central Texas, and the Texas Advocacy Project.
Industry involvement remains important for Pape-Dawson. The Austin office participates in organizations including the Austin Chamber of Commerce—where Mark Ramseur will serve as 2025 Chair—the Real Estate Council of Austin (RECA), Opportunity Austin, ACEA, Home Builders Association of Greater Austin, and the American Society of Highway Engineers Central Texas.
Looking ahead, water infrastructure is expected to be a central area for Pape-Dawson’s work. The firm has managed large-scale projects like the Vista Ridge Regional Water Supply Project and Phase 1B of Alliance Regional Water Authority’s program. “Water has become a defining area of expertise for our firm,” said Ramseur.
Incoming Managing Principal Kevin Young emphasized continued commitment to supporting development in Central Texas: “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.”
Pape-Dawson states its mission extends beyond engineering by building partnerships with local leaders and organizations throughout Central Texas.
