Pape-Dawson has marked two decades of operations in Austin, expanding from a small office focused on single-family residential projects to a team of over 165 employees. The company’s growth since 2005 has been attributed 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,” 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 firm’s Austin 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 the Austin Convention Center. Employees are involved in shaping the built environment across Central Texas.
Pape-Dawson also supports community organizations through partnerships with the City of Austin and local nonprofits. The company provides pro bono services for groups like Camp Esperanza, Habitat for Humanity of Williamson County, Explore Austin, and Brookwood in Georgetown. Through its charitable foundation, Pape-Dawson recently donated $50,000 to local nonprofits including the Center for Child Protection, Foster Angels of Central Texas, and the Texas Advocacy Project.
Industry engagement is central to Pape-Dawson’s activities. The firm participates in organizations such as the Austin Chamber of Commerce, 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. Firm leaders hold key positions within these groups; notably, Mark Ramseur will serve as Chair of the Austin Chamber of Commerce Board in 2025.
Looking ahead, water infrastructure remains a priority for Pape-Dawson. The firm has managed major projects such as the Vista Ridge Regional Water Supply Project—a 142-mile pipeline—and Phase 1B of Alliance Regional Water Authority’s new program.
“Water has become a defining area of expertise for our firm,” said Ramseur.
Incoming Managing Principal Kevin Young outlined future plans: “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 emphasizes building partnerships with local leaders and organizations in addition to its engineering work.
