About Us

Engineering Innovators. Powered by Teamwork.

At DSEL, we’re a team of visionaries, problem-solvers, and collaborators who take pride in doing exceptional work—together. We thrive on big challenges, high-profile projects, and complex problems that demand creativity and precision. We bring a competitive spirit to our craft and our strength lies in collaboration. We do this by supporting, learning from, and relying on each other to deliver the kind of work that shapes communities and sets new standards for excellence.

About Us

Engineering Innovators.
Powered by Teamwork.

At DSEL, we’re a team of visionaries, problem-solvers, and collaborators who take pride in doing exceptional work—together. We thrive on big challenges, high-profile projects, and complex problems that demand creativity and precision. We bring a competitive spirit to our craft, our strength lies in collaboration. We do this by supporting, learning from, and relying on each other to deliver the kind of work that shapes communities and sets new standards for excellence.

Founding Partners

David Schaeffer, P.Eng.

President & Founder

Visionary Simplifier: I see the elegant solution in a sea of complexity.

David Schaeffer

I see subdivision engineering as an art form. Every challenge is a quest for simplicity, and I won’t stop until the solution feels right. At DSEL, we harness cutting-edge technology to transform complex designs into elegant, cost effective, clear plans. I lead our team to deliver timely and cost-effective solutions that push the limits of what’s possible in land development.

Extraordinary Detail: I like to make beautiful music playing musical cow bones (or ox, or sheep, or moose, or whale)

Steve Pichette, P.Eng.

Ottawa Manager

Guiding Force: I bring clarity, wisdom, & results to every stage of development.

Steve Pichette

With over four decades of experience, I’ve been at the forefront of subdivision engineering and municipal infrastructure design in Ottawa and beyond. I oversee large-scale residential and commercial developments, master servicing studies, and project management, ensuring efficient and sustainable solutions that earn the trust of municipalities, developers, and builders alike.

Extraordinary Detail: I love going for early morning hikes.

David Schaeffer, P.Eng.

President & Founder

Visionary Simplifier: I see the elegant solution in a sea of complexity.

David Schaeffer

I see subdivision engineering as an art form. Every challenge is a quest for simplicity, and I won’t stop until the solution feels right. At DSEL, we harness cutting-edge technology to transform complex designs into elegant, cost effective, clear plans. I lead our team to deliver timely and cost-effective solutions that push the limits of what’s possible in land development.

Extraordinary Detail: I like to make beautiful music playing musical cow bones (or ox, or sheep, or moose, or whale)

Steve Pichette, P.Eng.

Ottawa Manager

Guiding Force: I bring clarity, wisdom, & results to every stage of development.

Steve Pichette

With over four decades of experience, I’ve been at the forefront of subdivision engineering and municipal infrastructure design in Ottawa and beyond. I oversee large-scale residential and commercial developments, master servicing studies, and project management, ensuring efficient and sustainable solutions that earn the trust of municipalities, developers, and builders alike.

Extraordinary Detail: I love going for early morning hikes.

Engineering Partners

David Schaeffer, P.Eng.

President & Founder

Visionary Simplifier: I see the elegant solution in a sea of complexity.

David Schaeffer, P.Eng.

I see subdivision engineering as an art form. Every challenge is a quest for simplicity, and I won’t stop until the solution feels right. At DSEL, we harness cutting-edge technology to transform complex designs into elegant, cost effective, clear plans. I lead our team to deliver timely and cost-effective solutions that push the limits of what’s possible in land development.

Extraordinary Detail:
I like to make beautiful music playing musical cow bones (or ox, or sheep, or moose, or whale)

Steve Pichette, P.Eng.

Ottawa Manager

Guiding Force: Brings clarity, wisdom, & results to every stage of development.

Steve Pichette, P.Eng.

With over four decades of experience, I’ve been at the forefront of subdivision engineering and municipal infrastructure design in Ottawa and beyond. I oversee large-scale residential and commercial developments, master servicing studies, and project management, ensuring efficient and sustainable solutions that earn the trust of municipalities, developers, and builders alike.

Extraordinary Detail:
I love going for early morning hikes.

Adam Fobert, P.Eng.

Team Lead

Master Coordinator: I bring order to complex projects with precision.

Adam Fobert, P.Eng.

I’ve spent over 20 years transforming communities with innovative land development engineering. From master servicing plans to complex redevelopment projects, I guide teams and stakeholders to deliver high-impact solutions efficiently. My mission is to unlock possibilities and make the impossible timelines achievable.

Extraordinary Detail:
I am an avid cyclist, preferring single track gravel.

Alexandra Schaeffer, P.Eng.

Team Lead

Precision Catalyst: I turn plans into action with flawless execution.

Alexandra Schaeffer, P.Eng.

I get the details right. For over a decade, I’ve built trust in land development through expert project management, client engagement, and keeping my team energized. I combine time-honored engineering knowledge with cutting-edge technology to deliver timely, cost-effective solutions that move projects forward.

Extraordinary Detail:
I love to bake and create delicious works of art.

Ciaran McKee

Manager of Design

Design Alchemist: I transform complexity into clarity, fast.

Ciaran McKee

I thrive on breaking down complex engineering challenges into manageable components, delivering exceptional results in record time. At DSEL, I foster a culture of collaboration and innovation, mentoring engineers to create designs that are both cutting-edge and highly constructable.

Extraordinary Detail:
An avid sports fan – played for various Gaelic football (Irish sport), soccer and rugby teams. Ran two marathons and hope to run another in the future. 

Kenneth Law, P.Eng., MBA, PMP

Manager of Automation

Innovative Catalyst: I turn challenges into tech-powered solutions.

Kenneth Law, P.Eng., MBA, PMP

I live at the intersection of engineering and innovation. My mission is to reinvent subdivision design through technology — automating complexity, accelerating timelines, and unlocking possibilities others can’t see. At DSEL, I design the tools that power the future of land development.

Extraordinary Detail:
This year, I committed to run outside every day—through snow, rain, and heatwave. While challenging, the progress has been rewarding!

Matt Wingate, P.Eng.

Manager of Project Administration (Ottawa)

Project Orchestrator: I keep every moving piece in harmony.

Matt Wingate, P.Eng.

Since 2009, I’ve been orchestrating the engine room of DSEL — leading project and construction administration to keep timelines sharp and approvals secured. From subdivision design to master servicing plans, I provide structure and clarity, ensuring every project is completed with accuracy and efficiency.

Extraordinary Detail:
Aside from my time at McGill University, since the age of 10 I have never lived farther than 1km from the Rideau River. (Before 10, I lived just footsteps from a Rideau River tributary!

Marc Pichette, P.Eng., MBA

Team Lead

Builders Compass: I help builders navigate construction challenges.

Marc Pichette, P.Eng., MBA

I began my career in waste water treatment design and construction before moving into project management on major City of Ottawa infrastructure projects. Since joining DSEL, I’ve advanced into a leadership role, guiding a multidiciplinary team through project administration. With a strong foundation in construction and contract administration, I ensure every project is built on constructability, efficiency, and cost-effectivness.

Extraordinary Detail: A.K.A. “Coach Marc”, usually found on the ice with my son or daughter’s hockey teams.

Michael Mehagan, P.Eng., PMP

Electrical & Utility Design Manager

Grindmaster: I weave electricity, utilities, people into seamless networks.

Michael Mehagan, P.Eng., PMP

I lead a team focused on electrical distribution design and total utility coordination. With experience across the public and private sectors, I specialize in creating seamless integrations between electrical systems and other municipal services. Collaboration is central to my approach, and I’m committed to mentoring the next generation of engineers.

Extraordinary Detail:
I moved to Argentina at 18 and spent 10 months living on my own in the city of Olavarria, located in the heart of the Pampas farmlands of the Buenos Aires Province.

Ryan Kerr, P.Eng.

Manager of Project Administration (GTA)

Flow Master: I harness water to create resilient, sustainable communities.

Ryan Kerr, P.Eng.

For 15 years, I’ve specialized in residential land development with a focus on community-scale engineering. I manage our Project Administration department, guiding project managers to embrace the “DSEL way”: innovative, fast, efficient, and always correct. With a background in water resources engineering, I bring deep expertise in stormwater management and low impact development to create sustainable future-ready communities.

Extraordinary Detail:
I love to cook outdoors. I have a large BBQ, pizza oven, smoker, and griddle in my backyard.

Tim Edmondson, P.Eng.

Team Lead

The Pathfinder: I clear the way through red tape and complexity.

Tim Edmondson, P.Eng.

I lead teams that transform ideas into approved communities. My specialty? Navigating every stage of land development — from due diligence through construction — with a solutions-first mindset. Collaboration is my fuel, and efficiency is always the endgame.

Extraordinary Detail:
I recently became a volunteer fire fighter!

Todd McNair, P.Eng.

Manager of Contract Administration (GTA)

Ground Commander: I turn designs into built communities.

Todd McNair, P.Eng.

For over 20 years at DSEL, I’ve managed construction work, ensuring projects are delivered with quality and precision. My team ensures that what’s drawn on paper become a reality – we have boots on the ground to make sure the design works in the real world.

Extraordinary Detail:
I love to build and create, from painting landscapes in VR to building decks and sheds in my backyard.

Tyler Ross, P.Eng.

Electrical & Utility Design Manager

Power Conduit: I turn lights on & get systems running with precision & reliability.

Tyler Ross, P.Eng.

As an experienced distribution engineer, I bring a strong background in the utilities industry with expertise in AutoCAD, AGI 32, construction management, and MicroStation. With a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical, Electronics, and Communications, I deliver reliable, high-quality engineering solutions that power communities forward.

Extraordinary Detail:
I love the Bills!

Adam Fobert, P.Eng.

Team Lead

Master Coordinator: I bring order to complex projects with precision.

Adam Fobert

I’ve spent over 20 years transforming communities with innovative land development engineering. From master servicing plans to complex redevelopment projects, I guide teams and stakeholders to deliver high-impact solutions efficiently. My mission is to unlock possibilities and make the impossible timelines achievable.

Extraordinary Detail: I am an avid cyclist, preferring single track gravel.

Alexandra Schaeffer, P.Eng.

Team Lead

Precision Catalyst: I turn plans into action with flawless execution.

Alexandra Schaeffer

I get the details right. For over a decade, I’ve built trust in land development through expert project management, client engagement, and keeping my team energized. I combine time-honored engineering knowledge with cutting-edge technology to deliver timely, cost-effective solutions that move projects forward.

Extraordinary Detail: I love to bake and create delicious works of art.

Ciaran McKee

Manager of Design

Design Alchemist: I transform complexity into clarity, fast.

Ciaran McKee

I thrive on breaking down complex engineering challenges into manageable components, delivering exceptional results in record time. At DSEL, I foster a culture of collaboration and innovation, mentoring engineers to create designs that are both cutting-edge and highly constructable.

Extraordinary Detail: An avid sports fan – played for various Gaelic football (Irish sport), soccer and rugby teams. Ran two marathons and hope to run another in the future. 

Kenneth Law, P.Eng., MBA, PMP

Manager of Automation

Innovative Catalyst: I turn challenges into tech-powered solutions.

Kenneth Law

I live at the intersection of engineering and innovation. My mission is to reinvent subdivision design through technology — automating complexity, accelerating timelines, and unlocking possibilities others can’t see. At DSEL, I design the tools that power the future of land development.

Extraordinary Detail: This year, I committed to run outside every day—through snow, rain, and heatwave. While challenging, the progress has been rewarding!

Matt Wingate, P.Eng. (Ottawa)

Manager of Project Administration

Project Orchestrator: I keep every moving piece in harmony.

Matt Wingate

Since 2009, I’ve been orchestrating the engine room of DSEL — leading project and construction administration to keep timelines sharp and approvals secured. From subdivision design to master servicing plans, I provide structure and clarity, ensuring every project is completed with accuracy and efficiency.

Extraordinary Detail: Aside from my time at McGill University, since the age of 10 I have never lived farther than 1km from the Rideau River. (Before 10, I lived just footsteps from a Rideau River tributary!

Marc Pichette, P.Eng., MBA

Team Lead

Builders Compass: I help builders navigate construction challenges.

Marc Pichette

I began my career in waste water treatment design and construction before moving into project management on major City of Ottawa infrastructure projects. Since joining DSEL, I’ve advanced into a leadership role, guiding a multidiciplinary team through project administration. With a strong foundation in construction and contract administration, I ensure every project is built on constructability, efficiency, and cost-effectivness.

Extraordinary Detail: A.K.A. “Coach Marc”, usually found on the ice with my son or daughter’s hockey teams.

Michael Mehagan, P.Eng., PMP

Electrical and Utility Design Manager

Grindmaster: I weave electricity, utilities, people into seamless networks.

Michael Mehagan

I lead a team focused on electrical distribution design and total utility coordination. With experience across the public and private sectors, I specialize in creating seamless integrations between electrical systems and other municipal services. Collaboration is central to my approach, and I’m committed to mentoring the next generation of engineers.

Extraordinary Detail: I moved to Argentina at 18 and spent 10 months living on my own in the city of Olavarria, located in the heart of the Pampas farmlands of the Buenos Aires Province.

Ryan Kerr, P.Eng. (GTA)

Manager of Project Administration

Flow Master: I harness water to create resilient, sustainable communities.

Ryan Kerr

For 15 years, I’ve specialized in residential land development with a focus on community-scale engineering. I manage our Project Administration department, guiding project managers to embrace the “DSEL way”: innovative, fast, efficient, and always correct. With a background in water resources engineering, I bring deep expertise in stormwater management and low impact development to create sustainable furture-ready communities.

Extraordinary Detail: I love to cook outdoors. I have a large BBQ, pizza oven, smoker, and griddle in my backyard.

Tim Edmondson, P.Eng.

Team Lead

The Pathfinder: I clear the way through red tape and complexity.

Tim Edmondson

I lead teams that transform ideas into approved communities. My specialty? Navigating every stage of land development — from due diligence through construction — with a solutions-first mindset. Collaboration is my fuel, and efficiency is always the endgame.

Extraordinary Detail: I recently became a volunteer fire fighter!

Todd McNair, P.Eng. (GTA)

Manager of Contract Administration

Ground Commander: I turn designs into built communities.

Todd McNair

For over 20 years at DSEL, I’ve managed construction work, ensuring projects are delivered with quality and precision. My team ensures that what’s drawn on paper become a reality – we have boots on the ground to make sure the design works in the real world.

Extraordinary Detail: I love to build and create, from painting landscapes in VR to building decks and sheds in my backyard.

Tyler Ross, P.Eng.

Electrical & Utility Design Manager

Power Conduit: I turn lights on & get systems running with precision & reliability.

Tyler Ross

As an experienced distribution engineer, I bring a strong background in the utilities industry with expertise in AutoCAD, AGI 32, construction management, and MicroStation. With a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical, Electronics, and Communications, I deliver reliable, high-quality engineering solutions that power communities forward.

Extraordinary Detail: I love the Bills!

Specialty Engineering Managers

Candice Ward, MCIP, RPP, Associate Members (OACETT)

Manager of Cost Sharing

Spreadsheet Whisperer: I turn complex cost-sharing data into clear, actionable insights.

Candice Ward

I manage cost sharing for land development projects across Ontario, ensuring fair, accurate divisions while streamlining complex agreements and coordinating with all stakeholders.

Extraordinary Detail: I was a gorilla zookeeper on the animal care team at the Toronto Zoo.

John Priamo, P.Eng.

Manager of Water Resources - Ottawa

The Storm Strategist: I transform complex water challenges into smart, seamless solutions.

John Priamo

I manage water resources projects in Ottawa, specializing in stormwater management and guiding developments from acquisition to design with collaborative, innovative solutions.

Extraordinary Detail: I completed my first Olympic distance triathlon this past July and have already signed up for a half Ironman in 2026.

Candice Ward, MCIP, RPP, Associate Members (OACETT)

Manager of Cost Sharing

Spreadsheet Whisperer: I turn complex cost-sharing data into clear, actionable insights.

Candice Ward

I manage cost sharing for land development projects across Ontario, ensuring fair, accurate divisions while streamlining complex agreements and coordinating with all stakeholders.

Extraordinary Detail: I was a gorilla zookeeper on the animal care team at the Toronto Zoo.

John Priamo, P.Eng.

Manager of Water Resources - Ottawa

The Storm Strategist: I transform complex water challenges into smart, seamless solutions.

John Priamo

I manage water resources projects in Ottawa, specializing in stormwater management and guiding developments from acquisition to design with collaborative, innovative solutions.

Extraordinary Detail: I completed my first Olympic distance triathlon this past July and have already signed up for a half Ironman in 2026.

Engineering Associates

Alex Tourigny, P.Eng. – Team Lead

I’m a civil engineer specializing in land development, leading residential projects at DSEL through approvals, design, and construction with efficiency.

The Project Pilot: I keep every moving part in sync, ensuring communities come to life seamlessly.

Extraordinary Detail: I’m a news junkie chasing the circus of politics.

Alexander Dow, P.Eng. – Team Lead

I specialize in subwatershed studies, land development planning, and detailed design, leading projects across Milton, North Oakville, Brantford, and Durham to shape thriving communities.

The Strategic Navigator: I chart the course that takes complex projects from vision to reality.

Extraordinary Detail: I love travelling, hoping to get to all the continents one day!

Brian Betts, P.Eng. – Team Lead

I’ve led civil engineering projects through every step — due diligence, municipal approvals, and construction. My focus is delivering large-scale residential developments with precision while keeping teams aligned and clients ahead of the curve.

The Steady Force: I keep projects moving and visions intact.

Extraordinary Detail: I am an avid golfer.

Dustin Aijala, P.Eng. – Senior Designer

I’m a Senior Designer at DSEL with 10+ years in residential land development, delivering municipal servicing, site grading, and stormwater designs that balance client goals with safety and sustainability.

The Precisionist: I craft practical, cost-effective designs that stand the test of time.

Extraordinary Detail: I am passionate about woodworking and enjoy the hands-on process of bringing ideas to life.

Dylan Priddle, P.Eng. – Project Manager

I’ve grown from site inspector to project manager at DSEL, guiding subdivision projects from start to finish with clear communication and reliable delivery.

The Groundbreaker: I bring visions on paper to life turning plans into thriving, livable communities.

Extraordinary Detail: I love to stay active – running, biking, skiing and climbing – you’ll rarely find me sitting still outside of work.

Liz Garagan, P.Eng. – Senior Designer

I design the systems that keep communities flowing — stormwater, sewers, watermains, ponds, and grading. Leading a team of designers, I tackle tough timelines and complex approvals head-on, keeping projects moving and clients confident.

The Flow Master: I engineer the lifelines of new communities.

Extraordinary Detail: I love backcountry camping.

Maxime Houle – Project Lead Developer

I’m a Senior Developer in DSEL’s Automation Department, using advanced tools to optimize subdivision design, streamline workflows, and enhance efficiency.

The Code Crafter: I can use data and technology to shape the future of subdivision design.

Extraordinary Detail: I love playing board games with friends for an entire weekend.

Mike Boal – Manager of Construction Services

I oversee the transformation from paper to pavement, guiding land development, infrastructure, and site servicing with precision while keeping clients, contractors, and municipalities aligned.

The Builder’s Ally: I ensure the vision rises from the ground, flawlessly.

Extraordinary Detail: Lifeaholic – All in on work, play, family, and squeezing the most out of every moment (even if it means a messy kitchen once in a while).

Steve Merrick, P.Eng. – Senior Designer

I design the core systems that power communities — water, wastewater, and stormwater solutions that keep developments resilient and functional. From servicing studies to detailed design, I thrive on turning challenges into clear, actionable plans.

The Systems Architect: I design invisible strength into every subdivision.

Extraordinary Detail: Below average golfer, Sci-fi book enthusiast, Lego builder with my 4 yr old son.

Senior Administration

Harry Zhang, CPA

Controller

The Financial Sentinel: I safeguard resources and fuel progress.

Harry Zhang

Numbers are my domain. I bridge financial insight with engineering execution, aligning budgets, forecasts, and profitability with project delivery. My mission is to make sure every move we make at DSEL drives smarter growth and sustainable results.

Extraordinary Detail: I have a deep passion for the game of Go.

Tristan Smith

Manager of Operations & HR

Systems Guardian: I keep operations seamless, so innovation never stops.

Tristan Smith

I keep the engine of DSEL running smoothly. By supporting our IT and administrative functions, I manage the systems, technology, and operations that allow our engineers to innovate without interruption. From strengthening IT infrastructure to refining company processes, I make sure DSEL stays aligned for efficiency and success.

Extraordinary Detail: Outside of work, I’m a long-time community theatre producer staging dozens of musicals in Durham region—including a memorable production featuring a live pony.

Tammy Peddle

HR Manager

Culture Catalyst: Creating workplaces where people & organizations flourish.

Tammy Peddle

With more than 20 years of leadership experience, I help organizations grow by building strong teams, strengthening workplace culture, and creating meaningful employee experiences. As DSEL’s HR Manager, I support our people, develop collaborative environments, and help ensure every team member has the opportunity to thrive.

Extraordinary Detail:  I start most days with a walk and spend many weekends on the golf course, where the pursuit of continuous improvement keeps me coming back.

Harry Zhang, CPA

Controller

The Financial Sentinel: I safeguard resources and fuel progress.

Harry Zhang, CPA

Numbers are my domain. I bridge financial insight with engineering execution, aligning budgets, forecasts, and profitability with project delivery. My mission is to make sure every move we make at DSEL drives smarter growth and sustainable results.

Extraordinary Detail:
I have a deep passion for the game of Go.

Tristan Smith

Manager of Operations & HR

Systems Guardian: I keep operations seamless, so innovation never stops.

Tristan Smith

I keep the engine of DSEL running smoothly. By supporting our IT and administrative functions, I manage the systems, technology, and operations that allow our engineers to innovate without interruption. From strengthening IT infrastructure to refining company processes, I make sure DSEL stays aligned for efficiency and success.

Extraordinary Detail:
Outside of work, I’m a long-time community theatre producer staging dozens of musicals in Durham region—including a memorable production featuring a live pony.

Tammy Peddle

HR Manager

Culture Catalyst: Creating workplaces where people & organizations flourish.

Tammy Peddle

With more than 20 years of leadership experience, I help organizations grow by building strong teams, strengthening workplace culture, and creating meaningful employee experiences. As DSEL’s HR Manager, I support our people, develop collaborative environments, and help ensure every team member has the opportunity to thrive.

Extraordinary Detail:
I start most days with a walk and spend many weekends on the golf course, where the pursuit of continuous improvement keeps me coming back.