Our
History

PROUD PAST, FORWARD FUTURE.

At Pape-Dawson, we’re about more than engineering. We are diligent, hardworking problem solvers with a passion for making a difference not only through our work, but also through our commitment to being community partners.

Founded in 1965 by Gus Pape and Gene Dawson, Sr., Pape-Dawson was built on a simple but powerful mission: to be the most respected engineering firm. What began as a small civil engineering practice quickly expanded to meet the growing needs of our clients—adding surveying, environmental services, and other specialized capabilities.

Over the last 20 years, the leadership team has concentrated on diversifying the company through both geographic and service area expansion. By 2020, Pape-Dawson had grown organically one person at a time to more than 1,000 employees across Texas.

Since then, we have been expanding across the United States by partnering with like-minded firms who share our commitment to unmatched culture, community, and excellence in all that we do.

Today, our multidisciplinary teams provide comprehensive services, from civil engineering and landscape architecture to construction management and aviation planning and design. Through every project and partnership, we remain true to our founders’ vision—combining innovation with integrity, and always putting our clients first.

“In August of 1965 Gus and I started Pape-Dawson. We agreed that we would put $3,000 a piece into the company to buy used equipment and have $3,000 to live on for 6 months – and if in 6 months we felt like we were a failure, we would close the doors and go find another job – and it was really, really close. Being able to watch this company grow into what it is today has truly been an incredible thing to see.” – Gene Dawson, Sr.

As we look to the future, we remain deeply connected to the values that shaped our beginning. Guided by our legacy, we deliver projects with purpose—building stronger communities and lasting partnerships along the way.