Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Expert Geotechnical Engineering Solutions
Founded in 1972, our firm has established itself as a leader in geotechnical and geostructural engineering. Our team of 60+ professionals combines decades of experience with innovative methodologies to deliver tailored solutions for complex engineering challenges. We specialize in excavation support, foundation design, and ground improvement projects across Canada and internationally. Our approach integrates advanced monitoring technologies and finite element analysis to ensure precision and safety. With a legacy built on the pioneering work of founder Brian Isherwood, we continue to push boundaries in soil mechanics and structural engineering.Our commitment to continuous learning and technical excellence has earned us recognition from major industry associations. We collaborate closely with contractors and developers to optimize construction methods while maintaining strict adherence to safety standards. Our expertise spans thousands of projects, including iconic infrastructure developments in urban centers. We prioritize client collaboration, transparent communication, and sustainable engineering practices in every engagement. This combination of heritage, technical mastery, and forward-thinking approach positions us as trusted advisors in the geostructural engineering field.
Services
Excavation Support
Foundation Design
Ground Improvement
Monitoring Systems
Finite Element Analysis
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of specialized expertise in geostructural engineering challenges
- Our team includes industry-recognized experts with international project experience
- We implement proprietary monitoring technologies for real-time construction safety
- Our designs optimize construction economics while maintaining strict safety standards
- We maintain active leadership roles in major geotechnical engineering associations
Services
Excavation Support
We design engineered structural support systems for temporary and permanent excavations. Our solutions protect workers, adjacent structures, and utilities while optimizing construction efficiency. Utilizing soldier pile, caisson walls, and shotcrete methods, we tailor systems to site-specific geotechnical conditions and project requirements.
Foundation Design
Our foundation engineering specializes in non-conventional solutions for challenging sites. We develop micropile systems and other deep foundation elements that maximize structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact. Our designs balance technical precision with cost-effectiveness for complex urban environments.
Ground Improvement
We implement advanced ground modification techniques to enhance soil properties. Our methods include grouting and soil nailing solutions that increase load-bearing capacity and mitigate settlement risks. These interventions enable construction in geologically challenging locations while ensuring long-term stability.
Monitoring
Our precision monitoring services track ground and structure movements during construction. Using inclinometers, load cells, and total stations, we provide real-time data to validate designs and enable proactive adjustments. This approach prevents excessive movements and protects adjacent infrastructure throughout project execution.
Finite Element Analysis
We employ computational modeling to simulate soil-structure interactions and predict system behavior. This analytical approach quantifies risks to sensitive structures and forecasts deformation patterns. Our finite element analysis informs optimized design decisions and enhances construction safety for complex projects.
People
Brian Isherwood
Founder
Pioneering geotechnical engineer who founded the company in 1972. Developed innovative shoring techniques and introduced inclinometer monitoring to Canada. Recipient of the Ontario Professional Engineering Medal for career contributions to engineering excellence and safety.
Nadir Ansari
President
President with 35+ years of experience in geotechnical engineering. Specializes in soil reinforcement techniques and observational method applications. Active member of ten professional associations including the Deep Foundations Institute and Tunneling Association of Canada.
Matthew Janes
Specialist Engineer
Senior technical reviewer with expertise in finite element analysis and geotechnical dynamics. Former president of the Deep Foundations Institute. Combines engineering science with business strategy to deliver practical, innovative solutions for complex geostructural challenges.
Carol Domitric
Head of Engineering
Engineering leader with three decades of experience in geostructural design and construction monitoring. Developed comprehensive training programs to maintain technical excellence across the firm. Active participant in professional committees advancing geotechnical engineering standards.
Questions
What geotechnical services do you specialize in?
We specialize in excavation support systems, deep foundation design, ground improvement techniques, precision monitoring, and finite element analysis for complex construction projects.
How do you handle difficult soil conditions?
Our engineers develop customized solutions using advanced ground improvement methods, specialized foundation systems, and real-time monitoring to address challenging geotechnical conditions.
What monitoring technologies do you use?
We employ inclinometers, total stations, load cells, and crack gauges for comprehensive movement monitoring. Our sister company provides specialized precision monitoring services for critical projects.
Can you work on international projects?
Yes, our team has completed projects across Canada, the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean with adaptable solutions for diverse geological and regulatory environments.
How do you ensure construction safety?
We integrate real-time monitoring with predictive modeling and maintain strict adherence to safety standards. Our observational method approach enables proactive adjustments during construction phases.
Videos
