Engineers, collaborators, and problem‑solvers
Meet the people behind the work
Patrick Vandoorne, P.Eng.
Principal, Structural Engineer
FounderPrincipalP.Eng.
Patrick Vandoorne is a timber-loving structural engineer, a trusted project leader, and an unabashed dad-joke enthusiast—think “load-bearing puns” at no extra cost. As the founder of Kiras Engineering, he’s known for turning complex challenges into clean, buildable solutions (with just enough overthinking to keep things airtight).
Patrick leads with clarity, solves problems before they escalate, and brings just enough charm to make even coordination meetings bearable. Whether he’s designing a mid-rise or fine-tuning framing on a custom home, he delivers results with the kind of precision that keeps architects smiling and contractors sane.
When he’s not engineering with care and caffeine, he’s with his wife and kids—still cracking jokes that, like his structures, are built to last.
Rafael Jacob, P.Eng.
Structural Engineer, Project Manager
P.Eng.
Rafael Jacob is the kind of engineer who can juggle reinforced concrete and structural steel in a single coffee-fueled sprint—though he usually uses both hands. With over five years of international experience (and a 100% permit approval streak), Rafael brings calm confidence and razor-sharp precision to every project, from beach resorts to hospital expansions.
He’s a natural communicator—part orchestra conductor, part code whisperer—keeping architects, clients, and contractors marching in sync (with minimal need for duct tape). Whether he’s detailing concrete or decoding bylaws for fun, Rafael’s mission is simple: solve problems, support the vision, and keep the site team smiling.
And yes—his designs are as strong as his coffee. Just ask the building inspector.
Tanner Edwards, P.Eng.
Structural Engineer, Project Manager
P.Eng.
Tanner Edwards brings a blend of technical expertise and collaborative spirit to the Kiras Engineering team. With a strong foundation in structural engineering, he excels at delivering practical solutions for residential, industrial, and agricultural buildings—ensuring that each project is grounded in both functionality and vision. Tanner is known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to keep projects on track, ensuring that every beam and bolt aligns with both code and client expectations.
Beyond his engineering acumen, Tanner is a natural communicator who fosters seamless coordination among architects, contractors, and stakeholders. His approach ensures that projects progress smoothly from concept to completion. When he’s not immersed in structural calculations or project meetings, Tanner enjoys exploring the great outdoors and honing his culinary skills—though he admits his soufflés are still a work in progress.
Gabriel Dumangan, C.E.T.
BIM Modeler
C.E.T B.I.M.
When Gabriel isn’t detailing beams with surgical precision, he’s probably mapping out his next creative side quest. As an Architectural Technologist at Kiras, Gabriel brings sharp focus, strong Revit chops, and a calm, can-do attitude that makes complex coordination feel surprisingly smooth.
With experience spanning everything from residential builds to retail structures, he ensures that every model is clean, constructible, and just a little bit beautiful. He’s a master of BIM workflows, a quiet force in meetings, and the guy who always knows how to fix that one thing no one else caught.
Outside the office, he applies the same thoughtful energy to everything he explores—because once you’ve mastered clash detection, how hard can life be?
Elizabeth Dominguez Romero
BIM Modeler
Technologist B.I.M.
Elizabeth brings precision, consistency, and just the right amount of caffeine-fueled determination to every model she builds. With nearly four years of experience and a strong command of Revit Structure, she’s become a go-to for clean drawings, clear coordination, and calm under pressure.
From commercial projects to light industrial work, she helps the structural team turn design intent into well-organized, buildable BIM sets—always with an eye for detail and a mind for improvement. Whether wrangling drawing sets or troubleshooting a clash before it becomes a headache, Elizabeth makes sure nothing falls through the (virtual) cracks.
And while she’s constantly sharpening her technical skills, she never loses sight of the bigger picture: delivering high-quality work that helps the whole team succeed.
Sir Raphael Hebron
Structural Deisgn Technologist
Structural Designer
Raphael Hebron brings a decade of diverse experience to the Kiras team—from inspecting flood control systems to leading project meetings with contractors, clients, and just enough engineers to fill a site trailer. Today, he applies that full-spectrum construction insight to the finer details of structural timber, truss, and joist design.
At Kiras, Raphael specializes in reviewing wood truss packages and developing clear, code-compliant repair solutions that hold up both on paper and in the field. His work ensures everything aligns—from load paths to connector plates—according to TPIC and NBCC standards. Whether coordinating with drafters or catching red flags before they hit site, Raphael’s careful eye helps make sure each solution is efficient, accurate, and grounded in real-world constructability.
He’s got a PRC license, a growing résumé in Canadian timber design, and a background as a university instructor—which explains why he can break down technical concepts without putting people to sleep. And while he’s usually quick with a smile on site or in meetings, the only time we’ve seen him not grinning was in his official portrait photo. We’re still investigating.
Frank Lloyd Gabis
Structural Design Technologist
Technologist Structural Designer
Frank is the newest addition to the Kiras Engineering team, bringing a fresh perspective, a sharp technical mind, and possibly the most architecturally iconic name in the office (no pressure). With a background in civil engineering technology and an obsession with detail, Frank is focused on delivering structural solutions that are as practical as they are precise.
He’s the kind of technologist who double-checks the double-check—meticulously combing through models and calculations to ensure everything adds up (and then adds up again). If there’s a spreadsheet or number to crunch, Frank’s already halfway through it—and loving every minute.
He approaches every drawing with a deep respect for materials, code requirements, and—most importantly—the people behind the project. Whether supporting timber, concrete, or steel designs, Frank’s commitment to clarity and constructability makes him a valuable voice on the team.
At Kiras, he’s already earning a reputation for thoughtful work, a collaborative spirit, and a steady hand under pressure. When he’s not refining models or fine-tuning details, Frank is probably absorbing as much as he can—because for him, great engineering starts with great listening.
Nico Piamonte
Administrative Assistant
Office Systems Team Support
Nico wears two hats at Kiras Engineering—and makes both look effortless. As a mechanical designer specializing in MEP systems (Mechanical, Plumbing, and Fire Protection), Nico brings three years of experience designing efficient, code-compliant building services across residential and commercial projects. From HVAC layouts to plumbing coordination, his work helps ensure that buildings don’t just stand strong—they function seamlessly.
But Nico doesn’t stop at design. As our Executive Assistant, he’s also the organizational engine behind the scenes—keeping schedules aligned, operations running smoothly, and the team focused on what matters most. His ability to pivot between detailed engineering and day-to-day logistics makes him an indispensable part of the Kiras ecosystem.
Driven by curiosity and a deep sense of responsibility, Nico is always learning—whether through collaboration, self-study, or hands-on project work. He’s a team player, a steady presence, and a reminder that great engineering isn’t just technical—it’s also about keeping people and processes moving in sync.
Laura Vandoorne
Office Administrator
Operations & Efficiency
Laura Vandoorne is the steady hand and sharp mind behind Kiras Engineering’s day-to-day operations—the kind of administrator who keeps the wheels turning, the books balanced, and the founder (mostly) in line. As co-owner and back-office lead, she handles everything from payroll to HR with the calm efficiency of someone who’s seen every spreadsheet, email chain, and last-minute request imaginable.
Laura brings structure to the chaos, order to the inbox, and a touch of humour to every “urgent” situation. Her knack for organization and people skills ensures the team can focus on engineering while she keeps the business running smoothly—and the coffee fund accounted for.
When she’s not keeping Kiras on track, she’s keeping up with Patrick and their kids, proving daily that management is both her profession and her superpower
