Modular Timber Housing: Advancing prefabrication through collaboration
ASPECT is part of the team behind the Modular Timber Housing system, led by Perkins&Will, an initiative dedicated to advancing modular and mass timber housing solutions across Canada.
The system showcases how modular and mass timber approaches can accelerate delivery, improve quality, and rethink how we build housing at scale, aligning closely with ASPECT’s focus on constructability and prefabrication.
Through collaboration with industry partners, the initiative brings together research, case studies, and practical insights that support more efficient, sustainable, and buildable housing solutions.
Learn more about this initiative through the Modular Timber Housing microsite.
Timber isn’t a trend. It’s a shift.
We’re hiring a Mass Timber Structural Engineer to join our team in Vancouver.
Mass timber changes the way buildings come together.
Not just in how they perform, but in how they’re imagined, coordinated, and constructed. It asks different questions earlier in the process. It demands closer collaboration. And when it’s done well, it creates structures that are as thoughtful as they are efficient.
At ASPECT, we’ve built our practice around that shift.
Our work in mass timber goes beyond technical delivery. It’s about understanding the full picture, materials, systems, people, and bringing them together in a way that makes projects stronger from the inside out. That takes engineers who are comfortable navigating complexity, making decisions, and staying connected to both the details and the outcome.
We’re growing, and we’re looking for a Mass Timber Engineer to join us.
This is a role for someone with experience, and the curiosity to keep building on it. You’ll lead and contribute to projects across all phases, from early design through construction. You’ll work closely with architects, contractors, and suppliers, helping to coordinate ideas and translate them into clear, buildable solutions.
Along the way, you’ll mentor junior team members, contribute to our shared technical knowledge, and play a part in shaping how we continue to evolve as a practice.
You’ll need a strong foundation: experience with mass timber projects, a solid understanding of codes and standards, and the ability to lead work while staying collaborative and pragmatic.
But just as important is how you approach the work.
If this sounds like something you’re interested, visit our Careers page and get in touch.
ASPECT Structural Engineers named one of Canada’s Top Small & Medium Employers, again!
Global structural engineering firm is selected to be on a competitive list as part of the “Top 100 Employers” Project.
For the third consecutive year in a row, the global structural engineering firm is selected to be on a competitive list as part of the “Top 100 Employers” Project.
ASPECT Structural Engineers was included on the 2025 list of “Canada’s Top Small & Medium Employers”, which was announced in a magazine published by MediaCorp Inc. The announcement has since made way to other prestigious publications including the Globe and Mail.
Now in its 13th year, Canada’s Top Small & Medium Employers is an editorial competition that recognizes the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that offer the nation’s best workplaces and forward-thinking human resources policies. Applicant employers are evaluated across eight categories of criteria:
- Workplace
- Work Atmosphere & Social
- Health, Financial & Family Benefits
- Vacation & Time Off
- Employee Communications
- Performance Management
- Training & Skills Development
- Community Involvement
“As ASPECT continues to evolve, we are proud that our culture remains a consistent strength. This recognition reflects a team that is curious and committed to doing great work with great people. We are entering an exciting chapter as a firm, and we have been intentional about building an environment where people feel supported, trusted, and inspired to grow alongside the business."
Adam Gerber, CEO of ASPECT
The jury identified a number of reasons for ASPECT’s selection including:
- Hosts bi-weekly lunch and learns with internal and external speakers from relevant industries who share insights to support employees’ professional growth (with lunch during these sessions provided by the organization)
- Maintains a formal hybrid work policy that enables employees to work from home for up to two days per week and the flexibility to set their own work hours to accommodate life commitments, commuting, childcare needs, and more — the company also offers the option to work from anywhere for up to two weeks per year
- Takes a thoughtful approach when employees need to care for their loved ones, offering a compassionate leave top-up of 80 per cent of salary for 15 weeks
Additional highlights can be found on the Canada’s Top 100 website.
The complete list of this year’s winners is noted in the official Canada’s Top Employers Magazine.
If you have any questions about this or other ASPECT awards, please contact:
Chantal Reitmaier
Senior Marketing & Communications Specialist
chantal@aspectengineers.com
About ASPECT Structural Engineers
ASPECT Structural Engineers is a globally acclaimed, full-service structural engineering firm. Founded in 2016, we are now a cohesive team of more than 60 engineers, fabrication designers, technicians, and support staff. Through thoughtful yet pragmatic design practices and rigorous training, the engineers and designers at ASPECT understand not only their role in contributing to a project, but also how to support the roles of others.
Many members of the ASPECT team started their careers in other disciplines, pulling from their experience working with carpenters, contractors, suppliers, or architects to contribute to a wider understanding of the value that structural engineers can bring to a project. Our team-based approach focuses on better design, improved constructability, and unwavering accountability.
From the beginning, ASPECT has been driven by the importance of true sustainability, underscoring our commitment to understanding, and educating others on the benefits of, mass timber. Beyond producing award-winning structural engineering work for everything from office buildings, to bridges, to custom homes, we also dedicate a substantial amount of time to working with other industry leaders – industry suppliers, architects, and clients – to work through new ways to design and build for the future. Our diverse team is active in markets around the world, with dedicated offices in Canada (Vancouver and Toronto), and Switzerland (Bern).
See you in Portland! ASPECT is headed to IMTC 2026
Our bags are packed and we’re ready to go! ASPECT is headed back to Portland for the 2026 International Mass Timber Conference (IMTC). This year’s event is extra special, as the show celebrates it’s 10th anniversary.
March 31 – April 2, 2026
Portland, Oregon
Oregon Convention Center
IMTC is the largest gathering of mass timber experts in the world. The jam-packed show includes over 70 speakers, 200 exhibitors and typically attracts up to 3,000 attendees world-wide.
Learn more here: https://masstimberconference.com/
ASPECT Structural Engineers named BC’s Top Employer
Global structural engineering firm is selected to be on a competitive list as part of the “Top 100 Employers” Project.
ASPECT Structural Engineers was included on the 2026 list of BC’s Top Employers, which was announced in a magazine published by MediaCorp Inc. The announcement has since made way to other publications including the Vancouver Sun.
Now in its 21st year, BC’s Top Employers recognizes employers that lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work. Applicant employers are evaluated across 8 categories of criteria:
Workplace
Work Atmosphere & Social
Health, Financial & Family Benefits
Vacation & Time Off
Employee Communications
Performance Management
Training & Skills Development
Community Involvement
“Vancouver is where ASPECT started, and this recognition feels especially meaningful as it reflects the people, values, and sense of community we’ve built here from day one."
“The recognition is a testament to the strength of ASPECT’s culture. While we’ve been recognized in the Top Employer project before, this is our first time named as one of BC’s Top Employers,” says Julia Fatkullina, ASPECT’s Senior HR Generalist. “Vancouver is where ASPECT started, and this recognition feels especially meaningful as it reflects the people, values, and sense of community we’ve built here from day one. It reinforces our commitment to creating a workplace where our team feels supported and proud of the work they do.”
The jury identified a number of reasons for ASPECT’s selection including:
Our wellness benefit ($600 to cover costs including gym memberships, ski passes, and fitness classes)
Our career development conversation to help our team define career goals and pathways to achieving them
Our competitive vacation allowance (with paid time off, up to five days during the winter break)
Additional highlights can be found on the Canada’s Top 100 website.
The complete list of this year’s winners is noted in the official Canada’s Top Employers Magazine.
If you have any questions about this or other ASPECT awards, please contact:
Chantal Reitmaier
Senior Marketing & Communications Specialist
chantal@aspectengineers.com
About ASPECT Structural Engineers
ASPECT Structural Engineers is a globally acclaimed, full-service structural engineering firm. Founded in 2016, we are now a cohesive team of more than 60 engineers, fabrication designers, technicians, and support staff. Through thoughtful yet pragmatic design practices and rigorous training, the engineers and designers at ASPECT understand not only their role in contributing to a project, but also how to support the roles of others.
Many members of the ASPECT team started their careers in other disciplines, pulling from their experience working with carpenters, contractors, suppliers, or architects to contribute to a wider understanding of the value that structural engineers can bring to a project. Our team-based approach focuses on better design, improved constructability, and unwavering accountability.
From the beginning, ASPECT has been driven by the importance of true sustainability, underscoring our commitment to understanding, and educating others on the benefits of, mass timber. Beyond producing award-winning structural engineering work for everything from office buildings, to bridges, to custom homes, we also dedicate a substantial amount of time to working with other industry leaders – industry suppliers, architects, and clients – to work through new ways to design and build for the future. Our diverse team is active in markets around the world, with dedicated offices in Canada (Vancouver and Toronto), and Switzerland (Bern).
Journal of Commerce: ASPECT BCIT project featured
ASPECT’s work on the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) Trades and Technology Complex has been featured in the Journal of Commerce.
The article highlights the start of construction on the first three buildings within the multi-phase development, including two mass timber pavilions that will support hands-on training for the next generation of skilled trades professionals.
Designed to reflect the evolving landscape of construction, the project brings mass timber into the learning environment itself, giving students direct exposure to the materials and systems shaping the future of the industry.
ASPECT is proud to be part of the project team as structural engineer, supporting the delivery of these innovative, high-performance buildings.
Read the full article here.
Renderings courtesy of Urban Arts Architecture
Engineering News-Record: ASPECT David Rubenstein Treehouse project featured
ASPECT’s work on Harvard University’s David Rubenstein Treehouse has been featured in Engineering News-Record.
The article spotlights the university’s first hybrid mass timber and low-carbon concrete conference centre, a 55,000 sq ft building designed as a bold commitment to sustainability. Defined by its branching, tree-like structure, the project pushed the boundaries of both design and construction, requiring precise coordination across a highly complex mass timber system.
ASPECT contributed as the mass timber design, providing Mass Timber Specialty Engineering, Design Assist, Temporary Works Engineering, and Fabrication Design services
Read the full article here.
Creativity in a Systemized Approach
Earlier this year, ASPECT was recognized on an international stage as Innovator of the Year at the 2025 CREE Awards. The award reflects the depth of ASPECT’s involvement across the CREE ecosystem — a systemized, timber-hybrid approach to buildings. From feasibility studies to structural engineering, and fabrication-ready modelling to site coordination, our focus has been on improving reliability, constructability, and performance at every stage.
We sat down with Founding Principal, Bernhard Gafner and Associate Engineer, Thomas Brotschi to talk about ASPECT’s role within the global CREE Network, the nature of systemized innovation, and how repeatable design can still leave room for creativity.
What does the Innovator of the Year recognition represent for ASPECT?
Bernhard:
Innovation isn’t a single moment. It comes from doing the work, evaluating what happened, and finding a way to make it better the next time. CREE shares that mindset.
While the CREE system is a well-oiled machine, it continues to evolve project by project. ASPECT contributes to that evolution through engineering, detailing, and problem-solving that strengthens the project team, and subsequently, the system overall. This award reflects a commitment and relationships that have been building over many years.
Thomas:
It also highlights the type of innovation that often happens behind the scenes. We work really closely with fabrication and installation teams. A lot of our contribution comes from refining details, anticipating challenges, and adjusting the system so it performs well in different climates, codes, and construction cultures.
Studies and competitions to support the evaluation of potential CREE projects (cost and time)
Working with project teams to evaluate or establish timelines Full Structural
Engineering of the CREE system, often in collaboration with a local team
Support the local team in obtaining project specific jurisdictional approvals
Integration of prefabricated solutions for lateral system (precast concrete or structural steel) to streamline the DfMA approach
Development of novel solutions in response to project specific challenges
Full fabrication design (3D modeling / shop drawings) for all CREE components
Collaboration with local installation teams and providing Temporary Works
Engineering including sequencing plans
How did ASPECT first become involved with CREE?
Bernhard:
My first connection with CREE goes back to a presentation they did in Vancouver. Long story short, the ideas resonated with how ASPECT thinks about building and the rest is history! Over time, we became more involved in the partner network, helping CREE and their local teams navigate structural requirements in new regions. The trust has grown because we understand how the system works at a deep level and because we are committed to helping the network succeed as it expands globally.
What role does ASPECT play during early feasibility work for CREE projects?
Thomas:
Early phases are important because they set the tone for the entire project. We look at program, spans, grid layouts, lateral systems, site logistics, timelines, and cost. The goal is to determine whether the CREE system is a good fit and if it is, how it should be adapted. Our structural insight helps clients understand what the system can do, what it cannot do, and how to position the project for success before detailed design starts.
Bernhard:
The earlier you identify constraints, the better. We take a holistic approach to looking at how these constraints may affect later coordination. When you address them early, you reduce the risk of surprises during fabrication or installation.
How does ASPECT support the technical engineering of CREE buildings?
Bernhard:
We provide delegated structural engineering for the core CREE components, including slabs, beams, columns, and non-load-bearing wall elements. That involves working closely with local engineers, so the system meets regional codes and performance expectations.
Thomas:
Every region has its own requirements. Some areas need higher fire ratings, while others have specific seismic, vibration, or moisture considerations. The CREE system has an established logic, but the details adapt. ASPECT provides the link between global intent and local execution when it comes to structural engineering.
Prefabrication is central to CREE’s model. How does that influence your work?
Thomas:
Prefabrication demands accuracy. When a component is manufactured before it arrives on site, every interface has to be understood. One advantage of CREE is that once you understand how a detail performs, you can repeat it with confidence. That helps us direct more effort toward the complex conditions where projects differ.
Bernhard:
It also increases collaboration, which leads to better results. Architects, engineers, fabricators, all work together earlier, and the clarity of the system helps everyone move in the same direction.
Can you share an example where ASPECT helped evolve the CREE system for a project-specific need?
Thomas:
One of the initiatives I spearheaded was the creation of a new connector for our Østerbrogade 190 project, in Copenhagen. The project required columns to resist significant tensile forces and the standard CREE detail was not designed for that. We collaborated with Hilti and the local engineering team to create a connector that addressed the loading while still fitting within the logic of the system. And now CREE is using it on other projects! This goes to show that a single innovation can improve the system for everyone.
How do you approach innovation within a system that is already defined?
Bernhard:
Some breakthroughs are large, such as new connection types or structural strategies. Others are incremental refinements. Small adjustments to a plate thickness, bolt pattern, or interfaces that can have magnified impacts when the detail is repeated many times. Our work with the system gives us the foundation to be creative and push innovation forward no matter the scale.
Thomas:
In a way, innovation can also come from restraint. For example, more timber is not always better. Sustainability improves when we use materials responsibly and design efficiently. CREE’s hybrid approach supports that balance.
What excites you most about the next phase of ASPECT’s work with CREE?
Bernhard:
For me, it is the potential to treat buildings as products rather than one-off prototypes. Better documentation, better feedback loops, and consistency across projects will move us towards even better systemized construction. We’ll be able to work increasingly proactively (as opposed to reactively) and focus on the smaller details as we continue to refine things. The more we deliver, the more we learn, and the more value we can create.
What do you see as the future of timber-hybrid, systemized construction?
Thomas:
There is enormous potential in integrating additional trades into the system. If structural, mechanical, and envelope components evolve together, the entire industry benefits! No one can argue, there’s something to be said about learning from each other and seeking understand each other’s perspectives. More integration between trades will lead to increased efficiency, faster delivery, and ultimately, better outcomes.
Bernhard:
I see more clients turning to these systems because they want predictable quality and performance. I also see project teams using them an increasing amount, because a solid systemized approach creates additional room to refine project details. The more clients and project teams understand CREE, the more they will see that CREE and systemized approaches like it, do not limit creativity. They open the door to more innovation.
Every year, the Canadian Wood Council recognizes excellence in wood design and construction with the presentation of the Wood Design and Building Awards. This year, four projects involving ASPECT were recognized, including: Adams Lake Health & Wellness Centre, Kin Park Pavilion and Ice Rink, Google Borregas, and 1120 Ossington. Congratulations to the architects and the entirety of the project team!
Read more about the projects below.
Adams Lake Health & Wellness Centre
Located on the Sexqeltqin No. 4 Indian Reserve near Adams Lake, this new Health and Wellness Centre supports the community’s growing needs with spaces for health services, education, and cultural programming. ASPECT provided Engineer of Record services for the 14,000-square-foot, timber-framed facility, designed with a holistic approach to wellness and a focus on renewable materials and energy efficiency.
Check out the full project page of Adams Lake Health & Wellness Centre
Kin Park Pavilion
Located in Fort St. John, the new Kin Park Pavilion enhances the community’s skating facilities with warming areas, washrooms, concessions, and storage for rink operations. The pavilion sits alongside a new oval multi-use rink and boarded concrete rink, creating a welcoming year-round hub for recreation and connection.
See more photos of Kin Park Pavilion
Google Borregas
This five-storey multi-award winning office marks Google’s first mass timber development, setting new benchmarks in sustainable design, construction, and carbon reduction. ASPECT provided Temporary Works Engineering to support Kinsol in safely and efficiently constructing the exposed timber structure, which has since achieved LEED® Platinum certification.
Read more about our work on Google Borregas
1120 Ossington
This five-storey multi-award winning office marks Google’s first mass timber development, setting new benchmarks in sustainable design, construction, and carbon reduction. ASPECT provided Temporary Works Engineering to support Kinsol in safely and efficiently constructing the exposed timber structure, which has since achieved LEED® Platinum certification.
Read more about our work on Google Borregas
ASPECT will be at Woodrise from September 22-25 and we’re hosting a series of events to complement the week-long congress at the Vancouver Convention Centre! Here’s a quick look at what we have planned:
TUESDAY
ASPECT x MTC Solutions’ Strides by the Seawall
⏰ September 23 @ 6 AM 📍 Vancouver Convention Centre
(Wood)Rise and shine for a run by the Seawall! We’re partnering with MTC Solutions to host an early morning run that will get your heart racing before a day full of networking and learning. Running for the fun of it? Join us for a 7K run. Feeling more ambitious? We’re also doing a 13K run! For both runs, meet us at the Vancouver Convention Centre at 6 AM so we can be back in time for the Woodrise breakfast.
WEDNESDAY
ASPECT Open House
⏰ September 24 @ 4PM 📍 190 West 3rd Ave
Did someone say “margaritas”? September 24th from 4-7 PM, join us at our Olympic Village office for a casual pre-dinner social right before the Woodrise Timber & Taps dinner, just down the street. Our doors at 190 West 3rd Ave will be open for you to join our team for margaritas, snacks, and chats!
THURSDAY
Woodrise Tours of Malahat Skywalk & Visitor Centre and Terminus at District 65
⏰ September 25 @ 8 AM 📍 Vancouver Island
While we can’t take credit for organizing these tours (they’re part of the official Woodrise programming), we can proudly say we’re guiding tours at two of the stops! The Post Congress Tour # 8 Wood, Innovation, and Community: A Tour of Vancouver Island’s Pioneering Structures and Spaces will include stops at our Malahat Skywalk and Terminus District 65 projects. Get the inside scoop from CEO, Principal Adam Gerber (Malahat) and Founding Principal Andrew Chad (Terminus) on how these projects came to be.
Register for the tour HERE.
More on Woodrise 2025
Woodrise in an international congress that promotes innovative, sustainable, and resilient building practices for timber construction. The congress serves as a hub for knowledge sharing amongst engineers (like us), architects, developers, researchers, policy-makers, and government officials.
Each year, the location of Woodrise changes and this year, it is in Vancouver! ASPECT’s head office is also located in Vancouver, so we thought, why not create MORE opportunities for knowledge sharing and networking?
If you have questions about any of the events ASPECT is hosting, please contact:
Chantal Reitmaier
Senior Marketing & Communications Specialist
chantal@aspectengineers.com
You can also learn more about Woodrise 2025 on the Woodrise website.