Meet Our Leadership Team

Tiffany Hopkins

CEO

Tiffany is a founding Principal with more than 25 years of experience spanning the road construction, gas utility and energy industries. Tiffany attended Michigan Technological University where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.

After graduation, she moved to Chicago to start her career in engineering design and construction with CT&E (an AECOM company). Tiffany went on to spend 7 years in the construction industry before moving to Nicor Gas where she utilized her construction experience while diving into the world of energy. She spent her time at Nicor Gas in the field coordinating construction crews, engineering “on the fly” designs and working hand in hand with local government agencies and municipalities.

After spending some time at home raising her children, Tiffany joined EN Engineering where she enjoyed working nearly 13 years managing a group of inspectors, engineers and drafters that handled distribution construction inspection and system design for multiple LDC clients. She is known for her strong process management skills and her ability to quickly and efficiently integrate new employees into her team. Tiffany enjoys the challenge of guiding young engineers and drafters through their early professional years and considers herself a lifelong mentor to every employee that has been a part of her team.

Linda Aouf, PE

COO

Linda is a founding Principal and Chief Engineer with professional engineering licenses in 5 states and nearly 25 years of industry related experience. Linda moved to the United States from Syria in 1999 looking for opportunity. Despite already achieving a degree in Engineering, she worked as a drafter while finishing required classes to transfer her degree.

Linda held multiple positions over the next 11 years in the civil sector, ranging from Engineer to Project Manager, giving her extensive experience in grading and storm water management, as well as water and sanitary system design. In 2012, Linda joined EN Engineering where she gained exposure to oil and gas transmission design as well as natural gas distribution system design for multiple clients. Linda had the opportunity to engage with several LDC companies while managing a team of drafters and engineers that designed many different types of projects including main replacements, system improvements, regulating stations, permitting and more.

Linda is known for her strong client management and relationship skills. She believes that strong work ethic and honesty are the basis for a successful career.

Pawel Tatarczuk, PMP

Managing Director

Pawel is a seasoned professional in engineering consulting specializing in the natural gas sector. With an impressive 19 years of experience, Pawel has established himself as a prominent figure in the field, contributing significantly to the growth and success of his firm.

As the Managing Director of Shactee Engineering, Pawel demonstrates exceptional leadership skills guiding a team of talented managers, engineers, and designers to consistently deliver innovative solutions to clients in the natural gas industry. His deep expertise spans various areas including pipeline design and infrastructure development.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Pawel possesses a passion for exploration and adventure. Traveling to different parts of the world, he finds inspiration and a broader perspective on diverse cultures and environments. When he's not immersed in the world of engineering, Pawel enjoys indulging his love for basketball. Whether watching games or occasionally hitting the court, he appreciates the teamwork, strategy, and discipline that the sport embodies.

Pawel is not only dedicated to his career but also to his family. A loving husband and father of three, he finds fulfillment in nurturing strong relationships and creating a harmonious balance between his personal and professional life.

Jack Cussen, PE

Gas Distribution Engineering Discipline Manager

Meet Jack Cussen, a talented civil engineer with over a decade of experience in the energy sector. Jack is not your average project manager- he's a licensed professional engineer in multiple states, bringing a whole lot of expertise to the table. Jack has been excelling as a leader while spearheading electric and natural gas distribution projects. From public improvements to system expansions, he's done it all and left a trail of successful projects in his wake. Clients love him for his knack for finding innovative solutions to complex challenges.

When it comes to building relationships, Jack is a pro. He's formed strong partnerships with energy companies that everyone recognizes (but we can't drop names here). Jack's trusted by his clients because he's not just an engineer - he's a licensed professional who knows how to get things done right. But Jack doesn't stop there. He's also a fantastic mentor; guiding and training engineers and drafters to be their very best. He loves sharing his know-how in pipeline design, cost estimation, and project execution. Thanks to his leadership, Shäctee Engineering boasts a tight-knit team of talented individuals.

With his passion for the job, technical expertise, and client-centric approach, Jack is a true asset to Shäctee Engineering. He's the kind of leader who drives project success, fosters growth, and makes the company shine. Jack is living proof that engineering can be exciting, impactful, and downright awesome.

Michael Tumbush, PE

Gas Distribution Engineering Discipline Manager

Mike Tumbush is a talented engineering leader with over a decade of experience in gas utilities, civil infrastructure, and pipeline design. He has overseen thousands of successful projects, including gas main replacements, regulator station upgrades, and public improvement initiatives.

As a licensed Professional Engineer in Illinois and Michigan, Mike is known for his ability to guide cross-functional teams through complex engineering challenges. He manages large-scale programs with a focus on safety, quality, and operational efficiency — ensuring high-impact solutions across diverse service territories.

A passionate mentor and team builder, Mike is committed to developing engineering talent and delivering infrastructure solutions that prioritize safety, innovation, and long-term community value. He holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Dayton and serves on the Southern Gas Association’s Multi-Generational Leadership Committee.

Outside of work, Mike enjoys traveling, cooking, and spending time with his wife, son, and their dog in Chicago’s north side.

Maciek Benesiewicz, PE

Gas Distribution Engineering Discipline Manager

Maciek joined Shäctee Engineering in Spring 2022, bringing with him over a decade of experience in the utilities industry. With a strong background in natural gas distribution design consulting, he has led teams on a wide range of projects — from pipeline replacements and regulator station rebuilds to public improvements, new service installations, corrosion mitigation, and permitting programs across the U.S.

His work has taken him across the United States, collaborating with state, county, and municipal agencies to navigate complex permitting and design requirements. Maciek is also a dedicated mentor, actively supporting junior staff and contributing to internal training initiatives that strengthen team performance.

A licensed Professional Engineer in both Illinois and Texas, Maciek holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois at Chicago and an MBA from Aurora University.

A lifelong suburban Chicagoan, Maciek spends his free time with family and friends, playing soccer, traveling, and soaking up the outdoors whenever he can.

Jennifer Healy

Gas Distribution Engineering Discipline Manager

Jennifer is a seasoned Engineering Leader with a proven track record of leading and delivering complex gas distribution pipeline projects. Known for her strong technical foundation and collaborative approach, she consistently develops solutions that prioritize efficiency, safety, and constructability — whether navigating open landscapes or the tight corridors of New England’s urban infrastructure.

Over the course of her career, Jennifer has cultivated enduring relationships with utilities, Departments of Public Works, Conservation Commissions, and partner engineering firms. Her ability to align diverse stakeholders and drive projects to successful completion — on time and within budget — has earned her a reputation for reliability and excellence.

Prior to joining Shäctee Engineering, Jennifer served as a Field Engineer at a regional gas utility, where she gained hands-on experience in operations, emergency response, capital improvement initiatives, and new customer pipeline design. This field-based perspective informs her design work, allowing her to bridge practical insight with advanced engineering expertise.

Jennifer’s dedication to quality, teamwork, and client satisfaction makes her a trusted partner in delivering safe, efficient, and constructible gas infrastructure solutions.

Bob Gilbert, PMP

Drafting and Design Discipline Manager

With over 25 years of experience in CAD design, team leadership, and technology integration, Bob Gilbert plays a pivotal role in guiding Shäctee’s multi-disciplinary design operations. As a Drafting & Design Discipline Manager, Bob is known for bringing clarity to complexity — streamlining technical workflows and fostering collaboration across teams to deliver precise, client-focused results.

His previous role as Director of Resources and Technology for a natural gas design group equipped him with deep expertise in managing talent, implementing training programs, and driving technology adoption across large-scale infrastructure projects. At Shäctee, Bob leverages this experience to elevate design standards, mentor emerging talent, and lead innovation initiatives that enhance efficiency and cross-disciplinary coordination.

Bob holds a Project Management Professional (PMP®) certification, a Level III Professional Piping Designer (PPD III) certification, and degrees in Architectural Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Business Administration. Based in Concord, New Hampshire, he continues to champion purposeful innovation and cross-disciplinary growth within Shäctee’s expanding team.

Shannon Herbert

Drafting and Design Discipline Manager

Joining Shäctee in 2020, Shannon brings over a decade of design experience in the natural gas industry. Specializing in AutoCAD and natural gas distribution systems, she has played a pivotal role in developing precise and innovative design solutions. Originally from the Chicago suburbs, she now enjoys the Shäctee remote workstyle from her home in sunny Florida.

With a keen eye for precision and efficiency, Shannon excels at translating complex concepts into functional designs. Her deep knowledge of AutoCAD and gas distribution systems has been instrumental in streamlining workflows, enhancing project efficiencies, and driving innovation. Her innate leadership skills and ability to foster cross-functional collaboration make her a valuable asset to any project.

Holding a degree from Joliet College and multiple industry certifications, Shannon is committed to staying ahead of industry advancements. Passionate about mentorship, she dedicates time to guiding and inspiring her team of designers and drafters, ensuring they thrive in the ever-evolving field of design.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Shannon is an avid traveler who loves exploring new cultures and landscapes. She embraces every opportunity to learn, grow, and broaden her perspective, both personally and professionally.

Melissa Bazik

Drafting and Design Discipline Manager

Melissa brings over 16 years of experience in CAD-related programs within the natural gas industry. She holds a bachelor's degree from Harrington College of Design and has been a valued member of our team for over three years.

With strong leadership skills, Melissa excels in guiding design teams, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and fostering a culture of innovation. She is adept at streamlining workflows, enhancing collaboration between engineering and design teams, and driving efficiency across projects. Dedicated to delivering high-quality results on time and within budget, she also takes pride in mentoring her team, empowering them to grow and advance in a way that aligns with their unique strengths and aspirations.

Passionate about integrating sustainable practices into design solutions, Melissa is committed to shaping a more responsible and forward-thinking industry. Outside of work, she enjoys quality time with family and friends and is an active volunteer, supporting causes that she cares about to make a meaningful impact in her community.

Nick Walczak

Tech Solutions Manager

Nick is an accomplished IT professional with a decade of experience in the IT field. With a passion for technology and a deep understanding of its application in various industries, Nick has emerged as a valuable asset in managing complex IT systems and driving organizational success.

Nick graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems and has a Master of Business Administration in Information Technology Management. With this extensive experience and diverse skill set, Nick remains a sought-after IT Manager, ready to tackle new challenges and drive digital transformation at Shactee Engineering.

Mandy Miller

Head of Business Development

Fueled by innovation and backed by over a decade of experience in the Energy, Power Generation, and Oil & Gas industries, Mandy is a people-focused leader with a proven record of delivering exceptional results. A proud Colorado native, she has played an instrumental role in driving growth across teams, divisions, and departments. She brings a unique blend of creativity, strategic thinking, and operational excellence to every endeavor.

Throughout her career, Mandy has forged impactful, synergistic partnerships and built high-performing teams, drawing on deep expertise in client retention, relationship management, sales, government relations, business development, and technical project management. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, she also served in Aviation Resource Management, an experience that further solidified her foundation in leadership and service.

At the heart of her work is a genuine passion for the energy industry, not just for its innovations and global impact, but for how it can transform lives. Mandy is especially passionate about advancing energy solutions that support women and developing nations, believing in the power of energy access to drive equality, opportunity, and long-term change.

With a deep love for non-profits, inspiring change, and helping others, Mandy operates on the core values of respect, compassion, and empathy. Whether managing complex projects, building value-driven partnerships, or unlocking new opportunities for growth, she remains committed to making a positive and lasting impact.

Grounded in core values of respect, compassion, and integrity, Mandy believes the best business outcomes are built on trust and shared success.

Dawn Ives

Executive Business Administrator

Meet Dawn Ives, an accomplished executive administrator who joined the Shäctee team in 2020. Dawn has a natural talent for overseeing business practices and optimizing operations for success, making her truly exceptional in her role. With a strong background in customer service, Dawn has a keen ability to understand and exceed client expectations ensuring exceptional experiences.

As a dedicated mother of three, she values the importance of family and cherishes quality time spent with loved ones. Living in Illinois, Dawn finds joy in a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, gardening, and biking. Dawn’s diverse expertise, coupled with her commitment to family and love for the outdoors, make her a versatile and well-rounded professional.

Kasey Coats

Human Resources Manager

Kasey Coats is a highly experienced Human Resources Professional who joined Shäctee in 2022, bringing 20 years of industry expertise across multiple sectors. As a devoted mother of two, she understands the importance of work-life integration and creating inclusive work environments.

Based in Florida, Kasey enjoys traveling to explore new cultures and destinations, while also finding solace in the beauty of the beach. An avid reader and collector, she has a passion for hunting shells and shark teeth, which reflects her attention to detail and determination.

With her extensive HR background and diverse interests, Kasey brings a unique perspective to her work, fostering productive and harmonious workplaces that prioritize both professional growth and personal well-being.

Richard Torres, PMP

PMO Manager

Richard is a results-driven project management expert with over two decades of leadership experience in the oil, gas, and energy sectors. Known for building and guiding high-performing teams across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, he has successfully led capital projects while consistently meeting strategic, safety, and financial objectives.

His extensive background in directing complex, multi-disciplinary initiatives — including LNG, oil & gas, and petrochemical operations — has equipped him with the tools to establish scalable PMO systems and enterprise-wide governance frameworks. At Shäctee, Richard applies this expertise to strengthen project execution, enhance accountability, and align delivery with long-term business goals. His metric-driven approach and commitment to operational excellence continue to drive measurable impact across the firm’s portfolio.

Richard holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Houston and maintains active certifications including Project Management Professional (PMP®), OSHA 10, and TWIC, along with contractor licenses in 11 U.S. states. Passionate about mentorship and continuous improvement, he champions training programs that elevate performance and reinforce a strong safety culture across Shäctee’s growing international teams.