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’s degree 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

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

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.

Souk Heminthavong

Managing Director

Souk is an accomplished professional with over 25 years of experience in the natural gas industry. He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the design and operations of interstate natural gas pipelines and pipeline facilities to Shactee Engineering. With a background in measurement, compression, corrosion, and operations management, Souk is exceptionally well-suited to lead our transmission engineering effort. As Managing Director at Shactee Engineering, Souk leads a team of skilled engineers and designers dedicated to delivering innovative, safe, reliable, and compliant solutions to our valued clients. Souk takes pride in overcoming complex engineering challenges and collaborating closely with clients to provide optimal solutions tailored to their needs. Souk holds a degree in Geology from the University of Illinois and a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Florida State University, underlining his multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving and innovation. Souk enjoys mentoring engineers and designers and sharing his wealth of experience and knowledge. He is an active participant in industry groups, contributing to the advancement of the natural gas sector. Away from the office, Souk dedicates his time to his family and pursues his interests in motorsports. From restoring cars to racing them and embarking on adventurous motorcycling journeys around the world, Souk's enthusiasm and drive extend beyond his professional life.

Jack Cussen

Sr. Project 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.

Maciek Benesiewicz

Sr. Project Manager

Maciek has been in the utilities industry since 2011 and joined Shactee Engineering as a Sr. Project Manager in the Spring of 2022. He has an extensive background providing design consulting services to various clients in the Natural Gas Distribution space. Over the years, Maciek has led design teams on many types of projects including pipeline replacements, public improvements, regulator station rebuilds, new customer services & meters, corrosion mitigation, permitting programs, traffic control, and many other system improvement projects across the nation. His wide exposure has allowed him to work closely with state, county, and municipal agencies in multiple states to develop a deep understanding of design and permitting requirements. He routinely mentors’ junior staff and assists with various training initiatives. Maciek is an active and registered Professional Engineer in Illinois and Texas.

Maciek graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago with a B.S. in Civil Engineering and Aurora University with an MBA. Maciek and his wife Anna live in Geneva and have been residents of Chicago’s suburbs their entire lives. Maciek enjoys spending time with friends & family, playing soccer, traveling and getting outside as often as possible.

Tom Ferenac

Project Manager

Tom is a licensed Professional Engineer with a proven track record in project management and utility engineering. With over a decade of experience in the natural gas utilities industry, Tom brings a wealth of expertise in engineering and design to his role at Shactee Engineering. Currently, Tom oversees a number of permitting programs for his clients.

Tom graduated from the University of Iowa in 2013, earning a B.S. degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering. He is a highly skilled and certified Project Management Professional (PMP), demonstrating his commitment to delivering projects with precision and efficiency.

As a service-oriented leader, Tom excels in building strong client relationships and delivering exceptional results. His ability to lead design teams and projects is complemented by his expertise in gas distribution engineering design & permitting. Tom's dedication to mentorship and teamwork ensures a collaborative and productive work environment.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Tom is an avid soccer player who enjoys staying active and spending quality time with friends and family. He also has a passion for travel, which allows him to explore new cultures and broaden his perspective.

With his extensive experience, technical expertise, and dedication to delivering exceptional results, Tom consistently strives to exceed expectations in every project he undertakes.

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 degree in Computer Information Systems. He is currently working on his MBA with an IT Management focus. 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.

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.

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.