A project in motion stays in motion.
You’ve got a team of passionate, energetic, enthusiastic experts right here, ready to help move your project along. Engage us at the concept stage, or call us when you need industrial, civil, and structural design expertise at any other phase. We’ll show up with high standards of professionalism, integrity, practicality, and cost-efficiency. You get a project that keeps moving.
Founder story
At the age of 12, Brett Kiley loved spending weekends with his dad, Don, a Red Seal carpenter, building homes on the Eastern shore. From Nova Scotia to Bermuda and back again, building was both a part-time job and passion for Brett. He joined the Carpenters Union while studying Industrial Engineering at Dalhousie University. Brett continued to turn up in the field with his dad, taking note of the care, precision and high expectations his dad brought to every project; soaking up the entrepreneurial and leadership skills his dad brought to his company. Throughout his education, apprenticeships and early career, Brett has learned from and admired many reputable mentors, and still partners with them when he can.
With his passion for working in the field and a compulsion to see projects make progress, Brett opened his own firm in 2016, committed to being that reliable cog that keeps every project moving. He has pulled together an expert, energetic team to handle CAD design, civil & structural engineering, surveying, industrial design and consulting. The team is joined by a reliable roster of industry partners to enhance their own expertise.
Brett Kiley, P. Eng.
President
Brett graduated from Dalhousie University in 2013. He’s building a house on Nova Scotia’s eastern shore with his wife Kate. He spends weekends building and renovating because he enjoys construction just that much.
Holly Smith
Architectural Administrator
Holly graduated from Nova Scotia Community College in 2022 from the Drafting Architectural Program, and proudly completed the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification in May 2023. Holly faces new challenges with vigor and is always looking for ways to improve her process and work. She loves everything that involves the outdoors, including hiking, running, and spending time with friends and her miniature dachshund Frank!
Sam Crimp
E.I.T.
Sam graduated Civil Engineering from Dalhousie in 2021. From a young age, Sam had the goal of becoming a structural engineer. Having achieved that goal and having the chance to work in his own community has been an amazing opportunity. Although the path has changed slightly – Sam is very passionate about his work. Outside of work Sam enjoys playing sports, spending time with Friends & Family, and enjoying the great outdoors.
Baha Gulfidan
CMP
Baha graduated Construction Management Program from Lambton Collage in 2020. He has worked around the world (Turkey, Russia, UAE-Dubai, Oman) on construction projects and now enjoys being settled in Halifax, NS. Baha relaxes by reading history, oil painting and cooking for friends.
Claira Butler-Arsenault
Architectural Engineering Technician
Claira has always been interested in both engineering and architecture, which aligned perfectly with the Architectural Engineering Technician program at NSCC. Upon graduating in 2023, Claira kickstarted a career where she enjoys being able to assist on all kinds of different projects. In her spare time, Claira loves to learn new hobbies and stay active keeping her two dogs busy.
Nancy Cameron
Controller
Nancy has always been a numbers person; she built her career on a strong foundation from the Accounting Management program at College of the North Atlantic, NL. Nancy has worked for various businesses in accounting roles for the past two decades; in the Controller position for an Architecture company, and now over six years strong with Cogswell Engineering. In her spare time, Nancy enjoys riding bicycles with her husband and two young boys on the Salt Marsh Trail as well as kayaking down the Shubie Canal.
Abdulmalek (Malek) Al-Hababi E.I.T., Civil Engineer
Malek has a wealth of international experience, working in Arabic, Chinese, German, and English on projects around the world. He graduated from China with a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Tongji and Hunan Universities. After graduating in 2021, Malek worked on the Neom Project in Saudi Arabia. Now in Nova Scotia, he brings drive and precision to his projects, and spends his free time playing football, swimming, and playing the stock market.
Mahsa Banayeghasemi Architectural Lead
Mahsa loves to bring new ideas to life as an architectural designer. Colleagues commend her enthusiasm, appreciating the positive attitude and levity she brings to work. After graduating from university in Iran, Mahsa received her Certificate and then Diploma in Interior Design from the Institute of Technology Canada. She is a passionate advocate for women’s and human rights. She also enjoys crafting, painting, spending time in nature, and seeking out all kinds of new and exciting experiences.
Bushra Nadiadi
Architectural Engineering Technician
Bushra is building a long list of strengths and skills at Cogswell Engineering, as she prepares to graduate from NSCC with a Diploma from the Architectural Engineering Technician Program. This role marks a significant milestone in her journey and she looks forward to leveraging her skills and knowledge at Cogswell. Bushra’s favourite work so far is on Residential projects, using her problem-solving abilities to face complex challenges and meet high expectations. Colleagues welcome her enthusiasm and fresh perspective. Outside of work, Bushra likes to explore new places and nature. She also loves adding on to her software proficiency.
Carter DeYoung
Civil Engineering Intern
With his Diploma of Engineering from Dalhousie University, Carter has built a strong foundation in structural analysis, fluid mechanics, and engineering geology. He also holds an Urban Planning Certificate from Delft University, equipping him with insights into sustainable urban development and creative problem-solving techniques for construction challenges. Beyond his engineering pursuits, you’ll often find Carter getting some sun on the waterfront, playing a range of team sports, or exploring the city on his bike.
Gavin Coolidge
Summer co-op
Gavin’s biography coming soon
We keep projects in motion.
Tell us about your next construction project, big or small, & where you need our expertise.
Cogswell Engineering
Engineering Design & Consulting & Management
902-809-COGS
contact@cogswellengineering.ca
© 2024 Cogswell Engineering Ltd