The PeopleBehind the Work.
Dave O'Connell, PE, SE
Dave has worked on commercial, institutional and government projects in the Philadelphia area since 2006. He brings extensive experience collaborating with architects to manage new design and renovation projects and consulting with contractors and owners to perform condition assessments, develop maintenance and repair plans, and solve structural problems. In recent years Dave has served as an expert on structural related litigation. Dave spent 6 months in Christchurch, NZ performing post-earthquake condition assessments and repairs.
Dave creatively approaches problems to find solutions, trying new systems, finding the right approach and working with all team members to develop successful outcomes. Prior to his structural engineering career, Dave worked extensively in construction trades, primarily as a carpenter. He is also a returned Peace Corps Volunteer having served on the Cape Verde Islands.
A registered Professional Engineer in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and 12 other states, Dave approaches every engagement with the same level of care — whether it is a single beam calculation or a full structural design package.
Rooted in the
Main Line.
OAK Engineering was founded in Ardmore, Pennsylvania with a simple conviction: that small, local firms can provide better structural engineering than large, impersonal ones. Where bigger firms often assign junior engineers to routine projects, OAK Engineering means the principal is directly involved in every project — from first conversation to final stamp.
The firm was established to serve homeowners, architects, developers, and contractors across Delaware County, Montgomery County, Chester County, the City of Philadelphia, and beyond. Deep familiarity with local building codes, soil conditions, historic construction methods, and the regional regulatory landscape informs every project we take on.
From calculating the right beam for a kitchen renovation to designing the foundation system for a new commercial building, OAK Engineering brings the same level of rigor, care, and professionalism to every scope of work.
How we work.
Experience
Every structure is approached with humility and is seen as an opportunity to learn. We bring our experience to bear on every project to obtain the optimal solution, and hold ourselves to the highest technical standard regardless of scope.
Integrity
We give honest assessments. Our advice is driven by what is structurally sound and safe, not what is commercially convenient.
Collaboration
Great buildings require great teamwork. We work closely with architects, contractors, and owners to ensure the design intent is realized at every stage of a project.
Community
We are invested in the built environment of the communities we serve. Ardmore and the surrounding Main Line is home, and we take pride in helping shape its built fabric.