ABOUT US
Associated Structural Engineers, Inc. was founded in February 2008 by David Willis, P.E., in New Braunfels, Texas. He created his business in response to a growing need for experienced, practical structural engineering services in Central Texas. With a background spanning both structural design and forensic investigative engineering, David set out to build a firm grounded in technical integrity, clear communication, and honest solutions.
From the beginning, ASE was built on reputation and trust. Clients who had previously worked with David sought his expertise, valuing his hands-on approach, attention to detail, and commitment to straightforward engineering. This early demand allowed the firm to grow steadily and organically, expanding to support a broader range of residential and commercial projects in multiple states while maintaining the personal service of a small firm.
Today, ASE remains intentionally hands-on and client-focused. We approach every project with the same principles the company was founded on: sound engineering judgment, practical recommendations, and respect for the people who rely on our work. Built from the ground up, ASE continues to serve clients who value expertise, accountability, and engineering done right.
Currently, ASE primarily provides services in Texas, Idaho, Utah, and Washington. Please let us know if we can assist you with your structural design or forensic engineering needs.
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MEET THE TEAM
DAVID R. WILLIS, PE | Founder & President
David has more than 40 years of structural engineering experience, including the analysis, design, and compliance inspections of residential multi-family, and commercial structures utilizing metal-plate connected wood truss components, conventional wood and heavy timber, structural steel, and light-gauge steel framing systems, with post-tension and conventionally reinforced concrete foundation systems. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering with emphasis on structural engineering from The University of Texas at Arlington. He holds three different patents on various light-gauge steel truss framing devices.
As Founder and President of Associated Structural Engineers not only does David manage all company affairs, he also leads ASE’s Structural Forensics Department. He has conducted, supervised, and reviewed thousands of structural forensic engineering property damage and property condition investigations. When required, he provides expert witness testimony during legal proceedings for many of his investigations.
David and his wife Kathryn enjoy traveling and spending time with their six grown children and their spouses, and thirteen grandchildren.
Kara has nearly ten years of experience supporting structural engineering operations at ASE, including project coordination, technical documentation, data review, CAD drafting support, and client communication for residential, multi-family, and commercial engineering projects. Her work spans the full project lifecycle, from initial intake and scheduling through final report preparation and delivery, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and clarity throughout the documentation process. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Advertising and Mass Communication from Texas State University, with an emphasis on professional communication, design, and technical accuracy.
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As Operations Coordinator at Associated Structural Engineers, Kara supports day-to-day firm operations and serves as a central point of coordination between engineers, clients, and internal systems. Her role is integral to maintaining workflow continuity, documentation standards, and timely project delivery.
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Kara is an active-duty military spouse and the mother of two children. She currently works remotely and lives on Hill Air Force Base in northern Utah. Her family loves to enjoy the outdoors, including hiking, camping, and snowboarding.
