Our Team

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Steven Vaivada, B.Sc., P.Eng.

Owner/President

B. Sc. in Civil Engineering
Licensed Professional with APEGA

Steven is a proud member of the Kainai Nation, part of the Blackfoot Nation, and the dynamic force behind Scout Engineering & Consulting Ltd. He’s been a consulting engineer since 2006 and has volunteered for and supported a variety of Indigenous support organizations, including the Calgary Aboriginal Urban Affairs Committee and the Blackfoot Confederacy Entrepreneurs Committee.

In a quest to challenge the status quo, Steven founded Scout Engineering & Consulting Ltd. He created a systemic approach to delivering engineering services that tries to address the root causes of the poor, failing infrastructure in Indigenous Communities. As the sole owner of Scout, Steven continues to hold to his unwavering commitment and purpose: creating a company that’s changing the industry of Consulting Engineers.

Steven is a proud husband and father who spends his spare time mountain biking, skiing, and learning. In addition to being an engineering guru, Steven has built public art installations for the science and art festival, Beakerhead. He has also owned two businesses before founding Scout and is the majority owner of Scout Hydrovac, a non-destructive locating service based out of Edmonton and Calgary.

On working at Scout

“I can't imagine working somewhere else, this is the only place I can act on the values I hold and share a positive vision for Indigenous communities that is based on mutual success and understanding. We work incredibly hard to create a culture that allows our employees to show up whole and healthy, there's nothing like it that I've experienced.”

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What does Truth and Reconciliation mean to you?

The Truth in the TRC is incredibly important, we have to bring the two histories of Canada together into one. The Indigenous history of Canada goes back thousands of years and acknowledges the land and our inherent human existence (a small part of a larger, transcendent story) while the non-Indigenous history begins at "Contact" and ignores the people that had lived on the land and knew every stream and hill. There can be no Reconciliation without Truth. 

What's your most challenging project?

Creating Scout! Every day I have to show up ready to tackle any issue and see the challenges we will face in the months and years ahead, and inevitably I fail. But our team is full of leaders, and we pick each other up, so despite the difficulty and uncertainty of creating Scout, it becomes easy when I look around at the people in our company and know we are there to support each other.

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Marielle Flottat, M.A., B.Sc., P.Eng.

Director of People, Projects, and Culture

MA in Leadership
B. Sc. in Chemical Engineering
Licensed Professional with APEGA

Marielle joined Scout in 2018, bringing with her a unique passion for redefining an engineer’s role to bring social change, as well as more than 15 years of experience in project management. She’s dedicated to working with Indigenous communities to advance on-reserve engineering and infrastructure in a way that respects Indigenous knowledge and ways of life. Marielle holds an M.A. in Leadership from Royal Roads University and a B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Calgary.

As a leader within Scout, Marielle believes in co-creating Scout’s culture, vision, and values with all employees. She empowers others to think creatively and creates space for individuals to thrive. As a project manager and advisor, she’s responsible for managing and executing projects to meet the client’s needs, developing engagement strategies, and facilitating effective communication with Indigenous Communities and stakeholders.

Outside of Scout, Marielle is an avid skier! During the winter, you will find her on the slopes practicing her telemark turns, or helping others as a ski patroller. She is a member of the Canadian Ski Patrol and has been a patroller at the Lake Louise Ski Resort since 2010. Marielle is also passionate about adult education. She has taught at Mount Royal University, SAIT, and the University of Calgary. She fosters an empathetic and hands-on approach in her teaching style and encourages students to become societal leaders.

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What does Truth and Reconciliation mean to you?

It means being uncomfortable and taking ownership of Canada’s dark past. Truth and Reconciliation is an ongoing journey of learning and unlearning, addressing implicit biases, and raising voices of Indigenous People.

What makes you proud to work at Scout?

We are not a typical engineering company! We take a lot of pride of experimenting with new ways of thinking, and new ways on how we work with each other and with clients.

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Dazawray's fun photo
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Dazawray Landrie-Parker, M. Gov., PhD. Public Policy (Pending)

Director of Strategy & Partnerships

M. Governance & Entrepreneurship in Northern & Indigenous Areas
Ph.D Public Policy (Pending)

Dazawray Landrie-Parker is a Métis leader and strategic advisor working at the intersection of infrastructure, Indigenous governance, and economic reconciliation. At Scout Engineering & Consulting, she supports Indigenous-led and Indigenous-inclusive approaches to major project planning, delivery, and supply chain participation, ensuring projects are structured for long-term shared benefit, not short-term consultation.

With over a decade of experience across Canada’s nuclear, energy, mining, utilities, and transportation sectors, Dazawray works at the interface of Indigenous governments, Indigenous-owned businesses, industry proponents, and public institutions. She advances practical, community-driven pathways to Indigenous ownership, governance inclusion, workforce development, and supply chain access. Her work includes leading national initiatives on Indigenous procurement frameworks, supplier readiness and vetting models, equity participation structures, engagement strategies, and partnership design.

Her approach is grounded in a listen-first philosophy and a two-eyed seeing perspective that values both Indigenous and Western knowledge systems in project decision-making. She holds a Master’s degree in Governance and Entrepreneurship in Northern and Indigenous Areas and has been recognized for her leadership in the nuclear sector through publications, awards, and board appointments, including receiving the CNS/CNA Award of Excellence in Engagement and Communications.

At Scout, Dazawray brings a strategic growth lens to partnerships, helping clients navigate regulatory complexity while aligning projects with Indigenous rights, community-defined priorities, and long-term capacity building. She is known for asking hard questions early, designing practical and measurable frameworks, and building trust through clarity and accountability.

Outside of work, Dazawray is a proud mom of two. She prioritizes time outdoors, skiing in the winter, fishing and lake days in the summer, and travelling whenever she can. She is always planning the next trip! She values continuous learning beyond her professional work, is an avid reader, and enjoys carving out time to write, reflect and learn something new.

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What does Truth and Reconciliation mean to you?

Truth and Reconciliation, to me, is about structural change, not statements. It means acknowledging the historical and ongoing impacts of colonial policy, and then doing the difficult work of redesigning systems so Indigenous communities have real authority, real equity, and real economic participation.

In infrastructure and major projects, reconciliation shows up in governance seats, procurement access, revenue sharing, workforce development, and long-term capacity building. It requires moving beyond consultation toward co-development and shared decision-making. It is measurable. It is contractual. And it is built through relationships rooted in respect.

What makes you proud to work at Scout?

I am proud to work at Scout because of the people. Both within the organization and in the relationships we build externally. Internally, there is a strong culture of integrity, technical excellence, and collaboration. The team brings depth of expertise, but also openness to learning. That combination matters. It creates space for strategic conversations, not just technical execution.

Externally, Scout values long-term relationships. Our clients and partners are not treated as transactions; they are collaborators in solving complex challenges. Whether working with Indigenous communities, industry leaders, or government partners, there is a shared commitment to clarity, accountability, and doing the work properly. That alignment between strong people, strong relationships, and strong technical delivery is what makes me genuinely proud to be part of the Scout team.

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Reyaan Shuaib, M.S., B. Comm., B.Sc.

HR Generalist

MS in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
B. Sc. in Biological Sciences and Psychology
B. Comm. in Business Law and Economics

Reyaan's educational background means she has a knack for understanding what makes people tick. She’s dedicated to finding the perfect work-life balance and creating a culture that works for Scout’s employees. Her passion lies in recruiting and interviewing to uncover those hidden gems who’d fit perfectly with Scout’s vision, values, and culture.

In her free time, you can find Reyaan playing guitar for one of her three fans, adventuring somewhere in the Rocky Mountains, or in the middle of a fiercely competitive game of ping pong. She believes in lifelong learning and challenges herself to experiment in the pursuit of continuous self-improvement.

On working at Scout

“Scout’s value of joyful energy resonates with me most. The energy in a workplace is contagious, and Scout’s employees bring their authentic selves to work every day, making it easy to connect with each other and remember we are a work family just as much as we are a team.”

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What does Truth and Reconciliation mean to you?

Truth and Reconciliation goes deeper than just words and promises. It means continuous learning, empathetic listening, and genuine accountability. We must actively seek understanding of Indigenous history and, through that understanding, carry out actions that restore and heal Indigenous Communities.

What makes you proud to work at Scout?

The meaningful work we do. I care about the well-being of Scout employees even more because of this—the team is directly involved with improving communities in need.

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Michael LaRocque

Project Consultant and Engagement Manager

Journeyman Carpenter
Interprovincial Red Seal

Michael is an experienced project consultant who’s worked on an array of infrastructure projects with Scout. His capabilities and expertise in areas such as project management, cultural sensitivity, relationship building, and capacity building make him an integral member of the Scout team. Michael has more than two decades of experience in the construction industry and throughout his career has transitioned from hands-on work to office-based project management.

On working at Scout

“One of the things that I’ve always dreamed about is seeing more representation of Indigenous People in key project roles. It’s been a long-time vision of mine, and now, with Scout, it’s more than just a dream, it’s a reality that I get to play a part in. I can’t tell you how thankful I am to be at Scout where I can help bring this vision to life. The fact that it aligns so perfectly with my own aspirations is incredible and I feel like it’s a real step toward meaningful change in the industry.”

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What does Truth and Reconciliation mean to you?

Truth and Reconciliation is all about fixing the past wrongs Indigenous Peoples faced because of colonialism. It’s about owning up to these bad things that happened and understanding how those past hurts still affect people today, including myself. I’ve seen first-hand the trauma it caused in my own family, the struggles my parents had to deal with, and that’s not something you can easily forget. It’s a painful legacy, but it’s also fuel for change. The aim now is to heal those old wounds, make things fair, and build a society where everyone’s treated right.

What’s your most challenging project?

Figuring out what Scout really is, that’s a tricky one for me. We’ve got our hands in so many things and it’s like a new challenge every day—but that’s also the exciting part. There’s such a big, wide world out there with so many issues that need addressing, it makes me want to roll up my sleeves and dive into everything. But, I’ve got to remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day. So, as long as I keep moving forward, things will get better every day for the communities we’re working with and the strong, brave, and inspiring people who live in them.

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Esther Wurtz

Executive Assistant

Working out of Red Deer, Esther takes on multiple tasks in addition to her administrative and bookkeeping duties to help our Scout team anywhere she’s able to. She has a bubbly spirit and a willingness to learn, making her an invaluable member of the Scout team.

In her free time, you can find Esther accompanying her niece on various adventures, spending time with her family and friends, or enjoying creative hobbies such as scrapbooking, photography, and quilting.

On working at Scout

“Scout values a team spirit where we are all treated equally, but are valued for our unique talents. Our team is our community and as a community, we help one another as we help the outside communities within our projects. We are always striving to make a positive change.”

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What does Truth and Reconciliation mean to you?

Truth and Reconciliation is about being aware of the wrongs that we’ve done to Canada’s Indigenous Peoples while teaching current and future generations to do better. We need to stand up for Indigenous Canadians and celebrate what they’ve conquered, helping to ensure they never again endure what they have in the past. It’s about showing compassion and love for our Indigenous Communities and cultures while allowing healing to take place.

What’s your most challenging project?

One of my favorite challenges is that there’s always something new to learn and help with. What you might think the day is going to be filled with can be flipped on a dime and your whole day can look completely different while being just as rewarding.

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Peter Scholz, fun photo
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Peter Scholz, PTP, RPP, PMP (2013-2023)

Project Manager

M. Innovative Governance of Large Urban Systems
M. Community and Regional Planning
B. Geography

Often with one (or more) of five children perched atop his head, Peter approaches mountain hikes in a well-planned, methodical fashion, fueled by chocolates and marshmallows. His approach to nation building and economic reconciliation isn't all that different. He is our resident (pet?) urban, regional, and transportation planner, and always seems to be dreaming up something new.

Peter has worked in most parts of Canada, volunteered professionally in Africa, Myanmar, and Wyoming. and lived a decade in the Arctic. With three degrees and a few certifications, he brings breadth and depth to empower his drive to meaningfully contribute a lasting positive legacy of projects, which he can brag about to his future grandkids.

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What does Truth and Reconciliation mean to you?

To me, truth and reconciliation means building a bigger and better North America with full involvement and ownership of the original inhabitants, and their perspectives and values on stewardship, development, and balance built into the DNA and the revenue streams of whatever we do.

What makes you proud to work at Scout?

I'm proud to work at Scout because we get it done right, with the right values, and are not afraid to explore what this new relationship will actually look like.

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Teaghan's fun photo
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Teaghan Bratrud, LLB

Consultant & Business Development

L.L.B -- Bachelor of Laws, NCA

Teaghan is a community-focused professional and a member of Treaty 8, with a background in law and business development. With experience in both Canada and the UK, she brings a broad perspective to her work and is skilled at building meaningful connections across diverse communities.

At Scout, Teaghan supports economic development initiatives that help advance Indigenous communities’ short- and long-term goals. In her business development role, she focuses on building and maintaining strong, trust-based relationships with partners, clients, and communities, helping create opportunities grounded in collaboration, respect, and shared success. She also has a strong interest in restorative justice and community-led approaches that support healing and long-term well-being. Her connection to ceremony continues to inform how she approaches her work and relationships with communities.

Teaghan holds an LL.B (Bachelor of Laws) and is currently completing her National Committee on Accreditation requirements with the goal of practicing law in Canada.

Outside of work, Teaghan enjoys beading and has travelled to more than 30 countries, gaining inspiration from the cultures and perspectives she encounters.

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What does Truth and Reconciliation mean to you?

To me, Truth and Reconciliation means acknowledging the painful realities of the past and understanding how intergenerational, systemic barriers continue to affect communities today. It involves working together to find a collaborative path forward that fosters growth and educates future generations about the importance of justice and unity. Ultimately, it is about creating a lasting foundation for healing, restoring trust, and building a more equitable future.

What makes you proud to work at Scout?

I am proud to work at Scout because we are a tightly connected team that shares deeply aligned values, especially in our commitment to Indigenous futures. Our collaborative approach ensures that every voice is heard, and together, we focus on creating impactful, positive change. It’s empowering to be part of a company that truly prioritizes community and cultural respect.

Justin Headshot
Justin's fun photo
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Justin Alexander, MBA, MSc, BESc

Senior Consultant

MBA -- Environmental, Nat. Resource, & Energy Econ.
M. Sc. -- International Business Management
BESc. -- Environmental Engineering

Justin has interdisciplinary experience across Indigenous reconciliation, ESG and sustainability strategy, energy and infrastructure, and environmental engineering. He holds advanced degrees from Western University, the Norwegian School of Economics, and Ivey Business School, with academic recognition for leadership and excellence.

His background combines technical analysis, policy insight, and international business expertise. Justins international experience spans from researching and implementing wastewater solutions in Mainland China, developing solid waste solutions in Thailand, and researching energy economics in Norway.

Justin has supported corporations, governments, and not-for-profits in developing Reconciliation Action Plans, ESG frameworks, and Indigenous and public engagement strategies, particularly for large-scale infrastructure, energy, and natural resource projects. His work emphasizes practical, values-aligned solutions that integrate Indigenous perspectives with regulatory, environmental, and operational requirements.

At Scout, Justin works closely with clients to deliver clear, implementable strategies informed by strong project management and data-driven analysis. His leadership approach has shaped by prior experience as an officer in the Canadian Armed Forces. Outside of work, Justin holds a private pilot license and enjoys flying regularly.

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What does Truth and Reconciliation mean to you?

Truth and Reconciliation, to me, is about creating the conditions for First Nations to thrive; socially, culturally, and economically, on their own terms. It requires moving beyond acknowledgement toward meaningful action that strengthens Indigenous governance, builds economic opportunity, and supports long-term self-determination. Economic reconciliation is a critical part of this work, ensuring Indigenous communities are full participants and decision-makers in projects, procurement, and development that affect their lands and futures. Equally important is educating non-Indigenous people about the historical and ongoing impacts of colonialism, so that these harms are not repeated or embedded in future systems, policies, and relationships.

What makes you proud to work at Scout?

I am proud to work at Scout because it is not your typical engineering firm, they lead with integrity and have a sincere desire to build Nations up.

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Scout Engineering & Consulting Ltd. is permitted to practice by the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists in Alberta (APEGA) and is a Canadian Aboriginal Certified Business.

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