Engineers and Consultants Integrating Life Safety and Fire Protection Systems
Bridging Project Teams to
Success
About Us
We are fire protection consultants and engineers in
Vancouver offering:
Building Code and Fire Protection Consulting
Services
Fire Protection System Design Services
Certified Professional (CP) Services
Building Permit Coordination Services
Independent Professional (IP) Services
PONTEM (Latin, noun) – “bridge” a structure that
connects two sides over an obstacle.
Established in 2019, Pontem Group was founded by 4 engineers with a passion for community building
and safeguarding the public. The team has since grown to 15 members, each dedicated to providing
customized services in designing, engineering and consulting.
At Pontem Group, our team of professionals pride ourselves
on facilitating the “bridge” between all stakeholders such as owners, consultants, contractors and
users. Symbolized by the letter “T” in our logo, Pontem Group brings not only fundamental building
code support to your project, and also the spirit of teamwork – which we believe is the key in
ensuring all parties are taken care of. In providing each client with project tailored fire and life
safety solutions, our mandate is to harmonize our clients’ needs with regulatory requirements to
establish common ground – setting the stage for project success.
Our core values are:
Integrity:– We lead by being responsive, honest and
forthright.
Accountability:– We do the right thing to ensure project
safety and success.
Perseverance:– We go the extra mile to get the job
done.
Trust:– We respect and value each relationship
within our team and external stakeholders.
Diversity and Inclusion:– At Pontem Group, we believe in equal
representation for all peoples and value equity, diversity and inclusion at the core of our
business.
We have a diverse workforce that feel engaged and welcomed to be their authentic selves in the
workplace. At Pontem Group, women comprise 30% of engineering staff including one of the office
directors. Pontem Group also has a culturally and religiously diverse engineering workforce
including African descent, Asian, and Middle-Eastern staff. Pontem Group’s philosophy is to create a
workplace with inclusive cultures that makes everyone feel respected and valued for who they are as
an individual or group and as though they are contributing to the success of the organization.
Pontem Group gratefully acknowledges that the land on which we gather, work and play is within the
ancestral, traditional and unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the territories
of the Xwməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ (Tsleil- Waututh) Nations.
Why Hire
Us?
Our commitment:
Your unique project needs always come
first
We take care to listen and to understand each
client. This allows us to design a strategic
plan that bridges effective communication between clients and Authorities Having
Jurisdiction (AHJ).
Details are important, but so is the big
picture
With over 40 years of combined experience in fire
and life safety, our team integrates
aspects of the building code with fire protection system design for a complete solution.
Relationships and teamwork are paramount
We believe in building bridges between clients,
AHJs, and other consultants. We regard
teamwork as essential to success, and our team works tirelessly to align all stakeholders
towards a common goal.
Get a peace of mind with a leader in
quality management
You can expect our consulting services to be held
to the professional standards as a leader in Engineers & Geoscientists British Columbia (EGBC)’s
previous Organizational Quality Management (OQM)
Program.
Services
Building Code Consulting
Services
Be confident in your project’s code compliance. With
our holistic approach to fire and life
safety, we strive to ensure your project design’s code requirements are clarified and
harmonized with your designs.
Certified Professional (CP)
Services
Our Certified Professionals (CPs) can help expedite
permit issuance. The CP program means
municipalities can rely on our professional assurance that appropriate design, construction, life
safety, and accessibility requirements are met.
Building Permit Coordination
Services
We can help streamline the Building Permit process
and expedite the Authority Having
Jurisdiction’s review time by coordinating the procedure on your behalf and delivering a
comprehensive permit application.
Alternative Solution Development
Have an innovative design that poses unique
challenges? Alternative Solutions are an
option for achieving the code compliance you require. Contact us to see if this option is a
good fit for your project.
Fire Protection System Design
We design fire suppression and fire alarm systems
for both new and existing developments.
Our team offers 40 years of combined experience to deliver solutions sensitive to design,
functionality, and long-term maintenance.
Performance-based Fire Engineering
Design
We offer fire dynamic simulations of your proposed
designs for informed decision-making.
Our performance-based approach demonstrates, through computer fire/smoke and egress
modelling, proposed designs that meet defined objectives.
Accessibility Consulting
Services
To support all-inclusive environments, we provide
baseline code compliant and practical solutions to tailor to the needs of new or existing building
designs, in accordance to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) accessibility requirements.
IP Services
We support various Authorities Having Jurisdiction
in all aspects of the Building Permit process. Throughout the building, construction and delivery
process, our team is constantly leading detailed analyses and technical reviews to provide the AHJ
assurance that there has been code compliance within design and the construction of the Project.
CAN/ULC-S1001 Integrated Systems
Testing
Pontem has a team of experienced fire protection
professionals that have the competency to perform an Integrated System Testing of Fire Protection and
Life Safety Systems as per ULC-S1001 required by the governing building code.
IP Services
The Independent Professional (IP) plays a key role in the Building and Occupancy Permit processes by
providing an independent technical review of Permit application documents and construction activities in
compliance with the governing Building Codes.
In the past, our engineers assisted several Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) in establishing the IP
program. The AHJs include Victoria Airport (VAA), Tsleil-Waututh Nation (TWN), and Tsawwassen First Nation
(TFN), and the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority in Ontario. In addition, our engineers have been providing
many other third-party review services to the local jurisdictions, such as: YVR, UBC, College of New
Caledonia, Port of Vancouver, BC Housing, the City of Vancouver, and the City of Burnaby.
As a team, Pontem Group members have extensive IP services experience in a wide range of building types
and sizes, including commercial, residential, industrial, transportation, institutional facilities, etc.
The Pontem Group team has in-depth knowledge and experience in navigating and interpreting the governing
Building Codes and applicable Standards.
During the Building Permit Application review stage, our IP services include a detailed review of the
administrative documents, the building permit drawings and alternative solutions. When the Building Permit
Application is deemed completed and code compliant, we recommend the AHJ to issue the Building Permit.
During the construction process, our IP services include conducting site reviews to monitor construction
progress and reviewing field review reports prepared by the registered professionals. That way, we can
ascertain that any code compliance issues will be addressed during the construction stage. We actively
communicate with the project team in a timely efficient manner.
At the completion of a project, our team collects all required documentation from the registered
professionals and review for completeness and accuracy. Also, we conduct a final site review and
witness fire protection and life safety systems testing for the purpose of the Occupancy Permit approval.
Projects
All Projects
Century CityTM
Developed by Century Group
Designed by ZGF Architects LLP
Certified Professional (CP)
Century City™, is a development in Surrey City Centre across from King George
Skytrain station. Conveniently located near downtown Surrey’s Holland Park, this development
contributes to a transit-oriented neighbourhood that espouses the tenets of Surrey’s City Centre
Area Plan. Pontem Group provides Certified Professional (CP) services for this project, which
consists of two residential market towers, a rental housing tower, and an office tower on top of
an underground parkade.
Telford Rental
Developed by Belford Properties Ltd.
Designed by DA Architects + Planners
Code Consulting
6630 Telford Avenue is in the urban heart of Burnaby near the Metrotown
Skytrain station and shopping centre. Consisting of two towers and 380 residential units, it
includes both market rental units and non-market replacement units for existing residents who may
be displaced by new community developments. The two towers create an eye-catching, staggered
skyline at 14 storeys and 31 storeys.
Contour Metrotown
Developed by Madeira Manor Ltd.
Designed by GBL Architects Inc.
Code Consulting
The 4330 Maywood Street project by Madeira Manor Ltd. is a redevelopment of
the existing Madeira apartment building. Originally built in 1966, the existing 3-storey building
is replaced by a new 25-level highrise with 2 storeys of commercial space and 22 storeys of
residential units stacked in a unique, cascading design. This project is located steps away from
the Metrotown shopping centre and Skytrain station, near Central Park.
544 Austin Avenue Project
Developed by Unimet
Designed by Proscenium Architecture + Interiors Inc.
Code Consulting and Fire Suppression Design
The 544 Austin Avenue Project is a 36-storey market residential tower in the urban core of
Burquitlam. This Unimet development includes a purpose-built rental podium of 54 units, 12
below-market value units, and 168 tower units. Pontem Group contributes code consulting and fire
suppression design services for this project, conveniently located near Vancouver Golf Club and
the City of Lougheed Shopping Centre.
8655 GRANVILLE STREET, VANCOUVER, BC
Developed by Westgem Communities Development Ltd.
Designed by GBL Architects Inc.
Certified Professional Services
8566 Granville Street is a new 11-storey mixed-used tower in the Marpole community. The proposed
tower will have 9 stories of residential units, 4 levels of underground parking, 1 storey of
commercial space and 1 storey of office space.
Harlo
Developed by Steelix Developments (East Clayton) Ltd.
Designed by DF Architecture Inc.
Certified Professional (CP)
This multi-family development consists of two 6-storey apartments in the East
Clayton neighbourhood of Surrey, BC. Located near Willowbrook Park, this project covers 2.2 acres
on the eastern edge of Surrey, near Langley. This project is spearheaded by Steelix Developments,
a company with a long-term vision towards developing purpose-built homes in the Clayton Heights
area.
10595 - 10637 137A Street - Red Brick Development Ltd.
Developed by Red Brick Development Ltd.
Designed by Matthew Cheng Architect Inc.
Certified Professional (CP) and Fire Suppression Design
This two-phase development includes two six-storey residential condominiums with 213 residential
units, located in the Whalley District of Surrey between King George Boulevard and Forsyth Road
Elementary School. Pontem Group’s involvement in this project includes Certified Professional (CP)
services and integral fire suppression design work. These condominiums are developed by Red Brick
Development Ltd.
Anchor
Developed by BOLD Properties
Designed by Gateway Architecture Inc.
Code Consulting and Fire Suppression Design
BOLD Properties develops a modern, wood-frame residential development east of
Clarke Road and south of Saint Johns Street. This project includes two 6-storey buildings in the
heart of Port Moody, a vibrant area that combines proximity to nature and convenient access to the
Evergreen Extension (Skytrain line).
W63 Mansion
Developed by Hansen Pacific Property Development
Designed by Andrew Cheung Architects
Code Consulting and Fire Suppression Design
The W63 Mansion is a four-storey residential development tucked one block
away
from the urban Cambie corridor. This collection of 28 one-, two-, and three-bedroom “smart” homes
allows residents to access home features such as temperature and security from their smartphone.
The Ridge
Developed by Mortise Group of Companies
Designed by Podhora Architecture Inc.
Code Consulting and Fire Suppression Design
The Ridge is a modern collection of 54 one- and two-bedroom condo units in the heart of Downtown
Maple Ridge. Pontem Group provides code consulting and fire suppression design services. Built in
the modern West Coast style of architecture, The Ridge is nestled close to both spectacular,
outdoor public space and shopping, entertainment, and restaurant amenities.
Gateway Living
Developed by Cheer Real Estate Development
Designed by Martin Liew Architecture Inc.
Code Consulting and Fire Suppression Design
The Cheer project is a six-storey residential development in Surrey, located
at the corner of
108 Avenue and 132A Street. It contains 80 residential units and two levels of underground
parking.
Linc Development - 588 Dansey Avenue
Developed by Vanhome Properties Inc
Designed by Atelier Pacific Architects
Code Consulting
This development is conveniently located in the heart of Coquitlam, southeast of the City of
Lougheed Shopping Centre and a short walk from Lougheed Town Centre Skytrain Station. One of two
apartment buildings by Vanhome Properties in Coquitlam, it contains a six-storey apartment
building with 71 residential units. Pontem Group is providing code consultation in relation to
this project.
Linc Development - 567 Madore Avenue
Developed by Vanhome Properties Inc.
Designed by Atelier Pacific Architects
Code Consulting
One of two developments by Vanhome Properties in Coquitlam, this residential building is
strategically located near the City of Lougheed Shopping Centre and the transport hubs of Lougheed
Town Centre Skytrain Station and Lougheed Highway. Pontem Group assists Vanhome Properties with
code consulting on this project, which consists of 73 units within a six-storey apartment.
Lakewood
Developed by Dimex Group
Designed by Cornerstone Architecture
Code Consulting
The 1st and Lakewood development by Dimex Group is located in the Grandview Woodland neighbourhood
near the vibrant Commercial Drive area in the heart of East Van. This project features three
four-storey townhouse blocks and a common parkade. Pontem Group contributes Certified Professional
(CP) services to this project, whose construction aligns with Passive House requirements (an
internationally recognized energy-efficient building standard).
Templeton
Developed by Dimex Group
Designed by Cornerstone Architecture
Code Consulting
This townhouse development is located in the Grandview Woodland neighbourhood, in the heart of
East Van. It contains four buildings with 60 units all over a single level of underground parking.
Designed in accordance with the energy-efficient standards of Passive House, this project is
developed by Dimex Group and designed by Cornerstone Architecture, with Pontem Group providing
Certified Professional (CP) services.
The Granary (Lot 62)
Developed by Century Group
Designed by Motiv Architects Inc.
Code Consulting
The Granary (Lot 62) Brewhall is a microbrewery, restaurant and townhomes
building with unique, rustic features reminiscent of a farmstead aesthetic. This Brewhall is
located at a central part of the Southlands Market District, an intentionally designed beachfront
community that combines the urban and the rural for an authentic, farm-to-table style of living.
7584 MacPherson Avenue Development
Developed by Metro Park Homes Ltd.
Designed by Jordan Kutev Architect Inc.
Code Consulting
Located in Burnaby, this is a modern, 5-unit townhouse project developed by Metro Park Homes Ltd.
and designed by Jordan Kutev Architect Inc., with Pontem Group providing code consultation
services. Conveniently located across the street from McPherson Park just east of the Michael J.
Fox Theatre, this residential project offers sleek and spacious living, exemplified by its
generous, floor-to-ceiling windows.
Highgate Homes
Developed by Golden Glory Development
Designed by Eric Law Architect
Code Consulting
This is a 23-unit townhouse development spearheaded by Golden Glory Development Ltd., a company
that specializes in townhomes and wood-frame condominiums. Pontem Group is involved with code
consultation services for this project, which consists of three blocks built above an underground
parkade.
Sophia Living
Developed by Paulsun Holdings Ltd.
Designed by Jka Architecture Planning Interior Design
Fire Suppression Design
This stately townhouse development is located on 80 Elgin Street and consists
of 30
townhouse units across four blocks. Residential units sit on top of an underground parkade.
Kelly Court - Accessibility Study
Engaged by Metro Vancouver Housing Corporation /
Morrison Hershfield
Code Consulting - Accessibility
Located at 2929 Nootka Street in East Vancouver, Kelly Court is an accessible housing development
designed for residents with physical challenges and their families. Pontem Group conducts an
accessibility review for this project in accordance with the Vancouver Building Bylaw and CSA B651
- Accessible Design for the Built Environment.
Twin Towers - 172 2nd Street East, North Vancouver
Engaged by BC Housing / Morrison Hershfield
Code Consulting
Twin Towers is a 209-unit senior retirement residence located at 172 East 2nd Avenue in North
Vancouver, offering both independent living facilities and supportive amenities. Pontem Group
contributes code consulting services to the Twin Towers Energy Upgrade project, which brings a
complete mechanical upgrade and building envelope retrofit to this address.
CHRISTIAN LIFE ASSEMBLY AFFORDABLE HOUSING, LANGLEY, BC
Developed by VanMar Constructors Inc.
Designed by Keystone Architecture and Planning Ltd.
Code Consulting
The Christian Life Assembly is a new affordable housing building located near Langley Secondary on
21277 56 Ave, Langley, BC. Consisting of 5-stories and wood frame, this residential building
houses 98 units above a 1 level underground parkade.
HEATHER PLACE B, VANCOUVER, BC
Developed by Metro Vancouver Housing
Designed by Local Practice
Certified Professional Services
Heather Place B is a six-storey residential building located in the Fairview neighbourhood on the
corner of Heather Street and West 13th Avenue. The project consists of 87 affordable rental units
and a childcare facility to support the community.
ALT LUMA NEW WESTMINSTER, NEW WESTMINSTER, BC
Developed by VanMar Constructors Inc.
Designed by RLA Architects Inc.
Code Consulting
The ALT LUMA New Westminster project is a six-storey residential building located on 6th Street to
the northwest side of 8th Avenue, across from the Mercer Stadium Park. The proposed project will
provide 96 units of affordable housing for indigenous seniors and multi-generation families.
EVERGREEN AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECT, DELTA, BC
Developed by VanMar Constructors Inc.
Designed by dys Architecture
Code Consulting
Evergreen Affordable Housing Project is an affordable housing project in Delta, BC. Consisting of
a 4-storey residential building above a 1 level underground parkade, this project will provide 198
housing units. Constructed in two phases, phase 1 will provide 130 units of senior housing and
phase 2 will provide 68 family units.
KIN VILLAGE SENIORS AFFORDABLE RENTAL PROJECT, DELTA, BC
Developed by VanMar Constructors Inc.
Designed by Ankenman Associates Architects Inc.
Code Consulting
Kin Village Seniors Affordable Rental project is an affordable housing project consisting of a 4
to 6-storey residential building containing 152 units on top of a 1 level underground parkade.
Robert G. Kuhn Centre
Developed by Trinity Western University
Designed by Thinkspace Architecture Planning Interior Design
Code Consulting
The Robert G. Kuhn School of Business is a proposed four-storey hub that will
serve as an eye-catching entry point to Trinity Western’s Langley, BC campus. Natural materials
that
reflect campus surroundings — including a mixture of non-combustible and mass timber
construction — shape classrooms, faculty offices, and student collaboration spaces, that are
connected by a wide atrium designed to draw in sunlight
TA’TALU ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (SITE 207)
Developed by Ta’talu Elementary School
Designed by Thinkspace Architecture Planning Interior Design
Code Consulting
Ta’talu Elementary is a new elementary school for students in Kindergarten to
Grade 7. Located in the Grandview Heights neighbourhood of South Surrey, the school is three
storeys high with beams and columns of mass timber construction. The building features a three
level interconnected floor space.
Project Panacea
Developed by Beedie
Designed by TKA+D Architecture + Design Inc
Certified Professional (CP)
Project Panacea is designed to meet the needs of a pharmaceutical
distributor in the Campbell Heights district of Surrey, BC. This project includes 27,000 sq.
feet of office space and a new 250,000 sq. foot distribution centre (the building). The
distribution centre has the potential to expand an additional 75,000 square feet. Campbell
Heights is an industrial area in Surrey, BC, home to many other major businesses, including
Amazon and Loblaws distribution and logistics centres.
Panorama Ridge Industrial Development
Developed by Beedie
Designed by TKA+D Architecture + Design Inc
Certified Professional (CP)
Pontem Group contributes Certified Professional services to Beedie’s
Panorama Ridge Industrial project. This project consists of two new buildings (309,723 sq. feet
and 66,021 sq. feet) for industrial and office use. This facility is located in the Sullivan
neighbourhood of Surrey, BC just south of Highway 10.
BOSA Bridgeview
Developed by BOSA Family Companies
Designed by TKA+D Architecture + Design Inc
Code Consulting
BOSA Bridgeview is a warehouse building in Surrey, BC. This project is
located in a high-exposure corner near transit and major roadways like King George Boulevard,
Highway 1, and Highway 17. This industrial facility is about 109,820 sq. feet in size.
Martini Film Studios - Langley Campus
Developed by Martini Film Studios
Designed by Thinkspace Architecture Planning Interior Design
Code Consulting
Martini Film Studios has a new studio complex in Langley, BC. Located on
the southwest corner of Highway 1 and 216th street, this project includes eight building blocks
containing sound stages, offices, and storage and support space. Martini Film Studios has been
involved in major, internationally-renowned film projects. This new development expands Metro
Vancouver’s filmmaking capacity by as much as 15%.
Richmond Hospital - 7000 Westminster Hwy
Engaged by Vancouver Coastal Health / AME Group
Code Consulting - Building Code Assessment
Richmond Hospital, the only hospital facility in the City of Richmond and
located on 7000 Westminster Highway, has been undergoing continuous renovation and expansion. Our
Building Code Assessment project at Richmond Hospital (RGH) provides fire and life safety
evaluation for the facility’s three main buildings: the Westminster Health Centre, North Tower,
and South Tower.
Surrey Memorial Hospital - 13750 96 Avenue
Engaged by Fraser Health Authority
Code Consulting
Surrey Memorial Hospital, located on 13750 96 Avenue, is the second-largest
hospital in British Columbia and serves one of BC’s fastest growing communities. Since 2019,
Pontem Group has provided as-needed, general code consulting services to Surrey Memorial as it
continues to undergo expansion and renovation.
Baptist Housing Seniors Living
Developed by Baptist Housing
Designed by ZGF Architects LLP
Certified Professional (CP) and Fire Suppression Design
The Inglewood Care Centre is a complex care residence in West Vancouver, BC
that provides 24/7 care for up to 230 residents. Inglewood’s revitalization project encourages
healthy lifestyles and a deeper connection to nature while ensuring access to health services
for people of all abilities. This project includes a long-term care building, a combined
assisted living and long-term care building, affordable housing, and an independent living and
life lease building.
IQ Office Suites
Developed by IQ Offices
Designed by Gensler
Code Consulting and Fire Suppression Design
Tenant improvement projects are currently underway in the two IQ Office
Suites
locations in downtown Vancouver. The IQ Office Suites are trendy communal offices for start-ups
and
small businesses, offering snacks and refreshments, conference rooms, fitness facilities, and
more.
Jack Hui is known for his collaborative and strategic
approach to leading projects. With over 15 years of experience in Code Consulting and Certified
Professional Services, Jack has extensive knowledge in building code, related permits and processes.
Skilled in negotiations and public relations, he has a proven track record of high-quality projects
through his care in fostering positive relationships with project teams and Authority Having
Jurisdictions. Passionate about mentorship and serving the community, Jack regularly presents to the
design community on topics related to the BC Building Code and Vancouver Building Bylaws.
Jack holds a Bachelor of Applied Sciences, Mechanical Engineering from the University of British
Columbia, a Master of Engineering, Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering (Fire Safety
Program) from the University of Waterloo and has completed the Leadership in Consulting Engineering
Certificate Program with the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies - British Columbia. He is an
avid LEGO builder, enjoys team sports, travelling and reading.
Lisa Fang is driven by her passion for bridging client
expectations and safeguarding the public. She goes above and beyond to collaborate with project
stakeholders to achieve a common goal. With about 10 years of experience in Code Consulting and Certified
Professional Services, Lisa takes pride in providing Independent Professional review services for multiple
Authorities Having Jurisdictions. Her outstanding problem-solving skills complements her keen eye for
detail, resulting in her leading many large-scale projects from start to finish.
Lisa holds a Bachelor of Applied Science, Mechanical Engineering from the University of Waterloo. Outside
of work, she channels her creativity through video games, building LEGO and is a varsity basketball
player.
Edward Chow leads with his innovate mindset to provide
cost effective and practical solutions that meet the client needs while achieving compliance with the fire
and life safety aspects of the building code. With over 10 years of experience in Code Consulting, Fire
Suppression Design, and Certified Professional Services, Ed has built a strong technical foundation in a
range of public and private projects. His commitment to service excellence and team building has supported
projects in navigating challenges through to success.
Edwards holds a Bachelor of Applied Science, Chemical and Biological Engineering from the University of
British Columbia and a Master of Engineering in Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering (Fire Safety
Program) from the University of Waterloo. Edwards enjoys staying active by playing hockey, ultimate
frisbee and golf.
Justin Lau has built a strong reputation of service
excellence through his thoughtful and client-centered approach to consulting. With over 15 years of
experience in fire and life safety consulting, clients rely on Justin’s leadership to coordinate and
navigate building permit submissions and code compliance. He applies his open and creative design passion
into every project, leading them through expedition and success. Justin’s strong sense of ownership has
yielded strong relationships with stakeholders and a repertoire of repeat clients.
Justin holds a Bachelor of Arts, Communications from Simon Fraser University and a Diploma, Architectural
and Building Sciences/Technology from BCIT. In his spare time, he plays competitive soccer and basketball.
Ellen Chen is dedicated to community building and has an
exceptional eye for organization to support the team in providing customized solutions. With experience in
two of Canada’s largest oil companies, she has managed complex project consulting and geotechnical
reporting. She joined the team in 2020 and is currently responsible for Code Consulting, Fire Suppression
Design, and Certified Professional Services.
Ellen holds a Bachelor of Applied Science, Civil Engineering from the University of British Columbia
where she was the Assistant Captain for UBC Concrete Canoe Team. She has also completed her Master of
Engineering, Fire Safety Program at the University of Waterloo. Outside of work, Ellen enjoys capturing
the world through the lens of her camera and photography.
Warren Jantzen is passionate about sustainability and
improving the health and safety of our communities. Joining the team in 2021, Warren brings years of
experience in process and design optimization in the automotive and manufacturing industries. Responsible
for code analysis, fire safety planning and design, his systematic approach and high attention to detail
supports projects to successful completion.
Warren holds a Bachelor of Applied Science, Mechanical Engineering from the University of British
Columbia Okanagan where he was greatly involved with the UBCO Formula SAE Motorsports Club and
competition. In his spare time, Warren enjoys designing scale model LEGO homes, hiking and following
motorsports.
Cel Chow has over 40 successful years of experience in
fire protection and a proven track record in leading complex and high-profile projects around the world.
Specializing in fire alarm system design, special fire suppression, detection system design and building
Code Consulting, he currently supports the Pontem team with training and consulting. He was appointed by
the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia (APEGBC) to be the
Technical Reviewer for the Practice Review for Fire Protection Engineers, as well as interviewer for the
registration of engineers practicing in the Fire Protection industry. Cel was a key member in developing
the “Guidelines for Fire Protection Engineering Services for Building Projects” for APEGBC. In 2008 he was
awarded the “Fellow of Engineers Canada” (FEC).
Cel holds the following credentials:
M. Eng. in Fire Protection Eng., University of British Columbia
Fire Science and Fire Investigation, University of British Columbia
Certified Building Code Professional, University of British Columbia
B.A.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering, University of British Columbia
Fire Fighting & Mngt for Marine Officers, Hong Kong Fire Academy
Diploma in Marine Engineering, Hong Kong Polytechnic
Teri Tsim brings her strong work ethic to support
developers and consultants in completing projects efficiently. Teri joined the team in 2021 with expertise
in code analysis and Construction Fire Safety Plan. With experience in automotive engineering, mechanical
engineering and energy management, Teri has supported many large-scale projects through innovative and
customized solutions. A strong team player with a curious mind, Teri is passionate about sustainability
and has designed a capstone project on wind turbines.
Teri holds a Mechanical Engineering Honours degree from the University of Waterloo. She speaks 4
languages and enjoys travelling, badminton and swimming.
Jan is committed to delivering the highest level of client
support by prioritizing communication and planning with all stakeholders. With over 25 years of
engineering experience in Poland and Canada, Jan is highly skilled in project management, Code Consulting
and Fire Protection Services. Driven by his flexible problem-solving approach, Jan has led many projects
to success by developing internal permitting processes and procedures. Jan’s reliability and flexibility
has made substantial contributions to third-party design, construction review services and code compliance
for projects across Canada.
Jan holds a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from The Silesian Technical University Of Gliwice
in Poland. He is an avid traveler and enjoys staying active by playing volleyball and soccer.
Clinton Akpa is dedicated to combining his technical
expertise in structural engineering with a commitment to sustainability. Clinton joined the team in 2022
with and has a background Structural Engineering. Being highly organized and sensitive to client needs,
Clinton excels in reviewing consultant drawing packages for compliance with the fire and life safety
requirements of the Building Code.
Clinton holds a “Bachelor of Engineering: Architectural Conservation & Sustainability” from Carleton
University. Outside of work, he is an avid reader and researcher of history.
Mehran Masoumifar is known for his meticulous attention to
detail in ensuring the thorough assessment of projects. Joining the team in 2022, Mehran brings with him a
background in energy consumption analysis of buildings, computational fluid dynamics, and mechanical
design. Mehran is responsible for code analysis, fire safety design, and planning. His creative and
analytical thinking allows him to identify client needs, diagnose issues, and provide effective
recommendations to ensure compliance with building codes.
Mehran holds a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Alberta where he has
notably published three research papers in prestigious fluid dynamic journals. Mehran speaks two languages
and enjoys hiking in his spare time.
Monica Wattie brings a strong sense of community and a
passion for efficiency to her work. Previously from Kelowna, she joined the team in 2022 and is dedicated
to overseeing all day-to-day operations. With experience in the wine industry, Monica has a strong
aptitude for identifying key areas for improvement and implementing strategic initiatives. Her keen eye
for detail and a comprehensive understanding of organizational goals has the office operating at its
highest potential.
Monica holds a Bachelor of Management from the University of British Columbia where she held a role in
her student associate and participated in national business case competitions. She is passionate about
cooking – seeking every opportunity to try new recipes and discover wine pairings.
Jyoti Bhardwaj is dynamic and driven, known for her
exceptional support to the team and clients. Raised in New Zealand, she joined the team in 2023 with
previous experience in regulatory and accounting. She has an acute eye for detail and a passion for
problem-solving, especially when supporting the team with clients and consultants with documentation. Her
outstanding organizational abilities and a proactive approach ensures all projects are on track to meet
deadlines. With the ability to convey messages in a clear manner, Jyoti has a natural affinity for
interacting with others and is always ready to leverage her love for collaboration.
Jyoti holds a post graduate certificate in business from New Zealand a Master of Business Administration
(MBA) from Canada. She is an avid learner, having completed various studies in business management,
sustainability and productivity. Outside of work she enjoys spending time with her two loving puppies.
Pluto Poon is a talented engineer with a passion for
sustainability and mechanical engineering. Joining the team in 2023, Pluto has many years of engineering
experience from Hong Kong including a number of world-class infrastructure and mega-sized projects. Pluto
is recognized for his ability to manage his schedule efficiently and is always willing to go the extra
mile to address challenges to offer effective solutions. LEED and WELL accredited, Pluto takes pride in
his client services, delivering cost and time-effective solutions that are both practical and sustainable.
He is always ready to tackle difficult problems and leverage his strong communication skills to build
lasting connections with clients and consultants.
Pluto holds a Bachelor of Engineer (Hons) in Energy Science and Engineering from City University of Hong
Kong and a Master of Science (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering from The University of Hong Kong. Outside of
work, Pluto is in a Soccer league and also enjoys playing golf.
Lohith Raj Perumahanthi is passionate about meeting client
expectations to the best of his ability, always striving for the highest standards of service. Originally
from India, Lohith came to Canada to complete his graduate studies and joined Pontem in 2023. He is
meticulous and particularly adept at interpreting complex code details, making calculations and managing
documentation; all to ensure all projects meet the client needs. Lohith has great joy in building
connections with others and seeing his work translated from drawings into reality.
Lohith holds a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering from Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management and a
Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from the University of British Columbia. During his
undergraduate studies, Lohith contributed to the publishing of three engineering papers in material
science and design analysis. This accomplishment reflects his commitment to academic excellence and his
passion for contributing valuable insights to his field. Outside of work he is a professional chess player
and enjoys hiking the great outdoors BC has to offer.
Kenneth Pun is a dedicated engineer with a wealth of
experience in fire engineering and fire modeling making him a specialist in ensuring the safety and
compliance of building designs. He joined the team in 2023, bringing with him 5 years of experience in
consultant services and project management for various types of buildings. His ability to quickly analyze
complex situations and apply detailed concepts has made him a valuable asset to his team. To Kenneth,
every project is an opportunity to face and overcome challenges, gaining valuable experiences along the
way. He thrives on solving technical problems and finds fulfillment in meeting the needs of every project.
Kenneth holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Fire Engineering and a Master of Science in Fire Safety
Engineering with Merit from The University of Central Lancashire. Outside of work, Kenneth enjoys
discovering Whisky and exploring the great outdoors camping and hiking.
Don’t see a role for you yet? We would still love to hear from you! Send us an email as we are always
looking for talented, bright and enthusiastic engineers in the fire protection field to join our team.
