VAST Resource Solutions is pleased to welcome Nathan Swanson, P.Eng., P.Geo., P.E., P.G., C.E.G., as our new Senior Geotechnical Engineer, based in our West Kootenay office. With over 15 years of multidisciplinary experience across Canada and the United States, Nathan brings an exceptional blend of technical expertise, field leadership, and human-centred mentorship to the VAST team.
Nathan’s career spans geotechnical investigations, geological hazard assessments, dam construction QA/QC, foundation and retaining wall design, transmission line infrastructure, and large‑scale mining projects in complex geological environments. His experience ranges from Newfoundland to the Peace River Valley to the San Francisco Bay—and now, to the mountains and valleys of the Kootenays.
Nathan sees his role as more than the technical and practical aspects of the job description; for him, geotechnical engineering is rooted in accountability, clear communication, and genuine care for client outcomes.
“My goal is to protect the client’s interest and, in doing so, protect the public,” he explains. “Our duty is to ensure whatever is being built is built correctly, safely, transparently, and in a way that respects the client’s trust in us.”
Nathan brings a unique perspective shaped by his time working for contracting companies earlier in his career. Understanding the realities of construction timelines, pressures, and on‑site decision‑making allows him to bridge the gaps between design intent and field execution.
“Having been on the contractor side, I know the pressures they face and what motivates them. That understanding helps me communicate better, anticipate issues, and support contractors in delivering the quality the client expects.”
A self‑described “field person” for most of his career, Nathan has spent thousands of hours ensuring that what’s drawn in the design office becomes reality on the ground. As he steps into a senior leadership role at VAST, his focus is shifting toward mentorship, guidance, and strengthening team capacity.
“I’ve given a lot of my life to being out in the field. Now it’s time to pull back a bit and support the next generation—showing them how things can be done to minimize mistakes, save time and money, and feel confident and happy in what they’re doing.”
Nathan’s approach to teamwork is rooted in being receptive and responsive: “If we’re working together, their struggle is my struggle. When someone else is having a hard time, I’m having a hard time. I want to tackle the issues they are being affected by and help solve the challenges that are blocking their success.”
While Nathan’s technical expertise is wide‑ranging, what excites him most about the new opportunity with VAST is identifying where he can create meaningful impact.
“I’m excited to find out what VAST needs and then build into that need,” he says. “There’s nothing I’m not willing to take on. I want to make everyone else’s life easier in the process and help the team thrive.”
Nathan recently relocated to Nelson and is quickly settling into life in the West Kootenay. “Everyone has been so welcoming; it’s unbelievable how smoothly everything has gone,” he says. “I’m excited to be here at this point in my life and career.”
VAST is thrilled to have Nathan’s expertise, leadership, and values on board. His depth of experience, paired with his collaborative approach and dedication to mentorship, strengthens our geotechnical capabilities and enriches our multidisciplinary team.
Please join us in welcoming Nathan Swanson to VAST Resource Solutions. We’re excited to see the impact he’ll make across our projects, our team, and the communities we serve.
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