The Development Team
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David J Whitehead, P.E.
Project Engineer
David Whitehead has dedicated nearly five decades to civil engineering, blending technical expertise with a deep respect for the communities his projects serve.
A lifelong Colorado Springs resident, aside from his four-year tour as a Navy rescue swimmer, David graduated from Wasson High School before earning his bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University and a master’s in civil engineering from Kansas State University.
His impressive career includes an expansive 10-year tenure at BP, where he served as Chief Engineer responsible for global onshore civil and structural design, project expansion, budgeting, and new project research. Over the years, David has remained active in the civil engineering field, managing and directing projects that align with his values, prioritizing neighborhood character, public safety, and respectful development.
Outside of his professional life, David is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys lake days, hiking, cycling, and traveling. He’s also a licensed pilot and a ham radio enthusiast. Family remains central to his life - his son Patrick resides in Colorado Springs, and he cherishes the memory of his late son, Michael.
David continues to lend his expertise to projects that matter, ensuring they are managed with care, integrity, and a strong focus on community.
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Donald Cannella
Managing Partner
Donald Cannella was born and raised in Colorado Springs, where he has built both his career and his community ties. With decades of experience in business and infrastructure, he brings a practical, forward-thinking approach to development while staying grounded in the values of his hometown.
Donald launched his first fiber-optic company in 1995 and has since grown a diverse portfolio of ventures. As Managing Partner of 5150 Holdings, he has been recognized for balancing modern technology with the needs of the community while overseeing nationwide utility and fiber-optic infrastructure projects.
Today, his focus is on projects closer to home. His work in land development emphasizes thoughtfully planned neighborhoods and revitalizing areas that reflect Colorado Springs’ growth while maintaining its unique character. His goal is to create spaces that improve quality of life, support the local economy, and contribute to the city’s long-term growth.
Family is central to Donald’s work. He is the proud father of three sons, two of whom work alongside him in his businesses, while the third pursues a career in engineering. For Donald, development isn’t just about construction, it’s about shaping the future of Colorado Springs in a way that respects its past and builds opportunity for the next generation.