“I am truly honored to receive this prestigious award from the Fort Worth Chapter of CSI. My involvement with CSI has been both meaningful and deeply rewarding, giving me far more than I could have imagined when I first began contributing to the organization,” said Tracy Loftin. “Through CSI, I have had the privilege of meeting many generous and knowledgeable professionals in the architecture and construction industry who have enriched my learning and supported my career over the years.”

CSI is an association that brings together professionals across the architecture, engineering, and construction industries to improve the communication of construction information and elevate facility performance. Each year, CSI’s Fort Worth Chapter honors individuals who have gone above and beyond in support of that mission with the Albert S. Komatsu Award. Komatsu, a Fort Worth architect known for his midcentury modern work across the city and civic projects such as the Japanese Garden at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, passed away in October 2024 at the age of 97. He leaves behind a legacy defined by decades of design excellence, community investment, and mentorship across the architecture and construction industries. The award honors that legacy by recognizing those who carry it forward.

In her 39 years with VLK, Loftin has been a foundational presence, joining in the firm’s earliest years and growing alongside it into the respected resource she is today. Known across the firm as an authority on specification writing, she is equally valued as a mentor to those navigating the field. Her contributions extend well beyond VLK; within the Fort Worth CSI Chapter, Loftin has served in multiple leadership roles over the course of three decades, including as Secretary and Awards Chairman, and has been recognized with the Outstanding Professional Member Award, Chapter Commendation Award, and Certificate of Appreciation. Outside the industry, she remains equally committed to her community through longstanding involvement in the arts, a reflection of the same dedication she brings to her professional work.

“This is an incredible accomplishment and a much-deserved honor for Tracy,” said Sloan Harris, CEO | Chairman of VLK. “Tracy’s expertise and commitment to service and mentorship within our profession have made her an invaluable resource to VLK and the broader design and construction community. We are proud to see her receive this prestigious recognition.”

About CSI: Founded in 1948, CSI is a national association of more than 8,000 experts in building construction and the materials used therein. They are dedicated to improving the communication of construction information through a diversified membership base of allied professionals involved in the creation and management of the built environment. Their mission is to advance building information management and education of project teams to improve facility performance.

About CSIFW: FWCSI does more than provide networking – expect high-quality education programs and events that help members share real-world solutions and better understand the roles and responsibilities of each member of the construction team.

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The James R. Wooten Service Award is presented to an AIA Fort Worth member who best exemplifies sustained, consistent, and effective service in advancing the goals of the chapter. Hiles has demonstrated this commitment through his longstanding involvement with AIA Fort Worth, including serving as President and Treasurer, as well as through his continued leadership and advocacy for the profession at both the local and state levels. He currently serves as Secretary/Treasurer on the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners and as a member of NCARB’s Licensure Research and Development Task Force, underscoring his commitment to growing the profession.

“I am deeply honored and sincerely grateful for the recognition,” said Justin Hiles, Chief Information Officer at VLK. “It is an incredible honor to serve the architectural profession, to advocate for its advancement, and to mentor the next generation of talented individuals. This acknowledgment inspires me to continue giving back and supporting our community.”

Hiles has nearly 25 years of experience at VLK, where he now serves as the firm’s inaugural Chief Information Officer. In this role, he leads the strategy and implementation of technology and data systems across VLK’s six offices, aligning innovation with the firm’s broader design and operational goals. His background in architecture and firm leadership, including previous roles as Architecture Director and Chief Operations Officer, informs a holistic approach to advancing both internal performance and client outcomes. His depth of industry knowledge continues to shape the strategies guiding VLK through an evolving technological landscape.

“Recognition like the Wooten Service Award from AIA Fort Worth speaks to the impact Justin has made on our profession,” said Sloan Harris, CEO and Chairman of VLK. “As shapers of the built environment, it’s incumbent on us to play a role in our industry and our community. Justin’s passion for architecture is abundantly evident in his service to VLK’s clients, his leadership in our firm, and his involvement in industry organizations.”

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VLK is proud to announce the growth and evolution of its leadership with the promotions of Ross Rivers, Trey Laird, Tom Oehler, Tim Kunz, and Derk Jeffrey to the role of Managing Principal. Managing Principals work closely with the firm’s executive leadership team and are responsible for driving performance across the enterprise, aligning long-term strategy with daily operations. Managing Principals serve as visible stewards of VLK’s values, bridging ownership, execution, and further establishing the firm as a trusted partner to its clients and communities. Their promotions from the role of Principal reflect not only their proven expertise but also their commitment to advancing growth, strengthening client relationships, and championing successful projects.

Ross Rivers is recognized for his steady leadership and ability to deliver on VLK’s service promise across multiple projects and clients. Known for his consistency, responsiveness, and adaptability, he guides teams and stakeholders through complex challenges while ensuring the highest quality outcomes. His leadership in the Dallas office has been instrumental in building lasting client partnerships and advancing VLK’s reputation for excellence.

With more than 30 years in educational architecture, Trey Laird is known for his leadership, client focus, and dedication to public schools. He excels at building lasting partnerships and guiding teams to deliver forward-thinking learning environments that reflect each community’s vision. His influence in the Dallas office has strengthened VLK’s role as a trusted partner in education.

With three decades of experience across education, commercial, workplace, and healthcare design, Tom Oehler brings broad expertise and a deep commitment to serving Central Texas communities. At VLK’s Austin office, he has led numerous K–12 projects that reflect his belief in the power of learning environments to inspire creativity and support student success. Active in the design community, he is recognized as a thought leader on educational design and continues to advance innovative solutions for schools.

Since joining VLK in 2006, Tim Kunz has played a pivotal role in expanding the firm’s presence in Central Texas. Based in the Austin office, he is known for pursuing innovative ideas and guiding clients toward long-term solutions that serve their communities. His leadership has established a strong and growing service base in the region, built on a deep understanding of client priorities and a commitment to exceeding expectations.

Derk Jeffrey has dedicated his career to advancing the promise of quality public education through design. Leading VLK’s Virginia office, he collaborates closely with clients and stakeholders to create learning environments that are both thoughtful and transformative. His insight and leadership have produced highly successful, award-winning projects that reflect his passion for championing the aspirations of every community he serves.

These promotions reflect VLK’s shared belief in investing in leadership from within, recognizing those who consistently model integrity, vision, and stewardship. As Managing Principals, these leaders will continue to advance the firm’s culture of collaboration and service while guiding its long-term success.

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VLK was proud to receive the “Best Craftsmanship” Award at IIDA Houston City Center’s Product Runway 2025: The (Design) Eras Tour, held on May 2, 2025 at POST Houston. The award recognized VLK’s innovative and meticulously crafted design inspired by the era of Architectural Minimalism. This annual competition brings together architecture and design firms from across the region to showcase creativity through fashion constructed from architectural materials.

Now in its 17th year, Product Runway challenges design teams to create garments inspired by a designated theme. This year’s event spotlighted the theme The (Design) Eras Tour, a nod to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, celebrating iconic periods in design history through wearable art. Beyond the runway, the team had to create an original art piece to be auctioned for $600. VLK also chose to contribute to the event as a gold sponsor. Proceeds from the event raise funds for the Houston Furniture Bank, the Texas Association for Interior Design (TAID), and the IIDA Education Fund. A distinguished panel of industry leaders and design professionals evaluated entries on creativity, craftsmanship, and innovative use of materials.

VLK’s team translated architectural principles of balance, rhythm, and functionality into an elegant, structural garment to represent the era of Minimalism. The submission showcased sustainable materials and innovative detailing with the support of garment sponsors. Additionally, the team volunteered at Houston Furniture Bank and participated in Zero Landfill at LaNova Warehouse to sort miscellaneous material samples donated by various firms. Materials included in VLK’s final design included layered, recycled polyester textiles from J. Tyler , used as the gown’s base and structural support; a focal angular collar created from PVC edge banding provided by Design One Source; and custom heat-fashioned steel accessories from Cronan & Agility, designed to guide the viewer’s eye across the gown’s silhouette.

The final design debuted at IIDA Houston City Center’s Product Runway, an inspiring showcase of industry talent and dedicated philanthropy. VLK is honored to receive this award, which reflects the firm’s commitment to creativity, collaboration, and community impact.

About IIDA TX OK Chapter: IIDA is a professional networking and educational association supporting design professionals, industry affiliates, educators, students, firms, and their clients. Their vision is to support culture, enhance business value, solve problems, and positively impact the health and wellbeing of people’s lives through a greater understanding of interior design.

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(Fort Worth, TX) – VLK proudly announces Nasario Arreguin, Valeriya Carlson, Bill Hallgren, Faith Ann Hardcastle, Sydney McMaken, Liz Spiewak, and Madison Wilson are promoted to Associate. Associates are self-motivated individuals who have demonstrated the initiative, capability, talent, and commitment of assuming additional responsibilities and of additional leadership roles. These leaders also pursue professional development and involvement in related professional organizations that add value to the firm.

Nasario Arreguin has an unwavering dedication to both his work and our clients. His commitment to fostering effective communication and collaboration with our talented team and valued clients is demonstrated daily. Nasario effectively suggests and implements improvements to our practice.

Valeriya Carlson is dedicated to the mentorship and education of her team members, inspiring and facilitating their development within the profession. Her knowledge is easily seen in the office and is respected by her peers. She has unwavering perseverance and self-motivation.

Bill Hallgren serves as Marketing Director, supporting a team of 10 talented experts who manage all aspects of the firm’s brand. He is a strategic thinker and collaborator who works directly with the firm’s senior leaders to drive highly successful results. Bill’s impact can be felt across the firm as works to be the “glue” around multiple firm initiatives.  He is known for his positive outlook which has a direct on influence on VLK culture.

Faith Ann Hardcastle is passionate, diligent, and highly capable. She contributes to the overall improvement of VLK by mentoring those around her and sharing her lessons learned. She takes the initiative to find out and do what needs to be done to make herself, her project, her team, and VLK better.

Since joining the firm in 2016, Sydney McMaken consistently demonstrates the initiative, capability, and commitment required to take on additional responsibilities and leadership roles within the firm.  Her leadership and dedication to ensure project success is admirable, and she maintains the respect of project team members, clients, and contractors alike due to her abilities.

Liz Spiewak provides leadership by participating in client events, developing relationships with key district personnel, consultants, contractors, and sets an excellent example of professional behavior and expectation. Within the office, Liz provides opportunities for office cultural growth, professional development, and mentorship for those in all positions and experience levels.

Madison Wilson is eager to engage and demonstrates this is a variety of ways.  Since joining the firm as a student intern, Madison exudes work ethic. Madison is active in the A4LE Central Texas Emerging Professionals chapter and served on the 2022-2023 ACE Curriculum Board in Austin. She is driven by excellence, building strong relationships with teams, clients, and communities while upholding VLK’s core values.

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Despite an economic landscape of ongoing fluctuations in global markets and uncertainties surrounding trade policies, VLK has accelerated its growth trajectory by pursuing new opportunities and strategically positioning itself to meet the evolving needs of its clients.

The ENR ranking is based on 2023 revenue of $126.4 million. The dramatic jump in ranking spotlights VLK’s organic growth, both by adding new clients and additional projects from existing clients, rather than growth through acquisition.

Through investments in people and technology, VLK is reimagining everyday business processes, continuously improving the employee experience, and redefining how its services are delivered. Three of five of its Texas offices are undergoing office space expansion to accommodate significant headcount growth.

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(Fort Worth, Texas) – VLK Architects has been recognized for both its outstanding business performance and as a top firm to work for by AEC industry publications.

Zweig Group annually ranks AEC firms based on criteria including workplace practices, employee benefits, and employee retention rates. For 2023, VLK is ranked No.7 among architecture firms, up three spots from last year’s ranking. Zweig also ranks VLK as the No.22 firm with over 200 employees, up 12 spots from 2022.

VLK is further recognized by Engineering News-Record, which ranks VLK as No. 7 in its Texas/Louisiana Top Design Firms list and No. 282 on its National Top 500 Design Firms list.

Full list of VLK’s awards and recognitions through June 2023:

• ENR Top 500 Design Firms: Ranked #282
• ENR Texas & Louisiana Top Design Firms by Market Sector 2023: Ranked No.7 in Architecture
• Zweig Group Best Firms to Work For: Ranked No.7 for Architecture and No.22 for firms with over 200 employees
• Zweig Group Hot Firm Award: Ranked No.82

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