“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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Alex Nelson, AIA, NCARB

In his nine years at VLK, Nelson has continuously proven himself as a leader in the Austin office. Known for his strategic approach and attention to detail, he maintains a collaborative mindset that helps ensure projects reflect the client’s vision and uphold VLK’s commitment to impactful design. His collaborative style makes him a natural mentor, and he serves as a trusted and respected resource to clients.

Nelson joined VLK in 2017 as an Emerging Professional with a Master of Architecture from the University of Houston and a Bachelor of Environmental Design from Texas A&M University. He became a licensed Architect in 2020 and was named an Associate at VLK in 2021 for his contributions to the growing Central Texas market.

Signature projects such as Legacy Ranch High School in Liberty Hill ISD and High School No. 2 in Hutto ISD highlight Nelson’s resume. Outside of the office, he is involved in important industry organizations as an active member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and this year is serving on the Board of Directors for the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) Central Texas Chapter.

“Alex represents the very best of our firm’s culture and values,” said Sloan Harris, CEO | Chairman of VLK. “His dedication to client service, leadership within our teams, and passion for design strengthens our ability to deliver meaningful solutions for our clients and the communities they serve.”

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Stephen Olson, AIA, NCARB

As Practice Technology Director, Stephen Olson leads a firm wide effort to connect people, process, and technology to improve our efficiency and quality of work. With a background in project architecture and BIM leadership, he brings a strong understanding of practice operations and a thoughtful approach to innovation. Olson is known for supporting the growth of those around him, taking time to listen and invest in the development of his team members and colleagues. His leadership approach strengthens collaboration across VLK and helps others do their best work.

Amanda Reyes, AIA, NCARB

Amanda Reyes works across a variety of project types in our Central Texas market, leading teams throughout the design process as a Project Architect. Reyes has become deeply involved in supporting the communities she serves and is known for establishing strong connections with her clients. She brings a proactive and enthusiastic approach to her work that is promising to clients and uplifting for team members. Her presence in our Austin office exemplifies our core values of building strong relationships, focusing on the client, and being passionate about every project.

Chris Ortiz, RID, NCIDQ, IIDA

Chris Ortiz has nearly 20 years of experience as a project designer, with a background spanning both client and consultant roles across multiple states. His work ranges from national retail brands to K-12 and higher education facilities, shaping projects from early concept through construction. Chris is known for pushing design beyond expectations while staying grounded in what clients truly need. His perspective and creativity make him a trusted contributor to his teams and clients.

“At VLK, our continued success is driven by the strength of our people,” said Sloan Harris, CEO | Chairman of VLK. “Stephen, Chris, and Amanda have each demonstrated a strong commitment to our clients, our culture, and our craft. Their advancement to Associate reflects the important role they play in shaping the future of our firm and making a lasting impact through our work.”

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VLK proudly announces the addition of Dr. Robby McGowen as an Educational Planner to VLK | EDGE^®, the firm’s educational planning team. Dr. McGowen brings over three decades of leadership experience in Texas public education and education planning, reinforcing VLK’s commitment to helping public school districts translate their educational goals into well-planned, high-performing learning environments that best support their communities.

“Dr. McGowen brings the kind of perspective that defines VLK | EDGE^®,” said Sloan Harris, CEO of VLK. “His experience across classrooms, district leadership, and educational planning strengthens our ability to support school districts with design that is grounded in real educational practice and informed by research and experience.”

Dr. McGowen joins VLK after two years of educational planning across Texas, working closely with school districts on bond planning and long-term facilities initiatives. His work focused on helping districts build understanding and alignment with their communities while strengthening leadership and governance practices throughout the planning process.

“Joining VLK represents the ability to continue my career-long passion for supporting public education,” said Dr. McGowen. “I’m thrilled to be a part of a thriving, innovative firm like VLK.”

Dr. McGowen has supported school districts statewide through executive coaching and governance training with the Region 4 Education Service Center, following more than a decade in senior leadership roles overseeing district support services and board development. His district-level experience includes serving as Superintendent of Alvin ISD and in Assistant Superintendent roles with Goose Creek Consolidated ISD and Friendswood ISD. Dr. McGowen began his career in public schools and later earned a Ph.D. in Educational Administration, focusing his research on how school facilities influence student outcomes and staff retention, an area of study that directly informs his work as an educational planner.

“We are thrilled to welcome another lifetime educator to our VLK | EDGE^® team,” said Dr. Dalane Bouillion, Chief Development Officer at VLK. “Dr McGowen’s experience and brilliant insights will be an incredible resource for VLK and our clients.”

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VLK proudly announces the promotion of Jennifer Workman, AIA, to the position of Principal. In this leadership role, Jennifer will bring her proven design leadership, customer-service mindset, and dedication to innovation to further strengthen VLK’s mission of client-focused service.

Joining VLK in 2020, Workman served as Senior Associate and Architecture Director of the firm’s Dallas office, where she managed project staffing, office standards and procedures, and hiring, while also leading projects across education, civic and commercial sectors. Her deep architectural experience spanning institutional work, leadership, and professional advocacy aligns with VLK’s desire to promote and retain leaders committed to uncompromising excellence in all aspects of their careers. 

“I’m proud to be able to promote Jennifer to Principal after her years of fostering success in our Dallas office,” said Sloan S. Harris, CEO | Chairman of VLK. “VLK is a Principal-led firm and we hold that responsibility in the highest regard. She’s earned this new title through work ethic, client focus, and an uncompromising standard of excellence.”

A registered architect and graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, Jennifer has a long track record of excellence in architecture and has been recognized with various industry honors such as the AIA Young Architect Award, Building Design + Construction’s 40 Under 40, and the Texas Society of Architects William Caudill Award for Young Professional Achievement.

“It is an honor to be promoted as VLK’s newest Principal,” said Workman. “Energized by the firm’s vision for the future, my focus is on strengthening our extraordinary reputation by supporting our clients, upholding the unique values that define VLK, and contributing to the continued growth of our exceptional teams.”

This leadership development reinforces VLK’s conviction that exceptional design begins with purposeful leadership. As the firm continues to evolve, bringing architecture, educational planning, research, and innovative service solutions together, the addition of Workman as Principal will help ensure that VLK leadership remains fully oriented toward client success.

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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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(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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VLK Architects proudly announces the expansion of its executive leadership group to support firm growth and maintain exceptional client service. Justin S. Hiles, AIA, NCARB, LEED^® AP BD+C has been named Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Jonathan Aldis, AIA, has been promoted to Chief Operations Officer (COO). The addition of a Chief Information Officer is a natural progression of the executive suite due to growth in the firm and will allow for focused and strategic efforts pertaining to strategic visioning and direction, operational innovation and management.

Justin S. Hiles, AIA, NCARB, LEED^® AP BD+C – Chief Information Officer

As Chief Information Officer, Hiles is responsible for defining and executing the firm’s information technology strategy, ensuring it aligns with firm objectives. This new role will research and strategize how to best use technology and data to bring value to employees and clients. In his 21 years at VLK, Justin has served performed in a variety of roles including Architecture Director and COO, playing an integral part in implementing strategies and procedures to ensure quality service and designs.

Jonathan Aldis, AIA – Chief Operations Officer

As Chief Operations Officer, Aldis is responsible for overseeing architecture operations and performance of the firm. His primary focus will be on enhancing operational efficiency, resource allocation, productivity, optimizing project management, project delivery, technical quality, and project execution. With over 25 years of experience in architecture and over four years as Principal at VLK, Aldis possesses a great understanding of the industry and our clients’ needs.

“As VLK has grown, so too has our need for executive leadership in new ways, especially as it pertains to the future of VLK’s practice as thought leaders to that space,” said VLK Architects CEO | Partner, Sloan Harris. “To that end, Justin filling the role of Chief Information Officer will be a great leap forward for us. He has an unparalleled institutional knowledge of our firm and has been building a solid foundation for the future of our information technology that will allow us to continue to innovate and evolve. Jonathan is a natural strategic thinker and will be excellent in leading our architectural practice and supporting our teams in providing unparalleled service to our clients. I look forward to watching the firm thrive with the addition of his expertise to our executive leadership group.”

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VLK Architects proudly announces the addition of two highly respected educators to its Educational Planning team, known as VLK | EDGE^®. Kevin Worthy and Dr. Rick Westfall join VLK as Educational Planners and Senior Associates after careers in public education, bringing to the firm substantial experience as long-time leaders in Texas public school districts. Both have an enormous presence across Texas, connecting the importance of the voice of educators in VLK’s educational design process. The VLK | EDGE^® team ensures architectural solutions align seamlessly with a school district’s teaching and learning goals.

Kevin Worthy was an administrator in Royse City ISD for 12 years where he led the development and completion of two comprehensive strategic plans and the passage of three bonds to address the district’s fast growth. Under his leadership, Royse City ISD was a Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase District for five consecutive years and implemented the district’s first Associate Degree Program for high school students resulting in more than 170 students earning higher education degrees. Worthy was named the 2023 Region 10 Superintendent of the Year as well as the 2023 Friends of Texas Public Schools Ambassador of the Year.

“I am thrilled to be joining the VLK team,” said Kevin Worthy. “During my tenure as Superintendent of Schools, I have personally experienced the VLK culture that is built on relationships and care for their clients. I am eager to be a part of that success and look forward to contributing knowledge gained from my experiences in public education to support the successes of the firm and the districts we serve.”

For six years, Dr. Rick Westfall led Keller ISD, implementing a diverse range of educational opportunities and initiatives that significantly impacted students from pre-K to 12th grade including the development of STEM/STEAM programming and the establishment of an accelerated learning pathway from the elementary level, culminating in an associate degree. His engagement with the community played a crucial role in notable achievements, such as the development of the community-inspired Keller ISD Core Values, the success of a tax ratification election that led to a reduced tax rate, and the approval of the largest bond in Keller ISD’s history. Throughout these endeavors, Dr. Westfall remained dedicated to creating a multitude of equal opportunities for students across the four feeder patterns.

“Joining the VLK team presents a thrilling opportunity to continually influence and enhance public education for every student,” said Dr. Westfall. “I’ve worked side by side with VLK to shape educational spaces, and there’s no more fulfilling way to contribute to the advancement of school districts in Texas.”

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