VLK Architects Announces Architecture Directors
VLK Architects proudly announces that Justin Hiles, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, has been promoted to the position of Architecture Director for the Fort Worth office and Charles Johnson, AIA, has been promoted to Architecture Director for the Houston office. In this role, each will manage the daily operations of the architectural unit and be directly responsible for implementing strategies and procedures to ensure the firm continues to produce the highest quality designs.
Justin Hiles previously served as Project Architect for many of VLK's most notable projects such as: the new Career and Technical Center, Arlington ISD, Sarah Hollenstein Career and Technology Center, Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD, Ridgeview Elementary School, Keller ISD, and the new Dr. Ray Braswell High School for Denton ISD. Mr. Hiles brings more than 13 years of experience and an extensive background in educational and commercial design to VLK's team.
'Justin has an uncompromising dedication to excellence that enables him to drive VLK's commitment to provide our clients with superior design solutions,' said Stephen Hafer, VLK Principal of Operations. 'His expertise in all phases of the delivery of a project made him the right choice for the Fort Worth position.'
Mr. Hiles holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree and a Master of Architecture degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. He is a member of the American Institute of Architecture (AIA) and has earned certifications through the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) and is a LEED Accredited Professional. He is also a member of the Council Education Facility Planners International (CEFPI), DFW Chapter and the Texas Society of Architects. He is focused on leading VLK's talented team to continue the delivery of well designed, inspiring, innovative, and efficient facilities.
'I am elated to be selected as Architecture Director for the Fort Worth Office. This is a new position in the company and to have the confidence of the Principals to guide VLK in this new direction is wonderful,' said Hiles. 'I look forward to implementing a collaborative environment within the office to generate excellent design strategies, construction documents, and customer service that VLK is known for. I am excited to lead the talented staff at VLK to continue to serve our clients as we move into the next chapter at VLK Architects.'
Charles Johnson previously served as Director of Operations for the Houston office. Since joining VLK Architects in 2005, he has served as Project Coordinator and Project Architect on notable VLK projects such as: Houston ISD's Woodson Middle School, Worthing High School, and the LEED Certified, award winning Piney Point Elementary School, as well as, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD's Ag Barn, Exhibit Center and Science Research Center. Mr. Johnson brings more than 15 years of experience and an extensive background in educational design to VLK's team.
'Charles has a unique ability to bring people together to achieve a united goal. This leadership skill will greatly enhance our service to our clients,' said Stephen Hafer, VLK Principal of Operations. 'His extensive knowledge of the many aspects of the firm's operations made him a natural choice for the Houston position.'
Mr. Johnson holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree from the University of Houston. He is also a member of the American Institute of Architecture (AIA), Houston Chapter. He is focused on leading VLK's talented team to continue the delivery of well designed, inspiring, innovative, and efficient facilities.
'For the last 10 plus years, I have been surrounded by incredible people taking part in many amazing projects, contributing to the 30 years of success at VLK Architects,' said Johnson. 'Becoming the Architecture Director is an exciting challenge. I look forward to leading the firm's holistic approach to delivering successful projects to our clients to meet the needs of so many students across our region.'