VLK Announces Multiple Promotions to Associate
(Fort Worth, Texas) – VLK Architects proudly announces Lonnie Bennett, Jamie Bowers, Jaime Pelayo, Aaliyah Stevens, Krista Thomas, and Joshua Wilson are promoted to Associate positions. To become an Associate at VLK, individuals must be self-motivated and consistently demonstrate the initiative, talent, and commitment of assuming additional responsibilities and leadership roles. Associates exhibit deep knowledge of the architectural industry, develop and strengthen relationships with clients and business partners, guide and enhance staff development, and contribute to the advancement of VLK Architects.
Lonnie Bennett II, NCARB - Lonnie joined VLK in 2016 and immediately became an integral part of the VLK automotive team. He provides optimal solutions to clients and is proactive in working with project teams to ensure excellent work is delivered at every opportunity. His contributions to the team are highlighted by longstanding relationships with clients like Grubbs Family of Dealerships, Hiley Automotive Group, and Stanley Automotive Enterprises.
Bennett earned a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies and a Master of Architecture from Louisiana Tech University. Since joining VLK after graduation, Lonnie has grown from an eager emerging professional aspiring for licensure to a licensed architect who mentors and assists others, always seeking opportunities for growth and responsibility within the firm. His desire to serve others in and out of the office is fundamental to the culture of VLK.
Jamie Bowers, RID, LEED AP - Jamie is an interior designer in VLK’s Dallas office working in both K-12 and commercial design sectors. She excels at coordinating with project teams and clients to ensure unique design solutions are presented that exceed expectations for function and style. Her eye for detail and commitment to the client’s goals make her an asset to any project team.
Bowers earned her Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Texas Christian University. Since joining the firm in 2022, her talents have been evident in various projects for clients including Arlington ISD, Dallas ISD, Richardson ISD, and Royse City ISD. Outside of the office, she contributes to the community and industry as Co-Chair of the Academic Scholarship Committee for CoreNet Global’s North Texas Chapter, Plano ISD Arts in Education/Reflections Chair at her local elementary school, and regularly volunteers through her local church.
Jaime Pelayo - As a Construction Administrator, Jaime is uniquely positioned to foster client success by building relationships, mentoring young professionals, and coordinating design teams to ensure the best possible outcomes for VLK clients. With over 20 years of experience, he brings a wealth of construction experience to the VLK team and is eager to share his knowledge with others.
Pelayo received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Texas at Arlington. Since joining VLK eight years ago, he has provided excellent service to clients such as Crowley ISD, Denton ISD, and Fort Worth ISD while also being heavily involved in mentoring and growing young professionals at VLK. Jaime strives for excellence without compromising integrity and is committed to building the best future for the firm and those it serves.
Aaliyah Stevens - Aaliyah joined VLK’s Houston office in 2015 immediately after graduation from Louisiana Tech University with her Master of Architecture. A few years later she moved to Austin to help establish VLK in the Central Texas region and her initiative as a leader at the firm has only compounded since then.
Throughout her tenure at VLK, Stevens has always demonstrated a willingness to pitch in where needed, from meeting project deadlines to mentoring new employees and serving on various firm committees as a technical expert and catalyst of firm culture. She is a trusted resource for all clients that she serves, including College Station ISD, Hutto ISD, and Round Rock ISD.
Krista Thomas, AIA - Krista embarked on her professional journey at VLK after graduating from Texas A&M with her Bachelor of Environmental Design. Passionate about advocating for clients, she finds fulfillment in fostering innovative solutions that elevate learning environments for students and staff alike. Krista has positioned herself as a mentor and leader within VLK, where she takes pride in nurturing talent and fostering a culture of design excellence throughout the firm.
Her commitment extends beyond service to the firm; she is dedicated to giving back to her community and the industry, leveraging her skills and expertise in various leadership roles. She serves as a Professional Mentor and Captain for CANstruction Houston, spearheads the AIA Houston Gingerbread Competition, and is always one of the first to pitch in for career days and other volunteer opportunities.
Joshua Wilson, AIA - As a Project Architect, Josh manages the design and production process of a project from inception through construction administration. His attention to detail and strong organizational skills make him an ideal fit in leading project teams through all aspects of design. The combination of his excellent management skills and his creative thought process yields unique design solutions for VLK clients.
Wilson earned his Bachelor of Environmental Design from Texas A&M University and a Master of Architecture from Virginia Tech University. He joined the firm in 2014 and within two years became a licensed architect. His motivation to excel in his career fuels his passion to deliver an exceptional experience to clients, as seen in his work on award-winning projects including the Allen ISD STEAM Center and Eagle Mountain Saginaw ISD Administration Building.
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About VLK Architects: VLK Architects provides architecture, planning, and interior design services to automotive, K-12, higher education, corporate, and institutional clients, delivering innovative solutions for their specific needs. For more information, please visit our website: www.vlkarchitects.com or contact [email protected].