VLK Announces New Partners
Over the last 12 months, VLK Architects has celebrated its 30th anniversary by reflecting on their considerable project portfolio, valued professional relationships, and community impact in the areas they serve. VLK has grown to be a leader in the educational and commercial markets, due to the creativity, ingenuity, and commitment of each talented team member.
The company's strong values began with the courage and resolve of founding owners, Howard Vestal, Randy Loftis, and Jeff Kalista, who took the initiative to create an environment for highly valued professional ethics, a culture of determination to do what is best for clients, and an atmosphere of camaraderie admired by those who have spent time with VLK.
With this milestone anniversary, celebration gives cause for appreciation of a rich history while creating excitement toward opportunities of the future. The many talented leaders of VLK have been able to springboard off the foundation of exceptional service and technical expertise to deliver innovative solutions through a unique client focused experience.
Two extraordinary leaders have been at the forefront of this effort. By guiding the firm with their unparalleled determination, wisdom, and distinct vision, both professionals have contributed considerably toward the growth of VLK Architects. Expansion into new geographic markets has led to a steady growth that serves the entire State of Texas through offices in Fort Worth and Houston. Because of their leadership, VLK Architects is excited to announce Sloan Harris and Todd Lien as new partners of the firm.
Sloan Harris has been a driving force in the expansion of our North Texas market since joining the firm 12 years ago. He is a gifted architect and community leader who gives tirelessly through his involvement as a board member of the Real Estate Council of Greater Fort Worth, a Commissioner on the Planning Commission of the City of Fort Worth, and a board member for the White Settlement ISD Education Foundation. Sloan holds a Master of Architecture degree and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, and is a graduate of Leadership Fort Worth. He was recognized in the Fort Worth Business Press'
40-Under-40 in 2011. Sloan is best known for such notable projects as iProspect, PMG, Pier-One Corporate Renovations, Arlington ISD Career and Technology Center, John and Barbara Adams Elementary School, and the Tarrant County College Northwest Campus Gun Range.
'Sloan is that rare combination of artist and entrepreneur that unites to create exceptional, leading-edge design solutions grounded in efficient functional and financial performance. He brings a youthful, exuberant perspective to our practice, pushing us to be the very best at all that we do,' said Leesa Vardeman, VLK Principal.
In his 22 years with VLK Architects, Todd Lien has been an important part of the firm's growth in the Dallas/Fort Worth market as well as the Houston/Gulf Coast market. His leadership has inspired a heightened commitment to excellent client service and professional accountability. Having managed notable projects such as the American Airlines Priority Parcel Facility at DFW Airport, Katy High School West Campus and the Student Activity Facility ' Second stadium for Katy ISD, and the new Energy Institute High School, Walnut Bend Elementary School replacement, and Condit Elementary replacement school for Houston ISD, Todd has had his hand in ensuring that VLK clients have an exceptional experience throughout project delivery and receive trusted design. His gentle nature and thoughtful counsel instills trust and devotion from people inside and outside VLK. Todd received his Master of Architecture degree at the University of Texas at Arlington, serves as an industry liaison to the Houston AGC/CEFPI Task Force, is a member of the Katy ISD CTE Advisory Council and the Houston ISD Energy Institute Advisory Council, and is currently serving as the Secretary/Treasurer of the Gulf Coast Chapter of the Council of Educational Facility Planners International.
'Todd shares our commitment to serve our clients with integrity and is an advocate for the role of design in our community,' stated Vardeman. 'He brings a passion for designing exceptional learning spaces that support real world opportunities for Texas students. He also brings a commitment to the development of well-rounded architects and inspires our staff to grow and lead.'
VLK is eagerly looking to the future as they expand their efforts statewide, driving architectural expertise in the industry for the benefit of well deserving clients and communities.
'These talented individuals who span three generations have been instrumental to the on-going development of the firm,' states Richard Jaynes, VLK Principal. 'They bring truly exciting possibilities that broaden and expand our thinking about design, research, and the advancement of architecture.'